What Does the “B” in BHRT Stand For?

If you’ve heard of BHRT, you might be wondering—what does the B stand for? BHRT stands for Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy. The key word here is bioidentical, meaning the hormones used in this therapy are chemically identical to the ones your body naturally produces.

What Are Bioidentical Hormones?

Bioidentical hormones are designed to match the molecular structure of estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone that your body makes. Because they are identical to what your body produces, they are more easily recognized and processed. These hormones are often used to help balance fluctuations that can lead to symptoms like fatigue, mood swings, weight changes, and low libido. They can also be beneficial for perimenopausal and menopausal symptoms like hot flashes and sleep disturbances.

How Is BHRT Different from Traditional HRT?

Traditional Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) uses synthetic hormones or those derived from animals, which may not match your body’s hormones as closely.

What About Hormone Pellets?

One way to receive BHRT is through hormone pellets. These are tiny implants placed under the skin that slowly release hormones over time. Pellets provide a steady dose of hormones without the daily ups and downs of pills or creams. Many people like the convenience of pellets, but they do require a minor in-office procedure to insert and replace them every few months– every 3 months on average for women, every 6 months on average for men. Some potential downsides include difficulty adjusting the dose once inserted and the risk of infection at the insertion site.

Is BHRT Right for You?

BHRT can be a helpful option for those looking to rebalance hormones, but it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. It’s important to work with a knowledgeable provider to determine if BHRT—whether in pellet form or another method—is right for you.