As your local naturopathic doctors in San Diego we specialize in modalities that provide menopause treatment in San Diego and significant menopause relief for so many of our female patients in their forties and fifties. One of the more powerful modalities to treat menopause symptoms is bio-identical hormone replacement therapy (b-HRT). Although it is one of the most effective and proven menopause treatments, many of our patients do want to know more about how it works, where the hormones come from, and that it is a safe treatment for them. And we always strive to provide the highest quality, informed care so our patients can feel confident in choosing their treatment plan… so here we go!
First off, a couple of basics about our reproductive hormones:
- Estradiol or E2 is primarily produced by the ovaries and is the “work-horse” estrogen during the reproductive years.
- Following menopause, estrone or E1 becomes your predominant form of estrogen. Estrone is produced by the adrenal glands.
- Estrogen is not just a reproductive hormone. It has critical functions in support of strong bones, cardiovascular health, and brain/memory health.
- Progesterone is important to balance the effect of estrogen. So whether you are producing your own estrogen or receiving hormone therapy forms of estrogen, progesterone helps to balance things out.
- Testosterone is produced by the ovaries and adrenal glands. It is important for maintaining a healthy weight and muscle mass, strong bones, feelings of drive and motivation, and a healthy desire for sex.
How does bHRT work to address menopause symptoms?
As we enter menopause, the ovaries gradually start to decline in their hormone output. As we lose estrogen (primarily estradiol/E2), progesterone, and testosterone, the common menopausal symptoms can begin to interrupt our daily life… these symptoms can include hot flashes, night sweats, memory issues/lack of focus, weight gain, loss of drive, loss of libido, and vaginal dryness. We know… even one of these symptoms can become very annoying. And many women can experience multiple menopause symptoms during this time!
Bio-identical hormone replacement aims to maintain minimum “physiologic” levels of balanced hormones. What this means is that we are working to simply replace these hormones at the lowest effective concentration in order to maintain all of the biological functions and health benefits they provide. By doing so, we can lessen or eliminate the associated symptoms of hormone production loss and retain all of the health benefits (improved cardiovascular, bone, and cognitive health, to name a few).
Where do the hormones come from?
We prescribe our bio-identical hormones through a local compounding pharmacy that makes a specific dosing and concentration customized to your needs. The hormones used by the compounding pharmacy are all plant-derived (did you know that estrogen can be grown on yams!) and the structure of these hormones is IDENTICAL to what your body produces.
Is b-HRT safe?
This is the most critical question. The answer is that b-HRT is not safe for every woman. But it is safe if you meet specific criteria and do not have personal or family history that would contraindicate its use.
In 2005, an extensive medical study was published called the Women’s Health Initiative (WHI), which concluded significant risks involved in hormone replacement therapy (HRT), including the increased incidence of breast cancer. The initial conclusions of the study halted almost all HRT except for its use for short periods to treat severe symptoms. Over the years, however, scientists and doctors have further analyzed the WHI data (looking at the use of synthetic estrogen and progestins, both alone and in combination, compared to balanced administration of bio-identical hormones). They have also conducted new studies on the use of bHRT, which have shed new light on how safe and effective this therapy can be. When administered correctly and within balance, some studies demonstrate that bHRT estrogen may even decrease breast cancer risk.
At NaturopathicRx, we do a thorough intake and consider all aspects of your health, your symptom picture, and your treatment goals before prescribing hormone therapy. We rule out any contraindications to bHRT, verify healthy liver function, start with a low dose and adjust from there, and monitor blood work every three months until levels are stable. Keeping close tabs on how each patient’s body reacts to and balancing treatment is key to ensuring the safe and successful application of bHRT.
To access some of the general foundational recommendations that have helped so many of our patients, please check out our complimentary 30-Day Menopause Relief Guide. We are your Menopause relief specialist in Rancho Santa Fe, CA, and the greater San Diego area!
Naturopathic medicine in San Diego is a distinct system of medicine that skillfully combines natural therapeutic traditions with modern science to restore and optimize health. For more information as to if bio-identical hormone replacement therapy may support your health goals or to schedule an appointment with a Naturopathic doctor, please call NaturopathicRX at (858) 914-3444.