Bio-identical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT)

Hormone imbalances are unique because they dont heal. When one of more of your hormone levels become imbalanced, they can lead to symptoms that if not addressed can persist or lead to more serious problems. These levels can be balanced with Bio-Identical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT). Bio-identical hormones are substances that are biochemically identical to your bodys own hormones. Because of this, BHRT has been found to be safer and more effective than synthetic hormones with fewer side effects.

After taking an in-depth history to assess your specific situation and ordering lab testing to check your hormone levels, Dr. Hopp can recommend a specialized regimen to help optimize your hormone levels. For many men and women, addressing hormone imbalances can have a major impact on their symptoms and overall improve their lives!

The short answer: yes! The use of hormone replacement to address hormonal symptoms was used as early as the 1950s. During the 1970s in Europe, many practitioners switched to bio-identical hormones after they were shown to be safer than synthetic hormones. Studies have demonstrated that the use of BHRT reduces the risk of many leading causes of illness and death for both men and women. These include:

Many patients, especially women, are familiar with the clinical trial published by the Womens Health Initiative in 2002. The conclusions of this study showed that hormone replacement therapy can cause increased risk of breast cancer, heart attack, stroke and blood clots. Many practitioners immediately stopped prescribing hormones after this trial was widely publicized. We want to make an important distinction here: synthetic vs. bio-identical hormones.

The WHI trial used oral synthetic estrogen and progestins. At TLC, Dr. Hopp prescribes bio-identical hormones. Your body sees these supplemental hormones the same as hormones produced naturally in your body. The use of bio-identical hormones does not increase the risk of cancer or cardiovascular disease and the use of bio-identical progesterone may be protective against breast cancer.

If you think you may benefit from BHRT, please call our office at 720-351-2411 to set up an appointment!

Link:
Hormone Optimization TLC The Littleton Clinic