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What Is Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)?

Hormone Replacement Therapy, or HRT, is a treatment used to restore hormone levels that have declined or become imbalanced. It typically involves supplementing hormones like estrogen, progesterone, or testosterone to help the body return to a more stable, functional state. HRT is most commonly used during midlife transitions—such as menopause, perimenopause, or andropause—but it can also be used earlier in life when hormone levels are disrupted due to medical, surgical, or genetic reasons.


How Does HRT Work?

Hormones are chemical messengers that help regulate everything from metabolism and mood to sleep, reproduction, and energy. When hormone levels drop too low or become unbalanced, it can cause a range of symptoms—including fatigue, brain fog, weight gain, low libido, mood changes, and hot flashes.

HRT works by supplementing the body with bioidentical or synthetic hormones that mimic what the body naturally produces. These hormones can be delivered through various methods, including:

  • Topical creams or gels

  • Pills or capsules

  • Injections

  • Patches

  • Pellets placed under the skin

Who Is HRT For?

HRT may be recommended for:

  • Women going through perimenopause or menopause

  • Men with low testosterone (also called andropause or Low T)

  • People with adrenal or thyroid disorders affecting hormone production

  • Individuals experiencing premature menopause or surgical hormone loss

  • Those whose symptoms are linked to confirmed hormonal deficiencies

Is HRT the Same for Everyone?

Not at all. HRT is highly personalized. The type of hormone, dosage, and delivery method should all be based on your individual needs, goals, health history, and lab results. At Aligned Modern Health, we focus on using bioidentical hormones when appropriate—those that are structurally identical to the hormones naturally made by your body.

HRT may be used on its own or alongside lifestyle changes, nutrition strategies, and stress management to create lasting hormonal balance.

When to Consider HRT

If you’re experiencing any of the following, it may be worth exploring whether HRT could help:

These symptoms are common—but they’re not inevitable. HRT is one way to restore hormonal function and feel like yourself again.

Explore More About Hormone Therapy

Want to learn more about the types of hormone therapy and how it’s evolved? Explore these helpful resources:

These articles explain how today’s therapies differ from outdated approaches, and what personalized hormone care looks like in modern practice.

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