Menopause can be a challenging time for women, and many turn to specialists for help balancing their hormones and reducing associated symptoms.
If this sounds like you, you may be looking into bioidentical hormone replacement therapy and hoping to find the best bioidentical hormone doctor.
Continue reading to learn more about biodentical hormones and how to find a skilled and experienced hormone specialist in the Washington DC area.
What Are Bioidentical Hormones?
Bioidentical hormones are molecularly and structurally identical to those that are naturally-produced by the body.
As such, they function in the same way as estrogen and progesterone released by your ovaries and are extremely effective in treating menopause symptoms, including hot flashes, fatigue, decreased libido, and vaginal dryness.
How Do I Find Biodentical Hormones?
Like many women, you may be wondering: How do I find bioidentical hormones and the best bioidentical hormone doctor?
To answer the first part of this question, you may be able to find bioidentical hormones at your local drugstore. These commercially-available hormones require a prescription and are available as a pill, patch, cream, or vaginal preparation.
Custom-mixed bioidentical hormones are produced by a compounding pharmacy at your doctor’s direction.
How Do I Find the Best Bioidentical Hormone Doctor?
If you are looking for the best bioidentical hormone doctor, it is important to carefully research providers and seek a physician who specializes in menopause treatments and hormone replacement therapy.
Once you have compiled a list of potential bioidentical hormone doctors, an in-person consultation will help you learn more about the practitioner’s area of expertise and her approach your individual needs and concerns.
What Are Compounded Bioidentical Hormones?
Compounded bioidentical hormones are mixed by a compounding pharmacy. While they include many of the same ingredients as commercially-available hormones, they are usually not cleared by the FDA.
That being said, compounded hormones may be recommended in the event that a patient requires a combination, dose, or preparation that isn’t commercially available.
Looking for the Best Bioidentical Hormone Doctor?
If you are looking for the best bioidentical hormone doctor in Washington DC, please call our office today to schedule a comprehensive consultation with board-certified gynecologist Dr. Melinda Hall.