MHT refers to the use of pharmaceutical-grade hormones that have been extensively validated in clinical trials.
Unlike MHT, hormone preparations compounded in pharmacies in the form of creams, troches and pessaries – often referred to as “bioidentical” hormones – have not been subjected to rigorous evaluation of efficacy or safety.
One of the concerns with compounded preparations is that the progesterone component may not reliably protect the womb lining from oestrogen action. There have been cases of cancer of the womb lining in women using compounded bioidentical hormone treatments. There are also concerns regarding potential contamination with impurities that could have serious consequences.
The Australasian Menopause Society does NOT recommend the use of compounded bio-identical hormones in any form.