There is a lot of marketing around BHRT. Here is what the term means, what it doesn’t, and how Dr. Gurrala helps you decide.
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A bioidentical hormone is chemically the same as the estrogen, progesterone or testosterone your body makes. That is a real difference from some older synthetic versions.
It says nothing, though, about whether a product has been tested. Some bioidentical hormones, including certain forms of estradiol and progesterone, are FDA-approved. Others are custom-compounded by a pharmacy and are not. Those aren’t reviewed by the FDA for safety or effectiveness, and there is no good evidence that they are safer than approved options. You should know which one you are being offered, and why.
Dr. Gurrala reviews your symptoms, medical and family history, and your lab work.
He explains which options fit you, including how they are delivered and whether they are FDA-approved or compounded.
If you go ahead, treatment is prescribed at the lowest dose that addresses your symptoms.
Regular visits and labs show how you are responding, and your treatment changes if it needs to.
BHRT, or bioidentical hormone replacement therapy, uses hormones that are structurally identical to those made by your body. Dr. Gurrala prescribes and monitors it at Delos Longevity in Sterling, Virginia, when it is right for the patient.
Some women prefer it, and approved forms of estradiol and progesterone are widely used. But the label alone does not make a treatment better or safer. The best option depends on your history and your symptoms.
You should assume that it does, unless there is evidence otherwise. Blood clots, stroke and breast cancer risks are part of the conversation for any estrogen-based therapy, and they depend on your age and your health.
Hormone therapy is not right for everyone. It may not be suitable if you have had breast cancer or another hormone-sensitive cancer, blood clots, a stroke, a heart attack, active liver disease, or unexplained vaginal bleeding, or if you may be pregnant.
Possible risks include blood clots, stroke, gallbladder disease and, with some regimens and longer use, breast cancer. Women who have a uterus and take estrogen generally also need a progestogen to protect the uterine lining. Risk depends on your age, your health, how long it has been since menopause, and the type, dose and route of treatment.
Common side effects include breast tenderness, bloating, headaches and irregular bleeding.
This is not a complete list. Treatment is prescribed only when clinically appropriate, after a medical evaluation, and is reviewed regularly. Individual results vary.
Bring your questions to a free consultation with Dr. Gurrala.
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