Is Prometrium A Bio-Identical Hormone?

prometriumPrometrium is progesterone replacement that is synthesized from plant source material and is chemically identical to progesterone made in the human ovary. Thus, it is considered to be bio-identical. Bio- identical hormones can be used and metabolized as our body was designed to do, thus potentially minimizing side effects. Prometrium tablets can be prescribed alone, or as part of a bio-identical hormone treatment regimen in combination with other hormones such as estrogen, testosterone and DHEA.

Decreased levels of the hormone progesterone can cause insomnia, brain fog, irritability, and menstrual irregularities. Progesterone is also prescribed to counteract “estrogen dominance” and to minimize the risk of endometrial cancer in women who are receiving estrogen hormone replacement.

Dr. Anne Hermann, a holistic internal medicine physician, maintains offices in Tampa and Saint Petersburg Beach, Florida. Dr. Hermann prescribes bio-identical hormones to her patients for a variety of reasons. Please call the office at (813) 902-9559 for more information or to schedule an appointment.

What Are Phytoestrogens?

Phytoestrogens are plant based substances that have estrogen-like properties.  They are often used in holistic treatment for menopause to reduce symptoms such as hot flashes.  Phytoestrogens exert their action by attaching to an estrogen receptor site, thus they mimic the effects of the missing estrogen.

Phytoestrogens are commonly found in soybeans, flaxseed, alfalfa, hops, thyme and whole grains.  Isoflavones and lignans are the 2 types of phytoestrogens found in these foods.  Observational studies have identified decreased risks of breast, ovarian, uterine and prostate cancers.  However, these effects have not been replicated in placebo controlled studies.  Further information on isoflavones can be found in a supplemental blog.

Dr. Anne Hermann, a holistic internal medicine physician, maintains offices in Tampa and Saint Petersburg Beach, Florida.   Comprehensive hormone testing and menopausal treatment is offered in the office.  Please call the office at (813) 902-9559 for more information or to schedule an appointment.

 

 

 

Bio-Identical Hormone Replacement Therapy

Bio-identical Hormone Replacement therapy (BHRT) is the therapeutic use of hormones that are identical to the hormones made naturally in the body.  One popular type of formulation is in a cream base.  These hormone creams are typically used to treat symptoms of perimenopause, and menopause.  The hormones predominantly used include testosterone, estradiol (E2), estriol (E3) and progesterone.

Compounded bio-identical hormone dosages can be titrated to meet individual specific needs.  Side effects of use can potentially be minimized, as the hormones can be used and metabolized in a more natural way by the body.

Dr. Anne Hermann, a holistic internal medicine physician, prescribes bio-identical hormones to her patients.  She has many years of experience prescribing bio-identical hormone replacement, and has participated in research studies on the topic.  One such New York Times article published in 2004 was centered around Dr. Hermann’s study.  Please click on the link below to access the full article. http://www.nytimes.com/2004/03/30/health/possible-peril-found-in-menopause-cream.html

Dr. Hermann maintains offices in Tampa and St Petersburg Beach, Florida.  Please call the office at (813) 902-9559 for more information or to schedule an appointment.

 

 

 

 

 

Natural Treatment For Post-Menopausal Bone Loss

Many women suffer from menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, insomnia, mood changes, decreased libido, and vaginal dryness. If you are post-menopausal, you may also be at greater risk for developing osteopenia and osteoporosis. Osteopenia and osteoporosis are diagnosed with a special type of x-ray called a bone mineral density scan There are no symptoms in the early stages of osteopenia and osteoporosis. However, with a large amount of bone loss, you may notice pain and loss of height due to broken bones. To reduce your risk of developing osteopenia and osteoporosis you should: consume 1500mg of calcium and 800mg of vitamin D daily, limit alcohol use, do not use tobacco products, and do daily weight bearing exercise.

Fosteum is a vegetable based medical food product approved by the FDA for “dietary management of the metabolic processes of osteopenia and osteoporosis.” It is a blend of genistein aglycone, citrated zinc bisglycinate and cholecalciferol (vitamin D 3). Fosteum is given under physician supervision. It is indicated when diet and calcium plus vitamin D supplements are not enough, but prescription medications are not yet needed. Dosage is one tablet twice a day. The most common side effect of Fosteum use is minor upset stomach with nausea. Fosteum has also been shown in clinical trials to significantly reduce menopausal hot flushes.

Dr. Anne Hermann, a holistic internal medicine physician, maintains offices in Tampa and Saint Petersburg Beach, Florida. Dr. Hermann is also board certified in nutrition. Please contact the office at (813) 902-9559 for more information or to schedule an appointment.

This post was written by Anne Hermann. Follow Anne Hermann on Google, Facebook, Twitter & Linkedin.

How Can I Prevent Osteoporosis?

How Can I Prevent Osteoporosis?

May is national osteoporosis prevention month; osteoporosis, which affects over 10 million Americans, is a disease that weakens the bones.  This can lead to bone fractures from minor falls.  It is estimated that half of all women over age 50 and one in four men will break a bone due to osteoporosis.  The fractures are more common in the hips, spine and wrists.  This disease may also affect your height and posture.

Risk factors for osteoporosis development include: being over the age of 50, female gender, post-menopausal status, positive family history, low body weight/small body frame, tobacco use, inactive life-style, excessive alcohol or caffeine consumption, and low dietary consumption of calcium and vitamin D.

Your physician may order a DXA scan test to screen for osteoporosis and determine your bone density.  This is a type of X-Ray that measures bone mass in your spine and hip.  To prevent osteoporosis, it is recommended to consume 1200-1500mg of calcium with 800mg of vitamin D daily.  Your physician may also recommend vitamin K and magnesium supplementation.   Daily weight bearing exercise also helps strengthen bone mass.

Dr. Anne Hermann, a holistic internal medicine physician, maintains offices in Tampa and St. Pete Beach, Florida.  Please call the office at (813) 902-9559 for more information or to schedule an appointment.

This post was written by Anne Hermann. Follow Anne Hermann on Google, Facebook, Twitter & Linkedin.