Category Archives: Hormone Replacement

Latest Topics in Endocrinology You Can’t Miss at the BHRT Symposium 

February 11, 2022

The role of a functional medicine clinician extends beyond treating disease and remedying overt symptoms; the goal of patient care is to improve life- and healthspan while addressing the underlying causes of poor wellbeing. Often, this can stem from a dysregulation or imbalance in physiological systems, such as the endocrine system.

As a cornerstone of the functional and anti-aging medicine practice, bio-identical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) can serve as a critical tool that allows patients to lead full and healthy lives at any age. The current rising demand for BHRT is emblematic of growing awareness and acceptance among the patient population of innovative hormone therapeutics, which also marks the increasing importance of up-to-date, comprehensive education in the rapidly developing field.

Our reputable Bio-Identical Hormone Replacement Therapy Symposium, which takes place between February 25-27, 2022, in Nashville, TN, gathers the world’s experts in hormone therapeutics to serve this very purpose. At the largest event in the industry, renowned speakers will review the most recent and relevant research in clinical endocrinology, analyze current evidence for and against hormone therapies, and delve into strategies for safely and effectively merging them into practice.

Latest Topics in Endocrinology and Hormone Therapeutics 

From current concepts and guidelines in thyroid therapy to complete overviews of sex hormones and their multi-faceted role in human health, the three-day workshop is designed to deliver the latest knowledge in every relevant area of the specialty. Read on to learn more about a few of the prominent topics in clinical endocrinology that will be covered.

Breast Cancer Risk with Hormone Therapies

A heavily debated topic in hormone replacement therapies is the risk of cancer development associated with their use. Current scientific literature points to a slightly increased breast cancer risk in patients prescribed traditional hormonal replacement therapies (HRT). However, the level of risk correlates with a variety of individual-specific factors, including the type of HRT, duration of treatment, age of initial therapy, as well as general patient health. Additionally, the increase in cancer risk has been noted as comparatively less significant than the cancer risk associated with a high body mass index or cigarette smoking.

Meanwhile, the correlation between bio-identical hormone replacement therapies and breast cancer development risk has not been conclusively established. A lack of decisive findings related to BHRT and its impact on cancer, along with the documented increased risk associated with traditional HRT, strongly encourages a comprehensive clinical risk assessment on a case-by-case basis to determine whether the benefits of treatment outweigh its potential complications.

To learn more about the latest developments in this subject, attend Dr. Tara Scott’s session “HRT: The Clinical Benefits and Breast Cancer Risk Assessment” during Day 1 of the BHRT Symposium.

PCOS and Non-PCOS High Androgen Syndromes 

While polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), which affects between 5-10% of the population, is the most common cause of hyperandrogenism, non-PCOS high androgen syndromes are also prevalent among women. Although the exact cause of PCOS is unknown, evidence suggests excess insulin production, low-grade inflammation, hereditary factors, and excess androgen levels. Other causes of high androgen levels include congenital adrenal hyperplasia and Cushing’s disease, which can present similar symptoms related to hormone abnormalities.

There is no known cure for these syndromes today; however, early diagnosis and treatment, and lifestyle interventions can greatly reduce the risk of long-term complications such as type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Currently, many available treatments, including hormone therapies, can be used to significantly minimize the symptoms of high androgen syndromes and allow patients to lead a normal life without complications.

To further explore the topic of PCOS and Non-PCOS high androgen syndromes, join Dr. Felice Gersh during her session on Day 2 of the BHRT Symposium.

HPA Axis Dysfunction 

Referring to the hypothalamus pituitary adrenal (HPA) axis, HPA axis dysfunction is an increasingly common condition caused by chronic stress, prolonged elevated cortisol levels, and imbalanced hormones. The disorder is characterized by a range of symptoms, including chronic fatigue, mental illness, digestive disorders, inflammation, infertility, weight gain, and more.

While it is not frequently diagnosed as part of conventional primary care, integrative and functional medicine practitioners have been addressing HPA axis dysfunction for many years. Remedying the underlying hormonal imbalances is a critical component of effective treatment, alongside lifestyle changes to reduce stress levels, improve sleep quality, and optimize patient health.

