Bioidentical Hormones vs. Traditional HRT: What’s the Difference?

Hormone therapy can ease menopause symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings, and dryness. But should you choose traditional HRT or bioidentical BHRT? Knowing the differences helps you make the best decision for your health.

Hormone therapy is one of the most effective ways to relieve the challenging symptoms of menopause—such as hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings, and vaginal dryness. But when it comes to choosing a treatment, many women wonder: Should I go with traditional hormone replacement therapy (HRT) or bioidentical hormone therapy (BHRT)? Understanding the differences can help you make an informed decision about your health.

What Is Traditional HRT?

Traditional hormone replacement therapy uses synthetic hormones or animal-derived hormones to supplement estrogen, progesterone, and sometimes testosterone levels in your body. These hormones are similar—but not identical—to the ones your body naturally produces. Traditional HRT is typically available in standardized doses and forms, such as pills, patches, or injections.

Benefits of Traditional HRT:

Proven effectiveness in reducing menopausal symptoms
Widely available and FDA-approved
Can protect against bone loss and reduce the risk of osteoporosis

What Are Bioidentical Hormones?

Bioidentical hormones are plant-derived compounds that are chemically identical to the hormones your body produces naturally. They can be prescribed in standard FDA-approved forms or compounded into custom doses tailored to your specific hormonal needs.

Benefits of Bioidentical Hormones:

Mimic the body’s natural hormones more closely
Can be customized to your individual hormone levels
Available in multiple delivery methods, including creams, pellets, and lozenges

Key Differences Between the Two

Feature	Traditional HRT	Bioidentical Hormones
Chemical Structure	Similar, not identical	Identical to natural hormones
Source	Synthetic or animal-derived	Plant-based (soy or yam)
Customization	Standardized doses	Custom-compounded options
FDA-Approved Options	Yes	Yes (for some forms)

Which Option Is Right for You?

Both traditional HRT and BHRT can effectively relieve menopausal symptoms, but the right choice depends on your symptom severity, medical history, lifestyle, and personal preferences. At Menopause Solutions in Mount Pleasant, SC, Dr. Elaine Eustis and Nurse Practitioner Rhonda Leach specialize in personalized hormone therapy designed to fit your unique needs.

Ready to learn which option is best for you?
Call Menopause Solutions at 843-891-6119 or schedule your consultation online today. Let’s create a hormone therapy plan that helps you feel your best—naturally and safely.