BioIdentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT)


Hormones play a very important role in our bodies. Without your hormones working properly, you would not be able to sleep, expend any type of energy, repair injuries, remain calm in stressful situations, and so forth.  Hormones affect EVERY cell in our body, everyday.  That includes our brain cells/neurons, which determine mood and sense of well being.  Balanced hormones are a basic necessity for feeling good, both mentally and physically.  A few of the things properly balanced hormones can do are: increase libido, help to regain your youthful skin, and give you more energy.

Why then is all the hype about "Bio-Identical" hormones?  How are they different from the hormones I can get at the pharmacy?

The BioIdentical or Natural hormones are compounded to mimic the hormones that your body already produces.  These compounded hormones are easier for our bodies to metabolize and respond to, with minimal side effects.  Some of the synthetic hormones have added molecules and can be harsh on the body, causing intolerable side effects.  Also, compounded hormones can be matched individually to each person's needs; that is something that mass-produced hormones can not offer.

If these are so great, why doesn't my regular doctor offer them or discuss them with me?

Honestly, they may not know enough about them. Many symptoms of declining hormones are considered a normal part of the aging process.  Most doctors do not know that replenishing hormone levels can prevent and/or decrease other medical problems.  Medical students are taught to treat disease states, not prevent diseases.  In order for doctors to treat you and the insurance company to cover it, you must have signs, symptoms and supporting lab data showing a diseased state that can be coded.  Yes, if loss of libido could kill you--then it is something that could be attended to.  However, since it does not, it is considered part of the aging process and is typically pushed aside.

Are BioIdentical Hormones for me?

Do any of the following statements describe you?

  • My face/skin has gotten more slack and wrinkled
  • I am constantly tired
  • I don't feel like myself
  • I have hot flashes and sweats
  • My hair is dry
  • I'm gaining belly fat
  • My libido is low
  • I sleep poorly
  • I am constantly fatigued
  • I feel anxious
  • I've lost muscle tone
  • My hands and feet are always cold
  • I have dry skin
  • My sexual performance is poorer than it used to be
  • I have memory loss
  • It is hard for me to handle stress
  • I feel exhausted

If you feel like more than a few of these apply to you, then yes, BioIdentical Hormone Replacement Therapy will likely help you feel better.

 

How do I get started?

Hormone replacement therapy is highly individualized and is tailored to each and every patient.  At St. Louis Skin Solutions, Dr. Amy Miller starts with an in-depth history and physical exam.  Lab test are performed and analyzed, and then individual doses of each hormone are prescribed as needed.  This is definitely not a one size fits all program! If you would like more information or have questions please call at 314-543-4015 or email us at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .