Hormones naturally produced in your body are entirely responsible for your body’s most basic functions. They are key to coordinating everything in your body, including libido levels, metabolism rates, appetite, digestion, and mood. This is only possible if your body produces balanced proportions of hormones. When people begin to struggle with hormonal imbalance, thanks to modern medicine and technology, they could turn to hormone replacement therapy to cure the symptoms and restore the body’s functions to normalcy.

One such option is bio-identical hormone replacement therapy, which is slowly growing in popularity due to its ability to replicate hormones that epitomize naturally occurring hormones in the body. However, one major concern among people eyeing on bio-identical hormone replacement therapy is the potential for experiencing side effects during therapy? Do you need to be afraid of any side effects that may come up with bio-identical hormones?

What is bio-identical hormone replacement therapy?

The treatment reverses hormonal imbalances using synthetic hormones retrieved from plant estrogens. Experts describe bio-identical hormones as chemicals with the same molecular structure as those naturally produced in the human body. They mimic progesterone, DHEA, estriol, and melatonin, and many more. Even with the validity that bio-identical hormones do work and actually bring back hormonal balance, especially when fighting through menopausal symptoms, interested users are still skeptical about its safety.

Are bio-identical hormones safe?

In the United States of America, the FDA approved the controlled use of bio-identical hormones by licensed practitioners. Bio-identical hormone replacement therapy has passed the board’s strict standards and verified that it’s safe for people to use. While the plant-derived compounds are safe for use, compounded varieties of hormones haven’t undergone sufficient testing. It’s important to necessitate on bio-identical hormones when considering hormone replacement therapy.

Are there side effects of bio-identical hormones?

Although approved by authorities and experts, bio-identical hormones may tag along with certain side effects. Your body will most likely react to the first dose administered. Since your body isn’t used to the new level of hormones and opposing fluctuations, there may be side effects. Depending on how your body reacts to the initial doses, your doctor may adjust the dosage. Some side effects can be associated with a specific hormone in the dosage. Most of the side effects will subside as your body gradually adjusts to the new hormonal levels.

You may experience the following side effects after the first treatment cycle.

• Breast tenderness
• Weight gain
• Acne
• Blurred vision
• Indigestion
• Mood swings
• Spotting
• Increased facial hair in women
• Cramping
• Bloating
• Tiredness
• Headaches

You may experience itchiness or redness around the injection area or where you apply the hormones if you’ve been using gel, creams, or patches. The potential side effects of bio-identical hormone replacement therapy vary among people depending on their medical and health history. You might want to discuss these side effects with your physician whenever they pop up, although most should not be a reason to worry.

Are there risks of bio-identical hormones?

Many experts recommend bio-identical hormone replacement therapy over traditional hormone replacement therapy, mostly due to its reduced risks. However, in some cases, hormone therapy, in general, has shown to increase the risk of stroke, gallbladder diseases, and blood clots.

In particular, older women are at risk of contracting uterine or breast cancer and heart diseases when using hormone replacement therapy for a long period. Nonetheless, relevant bodies and institutions are running tests and gathering evidence to confirm if bio-identical hormone replacement therapy carries fewer health risks compared to their traditional counterparts.

When should you call your doctor?

Side effects erupting after bio-identical hormone replacement therapy normally aren’t something to cause major concern. However, these side effects should subside over time. If you have severe side effects that won’t go after a short while or one that interrupts your quality of life, your body might be struggling with imbalanced hormones. You might want to see your doctor immediately for hormone regulation treatments.

Have you been looking into bio-identical hormone replacement therapy? Do you feel like you are the right candidate for the treatment? Contact us today at (205) 352-9141 to talk to an expert, explore your options, and find more information about the therapy. Improve your quality of life today!