Bioidentical vs. Synthetic Hormones - Which is Right for You?
When it comes to hormone therapy, understanding your options is essential for making informed decisions about your health. At Maliya, Nurse Practitioner Tracey McGowan brings over 25 years of expertise in women’s health, offering a specialized and personalized approach to hormone therapy. Many women wonder about the differences between bioidentical and synthetic hormones—and, more importantly, which option is best suited to their unique needs.
Hormones regulate everything from mood and metabolism to sleep and reproductive health. When imbalances occur—whether due to menopause, perimenopause, PCOS, or other conditions—hormone therapy can offer relief. But not all hormones are created equal. The type of therapy you choose can impact how your body responds, how well symptoms improve, and how you feel overall.
What Are Bioidentical Hormones?
Bioidentical hormones are derived from plant sources, and they’re designed to be chemically identical to the hormones naturally produced by the human body. This molecular match allows them to integrate seamlessly into the body’s hormonal pathways, potentially leading to fewer side effects and a more natural response.
Bioidentical hormones are:
Customized to your needs – Doses can be tailored to your individual hormone levels.
Available in various forms – Options include creams, gels, injections, patches, and capsules.
Commonly used in functional and integrative medicine – Often prescribed as part of a personalized treatment plan that considers your overall health and lifestyle.
Potentially better for tolerability – Because bioidentical hormones mimic natural hormones, some individuals experience fewer adverse effects.
What Are Synthetic Hormones?
Synthetic hormones are lab-created compounds that are designed to function similarly to natural hormones but have structural differences at a molecular level. These hormones are commonly used in conventional hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and are found in medications like birth control pills and standardized estrogen or progesterone therapies.
Synthetic hormones are:
Widely available and standardized – Synthetic hormones come in pre-set doses that are not customized to an individual’s unique hormone profile.
Historically used – Traditional HRT has been extensively studied and used for decades.
Often prescribed for menopause management – Conventional HRT is a well-established approach for addressing hot flashes, night sweats, bone density loss, and more.
Which One Is Right for You?
Choosing between bioidentical and synthetic hormones is a deeply personal decision that should be guided by your symptoms, medical history, and how your body responds to treatment. There is no universal "best" option—what works for one person may not work for another.
Things to consider:
Your symptoms and health goals – Are you looking for a customized, integrative approach, or do you prefer a more conventional route with standardized dosing?
How your body reacts – Some individuals metabolize bioidentical hormones more efficiently, while others do well with synthetic options.
The importance of working with a knowledgeable provider, like Tracey – A personalized assessment, hormone testing, and ongoing monitoring are key to achieving the best results, all of which is provided at Maliya Wellness.
At Maliya, we believe in hormone therapy as a highly individualized process. Whether bioidentical or synthetic hormones are right for you depends on a variety of factors, and the key to success lies in a personalized approach that aligns with your body’s needs.
If you’re experiencing perimenopause, menopause, PCOS, or other hormonal conditions, Tracey is here to help. Book your initial session today to take the next step toward balanced hormones and integrative, optimal well-being.
