Hormone Talk: Bioidentical Hormone Therapy or Synthetic Hormone Therapy

Nowadays, women do not have to endure the discomfort caused by menopause. There are already many ways to treat the hormone imbalance that is at the root of all the symptoms. While natural methods such as fulfilling dietary requirements and making the necessary lifestyle changes are still recommended by most experts, they also endorse hormone replacement therapies to help alleviate the uneasiness felt during the menopausal stage. rnThis treatment has two types, namely, bioidentical and synthetic hormone replacement therapies. The obvious difference between the two is the nature of the hormone supplements consumed by patients. It is important for women to understand the nuances of both procedures so they can decide which treatment to get for themselves. rnPerception rnThe common perceptions about bioidentical and synthetic hormones perhaps cause the most confusion in women. There is a general belief that the former is a “natural” hormone, while the latter is “artificial.” The truth is that both of them have to undergo laboratory processes to reach their final forms. The difference lies in the materials used for the supplements. Unlike bioidentical hormones, synthetic ones are not made from organic products. rnMolecular Structure rnBecause synthetic hormones are mass-produced, they have general molecular structures that would ideally work for all women. However, the reality is that each person has a different body composition, and this makes therapy more or less effective for some. In contrast, bioidentical hormone replacement therapy utilizes hormones that structurally match a woman’s unique makeup. rnSide Effects rnSince the supplements in bioidentical hormone therapy are specifically designed to complement the hormones naturally produced by a woman, there are few side effects with this type of treatment. The body is able to process the hormones as if it were its own. Synthetic hormones are not as easily accepted by the body. There is a chance that complications would develop because the body does not recognize the supplements introduced in the therapy. rnA great number of experts have concluded that bioidentical hormone replacement therapy is the better and safer alternative. However, the market price of the supplements might be too steep for some women’s pockets. Since the hormones have to be tailored to fit one’s chemical composition, a lot of tests are involved, compounding the actual cost of the treatment. This is why many women choose to take synthetic hormones instead.