You’ve probably seen “bioidentical hormones” marketed as the natural, safer choice. Here’s what that word actually means and what it doesn’t.

The marketing vs the regulation

Compounded “bioidentical” hormone therapy is often sold as more natural than standard prescriptions. But these compounded products are not regulated by Health Canada, and they haven’t been proven to be any safer or more effective than approved prescription therapies.

The part that surprises people

Most commercially available, Health Canada–approved MHT products for example the ones containing estradiol or micronized progesterone are already bioidentical. That means they’re structurally identical to the hormones your own body makes. So the regulated options give you the same molecules, with the added confidence of quality control and evidence behind them.

“Bioidentical” isn’t the same as “better” and most approved products already are bioidentical.

If a custom-compounded product has been recommended to you, it’s worth asking your provider how it compares to a regulated, approved option that does the same thing.

This article is general information, not medical advice. Menopausal hormone therapy is individualized any decision should be made with your own healthcare provider.