For Women over 45

The “natural” approach of hormone replacement therapy is one that uses a variety of natural hormones in a balanced fashion. What works for one woman is not necessarily the right choice for another woman.

Conventional hormone replacement therapy (HRT) has been to combine Premarin (estrogen from pregnant mare’s urine) with Provera (synthetic progesterone). Although they reduce menopausal symptoms & lower risk of heart disease and osteoporosis, they increase the risk of breast cancer.

“Menopause,
It ain’t what it used to be!” - Oprah

The “natural” refers to the chemical structure, not the origin. Natural hormones are exact replicas & thus cannot be patented. They are created by biochemists from precursor molecules found in the wild yam. These components can then be custom blended, by a compounding pharmacist, in a ratio that closely matches an individual’s natural mix.

Natural? or Natural for Horses?

Estrogen

Estrogen is not a single hormone. It is a fluctuating blend of 3 different estrogens: Estrone, Estradiol & Estriol. Premarin provides only estrone, plus several other horse estrogens. Estrone has been linked to increased risk of breast cancer & endometrial cancer. Estriol, the gentler estrogen, is the preferred choice.

Progesterone

Most conventional practitioners agree that it is important to also replace progesterone in order to reduce the risk of endometrial cancer. Progestins, such as Provera, are commonly prescribed. However, natural progesterone, unlike progestins, has few or no side effects.

DHEA

Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) is an androgen important to both men and women. It is produced in the adrenals and helps protect against heart disease, cancer & degenerative diseases. DHEA levels peak at about age 25 and then decline steadily with age. DHEA supplementation can boost testosterone & estrogen levels.

Testosterone

Testosterone is also an androgen but is present in lower levels in women. In some women replacement can increase libido, improve bone density & muscle strength & protect against heart disease.

Phytoestrogens

Asian women have low breast cancer rates & minimal menopausal symptoms. Phytoestrogens are estrogens derived from plants such as soy or flax. It is theorized that phytoestrogens block access to estrogen receptors. Although there potency is low, there may be benefits to adding soy & flax to the diet.

Herbal Remedies

Chaste Berry appears to affect the pituitary glands in such a way as to increase LH (Luteinizing hormone) and decrease FSH (Follicle Stimulating Hormone) levels. It is most useful for preventing PMS and perimenopausal symptoms.

Black Cohosh seems to decrease LH. It has been used to relieve menstrual cramps & depression associated with menopause.

Dong Quai is an ancient Asian herbal remedy that appears to act as an estrogen modulator.

Licorice appears to offer a similar effect as Dong Quai.

Panax Ginseng has been shown to have estrogenic effects on the vaginal lining, helping relieve dryness & pain.

 

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How to Get Started

The first step is to call 286-7311 to schedule a one-hour consultation with one of our physicians. Because alternative medicine is not covered by Alberta Health Care you are responsible for the following fees:

Initial Consultation: 1 hour $360.00

Follow Up Consultation 30 minutes $180.00

Additional Information