Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT)

Bio-identical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) involves the use of hormones that are biologically identical to those produced by the human body. BHRT is most often utilized in peri- and post-menopausal women to substitute estrogen and progesterone, alleviating numerous symptoms related to menopause.

What does BHRT do?

BHRT can offer safe and effective relief from:

  • Hot flashes

  • Insomnia and fatigue

  • Low libido

  • Vaginal dryness

  • Mood swings

  • Anxiety and depression

  • Weight gain

Is it safe

BHRT has a long track record of safety when it is prescribed in the right dose for the right person. A thorough health assessment including necessary lab work is completed before all prescriptions to assess if BHRT is right for you.

What is the difference?

The term ‘hormone replacement therapy' is most often associated with conventional, synthetic hormone replacement therapy (HRT). However, BHRT significantly differs from conventional HRT in many ways:

  • Synthetic hormones are derived from pregnant horse urine and are very different from naturally occurring hormones. Bioidentical hormones are derived from yams and are structurally identical to the hormones your body naturally produces.

  • Mixing synthetic progesterone (progestin) with estrogens has been shown to increase the risk of breast cancer and heart disease in post-menopausal women. Using BHRT appears to have lower or no risk, with the same benefits to problematic symptoms

  • Unlike conventional HRT, many women who use BHRT continue on it for life because of its low side effect profile, safety, and effectiveness.

Who should use BHRT and when?

The best time to start BHRT is sooner rather than later. Research shows the best time to start is within 1-2 years of menopause. However, the benefits of BHRT often outweigh the risks for at least 10 years after menopause, so having a discussion with me can help determine if this treatment is the right fit for you.

In addition to menopause, BHRT can be a helpful treatment during peri-menopause, a time that may vary as little as a few months up to 10 years prior to menopause, and can come with some challenging symptoms that can be improved with BHRT.

Women who have gone through surgical menopause (having their ovaries removed) typically should be provided with some form of HRT, and BHRT can be a very safe approach to care.