Bioidentical estrogen is the term used to describe estrogen hormones that are molecularly identical to the estrogen produced naturally by the female body. The key difference between bioidentical estrogen and synthetic estrogen is that bioidentical estrogen has the exact same chemical structure as the estrogen women make in their ovaries.
Some key points about bioidentical estrogen:
- Bioidentical estrogens include estradiol, estrone, and estriol. These are all naturally occurring estrogens found in a woman's body.
- Estradiol is the primary estrogen during a woman's reproductive years. It is most commonly prescribed as the bioidentical estrogen in hormone therapy. Brand names include Estrace, Climara, Alora, Vivelle-Dot, and Menostar.
- Estrone is a weaker estrogen that is produced by the ovaries after menopause. It is available as a bioidentical hormone, though less commonly prescribed than estradiol.
- Estriol is considered the "pregnancy estrogen" as levels increase significantly during pregnancy. It is rarely used as part of a bioidentical hormone regimen.
- Bioidentical estrogen can come in pills, patches, gels, sprays, and creams. This allows dosing and administration methods to be customized to the individual.
- Compounded bioidentical hormones are made by specialty pharmacies. They can adjust doses and combine hormones based on a woman's needs.
- FDA-approved bioidentical estrogens are commercially available in standard doses. These include brands like Estrace, Divigel, Elestrin, and Minivelle.
- Bioidentical hormones are not necessarily safer than synthetic hormones. But some women report better symptom relief from bioidenticals.
- The risks and benefits of bioidentical estrogen are similar to those associated with synthetic hormone therapy. Women should discuss options with their healthcare provider.
- When used properly, bioidentical estrogen can effectively treat menopausal symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, and mood changes related to estrogen loss at menopause.
- Bioidentical estrogen may help prevent bone loss and fracture when initiated within a few years after menopause. The protective bone effects decrease the longer a woman has been postmenopausal.
- Hormone therapy with bioidentical estrogen has not been found to prevent or reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. In women with an intact uterus, progestin must be used to prevent cancer risks.
- Bioidentical hormones can be customized in dose and delivery method, which may allow for better fine-tuning to each woman's needs. Close monitoring by a healthcare provider is essential.
- Not all doctors agree on the risks and benefits associated with bioidentical hormone therapy. Women are advised to discuss all treatment options thoroughly with their provider.
If you are considering bioidentical hormone therapy, our hormone specialists at Balance Hormone Clinic can help determine if custom-compounded bioidentical estrogen is right for you. We provide customized bioidentical hormone treatments tailored to your unique needs and lifestyle. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about bioidentical estrogen treatment options.
