Bio Identical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT): What You Need to Know

If you have been feeling off lately, with low energy, stubborn weight gain, poor sleep, mood changes, brain fog, or low libido, you are not alone. We hear this often from patients who have been told their labs are “normal,” yet they do not feel like themselves. This is often where bio identical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) enters the conversation.

At Roots Wellness, BHRT is not about chasing youth or masking symptoms. It is about balanced hormone health and helping your body function the way it was designed to.

Let’s walk through what BHRT is, who it is for, how it works, and what you should realistically expect.

What Is Bio Identical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT)?

Bio identical hormone replacement therapy uses hormones that are structurally identical to the hormones your body naturally produces. These hormones, such as estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, and DHEA, are typically derived from plant sources and compounded to closely match your body’s needs.

This is different from traditional HRT therapy, which often uses synthetic hormones that do not perfectly mirror human hormones. That difference matters. Bio identical hormones bind to receptors more naturally, which can lead to better symptom relief and fewer side effects for many people.

When patients ask, “What is HRT?” or “HRT vs BHRT, what’s better?” the answer depends on the individual. In functional medicine, BHRT allows for a more personalized and precise approach.

Who Can Benefit From BHRT?

BHRT is commonly used for:

• Menopause treatment and perimenopause support

• Andropause treatment for men with declining testosterone

• Postpartum hormone imbalance

• Chronic fatigue, mood changes, or brain fog

• Weight gain resistant to diet and exercise

• Sleep issues

• Low libido

• Thyroid problems and treatment support

  
  

We use BHRT for both women and men, tailoring therapy based on comprehensive hormonal testing, symptoms, and lifestyle factors.

BHRT for Women

Women often seek BHRT during perimenopause or menopause, but symptoms can start years earlier. Hot flashes, night sweats, anxiety, irritability, vaginal dryness, loss of bladder control, and poor sleep are common signs of imbalance.

BHRT for women may include estrogen, progesterone, and sometimes testosterone. When properly dosed, it can:

• Improve energy and mood

• Support bone density

• Enhance libido

• Improve sleep

• Help with BHRT and weight loss when metabolism has slowed

  
  

We often pair BHRT with female hormone testing, DUTCH testing, cortisol testing, and gut health testing to address the full picture, not just estrogen levels.

BHRT for Men

Testosterone naturally declines with age, but symptoms of andropause can feel abrupt and disruptive. Low motivation, fatigue, decreased muscle mass, weight gain, depression, and low libido are common.

BHRT for men may include testosterone replacement therapy using creams, injections, or pellets. Unlike one size fits all TRT, BHRT allows us to fine tune dosing based on hormone testing, cortisol levels, thyroid function, and metabolic health.

BHRT Pellets, Creams, and Other Options

There is no single best delivery method. It depends on your body and lifestyle.

BHRT pellet therapy involves inserting small pellets under the skin that release hormones steadily over several months. Many patients appreciate the consistency and convenience.

Other options include:

• Topical creams

• Injections

• Oral or sublingual formulations

  
  

Benefits of BHRT

When done correctly, BHRT benefits can be significant:

• Improved energy and mental clarity

• Better sleep

• Improved mood and stress resilience

• Enhanced libido

• Lean muscle support

• Improved metabolic function

• Reduced menopause symptoms

  
  

BHRT Side Effects: What to Know

Any hormone therapy carries potential risks if not properly monitored. BHRT side effects may include:

• Breast tenderness

• Acne or oily skin

• Fluid retention

• Mood changes

• Changes in hair growth

  
  

This is why hormone testing, follow up labs, and symptom tracking are essential. At Roots Wellness, we monitor closely and adjust proactively.

BHRT Near Me: Telehealth and In Office Options

At Roots Wellness, we offer telehealth hormone therapy throughout California, Oregon, and Arizona, along with in office appointments in California.

Telehealth allows us to:

• Order hormone testing

• Review labs virtually

• Prescribe BHRT

• Monitor progress safely

  
  

BHRT and Lifestyle: Why Both Matter

Hormones do not exist in isolation. Gut health, stress, sleep, nutrition, and inflammation all influence how your body responds to BHRT.

That is why we often combine hormone therapy with:

• Gut health testing such as GI Map and microbiome testing

• Cortisol level testing

• Thyroid treatment support

• Metabolic reset strategies

• IV therapy for nutrient optimization

  
  

BHRT works best when the body’s foundation is supported.

Is BHRT Right for You?

If you are struggling with symptoms and feel unheard, BHRT may be worth exploring when guided by proper testing and experience. Hormones are powerful and deserve a thoughtful, individualized approach.

At Roots Wellness, BHRT is not about quick fixes. It is about restoring balance, supporting longevity, and helping you feel strong, energized, and confident in your body again.

If you are curious about hormone testing, BHRT therapy, or whether telehealth is right for you, we are here to help you find answers and relief. Book an appointment today!