There are 3 different types of female estrogen: estrone (E1), estradiol (E2), and estriol (E3). Depending on health history and hormone lab testing, a doctor who prescribes bio-identical hormones may prescribe small amounts of E2 or E3, or a combination of both to help manage hormonal imbalances. In addition, progesterone, pregnenolone, testosterone or DHEA may be added to fine-tune the prescription to meet an individual’s needs as opposed to the synthetic one-size fits all prescriptions.
Bio-identical hormones can be prescribed in the form of creams, gels, lotions, patches, suppositories, or troches. They are seldom put into pill form to avoid processing by the gastrointestinal tract and the liver, which may alter their chemical structure. In addition, the liver may misinterpret a large influx of hormones at one time as a long-term problem and initiate signals to the brain and body to alter production of natural hormone regulation, including thyroid, and cortisol. The use of topical applications allows hormones to cross the skin barrier and enter directly into the blood stream slowly, in a manner that mimics the body’s natural production and distribution.
Another form of estrogen worth mentioning are xenoestrogens. They are chemical additives, not intended for use in the human body, that imitate estrogen actions and disrupt natural hormone function in the body, including hormones other than estrogen. Xenoestrogens bind to estrogen sites located on your cells, blocking natural estrogen from binding, resulting in high levels of estrogen floating in the bloodstream causing a host of problems. They play havoc on anyone dealing with adrenal deficiency. The body has a difficult time eliminating xenoestrogens, placing an additional burden on the liver and kidneys to try and detox unwanted substances. Your fat cells readily absorb and store them, which can cause problems for many years.
Exposure to Xenoestrogens is common. They are found in plastic water bottles, coated food containers and plastic wraps. Also, hormones fed to beef and dairy cows. They are found in hair-dye, hair straighteners, sunscreen and other beauty and skin products. You’re exposed to them through household cleaning products, bleached products, photocopiers and fax machines, pesticides and fertilizers. Make sure to read labels and avoid products that contain ingredients like benzophenones, parabens, and alkylphenol ethoxylates.
Women choose to utilize bio-identical HRT to regulate menses, reduce vaginal dryness and tissue thinning, hot flashes, hair loss, fatigue, osteoporosis, mood swings, anxiety, memory issues. To increase libido, improve sleep, for heart protection and to slow signs of aging. HRT is not a replacement for having a nutritious and balanced diet, exercising, practicing stress reduction techniques, or getting adequate sleep. These lifestyle concepts need to be incorporated into any good treatment plan. HRT may not even be necessary when these issues are improved, or it may serve as a buffer to relieve symptoms while lifestyle habits are improved.
