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BIO IDENTICAL HORMONES

WHAT ARE BIO IDENTICAL HORMONES

Bio-identical hormones have the same chemical structure as the naturally occurring hormones which are produced in the body and are derived from diosgenin, which is sourced from Mexican yams.

They are 100% identical in chemical structure to our own hormones, and their effects and benefits replicate them closely. Synthetic hormones, on the other hand, have a chemical structure that may be similar to, but not exactly the same as, the hormones produced by the body. These chemical differences can mean that synthetic hormones act differently in the body and can produce different effects.

Bio-identical hormones can therefore be very beneficial to patients who have a hormone imbalance or have previously tried other hormonal medications, including HRT, and experienced unwanted effects.

Men and women can benefit from bio-identical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) because it can provide relief from a wide range of symptoms experienced during the menopause, andropause and other hormone-related conditions such as premenstrual syndrome (PMS), postnatal depression, endometriosis and menstrual problems.

Women's Health Check

During your consultation a comprehensive medical history will be taken by your doctor, who will also assess nutrition, lifestyle and health risk factors.

The health check can include a full physical examination, and appropriate blood tests will be carried out to measure:

  • Hormone function
  • Thyroid function
  • Blood biochemistry
  • Vitamin D levels
  • Full blood count

Additional tests may also be recommended:

  • Ultrasound of the uterus
  • DeXA scan for bone density
  • Mammogram

Men's Health Check

During your consultation a comprehensive medical history will be taken by your doctor, who will also assess nutrition, lifestyle and health risk factors and carry out a full physical examination.

Appropriate blood tests may also include:

  • Hormone function
  • Thyroid function
  • Blood biochemistry
  • Vitamin D levels
  • Full blood count
  • Prostate function

Additional tests may also be recommended:

  • Chest x-rays
  • MRI scans
  • DeXA scan for bone density

All tests will be carried out at, or organised by, Firvale Clinic. Additional tests and referrals can be made subject to your needs. If appropriate, a bespoke treatment plan involving bio-identical hormones and supplements will be developed.

What To Expect

Initial consultation (45 minutes)

Dr. Berry will spend time taking a comprehensive history and record of your symptoms. Blood tests and other appropriate tests will be organised in order for the doctor to see the ‘full picture’.

1 week later

First follow-up appointment (15-30 minutes)

You will return to the Clinic to review your test results, and if recommended, receive a personalised plan of prescription medicine devised specifically for you.

4-8 weeks later

Second follow-up appointment (30 minutes)

This consultation at the Clinic will enable your doctor to review your progress with the prescribed medication. Any required adjustments to your medication will be made.

3 months later

Review (15-30 minutes)

Progress will be reviewed and repeat prescriptions will be issued where necessary.

6 months later

Review (30 minutes)

This follow-up will entail a full review of progress, where further tests may be required and prescriptions will be issued as necessary.

Ongoing reviews

You will be required to have a review every six months while undergoing treatment.