Some of the most health-aware people in California stay in San Diego. Today, the ageing population in the city is concerned about their health and vitality. While they accept the natural process of ageing, they want to look and feel energetic. It is here that they opt for medical therapies that promise long-term health benefits.
One of the common treatments that San Diego residents opt for is hormone therapy. It helps them to replenish the reduction of testosterone, progesterone, and estrogen with age. The (BHRT) bioidentical hormone replacement therapy is a popular choice. In this article, we will discuss how this therapy is separate from conventional HRT.
Understanding Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy
The bioidentical hormones have a similar chemical identity to the hormones that the human body produces naturally. Typically, it is obtained from plant sources such as soy and yams. It has been designed at a molecular level to interact with the body's hormones.
According to the Endocrine Society, bioidentical hormones, which are FDA-approved, such as micronized progesterone and estradiol in standard doses, are available. However, certain clinics in San Diego offer compounded bioidentical hormones, which are customized by pharmacists.
Today, you can search for bioidentical hormone replacement therapy San Diego medical centers, and there will be several options you will come across. You can browse through the websites and know all about the therapy to arrive at an informed decision.
Understanding conventional HRT
Various traditional hormone replacement therapies (HRTs) most often use synthetic hormones or animal-derived hormones (conjugated equine estrogens). They have a long history dating back decades and are effective in treating symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, and vaginal dryness.
The Women’s Health Initiative (WHI) conducted one of the largest clinical trials involving HRT, and found benefits and risks to HR. HRT was found to decrease fractures and promote improved quality of life for many women. But there are a few measurable risks to HRT. It includes breast cancers and blood clots, to name two. This happens when HRT is used over a long period of time or started later in life.
The major differences between the two
To know the key differences between HRT and BHRT, we can refer to the following points:
Structure and source
· BHRT: It is derived from a plant and is chemically akin to the natural human hormones.
· Conventional HRT: It is derived from animals and is synthetic.
Regulation
· BHRT: A few of them are approved by the FDA, and the compounded versions don’t have an FDA approval.
· Conventional HRT: It is strictly approved by the FDA and has a standardized dosage.
Evidence and security
· BHRT: Today, it is becoming a popular hormone therapy, but the compounded formulations don’t have large-scale and long-term safety studies.
· Conventional HRT is supported by large clinical trials, which have known benefits as well as risks.
Customization
· BHRT: It is possible to customize this treatment based on patient requirements, and it also maximizes the quality variability.
· Conventional HRT: It gets prescribed in fixed forms and dosages, such as gels, patches, and pills.
Today, residents in San Diego are opting for BHRT for various reasons. It is mostly due to its customization capabilities and natural appeal. However, some experts argue that FDA-approved therapies, both bioidentical and traditional, remain safe options. In choosing between the two therapies, it depends entirely on the patient's health history and the severity of their symptoms.
Conclusion
Traditional hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and bioidentical hormone replacement therapy help in healthy aging. It helps people age with grace and vitality. For San Diegans considering these therapy options, consulting a healthcare provider who has the training and experience to evaluate each person's risks and goals, and create a safe and efficacious treatment plan, is the best first step.
Author:
