If you’re exploring solutions for perimenopause or menopause, the amount of
information online can feel overwhelming. Contradictory articles, confusing
terminology, and a sea of opinions can make it difficult to know what’s right for you.
Asking questions is the most important first step you can take on your journey back
to wellness. You deserve clear, honest, and medically sound answers.
To provide that clarity, we’ve gathered the most common questions our specialists
hear from women just like you.
- What exactly is Bio-Identical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT)?
BHRT is a method of restoring hormonal balance using hormones that are molecularly
identical to the ones your body naturally produces.
Think of it like a key for a lock. The ‘bio-identical’ key (e.g., oestrogen, progesterone)
has the exact same structure as your body’s own hormones, so it fits perfectly into
the ‘lock’ (your cell’s hormone receptors). This allows it to function in the same way
your natural hormones would, helping to alleviate the symptoms caused by hormonal
decline. - How is BHRT different from traditional HRT?
The primary difference lies in the molecular structure of the hormones used. BHRT
uses hormones derived from plant sources that are engineered to be identical to
human hormones, while some traditional HRTs may use synthetic hormones or those
derived from other sources, like equine oestrogens. Because BHRT is designed to
replicate your body’s natural hormones, we can personalise the dosage and
combination to your unique physiological needs, based on comprehensive testing. It’s
a bespoke approach, not a one-size-fits-all prescription. - What is the difference between ‘body-identical’ and ‘bio-identical’ HRT?
The terms are often used interchangeably, which can be confusing. “Body-identical”
typically refers to regulated, mass-produced hormones (often available on the NHS)
that are molecularly identical to human hormones. “Bio-identical” also uses these
hormones but often refers to a more personalised approach, where custom
preparations are made by a compounding pharmacy to suit an individual’s specific
hormonal profile. At Bio ID Health, we use the term to emphasise that your treatment
is custom-compounded and biologically identical for you in its precise dosage and
form.
Expert Spotlight
“So many women come to us feeling unheard, simply wanting to
understand why they feel the way they do. BHRT is powerful because it
starts with listening to the patient and then looking at their precise biology.
We’re not just treating symptoms; we’re restoring the body’s natural
harmony.” – Dr. Martin Kinsella, Founder of Bio ID Health
Is BHRT safe?
When prescribed and monitored by a qualified medical professional after thorough
testing, BHRT is considered a safe and effective treatment for hormonal imbalance.
Safety is our highest priority. The process at Bio ID Health involves comprehensive
blood tests to establish your hormonal baseline before any treatment is prescribed.
We then monitor you closely and adjust your personalised plan as needed to ensure
you are receiving the optimal dosage for your body, minimising risks and maximising
benefits.
Is BHRT from a private clinic safer / better than HRT from the NHS?
The goal for both is to help you feel better. The key difference is the level of
personalisation and the scope of the service. The NHS provides excellent care and
often uses standardised body-identical hormones. A specialist private clinic like Bio ID
Health can offer a more bespoke service, which includes:
● In-depth Consultations: More time dedicated to understanding your full health
picture.
● Comprehensive Testing: Analysing a wider range of hormonal markers.
● Customised Dosing: Using compounding pharmacies to create precise dosages
tailored to your unique test results.
● Holistic Approach: Often including advice on nutrition, fitness, and other
hormones like testosterone and DHEA where appropriate.
What symptoms can BHRT help with?
BHRT can alleviate a wide range of the symptoms that come with perimenopause as
well as menopause. While many know it helps with hot flushes and night sweats, its
impact is much broader. Patients often see significant improvement in:
● Mood & Emotional Well-being: Easing anxiety, irritability, and depressive
feelings.
● Mental Clarity: Reducing brain fog and improving focus.
● Energy Levels: Combating the persistent fatigue that disrupts daily life.
● Sleep Quality: Promoting deeper, more restorative sleep.
● Physical Symptoms: Aiding in weight management, improving skin elasticity,
and reducing joint pain.
Will BHRT make me gain weight?
This is one of the biggest fears we hear, and the answer is no. In fact, the opposite is
often true. Weight gain during menopause is primarily driven by the hormonal
imbalance itself; lower oestrogen can lead to more visceral fat storage, and high
cortisol from stress and poor sleep adds to this. By rebalancing your hormones, a
personalised BHRT plan can actually make it easier to manage your weight, alongside
a healthy diet and exercise. It addresses the root cause, not just the symptom.
How long does BHRT take to work?
Every woman’s body is different, but a general timeline is:
● Initial Improvements (2-4 weeks): You may start to notice better sleep, reduced
anxiety, and fewer hot flushes.
● Significant Changes (3-6 months): This is the period where your body truly
adjusts and rebalances. You’ll likely experience more profound improvements in
energy, mood, and cognitive function as we fine-tune your personalised dosage.
How long do I take BHRT for?
This is a personal decision made between you and your doctor. The old advice of
using it for the shortest time possible has evolved. Current medical thinking suggests
that for most women, the long-term benefits of BHRT for bone density, heart health,
and overall quality of life can outweigh the risks. Treatment is based on your
individual health needs and is reviewed regularly.
How do I know if I’m a good candidate for BHRT?
If you are a woman experiencing any of the above symptoms, then an initial
assessment is the best way to discover if BHRT can help you. Our initial assessment
includes a detailed consultation and diagnostic testing, ensuring we have a complete
picture of your hormonal health to determine the safest, and most effective,
treatment for you.
Your Path to Clarity
Navigating your health during menopause doesn’t have to be a journey you take alone
or in confusion. By understanding that your symptoms have a biological cause, and
that a personalised, bio-identical solution exists, you can move forward with
confidence. The goal is simple: to help you feel healthy, vibrant, and like yourself
again.
Your biology is unique. Your questions deserve personalised answers.
Take the next step towards clarity by scheduling a confidential consultation with one
of our BHRT specialists. We’ll listen to your experiences and help you understand the
path forward.
