Bioidentical Hormone Therapy
Toronto Bioidentical Hormone Therapy
Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Toronto
Bioidentical hormone therapy (BHRT) is the practice of using structurally-identical hormones to correct and help conditions associated with hormone deficiencies. These hormones are considered safe, effective and well-tolerated.
For women at menopausal age, bioidentical hormone treatment can be an option to help mitigate symptoms such as hot flashes, sleep problems and weight gain, and also reduce health risks associated with menopause such as osteoporosis. Prescribed by a licensed naturopathic doctor, make an appointment to see if BHRT is right for you.
What are Bioidentical Hormones?
Bioidentical hormones are lab-created hormones chemically identical to those naturally produced by the body, such as estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone. For menopausal women, bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) offers a tailored approach to address symptoms like hot flashes, mood swings, night sweats, and vaginal dryness.
By restoring hormonal balance, BHRT can also improve sleep, boost energy, enhance libido, and support bone and heart health. Unlike synthetic hormones, bioidentical hormones are customized to suit individual needs, offering a more natural and precise solution for managing menopause symptoms and improving overall quality of life during this transitional phase.
Testing for Hormones
Before starting bioidentical hormone therapy (BHRT), comprehensive testing is essential to tailor treatment to individual needs. Common tests include blood, saliva, or urine panels to measure hormone levels like estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, cortisol, and thyroid function. These tests help identify imbalances and underlying conditions that may influence hormonal health. Additionally, a detailed medical history and physical examination are crucial to assess overall health and risk factors. For some patients, additional tests, such as lipid profiles, liver function tests, or bone density scans, may be recommended to ensure safety and effectiveness. These evaluations guide precise, personalized BHRT for optimal results.
Questions? Find out if BHRT is right for you.
Benefits of Bioidentical Hormone Therapy
Bioidentical hormone therapy (BHT) is a personalized approach to hormone replacement that uses hormones identical to those naturally produced by the body. Research and clinical evidence suggest several benefits of BHT, particularly for women experiencing hormonal imbalances or menopause-related symptoms:
- Improved Menopausal Symptoms
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- Reduces hot flashes, night sweats, and vaginal dryness.
- Alleviates mood swings, irritability, and anxiety.
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- Enhanced Bone Health
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- Helps prevent bone density loss and reduces the risk of osteoporosis and fractures.
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- Improved Sleep Quality
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- Balances hormones that regulate sleep, such as estrogen and progesterone, promoting better rest.
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- Increased Energy and Vitality
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- Supports adrenal function and combats fatigue often linked to hormonal imbalances.
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- Improved Sexual Health
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- Enhances libido, reduces vaginal dryness, and improves sexual satisfaction.
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- Better Mood and Cognitive Function
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- Reduces symptoms of depression, brain fog, and difficulty concentrating.
- Supports memory and overall cognitive performance.
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- Cardiovascular Benefits
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- Estrogen has been shown to improve cholesterol profiles and reduce the risk of heart disease when initiated at the right time.
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- Reduced Risk of Diabetes
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- Some studies indicate that BHT may help improve insulin sensitivity and reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes.
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- Personalized Treatment
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- Hormone levels are tailored to each individual’s needs, enhancing effectiveness and reducing side effects.
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- Potential Skin and Hair Benefits
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- Improves skin elasticity, hydration, and reduces wrinkles.
- May slow hair thinning or promote healthier hair growth.
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Bioidentical Hormone Therapy Services
Menopause BHRT Treatment
As we age, our hormone levels will naturally first fluctuate and then drop. This is true for both males and females, but is particularly so for women approaching menopause. Bioidentical HRT can be used to bolster your fading hormone levels, which can significantly reduce the severity of your menopause symptoms.
Perimenopause BHRT Treatment
Perimenopause is the time during which her body is beginning its hormonal decline, preparing itself for the last stretch of egg releases. This transition period can last from a few months to a few years, the average length being around a four-year timespan. We provide customized BHRT prescriptions for issues surrounding perimenopause.
Dessicated Thyroid Treatment
Desiccated thyroid hormone therapy improves energy, supports weight management, enhances mood, and alleviates symptoms of hypothyroidism by providing a natural balance of T3 and T4 hormones for optimal thyroid function.
PCOS Treatment
The benefits of rebalancing your hormones to combat the symptoms of Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome are vast. Many women have been able to overcome their symptoms and regain overall health and wellness by balancing hormones. Balancing hormone levels with bioidentical hormone replacement therapy may help women to prevent more hair loss, improve fertility, and normalize cycles.
What to Expect
Prior to initiating treatment, it is essential to have blood (serum) or urine hormone levels checked, as well as pelvic ultrasound (within 3 months) and updated mammogram (within the year) in order to rule out any contraindications to using bioidentical hormone therapy. Once treatment is initiated, regular hormone balance testing is required to ensure the dosage is correct for your case.
BHRT prescriptions at West End Women’s Health are prescribed by a licensed Naturopathic doctor with additional training in hormone therapy.
Questions? Find out if BHRT is right for you.
Dr. Priyanka Gupta, ND
Bioidentical Hormones are precribed by Dr. Gupta who has additional training and certification in this therapy. Along with being a member of the North American Menopause Soceity, Dr. Gupta has a wealth of knowledge on female health, metabolic wellness and bioidentcial hormone prescribing.
Alex Nowak, NP
NP Alex believes that each person has individual needs and has their own set of life experiences, struggles and issues. She focuses on individualized treatment for those willing to comply with improving and optimizing their health outcomes. She is motivated to provide therapeutic options that are in the best interest of the client.
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