The difference between HRT and bio-identical hormone replacement.

Confused about the differences between HRT and Bio-identical HRT? Me too. 

Let’s break it all down.

Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is a treatment that replaces the hormones that the body no longer produces during menopause. It can be used to relieve menopause symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, and vaginal dryness, and may also help protect against osteoporosis. HRT can be taken as a pill, or applied as a patch, gel, cream, or spray. There are two types of HRT, Synthetic and Bio-identical.

What’s Synthetic HRT?

This type of HRT is made from synthetic (man-made) versions of the female hormones estrogen and progesterone. Synthetic HRT is the most commonly used form of HRT and is available in a variety of doses and combinations.

There are several different types of Synthetic HRT:

• Estrogen-only HRT: This type of HRT contains only estrogen and is usually prescribed for women who have had a hysterectomy (surgery to remove the uterus). Synthetic estrogens used in HRT include ethinyl estradiol and conjugated estrogens.
• Progesterone-only HRT: This type of HRT contains only progesterone and is usually prescribed for women who still have a uterus but are unable to take estrogen. Synthetic progesterones include medroxyprogesterone acetate and norethisterone.
• Combined HRT: This type of HRT contains both estrogen and progesterone and is usually prescribed for women who still have a uterus.

What’s Bio-identical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT)?

This type of HRT is made from plant-based hormones that are chemically identical to the hormones produced by the human body. BHRT is usually customized for each patient based on their specific hormone levels and needs. Some people believe that BHRT is safer and more natural than synthetic HRT, but there is limited scientific evidence to support these claims.

BHRT is available in several forms:

•  Pills: BHRT pills contain plant-based hormones that have been compounded (mixed) to meet the specific hormone needs of the patient.
• Topical creams: BHRT creams contain plant-based hormones that are applied topically to the skin.
• Pellets: BHRT pellets are small, rice-sized pellets that are inserted under the skin. The pellets release a steady dose of plant-based hormones over a period of several months.

Curious about what plants are used to make bio-identical hormones?

BHRT is made from plant-based hormones that mimic the hormones produced naturally by the body. The most commonly used plants are Mexican yam and soy.

Mexican yam (Dioscorea villosa) is a tuberous plant that grows in the southern United States and Mexico. It contains a type of steroid called diosgenin, which can be converted into various hormones, including estrogen and progesterone.

Soy (Glycine max) is a legume that is widely cultivated for its edible seeds, which are rich in protein. Soy contains a type of isoflavone called genistein, which has weak estrogen-like effects.

It’s important to talk to your doctor about the benefits and risks of HRT and whether it is right for you. Your doctor can help you decide which type of hormone replacement therapy, if any, is best for you based on your individual health needs and concerns.

Click this link to locate a provider in your area who specializes in the treatment of menopause symptoms. Menopause Practitioner Directory