With almost 100,000 copies sold in earlier editions, this revised edition provides the most up-to-date information on natural alternatives to synthetic hormone replacement therapy A must-read for any woman taking synthetic hormones for infertility, birthcontrol, PMS, or menopause • Includes the latest research on using natural progesterone to combat osteoporosis, endometriosis, heart disease, PMS, fibroids, and breast, ovarian, and uterine cancer More and more women are seeking alternatives to synthetic hormones and their harmful side effects. Despite increasing awareness of the dangers of synthetic hormones, over-prescription of estrogen is still rampant, as is confusion among doctors and patients whether the benefits of conventional hormone replacement therapy (HRT) outweigh the risks. This updated fourth edition offers the latest information on how botanical progesterone therapy, also known as natural HRT, can provide safe, natural relief for many of the problems women face from hormone deficiency, including PMS, fibromyalgia, depression, menstrual irregularity, miscarriages, uterine fibroids, and infertility. Botanical progesterone supplementation can be also extremely effective in relieving hot flashes, insomnia, night sweats, vaginal dryness, and even cancer. The authors sift through misinformation and contradictory studies, warning against corporate-sponsored research in a multi-billion dollar menopausal industry, and guide readers to natural alternatives. This fourth edition also includes new studies regarding the dangers of a diet rich in soy contributing to the onset of premature menopause, as well as thyroid disorders. The dangers of mammography and the importance of focusing on safer, more effective methods of cancer detection are also well documented.

More doctors are recommending natural (also called bio-identical) hormones-because they offer all the advantages of synthetic hormone replacement therapy (HRT) without the negative side effects or long-term health risks. Unlike synthetic HRT, natural hormones are bio-identical: they match a woman's own hormones exactly and don't interfere with the body's normal hormone production. They are safer and more effective, providing protective benefits that range from alleviating unpleasant symptoms of menopause, perimenopause, and PMS to protecting against osteoporosis, endometrial cancer, and other diseases. Topics covered include: - What are natural hormones and how do they work? - Why are natural hormones better and safer than synthetic HRT drugs? - Do natural hormones increase the risk for breast cancer? - Can natural hormones control midlife weight gain? - Does natural progesterone help alleviate PMS? - Will natural hormones improve skin? - How to find the right doctor - The latest on the recent NIH study

Menopause, hormones, Natural Alternatives.

Mood swings. Weight gain. Fatigue. And that’s just on your good days. Your hormones are out of whack—and you don’t know what to do next. With Hormone Balance as your guide, you’ll call on both traditional and alternative solutions to get you off that hormonal rollercoaster for good. No matter what your age or your issues, medical authority and naturopath Dr. Carolyn Dean has a plan for you—one that will help you balance your hormones and achieve greater overall health. Written in her engaging, easy-to-understand style, Hormone Balance is chock-full of information on all aspects of a woman’s body: The truth behind PMS; Remedies for monthly challenges such as bloating and cramping; Causes and patterns of perimenopause; Pros and cons of HRT and natural hormones; Protection against osteoporosis; How exercise can make—or break—your hormonal cycle; Tips for a healthy hormonal diet—how to get the right foods and supplements; and more. With solid yet simple information, helpful facts, and prevention plans, Hormone Balance is all you need to feel like yourself again—in mind, body, and spirit!

With the increasing popularity of bioidentical hormones and research and support warning against using conventional synthetic hormone replacement (HRT), the attack by big pharmaceutical corporations is in full force. The recent media frenzy that links HRT with breast cancer* has again reinforced the dangers and sent thousands of women searching for other solutions to hormonal imbalance. This book is about bioidentical hormone balancing--the exciting, effective, and safer alternative to HRT. This is the only definitive guide written by experts in the field with a combined 40 years of clinical experience and who offer a bridge between the conventional and complementary medical perspectives: an MD and an ND. This book offers comprehensive, practical advice on hormone health. It provides clear answers to women who are seeking to turn back the clock and feel better--regardless of stage of life and age! The book empowers women to understand their choices and take immediate action! It provides: *Honest, smart talk about hormone imbalances (including PMS, perimenopause and menopause) *Unflinching historical context for HRT history, its popularity, and demise *Self-assessment tools to determine the imbalances *Immediate action steps involving clinically proven treatment approaches *A step- by-step guide to hormone balancing *Guidelines and resources for how to get the right medical help *Advice on how to optimize hormone balance without creating a greater likelihood of breast, endometrial, and ovarian cancer

Women's health and hormone replacement

Many women are confused about the treatments available for menopause. While they may be experiencing severe symptoms, the news about Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) use is not encouraging. HRT may increase the risk of heart attack, stroke, breast cancer, and blood clots in the lungs and legs. On the other hand, there is lesser known treatment-Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT)-that can help effectively diminish menopausal symptoms without the dangers of synthetic drugs. In her new book, Dr. Amy Lee Hawkins provides women with a complete guide to understanding and using BHRT to diminish or eliminate the symptoms of menopause. What You Must Know About Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy is written in easy-to-understand language. It covers the basics of hormones, discusses the controversy surrounding hormone replacement, details hormone treatment principles, and provides a guide to maintaining a healthy weight and metabolism. Each discussion is supported by up-to-date scientific articles published in respected research journals and medical texts. In addition, the book's appendix includes numerous questionnaires that can help you understand your personal situation. If you are struggling with the symptoms of menopause, you want to choose the safest and most effective route to feeling better. What You Must Know About Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy provides the information you need to make the best possible decisions about your health.