Why Talk to Your Doctor About This.

Lately there has been a lot of questioning in regards to Bioidentical Hormone Replacement, its benefits and risks, its truths and myths.   Although there are many ways to educate your self with the Internet, books and magazines, it can be very confusing and overwhelming because of the huge amount of information available, sometimes contradictory.  

Bioidentical Hormone Replacement provides a more natural way of treating menopause discomforts and other health conditions.   Its natural source has been a reason for long debate due to the fact that every dose is individually mixed to fit the patient and these are not FDA approved due to its tailored nature, which can lack purity and potency without a way to confirm it.

However, since its source is natural, many people are interested in it over synthetic options, as it is logical to think that the more natural a treatment, the best and less invasive it is for your body and general wellbeing.   There are many personal success stories involving Bioidentical Hormone Replacement but there are sad cases too.   

So, how do you clear your mind and get all the facts to make an informed decision about Bioidentical Hormone Replacement, based on your condition and trusting it is the best option for you, your health and life in general?

The interest and time you devote to taking care of your health is a responsibility and a gift that you owe to yourself primarily and to your loved ones in second place.   It will show in the quality and fulfillment of your life and of those around you.

A key word that takes special meaning when talking about your health is TRUST.   Trust in you, your feelings, trust in your instincts and in the people that love you and care for you.   Among these people is your doctor.

When you know something is not right you get thoroughly informed through specialized resources, you look for the best sources of information.   One of these, and most probably the first action you take when worried about your health, is ask a trusted professional with ample knowledge in the field.  

Ask your gynecologist about Bioidentical Hormone treatment.   Your doctor probably knows you in a very profound way.   You have shared with him not only detailed information about your physical feelings, aches and changes but also about your emotional state.   You trust him, that is why you chose him to treat you and that trust means you know he does the best for you, he gives you the best advice, he tells you the truth, he respects you and he understands you:

Your doctor speaks your language: The relationship between doctor and patient is a partnership, where you chose someone to work with you, towards the same goals, in an honest way, presenting all the facts and understanding each other's needs, having clarity and certainty that the chosen path is the best option.  

You chose someone that cares for you, raising your spirits and giving you hope, providing information and options that calm you and puts things in perspective, that guides you along a positive road instead of a fear one.

Your gynecologist is the first person you should talk to about your interest in Bioidentical Hormone treatment.   Both of you have probably shared information about hormone repair options before.   He should be informed about Bioidentical hormones, he might not be an expert, but he will sure be able to tell you your options based on his knowledge of your general health condition.   Bioidentical Hormone treatment is not for everyone, your doctor will tell you if you are a candidate or not and will be able to point sources or recommend an expert in bioidentical hormones you can talk to in case you want more information.

Make sure you request an appointment specifically to talk about hormone repair and that you are well informed before talking to your gynecologist, so that he understands that you know the difference between synthetic hormone repair and Bioidentical Hormone Replacement, that you know about the pharmaceutical companies' influence in favor of synthetic options due to patenting restrictions for bio identical hormones and make it clear that you desire clarity on both sides and the facts based on your personal condition.       

You feel comfortable enough to be open and be honest Expect the same back: You feel at ease to talk openly to your doctor about your most intimate self and your history.   He understands you and your case, make sure you talk openly about your symptoms, make a list if necessary, don't leave anything out, no matter how simple, include your worries, previous attempts, successes, failures, family illness history- this is very important when choosing a hormone therapy- and even what you want and expect of your life during the treatment.

Feel free to mention the treatment you are interested in, always the least invasive and more natural option is the best; even more when referring to treatments that can cause serious and even life threatening side effects.   Say you want to learn about Bioidentical Hormone Replacement, explain the reasons for your interest and listen to what your doctor says and recommends based on your history and condition.  

Ask him everything you need to know based on your research and feel if he is listening, understanding you and sharing all the information regarding options available for you, with pros and cons.   

You are clear on what you are looking for and you know where to get it:   You have to learn about Bioidentical Hormone Replacement or any other kind of treatment you might be interested in so that you can communicate clearly why you think it is right for you and your lifestyle, how it compares and excels, in your particular case, among others and why you trust him, your doctor, as the best professional to help you.

We are talking about your life.   If you have clarity in the fact that you want to be treated in the most natural way possible for your condition, your doctor will understand that too and will guide you accurately through the process of deciding if bioidentical hormone replacement is right for you.

There should be a deeper term for defining a talk with your doctor as it is almost like a confession, but without the gilt, in fact, it is completely the contrary, you are opening your heart in a moment of uncertainty, of fear and in many cases, of disorientation and confusion, expecting the reward of hope for a great life.  



Contact Kenton Bruice, M.D. with your questions about bioidentical hormone therapy.