Verbatim response from Claude
Picking a Legitimate BHRT Clinic
Great question - the difference between quality care and a "hormone mill" really matters for your safety.
Red Flags to Avoid (Hormone Mills)
- Prescribe hormones after a questionnaire only - no bloodwork
- One-size-fits-all pellet dosing - especially aggressive testosterone pellets
- Pressure to buy supplements or products from the clinic
- No follow-up testing after starting treatment
- Cash-only spas or med spas with minimal physician oversight
What Legitimate Clinics Do
- Comprehensive baseline labs before prescribing (thyroid, sex hormones, metabolic panel)
- Follow-up bloodwork at 6-8 weeks and regularly after
- Board-certified physicians (endocrinology, OB/GYN, internal medicine) overseeing care
- Individualized dosing adjusted by symptoms AND labs
- Honest conversations about risks, including cancer considerations
Reputable Starting Points
- Midi Health - telehealth focused on women's hormones, physician-led
- Gennev - menopause-specialized practitioners
- Your OB/GYN or internist - often underrated, can prescribe FDA-approved bioidentical options like Bijuva or Prometrium
- NAMS-certified menopause practitioners (find one at menopause.org)
Key Question to Ask
"Will you adjust my dose based on both my symptoms and lab results?" A good clinic says yes to both.
Would you like more detail on any specific aspect?