Using Bio-identical Hormones for Menopause
Is Menopause causing you Mayhem?
As women enter the peri-menopausal years, they often experience symptoms of Estrogen Dominance. These symptoms of menopause include:
- vaginal dryness
- hot flashes
- insomnia
- anxiety
- foggy thinking
- low energy
- depression
- PMS
Estrogen Dominance occurs because while both estrogen and progesterone start to decline in a woman’s 40’s, her progesterone drops at a much faster rate.
By increasing the progesterone available, symptoms of the stimulating hormone estrogen (hot flashes, anxiety, insomnia) can often be abated.
Natural treatment options for the symptoms of menopause are extensive. They must begin with good nutrition and movement routines. Herbs, vitamins, and bioidentical hormones (BHRT) can also be added to the mix.
- Chaste Tree
- Black Cohosh
- Pycnogenol
- St. John’s Wort
- Omega 3 fish oils
- Compounded bioidentical progesterone cream
- Compounded bioidentical estrogen cream
A wonderful review of bioidentical hormone research was published in Integrative Healthcare Practitioners. It addresses the concerns about HRT with respect to cancer and heart disease.
Bottom line is that we need more current research done. Until that occurs, we have research to suggest that bioidentical transdermal (vs oral) estrogen and progesterone behave differently in the body than synthetic versions given orally.
To be prudent, we should use the smallest dose needed to manage symptoms for the shortest duration of time required.
Should you wish to discuss your menopausal treatment strategy further, please book a free meet-the-doctor session with Dr. Katie Rothwell, ND using our online booking system or by calling the office at 705-792-6717