Hormones
Bioidentical vs Synthetic Hormones Explained
SHARE
When it comes to rebalancing hormones and supporting long-term health, hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can be a game-changer. At Health for Life Naturopathic Medicine in Scottsdale, we offer both bioidentical and synthetic hormone therapies, tailoring treatment plans to your unique needs, lifestyle, and health goals.
As naturopathic doctors, we understand that hormones influence nearly every system in the body—from metabolism and energy to mood, sleep, and sexual health. We also recognize that there is no one-size-fits-all solution. Our role is to listen carefully, assess comprehensively, and craft naturopathic hormone therapy solutions that support you—safely and effectively.
So what’s the difference between bioidentical hormones and synthetic hormones, and how do we choose which is best for you?
What Are Bioidentical Hormones?
Bioidentical hormones are compounds that are chemically identical to the hormones your body naturally produces. They are often derived from plant sources like yams or soy and then processed in a lab to match human hormones. This similarity is why many patients (and providers) find them appealing.
Common bioidentical hormones we use at our Scottsdale naturopathic clinic include:
- Progesterone (capsules, creams, troches)
- Micronized DHEA (capsules)
- Pregnenolone (capsules, creams, troches)
- Estrogen (troches or creams only)
- Testosterone (troches, creams, injectables)
The goal of bioidentical hormone replacement therapy is to closely mimic your body’s natural rhythms, making it an excellent option for many patients seeking a more holistic approach.
What Are Synthetic Hormones?
Synthetic hormones are man-made hormones that may not be structurally identical to your body’s own hormones. They can be highly effective and are often used in conventional medicine due to their predictable dosing and long-standing research history.
At Health for Life Naturopathic Medicine, our naturopathic doctors use certain synthetic hormones when clinically appropriate—in the case of thyroid (levothyroxine and synthroid) and some corticosteroids, where the body may require a specific form or dosage to achieve balance.
Rather than seeing synthetic and bioidentical hormones as opposing choices, we view them as complementary tools in your care plan. What matters most is how your body responds and what aligns with your health goals.
A Look at Our Most Commonly Prescribed Hormones
Our team of naturopathic doctors regularly prescribe a wide range of hormones based on each patient’s unique biochemistry. Here’s a breakdown of the most common types we use and the typical forms:
- Thyroid Hormones – Available in both natural desiccated (like NP Thyroid or Armour) and synthetic forms (Levothyroxine/T3), these support metabolism, energy, mood, and more.
- Adrenal Hormones – We use natural glandulars to nourish adrenal function and prescription corticosteroids when clinically necessary. These are vital for patients dealing with long-term stress, fatigue, or autoimmune concerns.
- Progesterone – A bioidentical hormone, prescribed most often in capsule or lozenge form to support mood, sleep, and menstrual cycle regulation.
- DHEA & Pregnenolone – Both are precursor hormones involved in stress resilience, cognition, and hormone synthesis. We use micronized versions for improved absorption.
- Estrogen – Only prescribed in bioidentical forms (cream or troche) to support perimenopause, menopause, vaginal dryness, and more.
- Testosterone – Offered as a bioidentical cream, injectable, or troche for both men and women. We’re also exploring testosterone pellets for men in the near future.
Benefits of Bioidentical vs Synthetic Hormones
Both types of hormones come with distinct advantages, depending on your health profile:
Bioidentical Hormones
- Mimic your body’s own hormones
- May be better tolerated by sensitive individuals
- Can be compounded for customized dosing
- Used in more holistic, individualized care models
Synthetic Hormones
- Standardized dosing, often widely studied
- Ideal for certain conditions (e.g., thyroid disorders)
- Readily available through conventional pharmacies
- Backed by decades of conventional medical use
What matters most isn’t whether a hormone is synthetic or bioidentical—it’s how it interacts with your body, your goals, and your overall care plan.
Our Naturopathic Approach to Hormone Replacement Therapy
As a naturopathic doctor hormone replacement therapy provider, medical director Dr. Tellier and our team of naturopathic doctors don’t believe in cookie-cutter solutions. We start with in-depth lab testing, symptom tracking, and a full medical history before deciding on the right type of hormone therapy.
Our collaborative care model means we often combine hormone therapy with:
- Nutritional support
- Lifestyle coaching
- Stress management strategies
- Functional lab testing (including genetic markers and detox pathways)
- Botanical medicine
We also regularly monitor progress and adjust dosages or delivery methods to ensure your hormones stay balanced over time.
Why Choose Health for Life for Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy in Scottsdale?
Our patients choose us because they’re looking for more than a quick fix. They want personalized, empowering care that helps them feel like themselves again.
At Health for Life Naturopathic Medicine, we combine advanced diagnostic tools, evidence-based therapies, and careful listening to create treatment plans that work—for you.
Whether you’re dealing with fatigue, mood swings, low libido, thyroid dysfunction, or menopausal symptoms, we can help you explore safe and effective hormone options, both bioidentical and synthetic.
Ready to Restore Your Hormonal Balance?
If you’re curious about bioidentical hormone replacement therapy in Scottsdale or wondering whether synthetic hormones might be the better fit for your needs, we’re here to help.📞 Schedule an appointment with one of our expert naturopathic doctors and take the first step toward balanced, vibrant health.
