Females over age 40 and even some in their 30’s are already experiencing hormone imbalance. During perimenopause, the transition between reproduction and the ceasing of menstruation begins and can last from months to years. Hormone imbalance can begin during this time as well as during natural or induced menopause. Per A Comprehensive Review of the Safety and Efficacy of Bioidentical Hormones for the Management of Menopause and Related Health Risks, women are choosing bioidenticals to combat menopause symptoms and maintain bone and heart health. Bioidentical hormones are the “natural” replacement option. They are formulated from yams to specifically match the natural occurring hormones in the female body unlike synthetic versions.
Progesterone
Progesterone is a female hormone that is produced by the ovaries. Progesterone levels naturally decrease as women age closer to menopause. During the menstrual cycle, Progesterone levels increase to help prepare the lining of the uterus when a released egg is fertilized by sperm. If fertilization does not occur progesterone levels drop and menstrual bleeding begins.
Signs and symptoms of Progesterone hormone imbalance can include: sleep disturbance, depression, irritability, anxiety, mood swings, migraines and heart palpitations. Symptoms will continue and worsen as women reach menopause.
Estrogen
Estrogen is a hormone produced primarily in the ovaries. It is the female hormone that is responsible for puberty. It creates the changes in breast development, growth of pubic hair and is responsible for the beginning of the menstrual cycle. Estrogen levels are highest in the middle of the menstrual cycle and lower during a period.
The body makes three types of estrogen. Estradiol is predominant during reproductive years. Estriol is produced during pregnancy and Estrone is produced after menopause.
Estrogen levels drop during menopause because menstruation ceases. Abnormal Estrogen levels can cause hot flashes, night sweats, painful intercourse, vaginal dryness, breast tenderness, restless legs and hair loss.
Testosterone: It’s Not Just for Men!
Women make testosterone too! Testosterone is made by the ovaries and released into the blood stream. Women do not require or have high levels of testosterone but it does play a part in hormone balance.
Women can suffer from low testosterone just like men can. The signs and symptoms of low testosterone include; low sex drive, depression, fatigue, irritability, decreased muscle mass and low bone density.
Bioidentical hormone replacement can be done with Testosterone just like it can be done for progesterone and estrogen. A simple blood test can reveal the deficiency and replacement can be obtained by sublingual troche. It is important to remember that all hormones need to be in balance for optimal effect and Testosterone should not be overlooked in hormone replacement in female patients.
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms and they interfere with daily activities of life you could be a candidate for bioidentical hormone replacement therapy. Symptoms will continue and worsen as you reach menopause. Identifying abnormal hormone levels is easy to do and only requires a simple blood test. We offer hormone lab tests and bio-identical hormone replacement therapy to obtain a natural replacement and achieve hormone balance.