“Understanding Bioidentical Hormone Therapy: Benefits, Risks, and What You Need to Know”
At our clinic, we are committed to providing the highest quality care and the most accurate information to our patients. Recently, we’ve received many inquiries about bioidentical hormone therapy (BHT), particularly regarding custom-compounded hormones. Given the growing interest in this area, we want to take a moment to clarify our stance and explain why we align with the Australasian Menopause Society (AMS) on this important topic.
What Is Bioidentical Hormone Therapy?
Bioidentical hormone therapy refers to the use of hormones that are chemically identical to those the human body naturally produces. These hormones are often used to treat symptoms of menopause, such as hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings, and other related conditions. There are two main types of bioidentical hormones:
- Commercially Available Bioidenticals: These are standardised products that have been rigorously tested for safety and efficacy.
- Custom-Compounded Bioidenticals: These are made in a pharmacy according to a doctor’s prescription and are tailored to the individual’s specific hormone levels and symptoms.
The Position of the Australasian Menopause Society
The Australasian Menopause Society, a leading authority on menopause and women’s health, provides evidence-based guidelines and recommendations on the use of hormone therapies. According to the AMS:
- Commercially Available Bioidenticals: These are recommended because they have undergone extensive testing for purity, potency, and safety. They are subject to strict regulatory oversight, ensuring that patients receive a consistent and reliable product.
- Custom-Compounded Bioidenticals: The AMS advises caution with custom-compounded bioidentical hormones. While they are often marketed as being more “natural” or tailored to the individual, they are not subject to the same rigorous testing and regulatory scrutiny as commercially available products. This can lead to variations in strength, purity, and overall efficacy, potentially compromising patient safety.
Why We Align with the AMS
At our clinic, patient safety and well-being are our top priorities. We align with the AMS’s position because it is grounded in the latest research and clinical evidence. We believe that patients should have access to treatments that are proven to be safe and effective.
While we understand the appeal of custom-compounded hormones, we also recognise the potential risks associated with their use. For this reason, we advocate for the use of commercially available bioidentical hormones whenever possible. These products offer a higher level of assurance in terms of quality, consistency, and safety.
Making Informed Decisions
We encourage our patients to be informed and proactive about their health. If you are considering hormone therapy, we strongly recommend scheduling a consultation with our doctor. Together, we can explore your symptoms, discuss your treatment options, and make decisions that are best suited to your individual needs.
Conclusion
Bioidentical hormone therapy can be a valuable tool in managing menopause symptoms, but it’s important to choose treatments that are backed by solid evidence and rigorous standards. By aligning with the Australasian Menopause Society, we ensure that our patients receive care that is both effective and safe.
For more information on the AMS’s guidelines, please visit their website here.
If you have any questions or would like to book a consultation, please don’t hesitate to contact us. Your health is our priority, and we are here to support you every step of the way.