Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy for Menopause in Malaysia: Science or Fiction?
Overview
Your body’s hormones control most of your basic bodily functions. They serve as an internal communication system between cells throughout the body. They coordinate everything from digestion and growth to your appetite, immune function, mood, and libido. So, when your hormones are out of balance, even slightly, it can have a big impact on your health and well-being.
Often, when people’s hormones drop or become unbalanced, they turn to hormone replacement therapies to ease symptoms. One such therapy, bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT), has gotten a lot of attention in recent years. It promises a “natural” solution to hormone issues. But what exactly is BHRT, and how’s it different from other hormone replacement therapies?
Read on to learn all you need to know about BHRT, its benefits and risks, and whether it may be right for you.
What is BHRT (Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy)?
BHRT is typically used as people age and hormone levels drop, particularly for women who are in perimenopause or menopause. It’s used to increase the levels of the hormones that have dropped and improve moderate to severe menopause symptoms, including:
Side effects and risks of BHRT
While the US FDA has approved some preparations of bioidentical estradiol and progesterone, it hasn’t approved any compounded bioidentical hormones. There are claims that bioidentical hormones are safer and more effective than traditional HRT because they’re identical in structure to those produced in the body. But these claims have not been confirmed by large-scale, reputable studies. The FDA urges caution when using compounded products.
Research has shown that hormone replacement therapy in general may increase the risk for certain conditions and diseases including:
How to take BHRT
BHRT comes in a variety of forms including:
The FDA recommends that if you do choose any form of hormone therapy that you use the lowest dose that produces results. The FDA also says you should use it for the shortest length of time possible.
The takeaway
BHRT may be an option to help people who have symptoms associated with hormone levels that are low or otherwise unbalanced. However, there are some side effects and risks associated with BHRT that are serious and you must discuss this with your doctor. Many women should avoid using any hormone replacement. If you do decide to undergo BHRT, you should use the lowest dose that proves effective for the shortest amount of time possible.
Best Menopause Specialists in Kuala Lumpur and Petaling Jaya
References
Bioidentical hormones. (2014).
my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/bioidentical-hormones
Bioidentical hormones: Help or hype? (2011).
health.harvard.edu/womens-health/bioidentical-hormones-help-or-hype
Bio-identicals: Sorting myths from facts. (2017).
wayback.archive-it.org/7993/20171101171029/https://www.fda.gov/ForConsumers/ConsumerUpdates/ucm049311.htm
Laughlin-Tommaso SK. (2014). Menopause hormone therapy: Who shouldn’t take it?
mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/menopause/expert-answers/avoiding-menopause-hormone-therapy/faq-20115091
Sattari R. (n.d.). Conditions treated by bioidentical hormone replacement therapy.
newjerseyhormonedoctor.com/conditions-treated/
Wiley TS. (2015). Bio-identical hormones replacement therapy and the quality of life for breast cancer patients. DOI:
10.1200/jco.2015.33.28_suppl.87
Woolston C. (2010). Are bioidentical hormones safe?
aarp.org/health/drugs-supplements/info-11-2010/are_bioidentical_hormones_safe.html
Your body’s hormones control most of your basic bodily functions. They serve as an internal communication system between cells throughout the body. They coordinate everything from digestion and growth to your appetite, immune function, mood, and libido. So, when your hormones are out of balance, even slightly, it can have a big impact on your health and well-being.
Often, when people’s hormones drop or become unbalanced, they turn to hormone replacement therapies to ease symptoms. One such therapy, bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT), has gotten a lot of attention in recent years. It promises a “natural” solution to hormone issues. But what exactly is BHRT, and how’s it different from other hormone replacement therapies?
Read on to learn all you need to know about BHRT, its benefits and risks, and whether it may be right for you.
What is BHRT (Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy)?
BHRT is typically used as people age and hormone levels drop, particularly for women who are in perimenopause or menopause. It’s used to increase the levels of the hormones that have dropped and improve moderate to severe menopause symptoms, including:
- hot flashes
- night sweats
- mood changes
- memory loss
- weight gain
- sleep issues
- loss of interest in sex or pain during sex
Bioidentical hormones are manmade hormones derived from plant estrogens that are chemically identical to those the human body produces. Estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone are among those most commonly replicated and used in treatment. Bioidentical hormones come in various forms, including:
Some bioidentical hormones are made by drug companies. Others, known as compounded bioidentical hormones, are custom made by a pharmacy, according to a doctor’s orders. This process is known as compounding. Compounding typically involves ingredients being combined or altered to meet the needs of an individual.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved some forms of manufactured bioidentical hormones, including bioidentical estriol (a weak form of estrogen) and progesterone. However, the FDA hasn’t approved any custom-compounded bioidentical hormones.
Most bioidentical hormones are manufactured and sold without controls for safety, quality, or purity. Many medical organizations have taken a stand against the marketing and use of unapproved bioidentical hormones.
Compounded bioidentical hormones are often touted as being safer and more effective than synthetic hormones. But the FDA and most doctors will caution that those claims haven’t been proven in reputable studies, and that these hormones may even be potentially dangerous in some cases.
Traditional vs. bioidentical
Bioidentical hormones are different from those used in traditional hormone replacement therapy (HRT) in that they’re identical chemically to those our bodies produce naturally and are made from plant estrogens. The hormones used in traditional HRT are made from the urine of pregnant horses and other synthetic hormones.
Supporters of bioidentical hormones claim their products are safer because they are “natural” and identical in makeup to the hormones the body produces naturally. But most experts believe the risks of BHRT and HRT are similar. Compounded bioidentical hormones may carry even more risks. There’s no credible evidence that BHRT is more effective than HRT.
Benefits of BHRT
- pills
- patches
- creams
- gels
- injections
Some bioidentical hormones are made by drug companies. Others, known as compounded bioidentical hormones, are custom made by a pharmacy, according to a doctor’s orders. This process is known as compounding. Compounding typically involves ingredients being combined or altered to meet the needs of an individual.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved some forms of manufactured bioidentical hormones, including bioidentical estriol (a weak form of estrogen) and progesterone. However, the FDA hasn’t approved any custom-compounded bioidentical hormones.
Most bioidentical hormones are manufactured and sold without controls for safety, quality, or purity. Many medical organizations have taken a stand against the marketing and use of unapproved bioidentical hormones.
Compounded bioidentical hormones are often touted as being safer and more effective than synthetic hormones. But the FDA and most doctors will caution that those claims haven’t been proven in reputable studies, and that these hormones may even be potentially dangerous in some cases.
Traditional vs. bioidentical
Bioidentical hormones are different from those used in traditional hormone replacement therapy (HRT) in that they’re identical chemically to those our bodies produce naturally and are made from plant estrogens. The hormones used in traditional HRT are made from the urine of pregnant horses and other synthetic hormones.
Supporters of bioidentical hormones claim their products are safer because they are “natural” and identical in makeup to the hormones the body produces naturally. But most experts believe the risks of BHRT and HRT are similar. Compounded bioidentical hormones may carry even more risks. There’s no credible evidence that BHRT is more effective than HRT.
Benefits of BHRT
- Helping with menopause symptoms.
- Restores crystal clear mental functioning and memory.
- Alters body composition by shifting fat to lean muscle mass.
- Promotes youthful sleep patterns.
- Reduces wrinkles by increasing collagen and elastin.
- Reverses thinning, sparse hair and dry skin.
- Boosts immune function, improving healing capacity.
- Decreases cholesterol and increases HDL or good cholesterol.
- Increases bone density and bone mass, decreasing the risk of osteoporosis.
- Increases the desire and endurance for exercise.
- Reduce your risk for diabetes, tooth loss, and cataracts.
Side effects and risks of BHRT
While the US FDA has approved some preparations of bioidentical estradiol and progesterone, it hasn’t approved any compounded bioidentical hormones. There are claims that bioidentical hormones are safer and more effective than traditional HRT because they’re identical in structure to those produced in the body. But these claims have not been confirmed by large-scale, reputable studies. The FDA urges caution when using compounded products.
Research has shown that hormone replacement therapy in general may increase the risk for certain conditions and diseases including:
- blood clots
- stroke
- gallbladder disease
- heart disease
- breast cancer
- acne
- bloating
- weight gain
- fatigue
- mood swings
- increased facial hair in women
How to take BHRT
BHRT comes in a variety of forms including:
- creams
- injections
- implanted pellets
- patches
- gels
The FDA recommends that if you do choose any form of hormone therapy that you use the lowest dose that produces results. The FDA also says you should use it for the shortest length of time possible.
The takeaway
BHRT may be an option to help people who have symptoms associated with hormone levels that are low or otherwise unbalanced. However, there are some side effects and risks associated with BHRT that are serious and you must discuss this with your doctor. Many women should avoid using any hormone replacement. If you do decide to undergo BHRT, you should use the lowest dose that proves effective for the shortest amount of time possible.
Best Menopause Specialists in Kuala Lumpur and Petaling Jaya
As for the clinic selection, the online world provides overwhelming information and while some of the sites do provide the needed information; the methods in which the clinics are selected are not explained. Are the medical doctors verified and registered with the Malaysian Medical Council?
The selection of the hormone specialists is based on Google search results, reviews and information available on blogs and forums.
Disclaimer: The hormone specialists have been arranged in no particular order of priority.
Here is the list, categorised by location.
1) Toscana Medi Clinic @ Publika, Hartamas
Clinic Location and Address:
Address: Unit 01 & 02, Level G4, Block D5, Solaris Dutamas, Publika,
No.1, Jalan Dutamas 1, 50480 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
Toscana Medi Clinic is a highly customised skin health and aesthetic centre. The primary goal of the clinic is to provide premium individualised care at decent affordable rates. Toscana offers something for every person ranging from skin health, body contouring, facelifts, rejuvenation therapies , antiaging, stem cell treatment, weight management and many more.
Toscana cater their services to all local and overseas patients. They get expats from all over the country especially middle east, Australia, Singapore, Japan and Korea.
Led by Dr. Lashela Dharmadass, a credentialed LCP (Letter of Credentialing & Privileging) Medical Aesthetic Practitioner in Malaysia. She is also one of the most sought after medical trainer (Botox, Fillers, Laser Aesthetics) for junior doctors who are trying to achieve their LCP license.
Her postgraduate qualifications include Diploma in Aesthetic Medicine from American Academy of Aesthetic Medicine. Diploma in Family Medicine from Institute of the Academy of Family Physicians of Malaysia.
Dr. Lashela Dharmadass is also a member of Academy of Family Physicians of Malaysia. She has vast experience in lasers, thread lift, botox, dermal fillers, weight loss, anti-aging & wellness treatments.
Toscana Medi Clinic Reviews: 4.6 out of 5 star rating on Google.
2) ARC Medical Group
ARC (Advanced Regenerative Centre) medical group has 2 branches in Klang Valley. ARC Medical Group offers a full range of aesthetic and wellness treatments and cosmetic surgery for men and women of all ages and has a Letter of Credentialing and Privileging (LCP) Chapter 3 license from the Ministry of Health.
Services include aesthetic and laser services such as FUE Hair Transplant, Laser Hair Removal, Botox & Fillers, Non-surgical Facelift, Non-surgical Fat Loss treatment, Science-based Post Pregnancy Weight Loss program, Vaginal Tightening / Rejuvenation and Wellness and Regenerative Programs for both men and women.
ARC Aesthetic, Anti-aging and Wellness Clinic - Mid Valley Branch
MOH License: LCP Chapter 3
No. 31-11, Penthouse Signature Office Suite, The Boulevard, Mid Valley City,
Lingkaran Syed Putra, 59200 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
ARC Beauty and Wellness - Pantai Hospital Branch
Lot 2 & 3, Block A, Pantai Hospital (Bangsar) Kuala Lumpur, Jalan Bukit Pantai, 59100 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
arcmedicalgroup.com.my | WhatsApp: +60 17 817 175.
ARC Medical Group Reviews:
5-star overall rating based on 32 reviews on Erufucare.
More than 4,000 likes and a 5 star rating on Facebook and Google.
One reviewer wrote, "Doctor at ARC Medical gave clear explanations on health issue and side effects of treatment. I didn't receive any treatment after reviewing side effect, only consultation, wonderful experience at ARC."
Another reviewer, Sereed wrote, "My botox here has come out so incredibly beautiful!!! I never have it over done. He is amazingly skilled with the needle and has such a keen eye! The entire staff is so nice and professional! There is no better place and no amount of stars I can give!!!"
Fred wrote, "I would rate them 5 for their professionalism and service delivery. Many treatment options are available which are tailored to suit the individuals personal needs without the push to do more than you really want. All in all a friendly and capable team."
3) Beverly Wilshire Medical Centre
The selection of the hormone specialists is based on Google search results, reviews and information available on blogs and forums.
Disclaimer: The hormone specialists have been arranged in no particular order of priority.
Here is the list, categorised by location.
1) Toscana Medi Clinic @ Publika, Hartamas
Address: Unit 01 & 02, Level G4, Block D5, Solaris Dutamas, Publika,
No.1, Jalan Dutamas 1, 50480 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
WhatsApp: +60 12 299 8845
Toscana Medi Clinic is a highly customised skin health and aesthetic centre. The primary goal of the clinic is to provide premium individualised care at decent affordable rates. Toscana offers something for every person ranging from skin health, body contouring, facelifts, rejuvenation therapies , antiaging, stem cell treatment, weight management and many more.
Toscana cater their services to all local and overseas patients. They get expats from all over the country especially middle east, Australia, Singapore, Japan and Korea.
Led by Dr. Lashela Dharmadass, a credentialed LCP (Letter of Credentialing & Privileging) Medical Aesthetic Practitioner in Malaysia. She is also one of the most sought after medical trainer (Botox, Fillers, Laser Aesthetics) for junior doctors who are trying to achieve their LCP license.
Her postgraduate qualifications include Diploma in Aesthetic Medicine from American Academy of Aesthetic Medicine. Diploma in Family Medicine from Institute of the Academy of Family Physicians of Malaysia.
Dr. Lashela Dharmadass is also a member of Academy of Family Physicians of Malaysia. She has vast experience in lasers, thread lift, botox, dermal fillers, weight loss, anti-aging & wellness treatments.
Toscana Medi Clinic Reviews: 4.6 out of 5 star rating on Google.
2) ARC Medical Group
ARC (Advanced Regenerative Centre) medical group has 2 branches in Klang Valley. ARC Medical Group offers a full range of aesthetic and wellness treatments and cosmetic surgery for men and women of all ages and has a Letter of Credentialing and Privileging (LCP) Chapter 3 license from the Ministry of Health.
Services include aesthetic and laser services such as FUE Hair Transplant, Laser Hair Removal, Botox & Fillers, Non-surgical Facelift, Non-surgical Fat Loss treatment, Science-based Post Pregnancy Weight Loss program, Vaginal Tightening / Rejuvenation and Wellness and Regenerative Programs for both men and women.
ARC Aesthetic, Anti-aging and Wellness Clinic - Mid Valley Branch
MOH License: LCP Chapter 3
No. 31-11, Penthouse Signature Office Suite, The Boulevard, Mid Valley City,
Lingkaran Syed Putra, 59200 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
ARC Beauty and Wellness - Pantai Hospital Branch
Lot 2 & 3, Block A, Pantai Hospital (Bangsar) Kuala Lumpur, Jalan Bukit Pantai, 59100 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
arcmedicalgroup.com.my | WhatsApp: +60 17 817 175.
