Uses For Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy

Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) involves raising the levels of testosterone, estrogen and progesterone present in the human body through supplemental absorption of the same compounds. The process uses steroidal agents that are specifically engineered to be the same, down to the molecular level, as those naturally produced by the sex organs. They can be administered through a variety of ways; common examples include creams, patches, pills, tablets, injections, intrauterine devices and vaginal rings.

The hormones in the human body are responsible for a host of benefits and functions. In the same way, BHRT is used by people for many possible reasons and purposes.

Menopause

Menopause is the natural cessation of the reproductive functions in women. Its onset can be caused naturally as a consequence of advancing age or as a side effect of preexisting conditions like chemotherapy, malnutrition and excessive cigarette smoking. In either case, BHRT can help arrest the symptoms of the inevitable hormone withdrawal. It helps ease menopause-related depression, anxiety, loss of libido and decreased physical endurance.

Andropause

Andropause is the term used to describe the gradual falling of testosterone levels in older men suffering from hypogonadism. It is a condition that impairs the function of the testicles, preventing them from producing sufficient sex hormones. This leads to loss of muscle mass, increased subcutaneous body fat, thin skin and weak erections. Bioidentical hormone therapy supplies the missing testosterone and arrests the onset of these unwanted effects.

HIV and AIDS Management

One of the many unfortunate things that being afflicted with HIV and AIDS brings is the severe muscle wastage suffered by patients. Studies show that bioidentical hormone therapy does not only stop the loss of lean body mass but reverses it completely. Furthermore, studies have shown that it is also excellent at increasing blood T-cell counts from two digits to hundreds.

Athletic Performance

Bioidentical hormone therapy is used by many aging athletes to continue to compete successfully at a professional level. It can help arrest the degradation of strength, speed and endurance. However, the possibility for abuse does exist. There have been several documented cases of athletes using excessive amounts of testosterone in order to facilitate better physical performance.