Bioidentical Hormone Pellets: What You Need to Know

Bioidentical hormone pellets have been used for nearly a century to help women achieve optimal hormone balance. Developed in 1939 for women who underwent radical hysterectomies, these pellets have been widely used in Europe and Australia for over 70 years. Pellets are an advanced form of bioidentical hormone delivery that offers numerous advantages over other methods.

What are bioidentical hormone pellets?

Bioidentical hormone pellets are cylindrical pellets created using thousands of pounds of pressure that are inserted under the skin. These pellets are sterile and absorbed based on the volume of blood pumped by the heart, leading to a steady and physiologic level of hormone balance. The pellets contain estrogen and testosterone, which are slowly infused into the bloodstream over the course of 3-5 months.

What are the advantages of hormone pellets?

Hormone pellets offer several advantages, including the steadiest hormone levels with minimal fluctuation and physiologic precision. Hormone pellets work for everyone, and since the pellets are easily dissolved by the body, everyone who gets them inserted achieves optimized hormone levels quickly and effectively.

How are the pellets inserted, and where are they placed?

The pellets are placed in either hip near the upper buttocks after the area has been anesthetized with local numbing medication. A small incision is made in the skin, and the pellets are slipped beneath the skin. The procedure takes about 30 seconds, and the remainder of the procedure is painless. Steri-strips are placed across the incision, and stitches are not required. The pellets are completely dissolved by the body over time, and new pellets are inserted through the previous insertion site when it's time for another pellet insertion.

What are the risks and side effects of the procedure?

The risks of the procedure are minimal, with the most common risk being superficial skin infections and bleeding, which can be easily treated. Most patients experience aching in the area of insertion for 1-2 days after the procedure.

When do I get my hormone levels checked?

Hormone levels are typically checked one month and 3-4 months after insertion to guide the dosage of pellets for the next procedure. Once the right dose is determined, hormone levels only need to be drawn every 4-6 months.

If you're looking for an effective and efficient way to achieve optimal hormone balance, bioidentical hormone pellets may be the solution you're looking for. Talk to your healthcare provider to see if this form of hormone replacement therapy is right for you.