Natural (so called Bio-Identical) hormones are made from plants and have the same chemical structure to our own hormones that occur naturally in the body. As we age, our hormones decline and this can cause a number of health issues. For some the symptoms are mild, but for others they are life changing and could go on for years if left untreated.
Natural hormones are a direct replica of our own hormones and when used as a key aspect in hormone replacement therapy, patients can use them as a powerful tool to fight against the symptoms of a hormone imbalance. These natural hormones can slow the ageing process and improve your overall health. If you are experiencing hormonal acne, hot flushes, night sweats, insomnia, mood swings, fatigue, poor libido or lack of concentration, hormones could help you take back control regaining that youthful vitality in the process.
Estrogen is the name given to a group of related hormones: estrone, estradiol and estriol. They are important for overall health and wellbeing, with additional benefits of improved muscle tone, libido and healthy skin and hair. Benefits of bio-identical natural estrogen can also include:
Progesterone is often called the ‘happy hormone’ because it can greatly improve a person’s mood and their sense of wellbeing. It is also necessary for male and female hormone balance. Progesterone imbalances may cause infertility, anxiety and irritability. Progesterone is the hormone companion of estrogen; the two work to balance each other during a woman’s cycle. Benefits can also include:
Testosterone is the principle male sex hormone that promotes masculine features in men. It decreases the symptoms of the male menopause and is also a natural anabolic steroid. However, women also produce testosterone and it is very important to many aspects of their health and physiology. In both men and women, testosterone enhances libido, decreases body fat and depression. It also maintains bone density and protects against osteoporosis.
Benefits of testosterone therapy can also include:
Dehydroepiandrosterone (know as DHEA) is an important hormone, not just because of it’s own effects, but also because it is converted by the body into oestrogen, progesterone and testosterone. DHEA is the ‘feel good’ hormone shown to have beneficial effect on mood, libido and the immune system and metabolism. It is the most prolific hormone in the body and starts to decrease from around the age of 30, matching the signs and symptoms of ageing and susceptibility to disease. DHEA increases energy and enhances the feeling of vitality.
Benefits can also include:
Melatonin induces profound relaxation of muscles and nerves, which makes for better sleep. Melatonin normalises sleep patterns and regulates the deep stage of sleep, which is very important for stimulating the immune system. It also protects against free radicals and is a strong antioxidant. Physical signs of deficiency are poor sleep, excess of muscle tension, circadian rhythm disturbances or an increase in free radical damage
Pregnenolone is a precursor to DHEA and also helps maintain memory and improve cognitive function. As it doesn’t occur naturally in food, the human body generally makes enough pregnenolone to meet your needs, under normal circumstances. However, pregnenolone levels decline with age and supplementation is often beneficial.
Benefits can include:
When your hormones work in harmony, you look and feel your best. If you think you might be suffering the effects of a hormone imbalance, we can help you understand the benefits of hormone replacement therapy and the positive effects it can have for those experiencing issues relating to hormonal imbalance. During your one-hour consultation, we will review your medical history in detail and assess your symptoms and I will recommend a course of treatment that is bespoke to you. Blood tests and a baseline pelvic ultrasound can then be arranged accordingly.
Following your investigations, you will want expert advice on your results, I offer both face to face and telephone tailored reviews. You will receive a bespoke programme on the types of hormone replacement therapy that will benefit you, including a plan to increase your overall health with a focus on diet, supplements and lifestyle advice. Once settled on a program we will review you regularly, usually once a year.