Understanding the difference between HRT and bioidentical HRT

Have you been considering Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) for a while now but are keen to first understand the differences between standard HRT and bioidentical HRT (BHRT)? Here, we explain the differences, explore the benefits, and help you understand how to decide which is the right choice for you.

HRT vs. BHRT: Understanding the key difference

Let’s go back to the basics. Before we proceed any further, let’s understand a bit more about both types of hormone replacement therapy to get better clarity.

Simply put, traditional Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT), is a treatment that aims to address hormonal problems in the body with the administration of synthetic hormones that are created by large pharmaceutical companies. This therapy is used for treating hormonal imbalance, whether that’s a result of menopause, age-related hormone depletion, thyroid problems, or something else.

As for Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT) or bioidentical HRT, this too involves the administration of hormones in the body, but the hormones used are derived from natural sources like plants, often a kind of yam. As such, they are molecularly completely identical to the hormones already in the human body. They are created by smaller compounding pharmacies for each individual, allowing for bespoke treatment for each patient.

Potential benefits of BHRT

While both HRT and BHRT are effective in treating menopausal symptoms and other hormone-related conditions in women, there do exist some benefits which BHRT can provide over standard HRT.
While the synthetic hormones administered during HRT are available in patches, oral applications and gels – they are only available in a small range of different applications. Bioidentical hormones, on the other hand, come in many different forms, including pessaries, sublingual drops, creams and more. This can be helpful if you find other application methods do not work well for you.

Another benefit that bioidentical HRT has over standard HRT is the flexibility in terms of customising medications specifically for each individual. Traditional HRT comes in set dosages, which may or may not always suit your body. With bioidentical HRT, your doctor will take a more individualised approach, giving you a series of blood tests to see exactly which hormones your body is low in and topping them up with only those necessary using bespoke amounts of hormones that are made especially for you. This means you won’t get anything your body doesn’t need.

HRT or BHRT? Choosing the right option for you

Budget is an important but often overlooked aspect of healthcare. The NHS means that we are lucky enough to be able to get free access to healthcare – that includes hormone replacement therapy. The downside of this is that you can’t choose your doctor and the hormones available are limited. If you are looking for a bespoke, personalised medicine approach to treating hormonal imbalance, BHRT may be a good option for you. Thankfully, finding a clinic that provides bioidentical hormones in the UK is easier than ever. Choosing the right clinic can make a big difference in your health journey.

Depending on what you’re looking for, and whether you’re considering HRT or BHRT, we recommend consulting your healthcare professional to help you make a decision. Finding a trusted specialist that you connect with is vitally important – they can provide deep insights into your hormone health by studying your symptoms, medical records and can help you make an informed decision.

Happy healthing!