When Your Hormones Stop Cooperating: A Real Look at What Women Actually Go Through

Not really. Both are hormone replacement, but bioidentical hormones are the same as your body's own hormones and conventional HRT usually contains synthetic or animal-based version that are similar but different. Many women find the bioidentical to be more tolerable, but this is subjective. It is not a rule, but depends on your labs and history.

When will I feel different? 

The sleep and mood typically change within 2-4 weeks. Hot flashes may subside during that following period. It may take up to three months for full stabilization depending on the type of hormones, typically compounded bioidenticals, being used and follow-up labs that your provider utilizes to dial in the dose. The first month is a slow month! Stick with it.

But is this safe really safe? 

If you're a healthy woman, particularly within 10 years of your period beginning, yes, it is safe as long as it is monitored properly. But there are real dangers to be aware of, including blood clots, and extra precautions to take if you have a family history or personal history of some cancers. Nothing of this should be done without a proper work up first.

How to decide between pellets, creams or patches? 

No need for any daily routine; pellets placed under the skin and allow them to steadily release for three to four months. Creams are applied every day, and allow you to get used to the product fast. Patches lie between — it's a steady release and it's easier to quit if you need to. So it's about what works for YOU and not what works for "THEM.

I'm just in my late 30s. Is this too early to be having this discussion? 

No. This is among one of the most frequently raised concerns women have and typically isn't valid. Perimenopause can begin 8-10 years before menopause. As long as you have symptoms that are interfering with your life, regardless of your age, it's worthwhile to have your blood work done now.

Conclusion 

It's not a matter of going back. It's about not spending the next few years white knuckling it out and waiting until your symptoms are resolved without knowing and solving what's really going on.

It's the women who are left with the feeling that they're back to themselves who are typically the ones who didn't just take the "that's just what happens" answer and who found someone who finally took the time to consider their blood work. Start there. The rest will fall into place as soon as someone is focusing on the right things.