Did you know there are only four bioidentical hormones? The amount of misinformation and confusion surrounding hormone replacement options - especially estradiol and micronized progesterone - is staggering. Many doctors act like synthetic hormones, and bioidenticals are the same thing when in reality, it’s like comparing apples to cars. Today, I’m doing a quick but deeper dive to clear up any confusion about estradiol, progesterone, ethinylestradiol, and micronized progesterone and why I recommend bioidentical hormones. In the maze of hormone replacement therapy options, it's essential to understand what truly aligns with your body's needs. Enjoy the episode!   Highlights The controversy surrounding bioidentical hormones The history of the use of diethylstilbestrol (DES) and the significant adverse side effects What you need to know about ethinylestradiol, which used in most oral contraceptives Concerns around the long-term use of birth control pills, particularly post-menopause Bioidentical hormone replacement options How the Women’s Health Initiative study impacted the collective’s perception of estrogen Why you should be cautious about using conjugated equine estrogens like Premarin Different types of progestins used in contraception and hormone replacement therapy Contraindications of synthetic progesterone medications The four types of bioidentical hormones Differences between synthetic and bioidentical hormones What’s behind the national shortage of micronized progesterone and alternatives A warning against predatory telemedicine clinics The benefits of bioidentical progesterone How different administration methods affect the risks and benefits of hormone replacement   Sponsored by: Femmenessence It's a rare occurrence to find a non-prescription supplement that becomes a go-to for hormone health and Femmenessence is just that. Whether you’re pre-menopausal, menopausal, or struggling with PMS, irregular periods, or other hormone imbalances, I highly recommend giving Femmenessence a try. Visit Femmenessence.com (https://femmenessence.com/) and use my code SHAWN20 for exclusive savings.   Needed Few things are as important in a woman's life as that journey to and through motherhood. There's so much that you can't control, but nutrition is a big one you can. Needed is a perinatal and women's health brand that I recommend to all my clients, whether they're in that perinatal stage or navigating perimenopause. Needed offers radically better nutrition products and education, backed by over 4000 practitioners. Visit ThisIsNeeded.com (https://thisisneeded.com/) and use my code DrT for 20% off your first month.   Resources Dr. Tassone's Practice https://www.drshawntassone.com/ The Hormone Balance Bible https://tassonemd.com/hormone-balance-bible/ Hormone Archetype Quiz https://tassonemd.lpages.co/hormonearchetypequiz/   Disclaimer This podcast and website represent the opinions of Dr. Shawn Tassone and his guests. The content here should not be taken as medical advice and is for informational purposes only. Because each person is so unique, please consult your health care professional for any medical questions.