As women approach perimenopause and menopause, their bodies undergo significant hormonal shifts that can lead to symptoms such as hot flashes, mood swings, brain fog, weight gain, and sleep disturbances. To ease these symptoms, many turn to hormone replacement therapy (HRT). However, not all HRT options are created equal. In this post, we will explore the differences between traditional HRT and bioidentical HRT, with a focus on a natural, solvent-free option using jojoba oil as a base. To learn more, contact our chiropractic team in Annapolis MD.

Understanding HRT: Traditional vs. Bioidentical In Annapolis MD

Hormone replacement therapy comes in various forms, including oral tablets, pellets, topical creams or gels, patches, and intravaginal options. Traditional HRT typically contains synthetic hormones or hormones derived from animal sources, often combined with chemical stabilizers and preservatives. These may effectively alleviate menopausal symptoms but can sometimes cause unwanted side effects due to their molecular differences from the body’s natural hormones.

Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT), on the other hand, uses plant-derived hormones that are structurally identical to those produced by the human body. This key difference allows for better absorption and compatibility, potentially reducing side effects and increasing effectiveness.

Downsides of Hormone Pellet Therapy

Hormone pellet therapy is a popular HRT that involves inserting small pellets under the skin to release hormones steadily over several months. While it offers benefits such as consistent hormone delivery and convenience, there are several downsides to consider:

• Surgical Insertion Required: requires a minor surgical procedure to insert the pellets under the skin, which can lead to discomfort, bruising, bleeding, swelling, scarring, or infection at the insertion site.
• Difficult to Adjust Dosage: Adjusting the dosage in hormone pellet therapy can be challenging because the pellets release hormones steadily over several months, making it difficult to fine-tune hormone levels.
• Higher Initial Hormone Surge: There can be a higher initial hormone surge when the pellets are first inserted, which may cause side effects, and then they wane as the next insertion date approaches, creating a roller-coaster effect.
• Potential Side Effects: Side effects of hormone pellet therapy can include higher LDL cholesterol, which can lead to long-term health issues, such as an elevated risk of heart disease.

The Benefits of BRITE BHRT

One of the most innovative approaches to BHRT is BRITE BHRT, which uses a 100% organic, solvent-free jojoba oil base for transdermal application. Unlike conventional HRT, which may contain chemical preservatives, synthetic stabilizers, or petroleum-derived ingredients, this form of BHRT prioritizes purity and biocompatibility.

Advantages of BRITE:

• Natural and Biocompatible: Jojoba oil closely resembles the skin’s natural sebum, making it an excellent carrier for hormone absorption without clogging pores or causing irritation.
• Solvent-Free and Non-Toxic: Many commercial HRT creams contain solvents and alcohols to enhance penetration, which can sometimes lead to skin irritation or systemic toxicity. A pure jojoba oil base eliminates these concerns.
• Efficient Transdermal Absorption: Unlike oral HRT, which must pass through the liver (increasing the risk of side effects like blood clots or liver strain), transdermal BHRT allows hormones to be absorbed directly into the bloodstream, offering more stable hormone levels.
• Hormone Customization: Since these formulations are often compounded, they can be tailored to an individual’s specific hormonal needs, optimizing effectiveness while minimizing side effects.