According to MayoClinic.com, bioidentical hormones have gained popularity as an alternative to prescription hormone therapy, because bioidentical hormones are marketed as natural rather than synthetic. Bioidentical hormones are similar in chemical structure to naturally occurring hormones found in the human body. Harvard Health Publications explains that a synthesis of sorts must take place from the original plant in order to extract the hormone chemicals needed for creating the final product prior to use. Custom bioidentical hormones are available by prescription, according to the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. However, bioidentical hormones are not Food and Drug Administration approved.
Step 1
Consult with your physician about using bioidentical hormones. Discuss your need for hormone replacement and complete a physical examination to determine your hormone levels. The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists notes that a hormone panel is needed rather than a saliva test to determine blood level of hormones in your body.
Step 2
Consider your options for using bioidentical hormones. Harvard Health Publications notes that different versions of bioidentical hormones are available. This includes pills, patches or creams and gels. Depending on the type of bioidentical selected, absorption of the hormones varies.
Step 3
Locate a compounding pharmacy if prescription bioidentical hormones are indicated. Harvard Health Publications explains that custom compounding is not always necessary; however, some prescribing clinicians indicate specific preparations for use. In this case, regular pharmacies are unable to fill the prescription.
Step 4
Read the guidelines for applying topical creams or gels thoroughly. HormoneProfile.com explains that use of bioidentical topicals have specific guidelines for women, depending on the presence of having a menstrual cycle or not. How and when the topical is used is impacted by this, without exception. Each bioidentical topical method has specific instructions to follow and must be referred to prior to use.
Step 5
Use bioidentical hormones with caution. The Endocrine Society notes that replicating hormones is difficult and compounding is not currently regulated by the FDA. Using bioidentical hormones has risks and side effects, especially when products are purchased from unknown sources. Possible side effects may include weight gain, fatigue or depression.
Tips and Warnings
- MayoClinic.com notes that FDA-approved natural hormone preparations do exist and are useful as an alternative to non-FDA approved bioidentical hormones.
- The Wellness Center warns that use of bioidentical hormones can have toxic effects and may slow down the natural production of hormones in your body.
Things You'll Need
- Topical cream
References
- Mayo Clinic: Bioidentical Hormones: Are They Safer?
- American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists: No Scientific Evidence Supporting Effectiveness or Safety of Compounded Bioidentical Hormone Therapy
- Harvard Health Publications: What Are Bioidentical Hormones
- Endocrine Society: Bioidentical Hormones
- Hormone Profile: How to Use Natural Support Creams for Men and Women
