You may have heard terms like “bioidentical” or “body identical” when reading about hormone therapy for menopause. These can sound appealing, but the meanings are often unclear. Here’s a simple breakdown to help you understand what they actually refer to.

What Are Bioidentical Hormones?

• “Bioidentical” usually refers to estradiol (a form of estrogen) and micronized progesterone.
• These hormones are chemically identical to the ones your body produces.
• They are made in labs, often starting with plant sources like yams or soy.

Where Do They Come From?

Bioidentical hormones can be found in:

• FDA-approved prescription products – standardized for quality and safety
  Examples: estradiol patches, micronized progesterone capsules
• Compounded hormones – made by specialty pharmacies when specific formulations are needed
  (Note: These are not FDA-approved and may vary in consistency.)

Important Things to Consider

• The term “bioidentical” is not a medical or regulatory classification—it’s a marketing term.
• What matters more is the form of hormone, how it’s taken, and whether it’s appropriate for your individual health needs.

What Does This Mean for You?

• Hormone therapy can be an effective option for managing menopause symptoms.
• We’ll work together to choose the best option based on your health, your goals, and the latest medical evidence.
• If you’re interested in “bioidentical” hormones, let’s talk about which products are safe, well-studied, and suitable for your situation.