You’ve been feeling a bit off lately—low energy, mood swings, and even changes in your sleep patterns. You’ve been told your hormone levels are declining due to aging. Whether you’re approaching menopause or noticing symptoms of low testosterone, the solution might be hormone replacement therapy (HRT). But with all the options available, how do you choose? Should you go with bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) or traditional HRT?

At Genesis Lifestyle Medicine, we understand that every patient’s needs are unique, and selecting the right type of hormone therapy can be life-changing. To help you make an informed decision, we’ll walk you through the key differences between BHRT and traditional HRT so you can determine which option aligns best with your health goals.

The source of hormones

The main difference between BHRT and traditional HRT lies in the source of the hormones. Traditional HRT typically uses synthetic hormones or those derived from the urine of pregnant horses (as in the case of certain estrogen therapies). These hormones are not identical to the ones your body naturally produces, which may lead to unwanted side effects in some people.

On the other hand, BHRT is made from plant extracts, such as soy and yams. These bioidentical hormones are chemically identical to the hormones your body naturally produces, meaning your body can’t tell the difference. Because of their natural composition, many people find that BHRT is easier to tolerate and produces fewer side effects than traditional HRT.

The customization of treatment

Traditional HRT is typically mass-produced, with standardized dosages available in pills, patches, or creams. While this may work for some, it can be challenging to find the perfect dose, as every person’s body responds differently to hormone therapy. The one-size-fits-all approach of traditional HRT can sometimes result in doses that are too high or too low, which may cause side effects or prevent you from achieving optimal results.

In contrast, BHRT is highly customizable. After thorough lab testing, a healthcare provider can prescribe a personalized dosage of bioidentical hormones tailored to your specific hormonal needs. A pharmacist then compounds the hormones into a custom prescription. This approach means you’re more likely to receive the precise amount of hormones your body needs, which can lead to better outcomes and fewer side effects.

FDA approval and regulation

Traditional HRT drugs are mass-produced and have undergone extensive clinical trials to receive FDA approval. This means they are rigorously tested for safety and efficacy but come in standardized dosages that may not fit everyone’s needs.

BHRT is not FDA-approved in the same way because it is customized for each patient. This does not mean BHRT is unsafe—it simply means that each formulation is unique to the patient, which makes large-scale clinical trials difficult. However, many people feel more comfortable with the tailored approach BHRT offers, as the dosages are targeted and specific.

Safety and side effects

Safety is always a concern when it comes to hormone therapy, and both BHRT and traditional HRT carry risks. However, bioidentical hormones are more easily tolerated due to their natural, plant-based origin and chemical similarity to human hormones.

With traditional HRT, some people may experience bloating, weight gain, or mood swings, particularly with synthetic hormones or those derived from animal sources. BHRT’s bioidentical structure often leads to fewer side effects, though it’s still essential to have your hormone levels monitored regularly to ensure the treatment is working effectively and safely for you.

Choosing between BHRT and traditional HRT depends on your health needs, preferences, and how your body responds to treatment. Both forms of therapy have their merits, but if you’re looking for a natural, customizable approach with fewer side effects, BHRT might be the ideal choice. At Genesis Lifestyle Medicine, we specialize in personalizing treatments to meet your unique needs, ensuring you receive safe, effective care. Reach out to us today to learn more about your hormone therapy options and how we can help you regain balance and vitality.