When most people think of bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT), they think of injections or pills. However, alternative methods like daily creams and pellet therapy are rapidly becoming popular choices for men and women alike.

From quick daily applications to long-lasting implants, modern BHRT offers something for everyone. But with options come decisions—and making the right choice requires understanding how each method works, what to expect, and which approach aligns best with your personal needs and preferences.

 

Why the Administration Method Matters

Absorption & Bioavailability

The method you use may influence how much hormone reaches the bloodstream and at what rate (bioavailability). More direct methods (like injections) maximize the amount of hormone that reaches the bloodstream. On the other hand, alternative techniques (like pellet therapy) offer a more gradual, consistent delivery.

Treatment Efficacy & Consistency

Every patient’s body is built differently. Certain delivery methods simply work better than others for some patients. Furthermore, depending on the technique you choose, you may be more likely to experience slight spikes and dips in hormone levels.

Convenience, Lifestyle, & Patient Preference

Of course, personal factors also play a huge role. Not confident you can adhere to strict daily treatments? You may want to avoid oral medication and creams. Not a fan of needles? Injections may not be the right way to go.

Potential Side Effects

Side effects can vary by method. It’s critical to consult with your provider about possible risks and side effects, continually monitoring your hormone levels and symptoms, and making slight dosage adjustments as needed.

 

The 4 Most Common BHRT Administration Methods

  1. Injections (For Men & Women)

Injections are a common mode for testosterone replacement therapy for both men and women. Benefits include:

  • Higher bioavailability
  • Acceptable consistency
  • Less frequent administration
  • Affordability

To have the desired effect (and avoid peaks and troughs in hormone levels), injections must be managed with great care, requiring precise dosages and injection techniques.

  1. Creams (For Men & Women)

Testosterone or estradiol creams applied to the skin of the inner arm are great alternatives for patients who prefer not to mess with pills or needles. Creams deliver the hormone transdermally (through the skin) into the bloodstream, a slightly slower process than BHRT injections.

Hormone cream is ideal for patients who:

  • Have an aversion to needles
  • Want something that’s easy to apply
  • Need to be able to make frequent dosage adjustments
  • Prefer a non-invasive treatment method
  • Have concerns about the impact of oral medications on the liver

When you apply a hormone cream, allow time for absorption, and be careful not to transfer the cream to partners, children, or pets.

  1. Pellets (For Men & Women)

Pellet therapy is the most low-maintenance form of BHRT. Two to four times a year, your care provider will insert small, custom-compounded implants about the size of a grain of rice underneath your skin. Then, the pellets release a slow, continuous stream of hormones into the bloodstream over the course of several months.

Estrogen or testosterone pellets may be right for you if:

  • You’d rather not keep up with daily doses or application
  • You’re seeking a long-term, hands-off solution
  • You want to avoid the liver’s initial processing of hormones
  • You prefer stable, continuous hormone delivery

Keep in mind that pellet therapy requires a minor in-office surgical procedure for insertion. This is not easily reversible or adjustable once inserted.

  1. Oral Medication (Primarily for Women)

A convenient, highly effective choice for female hormone replacement, oral medication is most commonly used for the administration of estradiol or progesterone. Taken as pills by mouth, the medication is absorbed through the digestive system.

There are two main benefits of this method:

  • It’s familiar and convenient for many patients.
  • It’s relatively easy to adjust dosage on a daily basis.

Choosing the Right BHRT Administration Method for You

When it comes to BHRT, there is no one-size-fits-all approach. The “best” method ultimately depends on your specific hormone deficiencies, health goals, lifestyle, and any existing medical conditions. Need additional help choosing the right option for your needs? Get in touch with the BHRT specialists at BioSymmetry Wilmington for a personalized consultation and recommendation.

 

Take Our FREE Hormonal Imbalance Quiz

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Disclaimer: This blog is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing, or other professional health care services, including the giving of medical advice, and no doctor/patient relationship is formed. The use of the information on this blog or material linked from this blog is at the user’s own risk. The content of this blog is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard, or delay in obtaining, medical advice for any medical condition they may have, and should seek the assistance of their healthcare professionals for any such conditions.