BHRT FAQ | Questions About Hormone Therapy

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Getting Started Insurance BHRT & TRT Semaglutide & Weight Loss Our Medical & Clinical Team Other Questions

Questions about hormone therapy, answered

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Getting Started with Thrivelab

How does the process work?

Before booking your initial appointment, take 5 minutes to tell us about your symptoms with our free self assessment. This clinical assessment captures vital information to help your provider form a diagnosis.
Book a 45 minute initial appointment with a board-certified provider to discuss your symptoms at length. Complete the intake form and submit insurance details (if applicable) for verification of benefits.
During your first visit, explore treatment options and build a personalized plan custom to your goals, focused on the outcome of symptom relief in 90 days or less. If we can’t help you, get a refund with our money-back guarantee.
After your appointment, we will complete a verification of benefits and determine the patient's responsibility for additional copay, coinsurance or deductible amounts as outlined by your insurance plan. This processing time could take 4-6 weeks. Prescriptions will be delivered in 5-7 days in discreet packaging to your address.
Over the first 90 days, our providers prioritize treatment optimization to closely monitor your body’s response to the medication. Prescription changes may be required during this time. A full panel serum blood test will be required six weeks after starting your hormone or testosterone balancing program.

How much do prescriptions cost?

$80 - $140 /month depending on your provider’s recommendations. Unfortunately, most insurance companies will not cover bioidentical hormones from compounding pharmacies due to certain restrictions, however some have exceptions. We do not submit prescription claims on your behalf, but are more than willing to provide documentation if you would like to submit those claims independently.

Do you accept health insurance?

Yes. Thrivelab bills your insurance for visits, just like any other healthcare provider. We believe hormone health care should be affordable and accessible. Thrivelab has several in-network contracts including Aetna, Cigna, Bluecross Blueshield, Medicare and several others. However each state has its own contracting process and a verification of benefits will be necessary to identify the patient’s responsibility when using insurance.

Is a lab panel required to get started?

Depending on symptoms and medical history, your provider will likely recommend starting BHRT or TRT without lab work. Baseline lab work is not required or necessary to see success with hormone replacement therapy. Symptoms are the best indicator of estrogen, progesterone and testosterone deficiencies and imbalances. Guidelines from The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) and The North American Menopause Society (NAMS) recommend treating patient symptoms rather than hormone levels in the blood.

How often are labs required after starting?

While baseline panels are not required to get started, a blood test will be required six weeks after starting your hormone or testosterone balancing program. If necessary, we will also perform additional tests after three months to monitor progress. All patients will require annual lab work.

Watch: Learn about lab work for BHRT & TRT

What states do you service?

Last Updated:

August 1, 2024

Arizona

California

Delaware

Florida

Illinois

Indiana

Kansas

Kentucky

Maine

Maryland

Michigan

Montana

Nevada

New Jersey

New Mexico

New York

Ohio

Oklahoma

Oregon

Pennsylvania

Tennessee

Texas

Utah

Virginia

Washington

Thrivelab is continuously expanding its network of board-certified providers and increasing coverage areas every week. If your current state of residence is not yet covered, please check back periodically to find out when our services will become available in your area.

How old do you need to be?

Our hormone balancing programs and testosterone optimization treatments have certain age requirements. Women must be 18 or older, and men are required to be 25 or older, however prescription necessity for patients below the age of 30 is determined case-by-case and is based on symptom severity. Individuals typically start using bioidentical hormone replacement therapy around 30 years old, however some need to begin younger.

Who is excluded from the program?

For the safety of patients, anyone who has been diagnosed with the following may not be eligible for the program: breast cancer, ovarian cancer or womb (uterus) cancer, prostate cancer, heart disease, stroke, liver disease, are pregnant, breastfeeding or trying to conceive. A provider will discuss your medical history and determine the risk and eligibility.

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Insurance

What are the costs with insurance?

Thrivelab bills your insurance for visits, just like any other healthcare provider. Because we believe hormone health care should be affordable and accessible.

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Services

With Insurance

Cash-Pay

Services

With Insurance

Thrively Self-Pay

Services

With Insurance

Cash-Pay

Initial Provider Appointment

$45 to book. We will complete a verification of benefits to determine any copays, coinsurance or deductibles associated with your health plan. The final amount for the patient's responsibility may differ.

$94 to book

Initial consultation

$94

Platform Fee

$99 paid quarterly. The platform fee includes continuous access to your provider and patient care, on-demand plan optimization, prescription management and delivery services, and access to nutrition and life coaching under one roof. This fee is not billable to insurance.

