Bio-identical hormones are made in a laboratory, usually
from components of plants, to match exactly the structure
your body produces and is used to. In contrast, synthetic
hormones are designed by drug companies, are foreign to the
human body, and are unique in ways so they can be patented.
Provera, recently has been implicated in the increasing
rate of breast cancer. Provera is a synthetic, not
bio-identical progesterone.
Premarin, the most commonly prescribed estrogen
replacement, is natural to a horse, as it is derived from
pregnant mare’s urine (thus the name premarin). But horse
estrogen is not bioidentical to human estrogen.
Prempro combines premarin and provera. We have never
recommended this. Since the WHI studies in 2002 even most
conventional doctors won’t prescribe it anymore.
Other estrogens on the market, such as Ogen, are made from
plants, but are not the same compound that is found in a
women’s body.
Products available:
Only estradiol and progesterone come in standard
prescriptions. Many women need some of the other estrogens
(estriol and estrone), or other hormones like DHEA and
cortisol (adrenal hormones), or testosterone. Fortunately,
any combination can be compounded by a special kind of
pharmacist called a compounding pharmacist. This creates a
unique formula specific to an individual’s needs.
Compounded formulas are not covered by insurance, however.
Testing is available to get accurate information about
where your hormone levels are. Typically we will test
Estrogen, progesterone, DHEA, testosterone and cortisol x3.
Keeping all your hormones in balance is what helps you
feel your best.
In our practice we recommend taking the least invasive,
most natural step to create better health and balanced
hormones. We start with a foundation which includes a
healthy diet that is low in simple carbohydrates and
processed foods. Ample water for hydration, regular
exercise, a good multiple vitamin, essential fatty acids,
relaxation and other self care methods are the next step.
If needed, things such as herbal medicine, amino acid
therapy, targeted nutrition, and bio-identical hormone
replacement will be added.
We would love to discuss your health and healing. Call us now!
