Hormone Therapy Questions & Answers
What is BHRT?+
Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy uses hormones that are molecularly identical to those your body produces naturally — estradiol, progesterone, and testosterone. They are derived from plant sources and custom-compounded for your specific protocol.
What hormones do you test?+
We run a comprehensive panel including estradiol, progesterone, testosterone, DHEA-S, thyroid markers (TSH, Free T3, Free T4), cortisol, vitamin D, CBC, and comprehensive metabolic panel.
Is HRT safe long-term?+
When prescribed by a qualified specialist and monitored with regular lab work, bioidentical hormone therapy has a strong safety profile. Your specialist adjusts your protocol based on ongoing labs and symptom tracking.
What about breast cancer risk?+
Current research shows that bioidentical progesterone does not carry the same risk as synthetic progestins used in older studies. Your specialist will review your personal and family history to determine the safest approach.
Can I start HRT if I am still having periods?+
Yes. Many women in perimenopause benefit from hormone optimization even while still menstruating. Your specialist designs a protocol appropriate for your stage.
What forms do bioidentical hormones come in?+
We offer creams, capsules, sublingual troches, and injectable options depending on the hormone and your preference. Your specialist recommends the best delivery method for your protocol.
How long until I feel better?+
Many women notice improvements in sleep, mood, and energy within 2–4 weeks. Hot flash relief typically begins within 1–3 weeks. Full optimization over 2–3 months.
What if I have had a hysterectomy?+
Women who have had a hysterectomy can absolutely benefit from BHRT. Your protocol will be designed around your remaining hormonal needs — often focusing on estradiol and testosterone.
Do you treat thyroid issues?+
Yes. Our comprehensive panel includes thyroid markers. If thyroid dysfunction is contributing to your symptoms, your specialist can address it as part of your overall hormone optimization.
Can HRT help with weight gain?+
Hormone imbalance — especially declining estradiol and rising cortisol — directly contributes to weight gain, particularly around the midsection. Restoring hormone balance can support healthy metabolism and body composition.
What are bioidentical hormones?+
Bioidentical hormones are derived from plant sources (typically yams or soy) and are molecularly identical to estradiol, progesterone, and testosterone — the hormones your body naturally produces.
How is this different from my OB/GYN?+
We specialize exclusively in hormone optimization. Your specialist focuses 100% on BHRT — deeper expertise, faster response times, and protocols tailored to YOUR labs.
Am I too old or too young?+
Women can begin experiencing hormone changes in their late 30s. There is no upper age limit for BHRT when medically appropriate. Your specialist evaluates your unique situation.
What lab work is included?+
Estradiol, progesterone, testosterone, DHEA-S, thyroid markers, cortisol, vitamin D, CBC, and comprehensive metabolic panel. All included quarterly.
Does insurance cover this?+
Most services are billed directly at transparent prices often lower than specialist copays. We provide detailed invoices for HSA/FSA reimbursement.
How quickly will I feel a difference?+
Many women notice improvements in sleep, mood, and energy within 2–4 weeks. Hot flash relief begins within 1–3 weeks. Full optimization over 2–3 months.
What if I have tried HRT before and it did not work?+
Many women have been prescribed synthetic hormones or standard doses that were not right for them. Bioidentical hormones with personalized dosing based on YOUR labs often makes the difference.
Is hormone therapy safe?+
When prescribed by a qualified specialist and monitored with regular lab work, bioidentical hormone therapy has a strong safety profile.