ARC Medical Group Reviews:
5-star overall rating based on 32 reviews on Erufucare.
More than 4,000 likes and a 5 star rating on Facebook and Google.
One reviewer wrote, "Doctor at ARC Medical gave clear explanations on health issue and side effects of treatment. I didn't receive any treatment after reviewing side effect, only consultation, wonderful experience at ARC."
Another reviewer, Sereed wrote, "My botox here has come out so incredibly beautiful!!! I never have it over done. He is amazingly skilled with the needle and has such a keen eye! The entire staff is so nice and professional! There is no better place and no amount of stars I can give!!!"
Fred wrote, "I would rate them 5 for their professionalism and service delivery. Many treatment options are available which are tailored to suit the individuals personal needs without the push to do more than you really want. All in all a friendly and capable team."
3) Beverly Wilshire Medical Centre
 |
| Image via www.facebook.com/BeverlyWilshireMedical |
Beverly Wilshire has two branches in Klang Valley, one in Kuala Lumpur and one in Petaling Jaya. Beverly Wilshire (KL) is a medical centre licensed by the Malaysian Ministry of Health, specialising in the combination of medical aesthetic treatments, anti-ageing medicine, cosmetic surgery, dental aesthetics and hair restoration. They are backed by registered board-certified plastic surgeons, licensed and credentialed aesthetic doctors, as well as certified anaesthesiologists.
Beverly Wilshire Medical Centre - KL Branch
Beverly Wilshire Medical Centre Reviews:
Beverly Wilshire has more than 26,000 likes and a FB rating of 4.4 out of 5, based on the opinion of 134 people on Facebook.
4) Premier Clinic
Premier Clinic has 4 branches in Klang Valley. Premier clinics are located in strategic locations, providing a comprehensive range of non-surgical aesthetic procedures and advanced laser treatments. Equipped with cutting edge procedures, technology and expert doctors with specialized knowledge in aesthetics, Premier Clinic provides top notch aesthetic services to our clients from both local and regional markets.
Premier Clinic - Bangsar Branch
MOH License: LCP Chapter 1
No. 8 & 10, Ground Floor, Jalan Telawi 5, Bangsar Baru, 59100 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
Premier Clinic - TTDI Branch
TTDI Address: 31 Jalan Wan Kadir 2, Taman Tun Dr Ismail, 60000 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
Premier Clinic - KL City Branch
KL City Address: A-0-8, Megan Avenue 1, 189 Jalan Tun Razak, 50400 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
Premier Clinic - Puchong Branch
Puchong Address: G-15, IOI Boulevard, Jalan Kenari 4, Bandar Puchong Jaya, 47100 Puchong, Selangor, Malaysia.
Premier Clinic Reviews:
Premier Clinic has more than 40,000 likes on Facebook and a 4.3 out of 5-star rating based on 41 reviews on Google.
Beverly Wilshire Medical Centre - KL Branch
MOH License: LCP Chapter 3
Address: Level 6, 8 & 9, Kenanga Tower, No. 237 Jalan Tun Razak, 50400 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
Beverly Wilshire Clinic - PJ Branch
Lot L1-03, Level 1, Tropicana City Mall,
3, Jalan SS20/27, 47400 Petaling Jaya (PJ), Selangor, Malaysia.
Address: Level 6, 8 & 9, Kenanga Tower, No. 237 Jalan Tun Razak, 50400 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
Beverly Wilshire Clinic - PJ Branch
Lot L1-03, Level 1, Tropicana City Mall,
3, Jalan SS20/27, 47400 Petaling Jaya (PJ), Selangor, Malaysia.
