The Science of BHRT
The most important hormones for women
- Biomarker testing to determine your levels
- Virtual consultation with your provider
- BHRT shipped right to your doorstep
Estrogen production begins in the brain
The female body produces three types of estrogen: estrone (E1), estradiol (E2), and estriol (E3). Estradiol (E2), the most biologically active estrogen, is synthesized by the ovaries and drives puberty changes like ovulation, menstruation, and secondary sex characteristics.
Estradiol production starts in the brain, where the hypothalamus releases gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH), stimulating the pituitary to secrete FSH and LH. These hormones prompt ovarian follicles to mature, with theca cells producing progesterone and granulosa cells producing estrogen. Hormone secretion fluctuates with the menstrual cycle phases.
The ovaries eventually run out of functional ovarian follicles
There are no more theta or granulose cells to secret any more hormones. E2 levels decrease and cause many symptoms leading up to menopause like hot flashes and night sweats. Some estrogen is still being synthesized by the adrenal glands and the fat cells in the body, but this estrogen is not E2, it's E1 (estrone).
Hormone secretion is based on your menstrual cycle
Follicular phase
During the follicular phase, rising estrogen thickens the endometrium and induces progesterone receptors while initially suppressing FSH via negative feedback; a later estrogen peak triggers positive feedback on the pituitary, causing a surge of FSH and LH that leads to ovulation.
Luteal phase
During the luteal phase, progesterone stimulates endometrial glands to prepare the uterus for potential pregnancy while suppressing LH through negative feedback; when progesterone levels drop, menstruation occurs.
Medications used to treat low estrogen
Estrogen
Estrogen is the hormone that controls your menstrual cycle. Estrogen is a powerful hormone responsible for the development of female anatomy during puberty. It's responsible for the growth of women's breasts and much more.
During menopause, the ovaries produce less estrogen which causes uncomfortable symptoms in women. Optimizing your estrogen levels relieves menopause symptoms and develops healthier, stronger women.
Progesterone
During menopause, women produce less progesterone due to the decreased need to shed their endometrial lining each month. Progesterone is always prescribed alongside estrogen if a woman still has her uterus.
Progesterone can be taken in either biorhythmic or continuous therapy protocols.
Testosterone
Testosterone is a critical hormone for women, not just men. Testosterone has been clinically proven to boost libido and help women build muscle mass and reduce body fat. Testosterone comes in many forms and HormoneMD offers both creams and injections.
Due to the lack of research on long-term safety, testosterone isn't right for women with heart, blood vessel, or liver disease. It is also not for women who have had breast cancer or uterine cancer.
BHRT Tailored for Optimal Hormonal Balance
Bioidentical hormones used in BHRT (Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy) are designed to closely match the hormones naturally produced by your body. These hormones are delivered in various forms, such as creams, pills, or patches, to suit individual needs and preferences.
The effectiveness of BHRT depends on precise dosing, which is carefully calibrated by clinicians to ensure optimal absorption and minimal side effects. Misunderstanding how bioidentical hormones are metabolized can lead to sub-optimal results, such as inconsistent relief of symptoms or unwanted side effects.
Our BHRT protocols focus on understanding your unique hormonal profile, allowing for personalized treatment plans that restore balance and improve overall well-being.
Our BHRT Protocol
Optimize hormone levels
Relieve symptoms of low estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone
Unlimited consultations
Regular lab work
Injections, creams, pills, patches, or suppositories
Get StartedBHRT protocols
Continuous BHRT
Continuous BHRT involves taking progesterone, testosterone, and estrogen every day to maintain stable hormone levels. This approach minimizes hormonal fluctuations and provides consistent symptom relief for conditions like menopause or hormonal imbalances. It is especially beneficial for those who prefer steady, predictable hormone levels without cycling.
Biorhythmic BHRT
Biorhythmic BHRT mimics the natural hormonal fluctuations of the body, aligning with the body's circadian rhythms and monthly cycles. This approach delivers hormones in specific patterns and dosages to replicate the body’s natural production, which may provide more physiologic benefits and better support overall hormonal balance.
