There is a lot of confusion about hormone replacement therapy and the use of bioidentical hormones. Many people are unsure about what bioidentical actually means, which hormones are bioidentical, and why you might choose them over other forms of hormone replacement.
Bioidentical means that the hormone is chemically the same as what your body naturally makes. This applies not only to estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone, but also to thyroid hormones. For example, levothyroxine (T4) and liothyronine (T3) are bioidentical thyroid medications that match what your body produces. On the other hand, Armour Thyroid and Nature-Throid, which are made from pig thyroid, are not bioidentical because they come from animals and do not exactly match human hormones.
Another common example is Premarin, a hormone made from pregnant horse urine. It is not bioidentical because its structure differs from human estrogen. In the last 20 years, the use of synthetic hormones like Premarin and Provera has significantly declined. Many people now choose bioidentical options, which are available at regular pharmacies with a standard prescription.
When considering bioidentical hormone replacement therapy, it’s important to look at your whole health picture. Working with a qualified practitioner can help you determine what your symptoms mean, what your lab tests show, and what approach is best for your body.
It’s also important to remember that hormone balance doesn’t always require taking hormones. Many herbs and natural approaches can support your body’s own hormone production and balance.
If you have questions or want to learn more about how bioidentical hormones could help you, please reach out by email, Facebook Live messaging, or visit my website.
Final Thoughts
Bioidentical hormones offer an option for many people seeking a more natural approach to hormone replacement therapy. The goal is always to support your body’s unique needs in the best way possible.
“There are also a million ways to do hormone replacement without taking hormones. You can take bioidentical hormones and I do support my patients with that. But you can also take herbs to support your body’s natural functions.”
📧 drshiroko@hthmc.com | 📞 707-524-9640
For a deeper look at this topic, you can watch the full video here: Bioidentical Hormones: What They Are & Why They Matter | Dr. Shiroko Sokitch
Love,
Dr. Shiroko Sokitch
