Hormone Therapy: Finding the Right Delivery Method for You
When it comes to hormone therapy, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. The best approach depends on your body, lifestyle, and treatment goals. Whether you’re looking to optimize testosterone, estrogen, or thyroid levels, understanding your options can help you feel confident in your choice. Let’s break down the most common hormone delivery methods—including how they work, how to use them, the pros and cons of each, and how they compare in cost.
1. Testosterone Injections
How They Work:
Testosterone injections deliver the hormone directly into the muscle, allowing it to be absorbed gradually into the bloodstream. They’re typically administered weekly or biweekly, either at home or in the clinic.
How to Use:
- Injected into the glute, thigh, or deltoid muscle.
- Can be self-administered or given by a provider.
- Frequency varies, but most patients inject once or twice a week.
Pros:
✔️ Provides a steady and effective testosterone boost.
✔️ Typically more affordable than other methods.
✔️ Offers flexibility in dosing and adjustments.
Cons:
❌ Requires regular injections, which may be uncomfortable for some.
❌ Hormone levels can fluctuate between doses, leading to peaks and valleys.
2. Hormone Creams
How They Work:
Hormone creams (like testosterone or estrogen creams) are applied directly to the skin, where the hormones are absorbed into the bloodstream. These are often used for hormone replacement therapy in both men and women.
How to Use:
- Applied daily to clean, dry skin (inner thighs, forearms, or scrotum for testosterone).
- Absorption is best when applied consistently at the same time each day.
- Important to wash hands thoroughly after application to avoid transferring the hormone to others.
Pros:
✔️ Easy, painless application—no needles required.
✔️ Provides a slow, steady hormone release.
✔️ Can be adjusted easily for customized dosing.
Cons:
❌ Absorption can be inconsistent depending on skin type and application.
❌ Risk of accidentally transferring the hormone to partners, children, or pets.
❌ Can be less effective for individuals with poor skin absorption.
3. Oral Hormone Medications
How They Work:
Oral hormones, like bioidentical progesterone or thyroid medication, are taken by mouth and absorbed through the digestive system.
How to Use:
- Taken once or twice daily, depending on the prescription.
- Thyroid medication, is best absorbed on an empty stomach.
- Progesterone is best absorbed with food and in the evening.
Pros:
✔️ Simple and familiar—just take a pill.
✔️ No application steps or injections required.
✔️ Effective for managing hormone balance when dosed correctly.
Cons:
❌ Some hormones (like oral testosterone) are not recommended in oral form due to liver processing.
❌ Must be taken consistently at the same time each day.
❌ Thyroid medication absorption can be affected by food, coffee, and certain supplements.
4. Hormone Pellets
How They Work:
Hormone pellets are small, time-released implants placed under the skin (usually in the hip or buttocks). They steadily release hormones into the bloodstream over several months.
How to Use:
- A provider inserts the pellet in a quick in-office procedure.
- The pellets gradually dissolve over 3–6 months, eliminating the need for daily dosing.
Pros:
✔️ No daily maintenance—just set it and forget it.
✔️ Delivers a consistent hormone dose with no peaks or crashes.
✔️ Long-lasting effects (up to six months).
Cons:
❌ Requires a minor procedure for insertion.
❌ Once inserted, dosing can’t be adjusted until the next round.
❌ May not be ideal for individuals who need more flexibility in dosing.
Pricing Comparison
Understanding the cost of hormone therapy is important when choosing the right option for you. Here’s a general breakdown of pricing for each delivery method:
| Hormone Therapy Option | Estimated Monthly Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Testosterone Injections | $140+ | Sometimes more affordable if the prescription is covered by insurance, but requires regular injections. |
| Hormone Creams | $125-$150+ | Convenient but may require adjustments over time. |
| Oral Hormone Medications | $120+ | ften covered by insurance, but absorption varies. |
| Hormone Pellets | $425 (women) – $750 (men) (every 3-6 months) | Higher upfront cost but long-lasting effects. |
💡 Prices vary based on individual dosing needs and whether insurance covers a portion of the treatment.
Choosing What’s Right for You
The best hormone delivery method depends on your lifestyle, preferences, and how your body responds. Some people prefer the flexibility of injections or creams, while others love the simplicity of pellets or oral medication. At Aviva Wo/Man, we’re here to guide you through your options and help you find the best approach for your needs.
If you’re considering hormone therapy, let’s talk! We’ll create a customized plan to help you feel your best—because you deserve to thrive at every stage of life. Curious if you have a hormonal imbalance? Take our Hormone Balance Quiz.
