Confused about bioidentical vs traditional HRT? Learn what the terms mean, delivery options, and how to choose a safe, personalized plan.
What “Bioidentical” Really Means
“Bioidentical” refers to hormones that are chemically and structurally identical to those naturally produced by the human body, so that the body responds to them in the same manner. Made in a lab from plant sources like soy or yams, these hormones are used to treat imbalances, particularly during menopause. They are often designed to be indistinguishable by the body, mimicking the hormones made by your body’s glands.
Traditional HRT vs Bioidentical: How They Compare
What sets traditional Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) apart from Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT) is its composition. HRT traditionally uses synthetic, chemical, and animal hormones to replicate human hormones, whereas BHRT relies on plant molecules like soy. In addition, traditional HRT is often administered in standard doses, while BHRT’s plant-based compounds are usually tailored in custom doses.
Delivery Options: Pellets, Creams, Injections
BHRT is available in multiple forms, including:
- Patches: Patches placed over the skin can gradually release hormones into the bloodstream.
- Creams/Gels: The patient regularly rubs gel on their skin so that hormones can be absorbed into the bloodstream.
- Pellet Therapy: Tiny hormone pellets (around the size of a grain of rice) are inserted beneath the skin to slowly release hormones into the body.
HRT Safety
A new study published in the medical journal JAMA concluded that the benefits of hormone therapy for the treatment of menopause symptoms outweigh the risks, as reported by NPR.
“Among women below the age of 60, we found hormone therapy has low risk of adverse events and [is] safe for treating bothersome hot flashes, night sweats, and other menopausal symptoms, ” says study author Dr. JoAnn Manson, chief of preventive medicine at Brigham and Women’s Hospital. This is a departure from the advice many women have been given in the past.
How to Decide What’s Right for You
Deciding between traditional Hormone Replacement Therapy and Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy depends on your specific symptoms, health history, and preference for standardized versus tailored treatments. While traditional HRT uses synthetic hormones, BHRT offers plant-based hormones matching human chemistry, potentially causing fewer side effects and risks, such as lower blood clots/stroke chances. BHRT is often customized by compounders for individual needs, but lacks the strict FDA regulation and consistent dosing of traditional, manufactured HRT.
Schedule an HRT consult to review your goals, labs, and the best delivery method for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does “bioidentical hormones” mean?
Bioidentical hormones are compounds made to be chemically identical to the hormones your body naturally produces, such as estrogen and progesterone. They can be derived from plant sources and are often customized to match your individual hormone levels.
Are bioidentical hormones safer?
The FDA-approved bioidentical hormones have been tested for safety. They have passed the FDA’s strict standards and are safe for people to use. Like all hormone treatments, there are risks involved. You should weigh the pros and cons of even the FDA-approved bioidentical hormones with your practitioner.
What’s the difference between pellets and creams?
Pellets are surgically implanted under the skin in a brief, minor procedure and provide a consistent release of hormones without daily changes. Creams are applied to the skin daily and can result in fluctuating levels if not applied consistently or if they rub off.
How is HRT monitored?
HRT is primarily monitored through regular clinical reviews (usually at 3 months, then annually) focusing on symptom control, blood pressure checks, and weight management.
How long does it take to feel the benefits?
Most people start experiencing initial improvements from HRT, such as better sleep or reduced hot flashes, within 2 to 4 weeks. Significant improvements in mood, energy, and cognitive fog typically appear within 3 to 6 months.
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