Introduction:

BHRT is the use of supplemental doses of steroid hormones with a chemical structure identical to hormones endogenous to humans. Generally, this is done to relieve the symptoms of menopause, though more recent therapies promise anti-aging effects and possible deferral of the diseases of aging. BHRT is a modification of conventional hormone replacement therapy, in which the hormone's structures may be different from those produced in the body. Bio-identical ("natural") hormone replacement therapy (nBHRT) has been proposed by some doctors as a reasonable alternative, although it is not commonly prescribed. The nBHRT, like its synthetic counterpart, requires a physician's prescription for the hormones estrogen and progesterone. The hormones differ in that nBHRT is derived from plants rather than synthetic chemicals. They also differ in that the synthetic formulations that are manufactured by pharmaceutical companies and packaged into specific, standard doses. Conversely, nBHRT is prescribed in person-specific doses and compounded by a pharmacist.

After effects of BHRT:

Emphasis on topical administration avoids problems such as blood clotting that are caused by the rapid metabolism of orally administered hormones. Progesterone may work differently in the body than medroxyprogesterone acetate. Regular testing allows individualized doses rather than "one dose fits all" approach of conventional hormone replacement therapy. Inclusion of estriol may be protective against hormone-induced cancer. Unlike estradiol, estriol binds preferentially to the second estrogen receptor (ERbeta). ERbeta may function as a tumor suppressor. However, the lack of testing means the potential benefits of BHRT are unconfirmed, and present the same risks for blood clotting, breast cancer and strokes as conventional HRT.

Conclusion

This study is limited by the fact that it is not a randomized placebo-controlled study and did not include a standardized diet plan or depression scale survey. In spite of these limitations, the study demonstrates that for this cohort of PMPW the nBHRT significantly reduced perimenopausal- and postmenopausal-related symptoms. These findings support the need for a large randomized trial of nBHRT. Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy is used to help treat the symptoms of menopause, perimenopause, and post-menopause. Treatment with bioidentical hormones usually includes creating a unique cocktail of hormones for the individual patient, based on hormone deficiencies identified via saliva samples. These are often referred to as "custom-compounded" hormone products.