Hormonal balance is important for women’s overall health, especially as they age. Among the symptoms that can disrupt the quality of life are vaginal dryness and frequent urinary tract infections (UTIs). They may be alleviated through various treatments, including bioidentical hormone therapy (BHT). Here’s what you need to know about this option.
What Are Bioidentical Hormones?
Bioidentical hormones are man-made hormones derived from plants. They are chemically identical to those the human body produces. Estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone are among the most commonly replicated and used in treatment. Bioidentical hormones come in various forms, including pills, patches, creams, gels, and injections.
Learn More About Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT)
How Can Bioidentical Hormones Help?
- Vaginal Dryness: Estrogen plays a pivotal role in maintaining the health of vaginal tissue. It promotes blood flow and normal tissue integrity and enhances natural lubrication. A decrease in estrogen levels is the primary cause for vaginal dryness. This is common during menopause. Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) can supplement estrogen levels, helping to restore vaginal moisture and elasticity.
- Frequent UTIs: The decrease in estrogen that accompanies menopause can also thin the lining of the urethra. The resultant changes can make it easier for bacteria to multiply, increasing the risk of UTIs. By stabilizing estrogen levels, bioidentical hormones can help reinforce the urinary tract’s defenses against infections.
Take The Hormone Imbalance Quiz
Evaluating the Safety and Effectiveness
While bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) can be effective, it’s not without risks. The decision to use bioidentical hormones should be made after a thorough evaluation by a healthcare provider. Your provider can assess the balance of potential benefits and risks in your specific case.
Personalized Treatment
BHRT is customized for each individual. This personalized approach can be more effective as it caters directly to a patient’s specific hormonal needs. Pharmacies compound these prescriptions to meet an individual’s personal hormonal needs. This highlights the importance of using a reputable practitioner and pharmacy.
Alternative Treatments
For those hesitant about hormone therapy, other options are available to manage symptoms like vaginal dryness and frequent UTIs. These include:
- Over-the-counter lubricants and moisturizers: These can relieve vaginal dryness without the use of hormones.
- Behavioral modifications: Increasing water intake, practicing good urinary hygiene, and avoiding irritants like harsh soaps and sprays can help.
- Probiotics: Regular use of probiotics can help maintain a healthy balance of bacteria in the body, potentially reducing the frequency of UTIs.
BHRT may offer a promising solution for women dealing with vaginal dryness and frequent UTIs, especially those associated with hormonal changes during menopause. However, it is essential to consult with a healthcare professional to understand the potential benefits and risks thoroughly, and to explore all available treatment options tailored to your health needs.
