Bio-identical HORMONES
There are different types of hormones available to help treat hormonal symptoms.
It’s helpful to distinguish between “conventional hormone replacement” (HRT) and non-conventional/alternative
“bio-identical hormone replacement” (BHRT).
What are bioidentical hormones?
Bio-identical hormones are hormones that share the same molecular structure as those naturally produced by the human body. Because of this structural similarity, they are widely discussed in clinical and educational contexts related to hormone health and hormonal transitions.
Conversations around bio-identical hormones often arise when individuals seek to better understand changes associated with different life stages, including perimenopause and menopause. These discussions may include common experiences such as changes in energy levels, sleep patterns, mood, temperature regulation, or overall comfort, which are frequently associated with hormonal shifts.
Bio-identical hormones are typically explored as one of several options within broader, individualized discussions about hormone health. As with any hormone-related approach, potential benefits and risks should always be reviewed in the context of personal health history and professional guidance.
How do they differ from conventional HRT?
The term “conventional hormone replacement therapy (HRT)” generally refers to hormone products developed and manufactured by pharmaceutical companies in standardized formulations.
Bio-identical hormones and conventional HRT are often described as distinct categories within educational and clinical discussions about hormone health. These conversations may take into account factors such as formulation, personalization, and how different options are discussed in relation to common hormone-related experiences, including symptoms like hot flashes, sleep disruption, changes in libido, or vaginal discomfort during menopause.
Different approaches may be appropriate for different individuals, depending on their circumstances, goals, and medical history. Understanding these distinctions supports informed decision-making and encourages thoughtful conversations with qualified healthcare professionals.
Why People like BHRT:
Many people explore bio-identical hormones as part of a broader interest in understanding hormone health and seeking approaches that feel more personalized and aligned with their individual needs. Discussions around BHRT often arise during times of hormonal transition, when individuals may notice changes in how they feel physically, emotionally, or mentally.
These conversations frequently include common experiences associated with hormonal shifts, such as changes in energy levels, sleep quality, temperature regulation, mood, focus, libido, or overall comfort. For many, the appeal of bio-identical hormones lies in their structural similarity to hormones naturally produced by the body and the way they are discussed within individualized, context-specific approaches to hormone health.
Educational and clinical discussions around BHRT often take place alongside conversations about lifestyle, nutrition, stress, and overall well-being, recognizing that hormone health is influenced by multiple interconnected factors.
As with any hormone-related option, careful consideration is important. Hormonal needs and responses vary widely between individuals, and discussions about potential benefits, risks, and suitability should always be guided by personal health history and qualified professional oversight.
Working with a BHRT Doctor
Working with bio-identical hormones is often discussed as part of a more individualized and holistic perspective on hormone health, particularly during periods of hormonal transition. Rather than focusing on standardized solutions, this approach emphasizes understanding how different aspects of health and lifestyle may influence how individuals experience hormonal changes.
Conversations around BHRT frequently include common experiences associated with hormonal shifts, such as changes in energy levels, sleep quality, mood, focus, temperature regulation, or overall comfort. Nutrition, metabolic balance, stress, and daily habits are often part of these broader discussions, recognizing that hormone health is influenced by multiple interconnected factors.
This perspective is often described as proactive, as it encourages greater awareness and understanding of hormone-related changes before they become more disruptive. By viewing the body as an integrated system, individuals are better supported in exploring informed, personalized approaches that align with their unique needs and long-term well-being.
The Role of Stress:
In all of the cases above of hormonal imbalance, stress will magnify the symptoms. When our stress hormone cortisol is released excessively, it will cause how we metabolize our hormones to shift. We will no longer prioritize making testosterone, or keeping and using the progesterone our ovaries or adrenals make. Progesterone will get shunted into making cortisol because it is needed for survival. Testosterone will go down because let’s face it, libido is not essential when you are fighting for your life! (which is what your body thinks it is doing when we are stressed). We all experience stress and for the most part, our body is resilient and can handle it. When the stress is prolonged and our body begins to believe it is always in fight or flight mode that it begins to take a toll on us and our body can become out of balance. Doing things to relax our mind and our body regularly can help us unwind and reduce the effect of stress on our hormones.
When hormonal changes impact your daily life, informed options matter.
If you’re experiencing hormonal changes, you’re not alone — and you have alternatives.
Dr. Flamer has worked with thousands of women since opening her practice in 2010, gaining extensive experience across different stages of hormonal change. She is passionate about sharing her knowledge and perspective, and values thoughtful conversations focused on education, understanding, and informed awareness.
Through an educational and supportive approach, her goal is to help individuals feel more informed, confident, and empowered as they navigate questions related to hormone health.