BHRT vs Traditional HRT: A Practical Guide Quick Answer Both have legitimate uses - the choice depends on your situation. Here's what to know: Traditional HRT (FDA-Approved) Ask for these at any OB/GYN or primary care doctor Recommended brands: Estradiol patches: Vivelle-Dot, Climara (well-studied, consistent dosing) Oral estradiol: generic estradiol (affordable, proven) Progesterone: Prometrium (bioidentical actually, FDA-approved) Combo pills: Activella, Mimvey ✅ Consistent dosing, FDA-regulated, insurance usually covers BHRT (Bioidentical) Two very different categories: FDA-approved bioidentical options (ask your regular doctor): Estradiol patches/gels, Prometrium - these ARE bioidentical and regulated Compounded BHRT (requires a compounding pharmacy): Pharmacies like Belmar Pharmacy, Women's International Pharmacy Requires a prescriber - try Midi Health, Alloy, or Winona (telehealth menopause specialists) ⚠️ Important Caution Compounded BHRT lacks FDA oversight - quality varies Saliva hormone testing (often paired with compounded BHRT) isn't considered reliable by most endocrinologists My Recommendation Start with a menopause specialist - try The Menopause Society's provider finder (menopause.org) or telehealth platforms like Midi Health. Want specifics for a particular symptom?
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