FAQs

Standard HRT vs BHRT

Is HRT the same as BioID?

No – HRT is a standard combination of oestrogen and a synthetic progesterone-like compound which is not identical to the body’s own hormones. It comes as a standard dose and because no blood tests are taken to assess the levels of your hormones pre-treatment it is a ‘one size fits all’ cost effective way to treat symptoms of the menopause.
BioID uses a blood test to assess your hormone levels pre-treatment therefore prescribes you the correct hormone replacement and correct doses you need to relieve your symptoms. BioID hormones are chemically identical to the ones in your body and so do not give any unwanted side effects or risks as standard HRT does.

Can you switch from standard HRT to BioID?

Do I need to stop taking my standard HRT before my consultation?

BHRT Treatment

If I decide to start bioidentical hormone replacement therapy, how long will I be on it for?

Will bioidentical hormone replacement therapy help my particular symptoms?

Bioidentical hormones are frequently effective in resolving and reducing symptoms caused by hormonal imbalances.
During your first consultation, there will be a thorough evaluation of your history, symptoms and lifestyle, and we will carry out a blood test. When the results are available, your doctor will be able to assess the full picture. If this shows that you have a hormonal imbalance and that bio-identical hormone therapy is an appropriate treatment for you, a bespoke prescription will be formulated to meet your specific needs.

Where do the bioidentical hormones come from?

Bioidentical hormones are derived from diosgenin, which is sourced from Mexican yams and then converted into human hormones. They need to be prescribed by a doctor and bespoke prescriptions are designed for each individual patient. The treatments are then compounded under strict guidelines by our specialist pharmacy. Bioidentical hormone therapy (BHRT) is usually administered in the form of gels, lozenges or capsules.

What are the possible side effects of Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy?

Potential side effects with BioID treatment are generally very rare. If you do experience side effects, they are usually linked to the dosage which is why your follow blood is important to monitor levels.

Rare side effects from oestrogen-based therapy may include bloating, headache, breast tenderness and irregular bleeding or spotting.
Progesterone-based therapy may cause spotting, missed periods, breast tenderness, drowsiness, headaches, nausea, and breakthrough bleeding.

Testosterone is rarely associated with side effects such as acne, oily skin, change in libido, hirsutism, clitoral engorgement, change in voice, and an increase in red blood cells. The side effects to DHEA treatment are similar to those of testosterone including acne and in rare cases, unwanted hair growth.

If I have an issue with my BioID hormones or am experiencing symptoms, who do I contact?

How are bioidentical hormones licensed?

BHRT is an unlicensed treatment. This means it does not have a product licence from Medicines and Healthcare Regulatory Agency (MHRA). It has been prescribed to you by a clinician as a “Special” as there is no licensed suitable alternative available and it is has been judged to be in your best interest. Our medication is tailor made to your requirements by our pharmacy at the specific dose and formulation requested by the clinician.

Unlicensed medications are commonly used within a variety of healthcare settings. Unlicensed medications can be prescribed, on the basis of patient assessment, if it is concluded that they met the medical needs of the patient and there is no alternative licensed option available.

Storage and Taking BHRT

How do I take my BioID hormones?

The instructions for taking BioID will vary depending on the formulation of the hormones you have been prescribed. During the consultation, your prescriber will discuss with you the differences between the types of medication.

Bioidentical hormones may be combined with a base gel for skin application, depending on the type of gel these can be applied directly to the face, limbs or genital area. Simply press the pump all the way to achieve the full dose, and apply the gel to the skin of the wrist which should be clean and dry. Rub the gel in with your wrists for at least a minute to ensure full absorption before replacing the cap on the tube.

Alternatively, bioidentical hormones may be administered in the form of an oral lozenge which can be cut into quarters to suit your recommended dose. After removing it from the tray, place the lozenge between upper lip and gum and allow it to dissolve or underneath the tongue. Do not suck, chew or directly swallow the lozenge.

Some bioidentical hormones can also be compounded into capsules for oral administration. Please take the capsule with a glass of water and avoid sucking or chewing the medication.

How do I store my gel?

How do I store my lozenges?

Blood Testing

Why do I need a blood test?

How do I book my blood test?

What will my blood test show?

How often will I need to have follow up blood tests?

BioID Team

Are you registered with the General Medical Council (GMC)?

Are all the doctors trained in bioidentical hormone therapy?

Is BioID registered with the Care Quality Commission (CQC)?

Medical

Can I have BioID if I have a Mirena coil fitted?

Are there any medicines I could be taking or medical conditions I may have that would stop be being suitable for BioID?

Can BioID improve my fertility?

Will my private medical insurance cover my BioID treatment?

Standard HRT vs BHRT

BHRT Treatment

Storage and Taking BHRT

Blood Testing

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