Bioidentical Hormones
Bioidentical hormone therapy (BHT) refers to the use of hormones that are chemically identical to those naturally produced by the body. These hormones share the same molecular structure as endogenous hormones, allowing them to interact with receptors in the same way as naturally occurring oestrogen, progesterone and, in some cases, testosterone and DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone). Because their structure matches the body’s own hormones, bioidentical preparations are designed to integrate naturally into normal hormonal pathways.
In menopause care, bioidentical hormones are commonly prescribed as part of Menopausal Hormone Therapy (MHT) to help manage symptoms related to fluctuating and declining hormone levels. During perimenopause and menopause, changes in oestrogen and progesterone can contribute to symptoms such as hot flushes, night sweats, sleep disturbance, mood changes, vaginal dryness, reduced libido and fatigue. MHT using bioidentical hormones aims to stabilise hormone levels and reduce these symptoms, helping many women maintain quality of life and daily functioning.
Bioidentical hormones are typically derived from plant sources. Treatment is tailored to the individual and monitored over time to ensure effective symptom relief while maintaining an appropriate safety profile.