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Bioidentical hormones and (pre)menopause: Facts, differences, and lifestyle tips

by Joelle in Blog

This is an information page. Viv Support has no products intended for this indication/application.

You hear it more and more often: bioidentical hormones .

For one, the solution; for another, a disappointment; and everything in between.
Is it a hype? Or a holy grail?

First of all: what are bioidentical hormones?

Bioidentical hormones are hormones that are structurally identical to the hormones the body produces itself. Unlike some synthetic variants, the receptors in the body recognize these substances as endogenous. As a result, they align better with the body's natural processes.

Bioidentical hormones and menopause

During menopause, the production of estrogen and progesterone changes. This process often begins in the pre-menopause, usually in women from their fortieth year onwards. The result can be that the body enters a different hormonal balance.

Bio-identical hormones are used in the medical world as part of treatments that mimic natural hormones. The goal is not to stop the aging process, but to support hormonal balance in a natural way and thereby reduce menopausal symptoms.

Difference between bioidentical and synthetic hormones

  • Bioidentical : the chemical structure is identical to that of the body's own hormone.
  • Synthetic : often a modified form that can have a similar effect in the body, but is chemically slightly different.

Both types are used in healthcare, depending on the situation and a doctor's advice. However, our advice is: if you opt for hormone supplementation, definitely choose the bio-identical form, as that simply suits our bodies best.

Why is knowledge about this important for women over 40?

Around the age of forty, premenopause begins, and many women can already notice changes, such as:

  • Irregular cycle
  • Fluctuations in energy
  • Mood changes, suddenly irritable, sad, or gloomy
  • Sleep disorders
  • Hot flashes and night sweats
  • Weight gain
  • Lower libido

Are bio-identical hormones the holy grail for these menopausal symptoms?

The honest answer

Bio-identical hormones can work fantastically… But only if the conditions in your body are right, and unfortunately, they do not work for everyone.

Many women hope for a quick fix and think that simply applying creams or taking pills is the only thing that helps with (early) menopausal symptoms. It can certainly help and provide relief, but if your foundation and lifestyle are not in order, the quick fix will wear off quickly. Unfortunately, something more is needed to feel truly good for the long term. And this phase can simply last about 10 years, so let's make sure your foundation is solid.

How do bioidentical hormones work?

A hormone on its own does nothing until it can land at the right spot: your cell receptor.

Hormones are like letters…

Bioidentical hormones are like letters with the perfect address on them.
But without the mailbox (your cell receptor) being open, that message cannot get in.
And that is what many women suffer from: their receptors are not sensitive enough.

Receptor sensitivity = your secret key!

Cell receptors need building blocks to function properly. Think of:

  • Nutrients from green leafy vegetables and fatty fish
  • Sunlight as a natural stimulus
  • Plant-based substances such as phytoestrogens (e.g. in flaxseed, red clover, sage)

These elements can prepare your receptors and make them more sensitive.
This is how hormones—bio-identical and endogenous hormones—get a much better chance to do their job. As a result, you can often navigate this phase of life with fewer fluctuations, more energy, and greater balance.

The perfect combination

Whether you use bioidentical hormones or not:
The basis is the same:

  • Green leafy vegetables → support relaxation and the basic body
  • Sunlight and fatty fish → contribute to cell health and receptor sensitivity
  • Phytoestrogens → natural substances that can stimulate receptors

In short: Hormones only work really well if your body can receive them.

That applies to bio-identical hormones as well as to your own hormonal production.

Frequently asked questions about bioidentical hormones

What are bioidentical hormones?

Bioidentical hormones are substances that are structurally identical to the hormones our body produces itself, such as estrogen and progesterone. As a result, they bind well to the body's own receptors.

Are bioidentical hormones the same as natural hormones?

Not quite. 'Natural' often refers to the origin (for example, from plants), while 'bio-identical' means that the chemical structure is exactly the same as the body's own hormones.

Bioidentical hormones are usually made from plant-based raw materials (such as substances from soy or wild yam), but must be processed in a laboratory to become identical to human estrogen or progesterone.

In short: bioidentical hormones are often of plant origin, but not purely natural as they occur in the plant.

Are bioidentical hormones really the same as the body's own hormones?

Yes. Bioidentical hormones are made in a laboratory, but their chemical structure is exactly the same as the hormones your body produces itself. As a result, your cells and receptors do not distinguish between them. The difference compared to synthetic hormones is that the latter often have a slightly different structure, which means they can also cause different effects and side effects.

Do bio-identical hormones always help with menopausal symptoms?

Not everyone reacts the same way. The effect depends on many factors, such as your lifestyle, your general health, and the sensitivity of your cell receptors.

What is the difference between bioidentical and synthetic hormones?

  • Bioidentical: exactly the same structure as the body's own hormones.
  • Synthetic: a modified form that can have similar effects, but is chemically slightly different.

Can you get through menopause well without bio-identical hormones?

Yes. A healthy foundation with diet, exercise, relaxation, and possibly plant-based phytoestrogens can help support your hormonal balance, even without hormones.

Would you like to know more about supporting (pre)menopause? Then click here.

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