What Side Effects Can Occur With Bioidentical Hormone Therapy?
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For many men and women suffering from the unwanted symptoms of hormone imbalance, menopause, or andropause, bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) can be life-changing. Like all medications, bioidentical hormone therapy has some possible side effects to be aware of, though they are typically mild and temporary. Use this helpful information from the award-winning team at Body Bar MD in Carmel and Terre Haute, IN, under the direction of board-certified physician and wellness expert Dr. Christine Kirkendol Watson (aka Dr. Christy), to better understand the potential side effects – and benefits – of BHRT.
Do I need hormone replacement therapy?
Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy is frequently used by men and women who have reached menopause or andropause, but it can also be beneficial for younger patients who are experiencing the signs and symptoms of hormone imbalance, perimenopause, or another condition.
Signs of hormone imbalance in women:
- Hot flashes
- Night sweats
- Mood swings
- Anxiety and/or depression
- Fatigue
- Low libido
- Vaginal dryness
- Thinning hair
- Increased facial hair
- Osteoporosis
Signs of hormone imbalance in men:
- Depression
- Low energy level
- Low libido
- Sexual dysfunction
- Loss of muscle mass
- Thinning hair/balding
- Gynecomastia (enlarged male breasts)
If you are experiencing any of the above, you may be a candidate for bioidentical hormone replacement therapy at Body Bar MD.
What is BHRT?
Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy, or BHRT, is a groundbreaking treatment for restoring hormone levels to the normal physiologic range using plant-based hormones those naturally produced by the body. Because of this, bioidentical hormones are typically absorbed and processed more efficiently than other hormone replacement medications. In addition, bioidentical hormones are custom-compounded based on each patient’s specific needs and levels, further enhancing the treatment’s efficacy.
At Body Bar MD in Carmel and Terre Haute, IN, Dr. Christy offers the widely popular BioTE® bioidentical hormone replacement pellet delivery system. As part of this unique treatment, small pellets are inserted just beneath the patient’s skin every few months. These customized pellets deliver a consistent dose of medication until they have fully dissolved, dramatically reducing the ups and downs associated with other HRT systems.
Does BHRT have any side effects?
Like virtually all medications and therapies, there are some potential risks and side effects associated with bioidentical hormone replacement therapy. These may include:
- Mood changes
- Headache
- Abdominal bloating or GI disturbance
- Breast tenderness
- Skin changes/blemishes
- Fatigue
- Sleep disturbance
- Weight gain or weight loss
- Facial hair growth (women)
- Menstrual changes (women)
In the majority of cases, BioTE side effects are mild and occur after the patient’s initial dose of medication and improve once their body has adjusted to the new hormone levels. Should a patient experience unwanted side effects of BHRT, their dose and/or medication can be adjusted.
More serious risks of hormone replacement therapy include blood clots, heart disease, certain cancers, and stroke. Dr. Christy is highly experienced in the delivery of BHRT and takes great care to assess and monitor the safety of hormone replacement therapy for each patient in order to minimize any possible risks or side effects.
Feel more like yourself again with bioidentical hormone therapy in Terre Haute or Carmel, IN
With the virtually endless list of processes controlled by our hormones, it’s no surprise that hormonal imbalance can make you feel like a completely different person. To learn more about how BHRT can normalize your hormone levels and have you feeling better than ever, call Body Bar MD in Carmel or Terre Haute, IN to schedule your one-on-one consultation with board-certified physician Dr. Christine Kirkendol Watson today. We look forward to helping you live life to the fullest once again with bioidentical hormone replacement therapy!