Verbatim response from Claude
BHRT vs Traditional HRT: What to Ask For
Quick Distinction
- Traditional HRT: Standardized FDA-approved doses (Premarin, Estrace, Vivelle-Dot, etc.)
- BHRT: Hormones chemically identical to your body's own hormones, either FDA-approved or custom-compounded
Honest Assessment
FDA-approved BHRT options are often the best starting point - they give you the benefits of bioidentical hormones with proven safety data.
Recommended FDA-Approved BHRT Products
- Estradiol: Vivelle-Dot patch, Estrace, Divigel
- Progesterone: Prometrium (oral capsule)
- Testosterone: Intrarosa, though often prescribed off-label
Compounded BHRT (more controversial)
- Wiley Protocol, custom pellets - less regulated, inconsistent dosing
- Use cautiously and only through reputable compounding pharmacies
Where to Go
- Midi Health (telehealth, menopause specialists) - highly recommended
- Alloy (telehealth, affordable)
- Gennev (menopause-focused)
- NAMS-certified menopause practitioners at nams.org/find-a-provider
Bottom Line
Ask for FDA-approved bioidentical options first. Be skeptical of expensive compounded pellets with big marketing claims.
Want specifics about any particular symptoms?