Learn more from internationally renowned integrative specialist Andrew Heyman, MD, MHSA, who will lead a discussion focused on cortisol, DHEA, pregnenolone to kick off Day 3 of the BHRT Symposium.

The Bio-Identical Hormone Replacement Therapy Symposium 2022

Grounded in the most recent and well-supported research, the upcoming BHRT Symposium will provide in-depth knowledge on the relationship between hormones and overall health and identify effective ways in which clinicians can wield practical tools such as bio-identical hormone replacement therapy to treat a variety of conditions. The most significant event in hormone therapeutics is only two weeks away; sign up today to gain the latest clinical endocrinology insights from industry-leading experts.

Expanding Your Practice with Hormonal Health

August 27, 2021

As awareness of the importance of hormones and their health implications grows, the hormone health industry will continue to evolve and expand at rapid rates. Over the past several decades, hormone replacement therapy (HRT) has experienced a surge in popularity, driven by increased advertising, growing accessibility, and treatment innovations. Now increasingly provided under the wing of personalized medicine, hormone therapies are currently used to treat menopause, andropause, thyroid disorders, hypogonadism, as well as other disorders of the endocrine system. As the prevalence of these conditions is on the rise, so is patient demand for HRT solutions, and more specifically bio-identical hormone-based products. At this time, incorporating hormonal health solutions into your service offering provides a great opportunity for practice expansion and patient growth.

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Women’s Hormones: The Safety of Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy 

April 16, 2021

The field of hormone replacement therapies, and in particular bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT), has received considerable attention in recent years as it may offer a potential natural alternative treatment for hormonal balances affecting both men and women. While BHRT has been most commonly prescribed for the treatment of menopause symptoms, it can also be used to improve symptoms related to cancer treatment, insulin resistance, thyroid disorders, and many other health conditions. The use of this therapeutic method is increasing in popularity as awareness of the natural alternative grows and patient preferences continue to change.

The Benefits of BHRT

Chemically identical to hormones produced by the body, bioidentical hormones are derived from plant estrogens and come in a variety of forms including pills, gels, and injections that allow for ease of use that strengthens treatment adherence. BHRT is often prescribed as patients age and their hormone levels begin to decrease, especially in the case of women who enter perimenopause or menopause to improve the moderate-to-severe symptoms associated with this transition. Furthermore, hormone replacement therapies have been found  to reduce the risk for diabetes, tooth loss, as well as cataracts while potentially improving skin thickness, hydration, and elasticity. For post-treatment cancer patients with decreased estrogen levels, BHRT has shown efficacy in improving general wellbeing and overall quality of life; it may also alleviate some treatment-related symptoms such as migraines and insomnia.

Associated Risks

Nonetheless, this class of therapeutics has been tied to side effects with current research showing that hormone replacement therapy in general may increase the risk of certain conditions including blood clots, stroke, heart disease, and breast cancer. Additionally, BHRT therapy has been associated with acne, bloating, weight gain, fatigue, and mood swings as common side effects, which may deter some patients from the treatment. The risks and potential for side effects should be evaluated on an individual basis as they vary among women depending on their health history.

Compounded Bioidentical Hormones and FDA Regulation

Custom made by pharmacies per physicians’ orders, compounded bioidentical hormones typically include ingredients combined or altered to meet the specific needs of an individual patient. While such formulations may be effective when tailored correctly, it is important to note that the FDA has not approved any custom-compounded bioidentical hormone therapies to date. Also, many bioidentical hormones are manufactured and sold with limited safety, quality, and purity controls. As such, clinicians are encouraged to maintain caution in prescribing compounded bioidentical hormones.

To safely and effectively prescribe bioidentical hormone replacement therapies and other similar therapeutics, clinicians are invited to join the upcoming Women’s Hormones online course taking place from October 5-17, 2021, expertly designed to build clinical confidence and prepare practitioners for any patient scenario.