On my recent quest to find out more about Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT), I came across these two terms over and over – body identical and bio-identical HRT. So I thought I’d look into what they actually meant. And in case you were also curious, here is a simple explanation of these two hormone options.
What IS the difference between body identical and bio-identical HRT?
Body identical HRT has the same molecular structure as the oestrogen our bodies produce. It is regulated and prescribed.
Bio-identical HRT (sometimes called compounded HRT) is a specially blended hormone combination custom-made for women after they’ve had a hormone test.
Reading that, bio-identical might sound like the best option because you’re getting exactly what your body needs, right? But there are a few things to know before choosing this option:
- Some of the hormones used in bio-identical HRT are not approved for women. They don’t go through the same tests of safety or correct dosing as the body identical HRT does. In other words, they haven’t gone through clinical trials to check for efficacy and safety. They aren’t, therefore, regulated and are essentially classified as natural supplements. And you don’t need a prescription for them.
- When numerous products are combined (compounded) or mixed, they may actually be harmful.
- In addition, some of the hormones used don’t absorb well into the body.
- The mixture may not contain adequate amounts to really be effective.
- It can also be expensive.
- And ultimately, they may not work.
So that’s essentially the difference between body identical and bio-identical hormones.
For more information about these hormones, check out My Menopause Doctor.
Related: Which hormone replacement therapy will be best for you?
And what about using complementary or ‘natural’ therapies instead of HRT?
Do ‘natural’ therapies actually work?
Many women choose to try phytoestrogens (estrogen-like compounds) instead of HRT. Legumes, beans and soy products contain the highest quantities, and some women find them helpful. Similarly, you can use herbal remedies like black cohosh, dong Quai, evening primrose oil, red clover and ginseng for their varying benefits.
We must, however, bear in mind that some natural remedies can interfere with other medicines so always inform your doctor as to what you’re taking. They can also have negative side effects, for example, black cohosh can harm your liver if taken for too long.
Most importantly, though – herbal remedies and complementary therapies may help with symptoms, but they don’t deal with the hormone deficiency. In other words, they won’t protect your bones or reduce your risk of cardiovascular disease.
Lastly
Do you use HRT? And if so, which route did you choose? Have you been offered different options? And if not, have you gone the ‘natural’ route? I’d love to hear your thoughts.
This post may contain affiliate links - if you buy something through these links, I may earn a small affiliate commission, at no extra cost to you. I only feature things I truly love. Thanks for your support.
