What Is the Difference Between BHRT and HRT?

Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) uses plant-derived hormones that are structurally identical to those your body naturally produces. In contrast, traditional HRT may use synthetic formulations or animal-derived hormones that differ slightly in structure. Because the body absorbs and responds to these hormones differently, your experience, symptom relief, and long-term results can vary.

Understanding how these therapies compare can help you make informed choices about your hormone health, whether you are navigating perimenopause, menopause, or age-related hormone decline.

What Is Traditional HRT?

Traditional hormone replacement therapy (HRT) replaces declining hormones—typically estrogen, progesterone, or testosterone—using standardized synthetic or animal-derived formulations. Women often consider HRT during perimenopause or menopause, while men may use HRT as testosterone naturally declines with age.

What Is BHRT?

Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) uses custom-compounded hormones that match your body’s natural hormone structure exactly. Spa Lumina offers BHRT through the Biote® Method™, which uses customized pellets based on your lab results to deliver consistent, steady hormone support. You can learn more about BHRT in our blog post, What Is BHRT?

Key Differences Between BHRT and HRT

Both therapies aim to optimize hormone levels, but they differ in formulation, personalization, and how your body may respond to them. Below are the distinctions that often matter most to patients.

How They Are Made

BHRT uses plant-derived, bioidentical hormones.
HRT uses synthetic or animal-derived hormones.

How They Are Personalized

BHRT is customized to your lab results.
HRT typically comes in standardized dosages.

How They Feel in the Body

Some people report smoother symptom relief with BHRT due to its structural match.
HRT may offer effective results, but with more variability in response.

Long-Term Use

Both options require monitoring, but BHRT provides steady release through pellet therapy.
Treatment frequency varies, though BHRT pellets are usually inserted every 3 to 5 months.

At Spa Lumina, your provider helps you evaluate these factors so you can make a choice that supports your long-term health and well-being.

How Hormone Changes Affect Women and Men

Hormonal imbalance affects each person differently, but many women and men notice parallel signs as their hormone levels shift.

Common symptoms in women may include:

Fatigue
Weight gain
Trouble sleeping
Mood swings or irritability
Hot flashes or night sweats
Low libido
Brain fog

Common symptoms in men may include:

Low sex drive
Fatigue or difficulty concentrating
Loss of muscle mass
Increased body fat, especially around the waist
Elevated blood sugar or cholesterol
Mood changes, including irritability or stress

Identifying the symptoms you’re experiencing can help determine which type of therapy aligns with your health goals.

BHRT vs. HRT: Which Is Better?

Neither BHRT nor HRT is universally better; there is no evidence proving that one option is superior for all patients, as benefits depend on your symptoms, medical history, and treatment goals. BHRT is one form of hormone replacement therapy, but many people prefer it because it is bioidentical, plant-derived, and personalized. While not universally better for everyone, BHRT appeals to those seeking natural-feeling results and tailored dosing.

What To Expect With BHRT at Spa Lumina

Your BHRT experience begins with a consultation and comprehensive lab work. If you proceed, your custom-compounded pellets are inserted through a tiny incision, typically in the upper buttocks.

As the pellets dissolve, hormones are released gradually. Most patients:

Notice results within 4 weeks, though full optimization may take up to 6 months.
Return every 3 to 5 months for follow-up lab work and pellet insertion.