BioTE® Hormone Pellet Therapy for Women

If you're experiencing symptoms such as fatigue, hot flashes, low libido, mood changes, or difficulty sleeping, hormone imbalance may be contributing. BioTE® hormone pellet therapy is one option for bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) that may help relieve symptoms for appropriate candidates.

Below are answers to the most frequently asked questions about BioTE®.

What is BioTE®?

BioTE® is a form of bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) that uses tiny pellets containing estrogen and/or testosterone. The pellets are inserted just beneath the skin, where they gradually release hormones over several months to help maintain consistent hormone levels.

BioTE therapy is customized based on your symptoms, medical history, physical examination, and laboratory evaluation.

What are bioidentical hormones?

Bioidentical hormones are compounds that have the same chemical structure as hormones naturally produced by the human body.

BioTE pellets are designed to provide a steady release of hormones over time, helping avoid the fluctuations that can occur with some other hormone delivery methods.

What symptoms can BioTE® help improve?

Hormone therapy may help improve symptoms associated with menopause or hormone deficiency, including:

• Hot flashes
• Night sweats
• Vaginal dryness
• Pain during intercourse
• Decreased libido
• Mood changes
• Irritability
• Difficulty sleeping
• Fatigue
• Brain fog
• Difficulty concentrating
• Reduced muscle mass
• Low energy

Not every symptom is caused by hormone imbalance. Your provider will determine whether hormone therapy is appropriate for you.

Who is a candidate for BioTE®?

You may be a candidate if you are experiencing symptoms related to menopause, perimenopause, or hormone deficiency.

Candidates typically undergo:

• Medical history review
• Physical examination
• Laboratory testing
• Discussion of treatment goals
• Risk assessment

Treatment recommendations are individualized.

How does BioTE® pellet therapy work?

During a brief in-office procedure, a small pellet is inserted beneath the skin, usually in the upper buttock or hip area.

The pellet slowly releases hormones into the bloodstream over several months, providing continuous hormone delivery.

How long does the procedure take?

The pellet insertion procedure generally takes 10–15 minutes.

The area is numbed with a local anesthetic before the pellet is placed through a small incision, which is then covered with a dressing.

Is BioTE® pellet insertion painful?

Most patients experience minimal discomfort.

Local anesthetic is used before insertion, and patients commonly report only mild soreness or bruising for a few days afterward.

How long do BioTE® pellets last?

Most women receive new pellets approximately every 3 to 5 months, although the timing varies based on:

• Individual metabolism
• Hormone levels
• Symptoms
• Activity level
• Treatment response

Your provider will determine the best schedule for you.

When will I notice improvement?

Many women begin noticing improvement within 2 to 4 weeks, although some symptoms improve sooner and others may take longer.

Maximum benefit may occur several weeks after pellet insertion as hormone levels stabilize.

Individual results vary.

What are the benefits of BioTE®?

For appropriate candidates, hormone pellet therapy may help improve:

• Hot flashes
• Night sweats
• Sleep quality
• Energy
• Mood
• Libido
• Vaginal comfort
• Mental clarity
• Overall quality of life

Results vary, and treatment outcomes differ from person to person.

Are there side effects?

As with any hormone therapy, side effects are possible.

Potential side effects include:

• Acne
• Oily skin
• Increased facial or body hair
• Breast tenderness
• Mood changes
• Mild fluid retention
• Spotting (in some women)
• Temporary bruising or soreness at the insertion site

Your provider will discuss potential risks and benefits before beginning therapy.

Is BioTE® safe?

Hormone therapy is not appropriate for everyone.

Your provider will carefully review your:

• Personal medical history
• Family history
• Cardiovascular risk factors
• Breast health history
• Laboratory results

Together, you will determine whether BioTE is an appropriate treatment option.

Who should not receive BioTE®?

BioTE may not be appropriate for women with certain medical conditions, including some hormone-sensitive cancers or other contraindications to hormone therapy.

Your provider will discuss your individual health history before recommending treatment.

Will I need blood work?

Yes.

Laboratory testing is typically performed before starting therapy and periodically afterward to help guide treatment decisions and monitor your response.

Symptoms—not laboratory values alone—are considered when evaluating therapy.

Can I continue my normal activities after pellet insertion?

Most patients return to normal daily activities immediately.

Your provider may recommend avoiding:

• Vigorous lower-body exercise for several days
• Swimming or soaking in a bathtub until the insertion site has healed
• Heavy lifting for a short period

You'll receive personalized aftercare instructions.

Is BioTE® covered by insurance?

Most BioTE pellet therapy is considered an elective treatment and is not covered by insurance.

Insurance may cover certain office visits or laboratory testing, depending on your individual plan.

Our office can discuss treatment costs during your consultation.

How is BioTE® different from hormone pills, patches, or creams?

BioTE pellets provide a slow, continuous release of hormones over several months.

Unlike daily pills or creams, pellet therapy does not require daily dosing, and unlike patches, there is no adhesive to replace regularly.

The best hormone delivery method depends on your symptoms, preferences, medical history, and treatment goals.

Can BioTE® help with menopause?

Many women seek BioTE therapy to help manage symptoms associated with menopause and perimenopause, including hot flashes, night sweats, sleep disturbances, vaginal dryness, and decreased libido.

Your provider will determine whether hormone therapy is appropriate based on your symptoms and medical history.

Why choose our practice for BioTE® hormone therapy?

Our experienced women's healthcare providers take a personalized approach to hormone optimization.

We provide:

• Comprehensive hormone evaluations
• Individualized treatment plans
• Ongoing symptom monitoring
• Routine laboratory assessment
• Evidence-informed care
• Compassionate support throughout your treatment

Our goal is to help you make informed decisions about your health and improve your quality of life.

Schedule Your BioTE® Consultation

If you're experiencing symptoms of menopause or hormone imbalance, schedule a consultation with our team to discuss your concerns and learn whether BioTE hormone pellet therapy is right for you.

We'll review your symptoms, medical history, and treatment options to develop a personalized care plan tailored to your needs.