By Diane Pinkard, MSN, FNP
As women age, the body goes through natural processes like menopause and weight gain. Although there are countless solutions to these problems, some still experience these issues with no relief. Some women turn to hormone replacement therapy the alleviate weight gain, fatigue, bloating and low sex drive when they are out of all other options. Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy is used to improve certain conditions and ways of life. Women swear by its beneficial effects after there is nothing left to try.
BHRT 101
BHRT uses chemically identical hormones to resolve symptoms that arise when there is a decline in hormonal production due to aging. Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy aims to balance those tied to reproduction and youth, such as estrogen and progesterone. As a woman’s body ages, it will start producing less of these hormones, which will cause fatigue, hot flashes, vaginal dryness and thinning of bones. BHRT treatments come in the form of creams, lotions, gels, pills, injections and in a variety of different products.
Benefits of BHRT
There are many benefits to bioidentical hormone replacement therapy that will drastically improve women’s quality of life. After trying countless remedies that won’t produce results, women are relieved when BHRT does just the trick. Research suggests that BHRT prevents bone loss and defends against conditions like osteoporosis and fractures. This treatment may help improve overall energy levels to provide more mental clarity and motivation. It can decrease the occurrence of hot flashes and night sweats, which will help improve sleep. BHRT can also improve sex drive by reducing vaginal dryness.
Do I need BHRT?
It is important to remember that bioidentical hormone replacement therapy is not necessary for everyone. Women’s hormone production increases during puberty, and peaks around their early 30s. When hormone production starts to decline after this, BHRT helps transition through these changes more easily when symptoms are severe. Candidates of BHR experience multiple of these symptoms:
- Menopausal symptoms like hot flashes and the gradual irregularity of the menstrual cycle
- The thinning of hair on both the head and the body
- Lowered sex drive and vaginal dryness
- Weight gain
- Dry skin
- Chronic fatigue, less energy and muscle weakness
- Mood swings, anxiety and unstable emotions
- Cognitive changes that reduce concentration and memory
Does bioidentical hormone replacement sound like something for you? Contact Knox Wellness Experience at www.knoxwellnessexperience.com or (865) 801-9501 to set up an appointment today!
About Diane:
Diane Pinkard joined Knox Wellness with a wealth of clinical experience throughout her 30-year career as a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP). Her vast experience offers patients a comprehensive knowledge base that includes Chronic EBV, thyroid and autoimmune issues along with an understanding practitioner. Diane’s personal commitment to integrative, wellness-based healthcare has made her a natural fit for our Knox Wellness team.
Diane holds a Bachelor of Science degree from UT Martin and Master of Science degree in nursing from UT, Knoxville. She has been at the forefront of the Family Nurse Practitioner role in our healthcare system her entire career and she has never stopped broadening her skill set and opportunities to learn more.
Click here to learn more about Diane.
