Top 5 Hormones Used in BHRT and What They Do

Feeling "off" but can't quite explain why? Fatigue, mood swings, weight gain, or low libido might not just be "getting older" — they could be signs of hormone imbalance. That’s where Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT) comes in.

Unlike traditional hormone therapy, BHRT uses hormones that are chemically identical to those your body naturally produces, tailored specifically to your needs. But which hormones are we actually talking about?

Let’s break down the top 5 hormones commonly used in BHRT — what they are, what they do, and why balancing them can change everything.

Estrogen – The Queen of Hormones

What It Is:

Estrogen is the primary female sex hormone, but it's more than just a reproductive regulator.

What It Does:

• Regulates menstrual cycles and reproductive health

• Maintains bone density and heart health

• Supports skin elasticity, mood, and cognitive function

  
  

BHRT Use:

Declining estrogen levels during perimenopause and menopause can cause hot flashes, mood swings, and vaginal dryness. BHRT helps restore estrogen balance to reduce symptoms and improve quality of life.

📝 Fun Fact: Estrogen isn't just for women. Men have it too — in smaller amounts — and it's vital for bone health and libido.

Progesterone – The Calming Companion

What It Is:

Often referred to as the “balancing hormone”, progesterone works closely with estrogen to keep things running smoothly.

What It Does:

• Prepares the uterus for pregnancy

• Supports sleep quality and relaxation

• Reduces anxiety and irritability

• Helps counteract estrogen dominance

BHRT Use:

Low progesterone can lead to insomnia, mood swings, and irregular cycles. Supplementing it through BHRT often helps calm the nervous system and improve hormonal harmony.

💡 Pro Tip: If you’re taking estrogen in BHRT and still feel anxious or wired, adding progesterone might be the missing piece.

Testosterone – Not Just for Men

What It Is:

Yes, it’s the primary male sex hormone, but it plays a critical role in women’s health too.

What It Does:

• Increases muscle mass and strength

• Supports energy, motivation, and libido

• Enhances mental clarity and mood

• Helps maintain bone density

BHRT Use:

Testosterone levels decline in both sexes with age. In women, BHRT can safely boost low levels to improve sexual health, confidence, and vitality — without "bulking up."

🧠 Did You Know? Low testosterone in men is linked to fatigue, weight gain, depression, and even increased risk of heart disease.

DHEA – The Precursor Powerhouse

What It Is:

Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) is a hormone produced by the adrenal glands. It’s a precursor to estrogen and testosterone, meaning your body uses it to make other hormones.

What It Does:

• Supports immune function and metabolism

• Improves mood, memory, and energy

• Helps reduce inflammation and aging markers

  
  

BHRT Use:

As we age, DHEA production drops. BHRT supplementation can help restore youthful levels, especially in those dealing with adrenal fatigue, low libido, or burnout.

⚠️ Caution: DHEA is powerful. It should be carefully dosed and monitored by a compounding pharmacy or hormone specialist.

Thyroid Hormones – The Metabolic Regulators

What They Are:

The thyroid produces T3 (triiodothyronine) and T4 (thyroxine) — hormones responsible for regulating metabolism, temperature, and energy.

What They Do:

• Control how fast your body uses energy

• Regulate weight, heart rate, and mood

• Affect hair, skin, and digestion

  
  

BHRT Use:

Many people have thyroid imbalances that go undetected by standard blood tests. Compounded thyroid hormones in BHRT (especially natural desiccated thyroid) offer a more customized alternative to standard synthetic treatments like Synthroid.

🚨 Watch for These Signs: Cold hands, thinning hair, stubborn weight gain, and brain fog can all point to a sluggish thyroid.

BHRT isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. It’s a customized therapy that considers your unique hormone profile, symptoms, and goals. Whether you’re dealing with menopause, andropause, or general hormone imbalance, understanding these 5 key hormones is the first step to reclaiming your health.

✨ Want to know your if BHRT is right for you? We can help — and Good Day Pharmacy can prepare precise, bioidentical hormones just for you.