Blog

Hormones play a vital role in human bodily processes. They function like communication links among the cells and they coordinate the functions of the different systems in the body. Our growth, immune function, appetite, and moods are all affected by hormones. A good example of this is women on their period who experience mood swings and hunger pangs as hormonal changes take place depending on what stage of the menstrual cycle they are in.

This is why any type of hormonal imbalance can affect our health and overall wellbeing. When hormones are confirmed to be unbalanced, people usually turn to hormone replacement therapy or HRT to alleviate symptoms. One form of HRT is bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT). Considered to be a ‘natural’ solution to hormonal issues, many women and men have turned to it for hormone support, especially those undergoing perimenopause, menopause, and andropause.

But what, exactly, is BHRT?

Bioidentical hormones are hormones that are identical to human hormones on a molecular level but are actually manmade. Derived from plant estrogens found to be chemically identical to what is produced by the human body, they have been used to treat osteoporosis, insulin resistance, fibromyalgia, and adrenal and thyroid problems. They are also used to alleviate cancer treatment symptoms.

They come in the form of patches, gels, creams, pills, and injections. Some pharmaceutical companies produce bioidentical hormones. Compounded or specially formulated bioidentical hormones are made by pharmacists based on doctors’ prescriptions.

SotoPelle BHRT

A leading name in BHRT circles, SotoPelle is a medical group that has focused on applying BHRT through the use of subdermal pellets. SotoPelle Therapy was founded back in 1992 by Dr. Gino Tutera, one of the leading proponents of BHRT.

SotoPelle Therapy has been known to be a highly effective form of BHRT and has benefited thousands of patients over the years.

Benefits of BHRT for women

Perimenopausal and menopausal patients who elect to undergo BHRT usually report improvements including the following:

• Improved stamina and energy levels

• An increase in sex drive

• Reduction in hair thinning

• Better skin condition

• Improved sleep

• Less bloating

• Reduction in the incidence of hot flashes

• Improved cognitive functioning

As we all know, pre-menopausal and menopausal women undergo hormonal changes. During perimenopause, the ovaries begin to produce less estrogen. This, in turn, leads to a number of symptoms such as vaginal dryness, breast tenderness, depression, irregular or missed periods, UTI, and others.

How can men benefit from bioidentical hormones?

As mentioned earlier, even those experiencing andropause or ‘male menopause’ can benefit from BHRT. Symptoms indicating a hormonal imbalance in men include hair loss, weight gain, lower sex drive, muscle loss, thinning hair, memory loss, urinary problems, and night sweats.

Once a hormonal imbalance is identified by the physician, carefully prepared doses of bioidentical hormones are prescribed based on the patient’s health condition, needs, and goals. Men who experience improvements while undergoing BHRT benefit in almost the same way as women who do. They report having more energy, an increase in muscle strength, and an overall sense of well-being.

Is BHRT for everyone?

BHRT is known to have beneficial effects on both men and women. You can talk to your health care provider to determine what's right for you. If you have any questions concerning BHRT and its benefits, feel free to reach out to us to learn more.