Types of Hormone Replacement Therapy: BHRT, TRT & Pellets — Which Is Right for You?

When people search for hormone therapy, they quickly discover a landscape full of acronyms and overlapping terms: HRT, BHRT, TRT, pellet therapy, bioidentical, synthetic. If you’re not sure what any of these mean — or which one applies to you — you’re not alone.

Hormone replacement therapy isn’t a single treatment. It’s a category that encompasses several distinct approaches, each designed for different patient profiles, hormonal needs, and lifestyle preferences. Understanding the differences before your first consultation makes the whole process less overwhelming.

This guide breaks down each type — bioidentical hormone therapy (BHRT) for women, testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) for men, and hormone pellet therapy for both — so you can walk into a conversation with your physician informed.

Who Benefits From Hormone Replacement Therapy?

Women in Perimenopause and Menopause

Estrogen and progesterone production declines throughout the perimenopausal transition, typically beginning in the mid-to-late 40s. By the time menopause is reached (average age 51), many women are dealing with:

• Hot flashes and night sweats
• Sleep disruption
• Vaginal dryness and discomfort
• Mood swings, anxiety, or depression
• Weight gain (especially abdominal)
• Joint pain and stiffness
• Cognitive changes and brain fog
• Decreased libido
• Bone density loss

HRT addresses the root cause — declining hormones — rather than just masking symptoms. For women who start treatment within 10 years of menopause onset, the evidence strongly supports both symptom relief and long-term health benefits including cardiovascular protection and osteoporosis prevention.

For a deeper look at the transition stages, see our guide to perimenopause vs. menopause.

Men With Low Testosterone

Testosterone declines roughly 1–2% per year after age 30. By 40, many men have levels that — while technically “in range” — are far below their optimal functional zone. Symptoms of low T include:

• Persistent fatigue and low energy
• Reduced sex drive and erectile difficulties
• Loss of muscle mass and strength
• Increased body fat (especially belly fat)
• Brain fog and poor concentration
• Mood changes and depression
• Sleep disruption

Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) is a safe, effective, well-studied treatment for clinically low testosterone. Learn more about the warning signs in our article on low testosterone symptoms in men.

Types of Hormone Therapy Available in Boca Raton

Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT) for Women

Bioidentical hormones are chemically identical to the hormones the body naturally produces — including estradiol, progesterone, and testosterone. This distinguishes them from older synthetic formulations (like medroxyprogesterone acetate or conjugated equine estrogens) that were used in the controversial 2002 Women’s Health Initiative study.

BHRT may be delivered via:

• Topical creams or gels (applied daily to arms or inner thighs)
• Oral capsules (bioidentical progesterone)
• Sublingual troches (dissolve under the tongue)
• Hormone pellets (inserted under the skin, lasting 3–6 months)

LifeBoost MD offers customized BHRT protocols based on comprehensive hormone panels — not guesswork or one-size-fits-all prescribing.

Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT) for Men

TRT is available in several delivery forms:

• Weekly injections (testosterone cypionate or enanthate) — most common and often most cost-effective
• Topical gels (applied daily) — convenient but risk of transference to partners and children
• Hormone pellets — inserted under the skin every 4–6 months, providing steady release without peaks and valleys
• Oral testosterone (FDA-approved Jatenzo or Tlando) — newer option with some limitations

The right delivery method depends on your lifestyle, preferences, and medical history. Dr. Stratt discusses all options during the initial consultation.

Hormone Pellet Therapy (Men & Women)

Hormone pellets are rice-sized implants inserted under the skin (usually the upper buttock) in a quick in-office procedure. They release a steady, physiologic dose of hormones over 3–6 months (women) or 4–6 months (men).

Advantages include:

• No daily pills or applications
• Consistent hormone levels without daily fluctuation
• Convenient — typically 2 office visits per year
• Well-tolerated with minimal side effects

The LifeBoost MD Approach in Boca Raton

At LifeBoost MD (7035 Beracasa Way, Suite 102, Boca Raton), Dr. Bruce J. Stratt, MD takes a personalized, evidence-based approach to hormone therapy:

1. Free consultation — Review your symptoms, health history, and goals
2. Comprehensive lab testing — Full hormone panel, metabolic panel, and relevant biomarkers
3. Individualized protocol — Hormone type, dose, and delivery method chosen for your specific physiology
4. Ongoing monitoring — Regular follow-up labs and adjustments to optimize levels
5. Integrated approach — Nutrition, lifestyle, and supplementation recommendations alongside hormonal support

Dr. Stratt is board-certified in Age Management Medicine and Radiology, with 20+ years of experience and LegitScript certification — ensuring your treatment meets the highest standards of safety and legitimacy.

Is Hormone Therapy Right for You?

The best way to answer that question is with a conversation and comprehensive bloodwork. If you’re experiencing symptoms that match what’s described above and you’re located in Boca Raton, Delray Beach, Boynton Beach, Coral Springs, or anywhere in Palm Beach County — a free consultation at LifeBoost MD is a no-risk first step.

Book your free hormone consultation →