Graphic of hormone therapy options, comparing FDA-approved and compounded bioidentical hormones

Bioidentical Hormones: What They Are, What They’re Not, and Why It Matters

Menopause and Perimenopause symptoms
October 21, 2025•0 min read
Confused about bioidentical hormones? Learn the difference between FDA-approved and compounded hormones, what “bioidentical” really means, and how to make safe, informed choices.Confused about bioidentical hormones? Learn the difference between FDA-approved and compounded hormones, what “bioidentical” really means, and how to make safe, informed choices.Confused about bioidentical hormones? Learn the difference between FDA-approved and compounded hormones, what “bioidentical” really means, and how to make safe, informed choices.Confused about bioidentical hormones? Learn the difference between FDA-approved and compounded hormones, what “bioidentical” really means, and how to make safe, informed choices.Confused about bioidentical hormones? Learn the difference between FDA-approved and compounded hormones, what “bioidentical” really means, and how to make safe, informed choices.Confused about bioidentical hormones? Learn the difference between FDA-approved and compounded hormones, what “bioidentical” really means, and how to make safe, informed choices.

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Dr. Rebbecca Hertel, DO, MSCP, is a board-certified osteopathic physician and certified menopause practitioner specializing in midlife women’s health. As the founder of Osteopathic Midlife Health, she blends evidence-based care with real-life insight to help women navigate perimenopause, menopause, and beyond. Through her blog Thriving Through Midlife, Dr. Hertel shares expert guidance on hormones, weight changes, libido, sleep, and the often-overlooked realities of midlife. She’s also the co-host of The Dusty Muffins™ podcast and the creator of the Midlife Magic on substack. Her mission: informed women, better care, no more medical gaslighting.

Dr. Rebbecca Hertel, DO, MSCP

Dr. Rebbecca Hertel, DO, MSCP, is a board-certified osteopathic physician and certified menopause practitioner specializing in midlife women’s health. As the founder of Osteopathic Midlife Health, she blends evidence-based care with real-life insight to help women navigate perimenopause, menopause, and beyond. Through her blog Thriving Through Midlife, Dr. Hertel shares expert guidance on hormones, weight changes, libido, sleep, and the often-overlooked realities of midlife. She’s also the co-host of The Dusty Muffins™ podcast and the creator of the Midlife Magic on substack. Her mission: informed women, better care, no more medical gaslighting.

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