Fatigue, brain fog, changes in sex drive, sleep problems, mood swings, muscle loss, and more can all be related to changing hormone levels. Hormone therapy at Premier Skin Clinic is so much more than skin deep.
BHRT (including BioTE®) is one approach to hormone replacement therapy (HRT), but what makes it different from traditional hormone therapy?
At Premier Skin Clinic in Fort Collins, Colorado, hormone optimization is part of a broader approach to wellness. Understanding your options can help you have a more informed conversation with your healthcare provider about your symptoms, treatment goals, and the approach that best fits your needs.
What is the difference between BHRT and traditional hormone therapy?
The main difference is that bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) uses hormones with the same molecular structure as those naturally produced by the human body. Traditional hormone therapy is a broader term for treatments that replace or supplement hormones and may use bioidentical or non-bioidentical hormones.
Importantly, BHRT is not a single treatment or delivery method. It can include FDA-approved medications and custom-compounded formulations. Traditional hormone therapy can also include FDA-approved bioidentical hormones, so the two categories overlap.
What does “bioidentical” mean?
Bioidentical hormones have the same chemical and molecular structure as hormones the body naturally produces. Examples include estradiol, a form of estrogen, and micronized progesterone.
Some bioidentical hormones are manufactured as FDA-approved prescription medications. Others are custom-compounded by a pharmacy to meet a prescriber’s specifications.
What symptoms can hormone therapy help manage?
Hormone optimization addresses:
- Mood swings
- Brain fog
- Decreased sex drive
- Sleep problems
- Muscle loss
- Decreased bone density
- Decreased energy
Other health conditions, medications, sleep disturbances, and lifestyle factors may contribute to how you feel.
What is hormone pellet therapy?
Hormone pellet therapy is a method of delivering hormones through small, solid implants placed under the skin, usually in the hip or buttock area. The pellets gradually release hormones over time.
BioTE® hormone pellets for BHRT are custom-compounded for each patient. At Premier Skin Clinic, we’ll first conduct comprehensive lab testing and an in-person consultation to understand where we can best improve your hormone balance. Once we have the results of your labs, we will review them with you and determine your hormone pellet dose that will help address your specific needs and symptoms.
How do I know if I need hormone therapy?
The decision to begin hormone therapy should be based on your symptoms, medical history, health risks, and treatment goals.
For hormone-related concerns, your provider may evaluate:
- The symptoms you are experiencing and how they affect your quality of life
- Your menstrual history and stage of the menopause transition
- Your personal and family medical history
- Your risk factors for blood clots, cardiovascular disease, and hormone-sensitive cancers
- Your current medications and other possible causes of symptoms
- Which treatment options best fit your preferences and health needs
Your provider can help determine whether hormone therapy is appropriate, whether additional evaluation is needed, and which formulation offers a reasonable balance of benefits and risks.
Explore your hormone therapy options at Premier Skin Clinic
Navigating hormone changes can be challenging, especially when symptoms affect your comfort, sleep, confidence, or quality of life. Understanding the differences between BHRT with pellet treatment and traditional hormone therapy is an important first step toward finding an appropriate treatment plan.
At Premier Skin Clinic, we believe that treatment decisions should be informed, individualized, and grounded in a clear understanding of potential benefits and risks.
If you are exploring hormone-related treatments, contact Premier Skin Clinic to learn more about available services and determine whether a consultation is appropriate for your goals.
Medical disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Hormone therapy is not appropriate for everyone. Consult a qualified healthcare provider to discuss your symptoms, medical history, and treatment options.
Ready to improve your health and overall wellness? Schedule a consultation with Premier Skin Clinic in Fort Collins, Colorado, and discover what personalized hormone therapy can do for you. Serving Fort Collins, Windsor, Loveland, Timnath, Wellington, Cheyenne, and beyond.
📞 Call us at (970) 221-1285
🌐 Schedule online at https://premierskinclinic.com/
📍 Visit us: 1603 Oakridge Drive #200, Fort Collins, CO 80525
Frequently Asked Questions
Is BHRT the same as hormone replacement therapy?
BHRT is a type of hormone replacement therapy that uses hormones with the same molecular structure as those produced by the body. Hormone replacement therapy is the broader term and includes both bioidentical and non-bioidentical hormones.
How long do hormone pellets last?
Hormone pellets generally release hormones over several months, with the duration depending on the product and treatment plan. We recommend treatment every three to six months, with labs re-ordered periodically. Because the implant cannot readily be discontinued, discuss its expected duration and potential side effects before treatment.
What is the best type of hormone replacement therapy?
There is no single best option for everyone. The appropriate treatment depends on the symptoms being treated, age, medical history, individual risk factors, preferences, and available evidence.
What are the benefits of BioTE® hormone replacement therapy?
BioTE® hormone replacement therapy uses small hormone pellets designed to release hormones gradually over time. For appropriate candidates, potential benefits of pellet therapy include:
- Convenience: Pellets can reduce the need for daily pills or regular application of hormone creams and gels.
- Consistent hormone delivery: Pellets release hormones over an extended period, although individual hormone levels can fluctuate.
- An individualized treatment plan: Treatment can be informed by your symptoms, medical history, laboratory results, and response to therapy.
- An alternative delivery method: Pellets may appeal to people who prefer not to take daily medication or use topical hormone products.
When hormone therapy is appropriate, treating a hormone deficiency or specific hormone-related symptoms may provide additional benefits depending on the hormone used and the condition being treated. Results vary, and BioTE® is not guaranteed to improve every symptom.
Can BioTE® help improve energy and reduce fatigue?
Some people explore hormone therapy because they experience persistent fatigue or decreased energy. Whether treatment helps depends on the underlying cause of those symptoms and whether a relevant hormone deficiency or hormone-related condition is present. Consider visiting your primary care provider to rule out other causes of fatigue before pursuing hormone therapy.
