Hormone Optimization Program

Both bioidentical and synthetic hormone therapies are FDA-approved and considered safe for treating perimenopause and menopause symptoms when used appropriately.

Bioidentical hormones are structurally identical to the hormones naturally produced by your body, allowing for a more precise and individualized approach to hormone therapy. They are typically derived from plant sources and are available in both FDA-approved formulations and custom-compounded options.

Synthetic hormones, while chemically different from natural human hormones, are also effective and widely used in traditional hormone replacement therapy (HRT). Some synthetic forms, like certain progestins and estrogens, may have different effects on metabolism and hormone receptor activity compared to bioidentical hormones.

At Evolve, we offer both bioidentical and FDA-approved hormone therapies, tailoring treatment to your unique health needs, lab results, and symptom profile to ensure the safest and most effective approach to hormonal balance and long-term well-being.

Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is a safe and effective treatment for menopause symptoms when used appropriately, but many women have concerns about its link to breast cancer.

Current research shows that HRT does not significantly increase breast cancer risk for most women, especially when started within 10 years of menopause. The type of hormone therapy, duration of use, and individual risk factors all play a role in determining risk.

• Estrogen-only therapy (ET) has not been shown to increase breast cancer risk and may even have a protective effect in some cases.

• Estrogen + progestin therapy (EPT) may have a small increased risk of breast cancer with long-term use (typically after 5+ years), but this risk returns to baseline after stopping therapy.

• The Women’s Health Initiative (WHI) study that initially raised concerns used oral estrogen (conjugated equine estrogen) and synthetic progestin (medroxyprogesterone acetate)—which may have different risk profiles compared to transdermal estrogen and bioidentical progesterone (micronized progesterone).

At Evolve, we take a personalized, evidence-based approach to HRT, carefully considering your family history, personal risk factors, and overall health to ensure the safest and most effective treatment for you. If you have concerns about breast cancer risk, we can discuss alternatives and monitoring strategies to help you make an informed decision.

Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is a safe and effective treatment for many women experiencing perimenopause and menopause symptoms, but it may not be suitable for everyone. Certain medical conditions and risk factors require careful consideration or alternative treatments.

You may not be a candidate for HRT if you have:

• A history of breast cancer or hormone-sensitive cancers (unless approved by your oncologist)

•  A history of blood clots (deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism) or clotting disorders

• Active or recent cardiovascular disease (such as a heart attack or stroke)

• Uncontrolled high blood pressure

• Severe liver disease

• Unexplained vaginal bleeding

Important Considerations:

• The type of HRT matters—for example, transdermal estrogen (patch, gel, or spray) does not increase clotting risk like oral estrogen and may be safer for some women with cardiovascular concerns.

• Micronized bioidentical progesterone may have a lower risk profile than synthetic progestins, especially for women with breast cancer concerns.

• Women with mild cardiovascular risk factors, family history of breast cancer, or metabolic concerns may still be candidates for customized, lower-risk HRT options.

At Evolve, we take a personalized, evidence-based approach, carefully evaluating your medical history, risk factors, and personal health goals to determine the safest and most effective treatment for you. If HRT is not an option, we offer non-hormonal prescription therapies and lifestyle interventions to help you manage menopause symptoms.