The Bioidentical Difference: Why Natural Might Be Best with HRT

Looking back on your teenage years, you can probably see how your fluctuating hormone levels took a toll. That isn’t just a problem that comes with youth. Hormonal changes are equally challenging as you get further into adulthood. 

Hormone fluctuations are behind the most unwelcome symptoms of menopause, from hot flashes to mood changes.

And if you think that’s a problem only women face, think again. As men get older, they can face declining testosterone levels, leading to low testosterone (low T). That can cause fatigue, loss of muscle mass, and low libido.

Fortunately, we can help. Here at Legacy Pain and Regenerative Medicine in Plano and Addison, Texas, Dr. Trace Alexander provides a range of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) options. That includes bioidentical hormones, so we wanted to take a closer look at this option today. 

The difference with bioidentical hormones

Bioidentical female hormones (specifically, estrogen) have gotten buzz recently, but men also have the option for bioidentical testosterone. 

There’s a reason that millions of women across the U.S. — and an increasing number of men — choose bioidentical hormones for their HRT. People are drawn to bioidentical treatment for two primary reasons: 

The hormone source

Synthetic hormones often come from animal sources. One of the commonly used synthetic HRT options for women comes from the urine of pregnant horses, for example. 

If you find that off-putting, you’ll be glad to know that bioidentical hormones come from plant sources like yams or soy. In a lab, experts adjust the hormones derived from these plants until they’re identical to the ones your body creates. 

Customizability 

While synthetic hormones are preformulated, bioidentical hormones can be compounded to meet your specific needs. That allows Dr. Alexander to deliver precisely what your body requires to offset the unwelcome symptoms you experience from your hormone imbalance. 

Finding the right HRT for you

To help you feel your best while limiting risks, Dr. Alexander recommends taking the lowest dose of HRT possible. He also helps you find the right delivery method for your needs. The options here include:

• A tiny pellet implanted under your skin
• Pills
• Patches
• Creams and gels
• Injections

Testosterone is available in an inhalable form. 

Dr. Alexander helps you decide what kind of HRT is right for you — bioidentical or otherwise — based on your symptoms and how you want to feel. 

To explore your options, call our team at Legacy Pain and Regenerative Medicine at 972-899-9797 or book your appointment online today.