Use of bioidentical compounded hormones for menopausal concerns: Cross-sectional survey in an academic menopause center

Abstract Background: We aimed to assess the frequency of and experiences with use of bioidentical compounded hormone therapy (BCH) by women seen at an academic women's health clinic and menopause center. Methods: Women seeking consultation for menopausal concerns from October 2005 to October 2006 were given a 19-item survey about their experiences with BCH and conventional hormone therapy (CHT). Results: Of 208 consecutive patients invited to take the survey, 184 consented and responded. Thirty-seven (20%) reported ever use of BCH, and 25 (14%) reported current use of BCH; 59% of BCH preparations used included androgens. Twenty-four of 31 BCH users (77%) believed BCH was safer than CHT. Menopausal symptoms leading to use of hormones were similar between BCH and CHT users. Symptom relief with use of CHT and BCH was similar, but relief of sexual symptoms was reported significantly more frequently by BCH than CHT users (78% vs 33%, p < 0.001). Conclusions: Women lacked knowledge of safety concerns with BCH, ...