By Suzanne Elkind, NP – Functional Medicine & Women’s Hormonal Health Expert
When it comes to hormone replacement therapy (HRT), one of the most common questions I hear from women is: “What’s the difference between bioidentical and synthetic hormones?” This is a crucial conversation—especially for those navigating perimenopause, menopause, or hormonal imbalances affecting overall well-being.
Let’s explore the key differences and why bioidentical hormones are often the preferred choice in functional and integrative medicine.
What Are Bioidentical Hormones?
Bioidentical hormones are derived from natural plant sources (like yams or soy) and are chemically identical to the hormones your body naturally produces. That “identical” part is important—it means your body recognizes and metabolizes them just as it would its own hormones.
Common bioidentical hormones include:
- Estrogen (estradiol, estriol)
- Progesterone
- Testosterone
These hormones can be custom-compounded or FDA-approved and come in various forms—creams, pellets, patches, and capsules—tailored to your unique needs.
What Are Synthetic Hormones?
Synthetic hormones are manufactured and often structurally different from your body’s natural hormones. For example, synthetic progestin is not the same as natural progesterone. While synthetic options like Premarin® or Provera® have been widely used, they can behave differently in the body and may carry more risk in some individuals.
Why Bioidentical May Be the Better Option
As a practitioner who takes a personalized, root-cause approach to wellness, I often recommend bioidentical hormone therapy (BHRT) for the following reasons:
✅ Better compatibility – Bioidentical hormones mirror your body’s own, which may lead to fewer side effects and more predictable outcomes.
✅ Customizable dosing – BHRT can be tailored precisely to your hormone levels, symptoms, and long-term goals.
✅ Holistic alignment – In functional medicine, we aim to support natural physiology and long-term balance—bioidentical hormones align with that philosophy.
Do Bioidentical Hormones Work the Same?
Yes—and often more smoothly. Patients commonly report improved mood, sleep, libido, energy, and relief from menopausal symptoms like hot flashes or vaginal dryness. However, hormone therapy is not one-size-fits-all. That’s why I always start with comprehensive lab testing and a deep dive into your history before recommending a plan.
The Bottom Line
Hormone therapy should never be a guessing game. The choice between synthetic and bioidentical hormones matters—not just for symptom relief, but for long-term health and quality of life.
At Suzanne Elkind Functional Medicine, I’m here to guide you with evidence-based care, personalized hormone balancing, and support that honors your whole self.
Ready to explore whether BHRT is right for you?
📍 Located in Mill Valley, CA — serving women in person and via telehealth.
📧 info@suzanneelkind.com