Platform Fee

$99 paid quarterly

Continued Care Telehealth Visits

Only pay the copay, coinsurance or deductible as determined by your health insurance

$45 per visit

Continued Care Telehealth Visits

Only pay the copay, coinsurance or deductible as determined by your health insurance

$64 - 30 min Plan Review
$45 - 15 min Telehealth

Labs

While we don't process claims for labs, your health insurance plans will likely cover the cost of diagnostic lab testing. We are more than willing to assist with documentation if you would like to submit those claims independently. If you do not have insurance, mail home order lab kits are available through Thrivelab for $225.

Prescriptions

$80-$140 /month depending on your provider’s recommendations. Unfortunately, most insurance companies will not cover bioidentical hormones from compounding pharmacies due to certain restrictions, however some have exceptions. We are more than willing to assist with documentation if you would like to submit those claims independently.

Do you accept insurance for labs?

We don't process claims for labs, your health insurance plans will likely cover the cost of diagnostic lab testing. We are more than willing to assist with documentation if you would like to submit those claims independently. If you do not have insurance, mail home order lab kits are available through Thrivelab for $225.

Does insurance cover bioidentical hormones?

Most insurance companies will not cover bioidentical hormones from compounding pharmacies or over-the-counter medications due to certain restrictions. The compounded prescriptions at Thrivelab are customized for each patient and therefore can't be approved or viewed as a single entity.

How does verification of benefits work?

Our team will complete verification of benefits after receiving your insurance information. Insurance information is collected via the intake form after booking your first appointment.

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Insurance verification could take 4-6 weeks after the initial appointment, however you can still get started and approve your plan. *To find out if Thrivelab is in-network sooner, you may reach out to your insurance provider directly.

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Once verification is complete, your insurance provider will mail you an Explanation of Benefits for any additional copays, coinsurance or deductibles associated with your health plan.

What if I'm not covered?

If you have an HMO plan without a referral, or do not have access to health insurance, then you can enroll in our Thrively Cash plan at $99 paid quarterly + a flat fee per telehealth visit with your provider.

Can a HSA or FSA card be used for payments to Thrivelab?

Yes - we accept both HSA and FSA cards. It is important to note that we always recommend that our patients reach out to these entities directly, as guidelines vary.

How much are continued care telehealth visits with insurance?

After you provide us with your insurance information, we will verify benefits to see if any portion of our services can be covered. Thrivelab will then submit claims to your insurance company. Once an Explanation of Benefits (EOB) is produced, we determine your patient's responsibility and adjust the difference from your upfront payment of $45. Please note that the EOB will be sent directly to you by your insurance company. For ongoing telehealth visits, patients pay $45 upfront per visit, which goes towards your coinsurance or copay as determined by the benefits verification.

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Bioidentical Hormones & Bioidentical Testosterone

Where are Thrivelab prescriptions made?

Thrivelab operates three compounding pharmacies—one in California, one in Texas, and one in Florida—all of which offer direct shipping to your door, no matter where you reside in the United States.

How do bioidentical hormones work?

Bioidentical hormones are produced in a compounding pharmacy lab using plant sources that precisely match the molecular structure of the hormones naturally produced by our bodies. This fundamental characteristic distinguishes bioidentical hormones from synthetic ones. Bioidentical hormones seamlessly fit into the receptor sites on our cells, providing specific instructions, whether it's a bone cell or a heart cell. Indeed, we require sex hormones in every cell of our body for optimal function.

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For instance, progesterone and testosterone serve as primary fat burners within our cells. As we age and experience a decline in progesterone and testosterone, weight gain can become more common. Synthetic hormones, on the other hand, do not fit correctly onto the cell receptor sites, potentially giving the cells 'different' instructions that could lead to hormonal imbalances. Some examples of synthetic hormones include the birth control pill, progestin, and conjugated estrogen.

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What does bioidentical mean?

The term 'bioidentical' signifies that the hormones in the product are chemically identical to those produced by your body. At the molecular level, this means that the hormone being replaced is an exact match for what your body naturally produces. In contrast, synthetic hormones have slightly different molecular structures. Your body has hormone receptors throughout, acting like locks, and hormone molecules act as keys. Synthetic molecules may not fit into these locks correctly, resulting in differences in how they function in your body, often with adverse effects.

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You might be wondering why pharmaceutical companies produce synthetic hormones with these structural differences. The reason is that it's the only way they can patent them. Bioidentical hormones, being identical to naturally occurring hormones, cannot be patented.

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Who benefits from bioidentical hormones?

Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy offers benefits to both men and women of various ages who are dealing with hormonal imbalances. Each treatment plan is customized to the individual's unique needs. To make an informed decision about the right therapy, it's essential to have a comprehensive understanding of all available treatment options and how bioidentical hormone therapy can positively impact your overall health and well-being.

Does BHRT have interactions with other medications and supplements?

Thrivelab medical practitioners do not prescribe pellets for two primary reasons. Firstly, pellets are inserted subcutaneously, and this method involves an assumption by the treating practitioner regarding the necessary dosage. This can result in two scenarios: Our providers check for specific medication interactions to make sure your treatment plan is safe and effective for you. Rarely, there are medications and supplements that patients are taking prior to beginning our program, which may reduce the efficiency of hormone therapy. In such cases, we may make recommendations for alternatives that can be discussed with your primary care provider.

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What prescriptions do you offer?

For a full list of prescriptions and pricing, visit https://www.thrivelab.com/utility/medication-prices

Why doesn’t Thrivelab prescribe pellets?

Thrivelab medical practitioners do not prescribe pellets for two primary reasons. Firstly, pellets are inserted subcutaneously, and this method involves an assumption by the treating practitioner regarding the necessary dosage. This can result in two scenarios: the dosage may be too high, requiring additional drugs to mitigate the effects, or it may be too low, leading to subpar results.In contrast, Thrivelab hormone and testosterone optimization is tailor-made for each individual, with dosages calibrated to achieve optimal hormone levels without these potential side-effects.

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Secondly, hormone pellets require a surgical procedure that comes with a one-week healing period. During this time, patients can experience discomfort, potential infection, and a reduced quality of life. Additionally, the procedure leaves a scar at the insertion point that may be unsightly.

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Does Thrivelab prescribe BHRT to women on birth control?

Yes, we can prescribe BHRT to women on birth control however it is not always advised. Read this article for more information on synthetic birth control.

When should I start hormone or testosterone replacement therapy?

Everyone ages differently, and hormonal changes occur uniquely in each individual. However, there are general guidelines to help you determine whether and when bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) is appropriate for you. Knowing the right time to start BHRT can maximize its benefits while minimizing potential risks. Strategically considering the timing of treatment can not only alleviate unnecessary suffering but also safeguard your long-term health.

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So, when should you consider hormone therapy? In part, it depends on your symptoms, regardless of your age. For many men and women, symptoms like andropause and perimenopause can begin in their late 30s or early 40s, causing discomfort and distress. Women may experience irregular periods, mood disturbances, sleep problems, increased anxiety, and vasomotor symptoms such as hot flashes. Men may encounter weight gain, lean muscle loss, hair loss, anxiety, reduced libido, fatigue, and decreased stamina.

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All these symptoms, whether in men or women, can potentially benefit from BHRT. However, some patients wonder if their symptoms are severe enough to warrant hormone therapy, especially if they are relatively young. Others incorrectly believe they are too young for BHRT even when experiencing severe perimenopause symptoms.

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The concept of proactively managing the aging process is gaining traction. Whether you seek to address aging early, are just starting to experience symptoms, or have been dealing with severe symptoms for some time, we can create a tailored treatment program to address your unique needs.

Is bioidentical hormone replacement therapy approved by the FDA?

This therapy is not a new approach to hormone replacement; it has been used since the 1930’s. Bioidentical hormones are legal to prescribe and use in the US, although the FDA has not given its specific approval. The lack of FDA approval is because there are no official placebo-controlled studies to prove whether bioidentical hormones are safer than standard hormone replacement therapy.

How long can you stay on BHRT or TRT?

Many women choose to continue treatment for 5-7 years to alleviate symptoms of perimenopause, menopause and postmenopause and sometimes even longer. It's important to closely monitor levels and necessity with your provider if choosing to extend periods of use into later stages of life.

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For men, TRT is more of a life-long treatment. If you abruptly cease your testosterone treatments, your body is left with a sudden lack of testosterone that can reverse the progress and cause your low testosterone symptoms to return.

How do you know if your hormone levels are unbalanced?

If you're contemplating bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT), you might be dealing with symptoms that are preventing you from feeling like your true self. These symptoms can often be among the earliest signs of aging, including brain fog, insomnia, muscle loss, or decreased energy levels.

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Furthermore, conditions associated with aging, such as menopause in women, can lead to symptoms like hot flashes, mood swings, and weight gain. Even postmenopausal women may experience issues like hair loss and reduced libido. To determine if you are dealing with a hormone imbalance, take our free symptom self-assessment and book an appointment with a provider to discuss your results.

How do you know if you have low testosterone?

