Over the Counter Bioidentical Hormones – Are these Safe?

Bioidentical hormones have gained a lot of popularity in the recent years especially as a natural route to attaining good health and wellness. A lot of over the counter bioidentical hormones are also becoming increasingly available in the form of creams and supplements. But the big question remains, ‘are these really safe for use?’

The most common type of product marketed as over the counter bioidentical hormones is the estrogen creams which contain the bio- or natural phytoestrogens obtained from plants like soy and yams. Just like the prescription creams, these are also sold as natural products which can help women combat menopausal symptoms like hot flashes, mood swings, irritability and vaginal dryness. The amount of scientific research conducted on the safety and efficacy of these products is not enough to reach a conclusion and hence most medical practitioners advice caution while employing the use of these. Hence it becomes very important to discuss the type of cream or product that you would like to use with your doctor to ensure that you are using a safe one.

Bioidentical hormone creams and products can contain compounded hormone like estrogens, progesterone and androgen. Estrogens include both estriol and phytoestrogens among which estriol is not illegal but has not been approved by the FDA either. However, estriol is popular in Europe and has been used by menopausal women for decades. Estriol creams have gained a lot of popularity among women as it helps reduce the symptoms associated with menopause like vaginal dryness. It is also considered to be much safer than other hormone treatments in combating these symptoms and are known are have far lesser side effects.

Over the counter bioidentical hormones like estriol creams are also being used by women as an anti-aging solution to get rid of fine lines and wrinkles. Another popular product is the estrogen cream which also contains progesterone derived from yams to reduce menopausal problems. You can buy them here on our website through Amazon, the most trusted online shopping site on the web. Dietary soy supplements are also available for women to get relief from menopausal and postmenopausal problems, however it is unknown whether supplements actually work, some women say they do and others report no change.