Beverly Wilshire Medical Centre Reviews:
Beverly Wilshire has more than 26,000 likes and a FB rating of 4.4 out of 5, based on the opinion of 134 people on Facebook.
4) Premier Clinic
Premier Clinic has 4 branches in Klang Valley. Premier clinics are located in strategic locations, providing a comprehensive range of non-surgical aesthetic procedures and advanced laser treatments. Equipped with cutting edge procedures, technology and expert doctors with specialized knowledge in aesthetics, Premier Clinic provides top notch aesthetic services to our clients from both local and regional markets.
Premier Clinic - Bangsar Branch
MOH License: LCP Chapter 1
No. 8 & 10, Ground Floor, Jalan Telawi 5, Bangsar Baru, 59100 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
Premier Clinic - TTDI Branch
TTDI Address: 31 Jalan Wan Kadir 2, Taman Tun Dr Ismail, 60000 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
Premier Clinic - KL City Branch
KL City Address: A-0-8, Megan Avenue 1, 189 Jalan Tun Razak, 50400 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
Premier Clinic - Puchong Branch
Puchong Address: G-15, IOI Boulevard, Jalan Kenari 4, Bandar Puchong Jaya, 47100 Puchong, Selangor, Malaysia.
Premier Clinic Reviews:
Premier Clinic has more than 40,000 likes on Facebook and a 4.3 out of 5-star rating based on 41 reviews on Google.
5) Klinik Dr Inder
Klinik Dr Inder
Address: P-G-022, PJ Centrestage, Jalan 13/1, Seksyen 13, 46200 Petaling Jaya, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia.
Klinik Dr Inder is a contemporary world class medical aesthetic clinic that offers an extensive range of aesthetic treatments for men and women of all ages.
This includes hair restoration by Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE) method, Hair Loss Treatment, Eyebrow restoration as well as treatments for Male Pattern Hair loss and Female Pattern Hair Loss.
Dr Inder specialises in a range of aesthetic services including hair restoration, weight loss program (body sculpting) and Vaginal Tightening / Rejuvenation.
Klinik Dr Inder Reviews: 4.9 overall rating based on 18 reviews on Facebook.
Klinik Dr Inder
Address: P-G-022, PJ Centrestage, Jalan 13/1, Seksyen 13, 46200 Petaling Jaya, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia.
Klinik Dr Inder is a contemporary world class medical aesthetic clinic that offers an extensive range of aesthetic treatments for men and women of all ages.
This includes hair restoration by Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE) method, Hair Loss Treatment, Eyebrow restoration as well as treatments for Male Pattern Hair loss and Female Pattern Hair Loss.
Dr Inder specialises in a range of aesthetic services including hair restoration, weight loss program (body sculpting) and Vaginal Tightening / Rejuvenation.
Klinik Dr Inder Reviews: 4.9 overall rating based on 18 reviews on Facebook.
References
Bioidentical hormones. (2014).
my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/bioidentical-hormones
Bioidentical hormones: Help or hype? (2011).
health.harvard.edu/womens-health/bioidentical-hormones-help-or-hype
Bio-identicals: Sorting myths from facts. (2017).
wayback.archive-it.org/7993/20171101171029/https://www.fda.gov/ForConsumers/ConsumerUpdates/ucm049311.htm
Laughlin-Tommaso SK. (2014). Menopause hormone therapy: Who shouldn’t take it?
mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/menopause/expert-answers/avoiding-menopause-hormone-therapy/faq-20115091
Sattari R. (n.d.). Conditions treated by bioidentical hormone replacement therapy.
newjerseyhormonedoctor.com/conditions-treated/
Wiley TS. (2015). Bio-identical hormones replacement therapy and the quality of life for breast cancer patients. DOI:
10.1200/jco.2015.33.28_suppl.87
Woolston C. (2010). Are bioidentical hormones safe?
aarp.org/health/drugs-supplements/info-11-2010/are_bioidentical_hormones_safe.html
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