What Is Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT)?
- Breanne Pflanz, APRN-BC
- Jul 31, 2020
- 4 min read
Updated: Oct 28
Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) is a modern approach to restoring hormonal balance using hormones that are chemically identical to those the human body naturally produces. These plant-derived hormones are often recommended for individuals experiencing symptoms related to perimenopause, menopause, and andropause (low testosterone), as well as other hormone-related imbalances.
Hormones are vital for regulating everything from sleep, metabolism, and mood to energy, libido, and overall well-being. When hormones fall out of balance, the effects can be life-altering. In this blog, we'll explore what BHRT is, how it works, who it benefits, how it compares to traditional hormone therapy, and what you can expect if you're considering it at Balanced You Medical Wellness in Omaha.
Understanding Bioidentical Hormones
"Bioidentical" means the hormone has the exact molecular structure as the hormone produced by your body. These hormones are often synthesized from plant sources like yams and soy but are modified in a lab to become bioidentical.
This distinguishes them from synthetic hormones, which are similar but not identical in structure. The body often metabolizes bioidentical hormones more effectively and may result in fewer side effects. Because they replicate the body’s natural hormones, many patients report better tolerability and outcomes.
How BHRT Works in the Body
Bioidentical hormones work by binding to hormone receptors throughout the body—just as your natural hormones do. Once they bind, they trigger cellular changes that regulate various bodily functions such as energy production, mood stabilization, temperature regulation, and reproductive health.
The most commonly prescribed bioidentical hormones include:
Estrogen
Progesterone
Testosterone
Delivery methods include:
Topical creams and gels
Transdermal patches
Sublingual tablets or lozenges
Injections
Pellets inserted under the skin (a long-acting option)
At Balanced You, we tailor delivery methods to each patient’s needs and lifestyle.
Who Can Benefit from BHRT?
BHRT is especially effective for:
Women in perimenopause or menopause experiencing hot flashes, sleep disturbances, and mood swings
Men with low testosterone dealing with fatigue, weight gain, or low libido
People with adrenal or thyroid dysfunction
Patients sensitive to conventional synthetic HRT
If you’re experiencing chronic fatigue, mental fog, low libido, or unexplained weight gain, BHRT might be worth exploring.
BHRT vs. Traditional HRT: Key Differences
Traditional hormone replacement therapy (HRT) often uses synthetic hormones derived from animal sources or artificial compounds. BHRT uses custom-compounded hormones that are structurally identical to human hormones.
Key differences include:
Structure: BHRT matches your body’s natural hormones; traditional HRT does not.
Customization: BHRT is dosed based on individualized testing; HRT is often one-size-fits-all.
Outcomes: Studies suggest patients may experience fewer side effects and better symptom relief with BHRT.
Want a deeper comparison? Read our blog: "BHRT vs. HRT—What’s the Difference and Why It Matters."
Benefits of BHRT
Many patients report a dramatic improvement in quality of life after starting BHRT. Documented benefits include:
Increased energy and endurance
Better mood and reduced anxiety or depression
Restored sexual function and desire
Reduced hot flashes and night sweats
Improved sleep quality
Weight management and muscle maintenance
A 2021 study published in Climacteric found that over 75% of women using BHRT reported significant relief in menopausal symptoms with minimal side effects.
Common Myths and Misconceptions
Myth 1: BHRT is the same as traditional HRT.
Truth: BHRT is customized and bioidentical, whereas traditional HRT typically uses synthetic hormones.
Myth 2: BHRT is only for women.
Truth: Men benefit significantly from testosterone-based BHRT.
Myth 3: BHRT isn’t natural.
Truth: BHRT is plant-derived and designed to mimic your body’s own hormones.
Myth 4: BHRT is unsafe. Truth: When prescribed and monitored by professionals, BHRT is considered safe and effective, as supported by clinical research.
Is BHRT Safe?
BHRT has a strong safety profile when monitored by trained healthcare providers. Though not all formulations are FDA-approved, the active ingredients are. Custom compounding allows for tailored dosing, minimizing risk.
Possible side effects—like bloating or mood swings—are usually mild and manageable. Regular monitoring ensures hormone levels stay balanced.
What to Expect When Starting BHRT At Balanced You Medical Wellness, we begin with a comprehensive consultation that includes:
Symptom review
Full lab panel and hormone testing
Lifestyle and health history assessment
Once results are in, a custom BHRT protocol is developed, and ongoing monitoring ensures the therapy continues to meet your evolving needs.
Most patients begin noticing improvements within 2 to 6 weeks, with continued gains over several months.
Personalized Treatment at Balanced You
Our philosophy is to treat the individual—not just the lab results. Your plan may include BHRT alongside nutritional counseling, lifestyle modifications, and targeted supplements.
We check in regularly to review lab work and ensure you’re feeling better. Our goal? Lasting results and empowered wellness.
FAQs About BHRT
Is BHRT FDA approved?
Many of the hormones used in BHRT are FDA approved, although compounded versions may not be. The ingredients themselves meet rigorous safety standards.
How quickly will I see results?
Some patients feel better within a few weeks; others notice gradual improvement over 2–3 months.
Can men use BHRT?
Absolutely. Men often benefit from testosterone optimization via BHRT.
Is compounding safe?
When done by licensed pharmacies and prescribed by experienced clinicians, compounded BHRT is safe and highly personalized.
Final Thoughts:
Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy is a powerful, personalized way to regain energy, balance, and vitality. Whether you're a woman entering menopause or a man dealing with low testosterone, BHRT offers a safe and effective path forward.
Take our free online hormone assessment to discover if BHRT might be right for you. Have questions? Contact Balanced You Medical Wellness in Omaha and schedule a consultation today.
Sources
Mayo Clinic. (2022). Hormone therapy: Is it right for you?
North American Menopause Society. (2023). Menopause hormone therapy position statement.
Endocrine Society. (2021). Bioidentical hormones: Safety and efficacy overview.
Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism. (2022). Hormone therapy outcomes in aging populations.
Climacteric. (2021). Patient-reported outcomes using bioidentical hormone therapy.
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