Hormone Therapy

Understanding Hormone Therapy

Hormone therapy is a treatment option for individuals experiencing hormonal imbalances due to aging, menopause, or other health conditions. It involves the administration of hormones to restore balance and alleviate symptoms. There are two primary types of hormone therapy available: Health Canada-approved prescription options and bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT).

Health Canada-Approved Prescription Hormone Therapy

Health Canada regulates and approves various hormone therapy medications to ensure their safety and efficacy. These prescription options include synthetic hormones such as estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone, commonly used to treat menopausal symptoms, osteoporosis, and other hormonal deficiencies.

Common Prescription Hormones

• Estrogen: Used to manage menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, and vaginal dryness.

• Progesterone: Often prescribed in combination with estrogen to reduce the risk of endometrial cancer in women with an intact uterus.

• Testosterone: Utilized in both men and women to address issues like low libido, fatigue, and muscle mass loss.

Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT)

BHRT uses hormones that are chemically identical to those produced by the human body. These hormones are derived from natural sources and are customized to match an individual’s hormonal needs. BHRT is often favored for its perceived natural approach and potential for personalized treatment.

Benefits of BHRT

• Customized Treatment: Hormone levels are tailored to each individual's specific needs based on comprehensive testing.

• Natural Sources: BHRT hormones are derived from plant sources, making them a more natural alternative to synthetic options.

• Symptom Relief: Effective in alleviating symptoms of menopause, perimenopause, and other hormonal imbalances.

Common Bioidentical Hormones

• Bioidentical Estrogen: Used to treat menopausal symptoms and maintain bone density.

• Bioidentical Progesterone: Helps balance estrogen levels and supports overall hormone health.

• Bioidentical Testosterone: Used to enhance libido, energy levels, and muscle strength.

Choosing the Right Hormone Therapy

Deciding between Health Canada-approved prescription options and BHRT depends on individual health needs, preferences, and medical history. Consulting with our Nurse Practitioner is essential to determine the most appropriate treatment plan.

Factors to Consider

• Health History: Personal and family medical history, including risks for hormone-related cancers.

• Symptoms: Severity and type of symptoms experienced.

• Preferences: Personal comfort with synthetic versus natural hormone sources.

Safety and Monitoring

Both types of hormone therapy require careful monitoring by a healthcare professional to ensure safety and effectiveness. Regular check-ups, hormone level testing, and symptom assessments are crucial components of ongoing treatment.

At JEKT, we understand that hormone therapy offers significant benefits for individuals dealing with hormonal imbalances. Understanding the differences between Health Canada-approved prescription options and BHRT can help make informed decisions about the best treatment approach. Always consult with our Nurse Practitioner to tailor the therapy to your specific needs and ensure optimal results.

For more information or to schedule a consultation, contact us today!