Verbatim response from Claude
BHRT Delivery Methods: A Practical Comparison
Pellets
Best for: Consistent levels, convenience
- Inserted under skin every 3-6 months
- Providers: BioTE (largest network, many OB/GYNs and urologists), Evexipel, SottoPelle
- Pros: "Set it and forget it," steady hormone levels
- Cons: Can't adjust dose quickly, minor procedure, higher upfront cost (~$300-500 per insertion)
Creams/Gels
Best for: Flexibility, dose adjustability
- Applied daily to skin
- Providers: Compounding pharmacies like Belmar Pharmacy, Empower Pharmacy, or through telehealth platforms like Winona or Midi Health
- Pros: Easy dose changes, customizable
- Cons: Transfer risk to partners/kids, absorption varies
Patches
Best for: Reliable absorption, mainstream accessibility
- Brands: Vivelle-Dot, Climara, Minivelle (FDA-approved)
- Pros: Well-studied, covered by most insurance
- Cons: Skin irritation, visible, changed every 3-7 days
Telehealth Services Worth Knowing
- Winona - women-focused, compounded creams/pills
- Midi Health - menopause specialists
- Defy Medical - men and women, multiple delivery options
Bottom line: Patches have the most research backing; pellets offer convenience; creams offer flexibility. Work with a hormone specialist to match your lifestyle and labs.