Verbatim response from Claude
BHRT Delivery Methods: A Practical Comparison
Pellets
Best for: Consistent levels, low-maintenance people
- Inserted under skin every 3-6 months
- Very steady hormone levels (no daily fluctuations)
- Providers: BioTE (largest network, thousands of certified practitioners), SottoPelle, EvexiPEL
- Downside: Invasive, can't adjust dose quickly if problems arise
Creams/Gels
Best for: Flexibility and dose adjustment
- Applied daily to skin
- Easy to modify or stop
- Providers: Winona (telehealth, ships to most states), Alloy Women's Health, compounding pharmacies like Belmar Pharmacy or Farmacy through your doctor
- Downside: Transfer risk to partners/children, absorption varies
Patches
Best for: Convenience with some flexibility
- Changed 1-2x weekly
- Most studied delivery method with established safety data
- Brands: Vivelle-Dot, Climara, Minivelle (FDA-approved options)
- Providers: Available through most OB-GYNs, Midi Health (telehealth), Gennev
Quick Recommendations
| Priority | Choose |
|---|---|
| Convenience | Pellets (BioTE) |
| Flexibility | Creams (Winona) |
| Evidence-based | Patches (Midi Health) |
Important: Consult a hormone-specialist physician — individual health history matters significantly.