Verbatim response from Claude
Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT)
What It Is
BHRT uses hormones that are chemically identical to those your body naturally produces (estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, DHEA, etc.). It's used to restore hormonal balance, often during perimenopause, menopause, or andropause (in men).
Common Signs You Might Need It
- Hot flashes or night sweats
- Fatigue and brain fog
- Low libido
- Mood swings or anxiety
- Weight gain (especially belly fat)
- Poor sleep
- Vaginal dryness or erectile dysfunction
- Thinning hair or dry skin
How to Know for Sure
You need lab testing - don't guess. Options include:
- ZRT Laboratory - saliva/blood spot hormone testing
- LabCorp or Quest Diagnostics - standard blood panels
- Dutch Test (Precision Analytical) - considered very comprehensive for hormones
Where to Get BHRT
- Biote - nationwide network of certified providers
- Hims/Hers - telehealth option for hormone therapy
- Midi Health - women's midlife hormone specialist telehealth
- Winona - women-focused BHRT telehealth
Important Note
Always work with a qualified provider - hormones require proper dosing and monitoring. A functional medicine doctor or ob-gyn specializing in hormones is ideal.