The key difference between HRT (hormone replacement therapy) and bioidentical hormone therapy is that HRT uses synthetic hormones while bioidentical hormones are made to be molecularly identical to the hormones naturally produced in the human body. HRT - Uses synthetic hormones not found naturally in the body - Common types: - Estrogen pills, patches, gels - Progestin pills, IUDs - Testosterone injections, gels - Benefits: - Relieves menopause symptoms - Protects against osteoporosis - Risks: - Increased risk of blood clots, stroke, heart attack - Potential increased cancer risk with long-term use Bioidentical Hormones - Made from plant sources to match natural human hormones - Types: - Estradiol, estrone - Progesterone - Testosterone - Benefits: - More natural fit for the body's hormone receptors - May have lower risks than synthetic hormones - Custom compounded for personalized doses - Used for hormone therapy and age management Key Differences Origin - Synthetic hormones made in a lab for HRT - Bioidentical hormones identical in molecular structure to natural hormones Risk Profile - HRT has more health risks - Bioidentical hormones may have lower risks for blood clots, heart disease and breast cancer Personalization - HRT uses standardized doses - Bioidentical hormone doses can be customized based on the patient's needs Overall, bioidentical hormones are thought to be a more natural alternative to traditional HRT, with the potential for improved safety and tailored to the individual patient.
