Why Are Doctors So Against Hormone Replacement Therapy?
Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) often gets a bad reputation—but the reality is more nuanced. Many patients come to Routine Health and Hormone asking the same question: “If hormones help me feel better, why did my doctor warn me against them?”
Here are the real reasons why some doctors are hesitant about HRT.
1. Outdated Medical Training
Most primary care doctors were trained using old data, particularly studies from the early 2000s that linked hormone therapy to increased health risks. Newer research shows that properly dosed, well-monitored hormone therapy is safe and effective for many patients—but not all providers have updated their education.
2. One-Size-Fits-All Guidelines
Traditional medicine relies heavily on standardized guidelines. Hormone optimization, however, is highly individualized. Many providers avoid HRT because it requires deeper lab analysis, ongoing monitoring, and personalized treatment—something routine appointments don’t allow.
3. Fear of Liability
Hormones are powerful. Some doctors avoid prescribing them simply to reduce legal risk, especially if they don’t specialize in hormone management.
4. Limited Lab Testing
Many doctors only test “normal ranges,” not optimal levels. If labs fall within a broad reference range, symptoms may be dismissed—even when patients don’t feel well.
5. Confusion Between Abuse and Therapy
There’s often a misconception that hormone therapy equals steroid abuse. In reality, medical hormone replacement restores levels to healthy ranges, not supraphysiologic levels.
6. Lack of Time
Hormone therapy requires education, follow-up, and detailed conversations. Many providers simply don’t have the time to manage it properly.
The Truth About Hormone Replacement Therapy
When done correctly—with comprehensive blood work, medical oversight, and personalized dosing—HRT can improve energy, mood, sleep, body composition, libido, and overall quality of life.
At Routine Health and Hormone, we don’t guess. We test, monitor, and tailor treatment to your body.
Feeling better isn’t controversial. It’s science—when done right.
Schedule a hormone consultation with Routine Health and Hormone today.
