How do Bioidentical Hormones differ from Conventional Hormones?
Bioidentical hormones are made to look exactly like the hormones produced by our own bodies. Conventional hormones, on the other hand, are either completely synthetic or derived from the estrogens produced by horses (e.g. Premarin). For these reasons, bioidentical hormones have demonstrated fewer to none of the side effects associated with conventional hormones. Because of the increased risk of developing breast and uterine cancer associated with conventional hormones, bioidentical hormones are presented as a preferred alternative in hormone replacement. Unlike conventional hormones, which can be patented by the pharmaceutical companies, bioidentical hormones cannot be patented and are typically only available through compounding pharmacies. Compounding pharmacies allow physicians to tailor the dose and type of bioidentical hormones to your specific needs.
