Bioidentical Hormone

What is Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT)?

Naturopathic Doctors who have met the Standard of Practice for Prescribing in Ontario have the ability to use and prescribe BHRT for their patients.

 

Bioidentical hormones are identical on a molecular basis to the hormones produced by the human body.  They are not synthetic compounds but are synthesized in a lab by a certified compounding pharmacist, and the end result is a product that is indistinguishable from human hormones.  BHRT provides a safe and individualized approach to rebalancing and restoring your body’s natural hormone levels based on hormone testing in the blood, saliva, or urine. Unlike most synthetic hormones that are prescribed in tablet form and taken orally, bioidentical hormones are applied in the form of a transdermal cream (cream applied on the surface of the skin). They are absorbed directly into the body’s tissues and bloodstream and do not need to be metabolized by the liver.

 

Who can benefit from Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy?

 

Women of any age can benefit from BHRT. In this day in age, hormone imbalances are very common as a result of our environment, dietary and lifestyle habits, and a variety of other stressors. In addition to these factors, hormone levels naturally start to decline after age 30, and many women begin experiencing symptoms of hormone imbalance.

 

Symptoms of hormone imbalance include

 

  • Fatigue

  • Anxiety

  • Depression

  • Hot flashes & Night Sweats

  • Vaginal dryness

  • Decreased/Low libido

  • Facial hair growth

  • Heavy periods

  • Painful periods

  • Breast tenderness

  • Mood swings

  • Changes in memory

  • Weight gain and/or difficulty losing weight

  • Acne

  • Muscle and joint pain

  • Migraines around menses
    Insomnia

 

Natural BHRT vs. Conventional HRT:


 

Whereas bioidentical hormones are identical to the hormones produced by the human body, conventional hormone replacement therapy modifies natural hormones with synthetic additions so that they are shaped differently and retain only some of the native properties and functions of the parent hormone. Natural BHRT may be an option for those hoping to avoid unwanted side effects or risks associated with conventional HRT, and is generally thought to be a safer alternative.

 

Is Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy covered by OHIP?


 

BHRT is NOT covered by OHIP, however, patients may be able to submit their receipts to their own private health insurance provider. Please contact your insurance provider for more information.