Bio-identical Hormone Replacement Therapy
Frequently Asked Questions - Ask Dr. Hope Akins
Dr. Hope Akins has specialized in-depth training beyond pharmacy school to help understand your symptoms and to give you the tools to balance your hormones and improve your energy level.
What Are Bio-identical Hormones?
Bio-identical hormones have the exact same molecular structure as the hormones made in the human body. These hormones generate the same physiological response in the body as do hormones already produced by the body. It makes more sense to use hormones the body has been using since the beginning of time, rather than hormones from horse urine or synthetic chemical not natural to the body. They can be custom compounded to match each patient’s unique needs instead of a “one size fits all” approach.
Who Can Benefit From Bio-identical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT)?
Women of all ages experiencing any form of hormone imbalance can benefit from these hormones. This includes women who have had a hysterectomy or are experiencing menopause, peri-menopause, Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS), fibrocystic breast disease, endometriosis, Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS), fibromyalgia, post partum depression, infertility, osteoporosis and low sex drive.
How Safe Are Bio-identical Hormones?
According to a paper published in Postgraduate Medicine, Jan 2009, by Dr. Kent Holtorf, M.D., "physiological data and clinical outcomes demonstrate that bio-identical hormones are associated with lower risks, including risk of breast cancer and cardiovascular disease and are more efficacious than their synthetic and animal-derived counterparts. Until evidence is found to the contrary, bio-identical hormones remain the preferred method of hormone replacement therapy."
How Safe Are Bio-identical Hormones?
According to a paper published in Postgraduate Medicine, Jan 2009, by Dr. Kent Holtorf, M.D., "physiological data and clinical outcomes demonstrate that bio-identical hormones are associated with lower risks, including risk of breast cancer and cardiovascular disease and are more efficacious than their synthetic and animal-derived counterparts. Until evidence is found to the contrary, bio-identical hormones remain the preferred method of hormone replacement therapy."
Where Can I Get Bio-identical Hormones?
These hormones are typically prepared for the patient by a pharmacist at a compounding pharmacy such as Coleman Pharmacy of Alma.
Do I Need A Prescription For These Hormones?
With the exception of low potency progesterone cream, bio-identical hormones can only be obtained with a prescription. Most physicians are open-minded to BHRT but do not know how to prescribe it. Dr. Hope Akins, pharmacist at Coleman Pharmacy of Alma, is available by private consultation to work with you and to make recommendations to your doctor concerning your hormone regimen.
What Are The Symptoms?
- *Hot flashes
- *Mood swings
- *Vaginal dryness
- *Memory lapse
- *Depression
- *Tearfulness
- *Heart palpitations
- *Low sex drive
- *Bleeding changes
- *Night sweats
- *Incontinence
- *Uterine Fibroids
- *Sleep disturbances
- *Fibrocystic breasts
- *Headaches
- *Anxiousness
- *Nervousness
- *Irritability
- *Endometriosis
- *PMS
- *Bone loss
If you are experiencing these symptoms, schedule an appointment with our pharmacist, Hope Akins, regarding natural Bio-Identical Hormone Replacement Therapy. 262-2156