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By: Dr. Mary-Leah Albano, B.SC., M.P.H, N.D. – www.ndoc.ca
Hormone imbalances can occur at any time in a woman’s life, from teenage years to menopause. Understanding what the imbalance is and why it is occurring are key to supporting it appropriately. One unique way of treating hormonal imbalance is the use of Bio-Identical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT).
What is Bio-Identical Hormone Replacement Therapy?
BHRT involves the targeted prescribing of specific herbal-derived hormones as a way of balancing our naturally occurring hormones. Bio-identicals are derived from plant sources and are called “bio-identical” because they have the same chemical structure as those produced by our body. As a result, they have a strong safety profile and limited side effects.
What Does Hormonal Imbalance Look Like?
Symptoms of hormone imbalance are vast and can change during a woman’s life. The most commonly seen symptoms include:
– irregular cycles,
– very heavy or very light periods,
– pre-menstrual syndrome (PMS) symptoms (irritability, mood fluctuations, breast tenderness, cramping, bloating, water retention),
– fertility concerns,
– trouble sleeping,
– difficulty concentrating/poor memory,
– low energy,
– depression,
– anxiety,
– menopausal symptoms (hot flashes, night sweats), and
– difficulty losing weight.
When Might One Consider Using Bio-Identical Hormones?
BHRT may be a treatment option to consider if you identify with the symptoms listed above, if those symptoms have been around for some time and/or if they do not seem to be getting any better. At Holistic Healing Arts, our Bio-identical Hormone program begins with Dr. Albano, N.D doing a comprehensive health history intake and laboratory testing for hormones. Hormones testing often includes testing for levels of estrogen, progesterone, testosterone and thyroid hormones before hand and periodically throughout treatment to ensure optimal dosing and effectiveness.
If this piqued your interest and you would like to learn more, join us for our Wellness Wednesday lecture on Wednesday, March 20th, 2018 6:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. at Holistic Healing Arts, where Dr. Albano, N.D will be discussing all things BHRT. Call our clinic for more info: 519-751-3488.
