Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) are similar, but have some key differences. Both involve taking hormones to supplement low levels, commonly used to treat symptoms of menopause and aging. However, the types of hormones used differ:
- HRT involves taking synthetic versions of human hormones like estrogen and progesterone. Common HRT medications include Premarin, Provera, and PremPro.
- BHRT uses bioidentical hormones - hormones that are structurally identical to those naturally occurring in the human body. These include estriol, estradiol, and progesterone derived from plant sources.
Benefits
Both HRT and BHRT may provide relief from menopausal symptoms like
hot flashes,
night sweats, vaginal dryness, decreased bone density and cholesterol changes. Potential benefits include:
- Reduced menopausal symptoms
- Increased energy levels
- Improved mood
- Healthier cholesterol levels
- Stronger bones
- Decreased risk of colorectal cancer
Side Effects and Risks
Some key differences lie in their potential side effects and health risks:
HRT
- Increased risk of blood clots, stroke, heart attack, and breast cancer
- Can worsen gallbladder disease
- Possible side effects include bloating, breast tenderness, mood changes
BHRT
- Lower rates of risks and complications overall
- Side effects may include temporary headaches, bloating, nausea from dosage adjustment
Both
- Do not improve cognitive function or risk of Alzheimer’s disease
- Can increase risk of endometrial hyperplasia if used without progesterone
Balance and Customization
Experts recommend using the
lowest effective dose of hormones for symptom relief. BHRT claims an advantage in offering more
customizable doses and routes of administration through creams, gels or pellets. HRT is available in standard doses as oral tablets or patches.
Testing
Comprehensive pre-treatment
testing of hormone levels allows tailoring of BHRT regimens, but is not commonly done with standard HRT. Testing estrogen, progesterone,
testosterone,
DHEA and other hormone levels can guide appropriate dosing especially with
BHRT.
Ongoing monitoring and adjustment may be more feasible with the flexibility of bioidentical preparations, as opposed to standard doses of conventional HRT medications.
In summary, while both BHRT and HRT provide hormone supplementation, BHRT offers more natural, identical hormones that closely mimic the body’s own hormones.
Potential advantages of bioidentical hormones include lower risks, more customizable doses and routes of administration, and more effective hormone balancing when guided by testing.
Work closely with your healthcare provider to determine which option may be most suitable based on your hormone levels, symptoms, risks, lifestyle factors and treatment goals.
- Hormone Wellness Institute offers cutting edge bioidentical hormone therapies to help patients optimize their hormone levels and meet their health goals. Contact us today for a consultation.
I hope this provides a comprehensive overview explaining how bioidentical
hormone therapy compares to standard hormone replacement therapy. Please let me know if you need any clarification or have additional questions!