One of the primary symptoms of low testosterone is a decreased interest in sex. Men with low testosterone may experience a reduced desire for sexual activity and may find it more challenging to become aroused. Low testosterone levels can also lead to feelings of fatigue and reduced energy levels, hair loss, insomnia or trouble sleeping and an increase in body fat. To determine if you are dealing with low testosterone, take our free symptom self-assessment and book an appointment with a provider to discuss your results.

Watch: What To Expect on Bioidentical Hormone Therapy

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Semaglutide & Weight Loss Programs

Does BHRT help with weight loss?

To a certain degree, yes. BHRT and TRT indirectly support the hormone imbalances that are causing weight gain. Hormonal imbalances, such as low testosterone levels in men or imbalances in estrogen and progesterone levels in women, can contribute to weight gain or difficulty losing weight. BHRT and TRT aim to restore hormonal balance, which may help individuals regulate their metabolism and energy levels, making it easier for them to maintain a healthy weight. BHRT and TRT should always be coupled with a healthy diet, exercise and stress management to achieve weight loss goals.

Does Thrivelab have Nutrition Coaching?

Yes. We have a team of Registered Dietitian Nutritionists available to support patients with their nutritional goals through meal planning, nutritional guidance, recipes, and food journaling.

Who is eligible for Semaglutide?

Thrivelab currently only prescribes semaglutide to individuals who have a BMI that is over 27, or people with metabolic conditions such as diabetes, pre-diabetes, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, or non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. To find out if semaglutide is right for you, schedule an appointment and one of our board-certified providers will assess your concerns and eligibility.

What is Semaglutide?

Semaglutide is a weekly injectable with dosages that increase each week. Semaglutide is a class of medications called incretin mimetics which work by helping the pancreas release the right amount of insulin, slow the movement of food through the body, and move sugar from the blood into other bodily tissues where it is used for energy.

What can you expect from Semaglutide? Are there side effects?

A patient can lose 5%-15% of their body weight over the course of the first 90 days. Although uncommon in most cases, side effects are possible. Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea may occur but these symptoms usually subside after a few weeks of using the medication.

Is Semaglutide safe?

Semaglutide is an FDA-approved medication, and is clinically-tested, stimulant-free, and non-habit forming. Side effects are extremely rare, and most individuals who take semaglutide do not experience any. For those who do, nausea is the most common, and this typically resolves over the first few weeks of being on the medication. In the most recent clinical trials, less than 5% of people discontinued medication because of side effects.

Does Semaglutide get rid of body fat?

Semaglutide has been shown to dramatically improve body composition by reducing excess body fat and increasing lean body mass. A recent trial testing 1,961 obese adults discovered that patients who injected semaglutide lost close to 15% of their body weight, on average over the placebo. Although these results prove the medication’s effectiveness in assisting with weight loss goals, it’s important to note that diabetes and obesity should also be met with holistic lifestyle solutions. Semaglutide will often be prescribed in conjunction with doctor-approved exercise, diet plans and behavioral adjustments.

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Our Medical & Clinical Team

What kind of medical team do you have?

The Thrivelab care team is comprised of doctors, nurse practitioners, registered dietitians, licensed therapists, and our Chief Medical Officer (Dr. Ryan Jones) who all work together to help you have a successful hormone therapy journey. Thrivelab is unique in that we have one of the world’s foremost authorities on hormone health working with us, Chief Scientific Officer, Dr. Nayan Patel who has five decades of experience and is a leader in Glutathione research and author of the book, The Glutathione Revolution.

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Meet our dedicated team of clinicians and doctors committed to helping you to feel your best: https://www.thrivelab.com/meet-the-team

Are your providers licensed?

Yes, our nurse practitioners and doctors are licensed by the medical board in their state and completed their training for hormone optimization under our Chief Scientific Officer, Dr. Nayan Patel.

What is the difference between a registered nurse and a nurse practitioner?

Licensed nurse practitioners are legally able to prescribe medications and have greater flexibility in diagnosing and treating illnesses. Registered nurses cannot prescribe medications and often work under the direction of a physician when it comes to determining patient care and follow-up. All Thrivelab nurse practitioners are specialists in hormone optimization and have undergone extensive training under our Chief Scientific Officer, Dr. Nayan Patel an expert in hormone health.

What is the difference between a nurse practitioner and a regular nurse?

Licensed nurse practitioners are legally able to prescribe medications and have greater flexibility in diagnosing and treating illnesses. Registered nurses cannot prescribe medications and often work under the direction of a physician when it comes to determining patient care and follow-up. All thrivelab nurse practitioners are specialists in hormone optimization and have undergone extensive training under our Chief Scientific Offericer, Dr. Nayan Patel an expert in hormone health.

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