Bioidentical progesterone cream and other hormones have become popular among women looking to treat symptoms of hormonal problems and to prevent certain diseases, but its safety and efficacy are still in doubt. "Plant-derived" doesn't always mean safer.
Definition
Bioidentical hormones are an alternative to standard hormone therapy. These hormones are derived from plants rather than being synthesized from chemicals, which manufacturers claim makes them safer. Bioidentical hormone products usually require a prescription and are custom-made for the patient based on a saliva test, according to a MayoClinic.com article.
Progesterone
Like other bioidentical hormones, bioidentical progesterone cream is derived from plants. One plant in particular, Mexican wild yam, is said to contain natural progesterone. Manufacturers of wild yam creams claim it can treat a variety of hormonal conditions. However, the wild yam plant cannot supply the body with progesterone and is therefore likely ineffective, according to the American Cancer Society.
Uses
According to an article in the "Journal of General Internal Medicine", the makers of bioidentical hormones such as progesterone cream claim they can prevent heart disease, hypertension, cholesterol, breast cancer and endometrial cancer. Wild yam cream claims to treat symptoms of menopause, promote fertility and help women lose weight and increase their sex drive. Little evidence exists to back up any of these claims.
Warning
Although celebrities and alternative medicine practitioners have promoted bioidentical hormones as safer than standard hormone therapy, they are identical to hormones used in some commercial pharmaceutical preparations. Most bioidentical hormone creams are not approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
Considerations
Always talk to your doctor before using any kind of hormone therapy. Although some women may benefit from nonstandard doses of certain hormones, according to the Mayo Clinic article, an FDA-approved standard hormone dose may be a safer alternative for most. Bioidentical hormones are not necessarily any safer or healthier than standard hormone therapy, and a saliva test for dosage doesn't correspond to the hormone levels in your blood or to any symptoms of menopause.
