Low hormone levels can cause a wide range of uncomfortable symptoms, including night sweats, hot flashes, and mood swings, but it’s possible to correct these side effects with strategic hormone replacement therapy (HRT).
Of course, this treatment isn’t just for women going through menopause. It’s also an essential solution for men experiencing low testosterone and those seeking gender-affirming care. So, how much can you expect to pay for hormone replacement therapy? Today, we’re exploring the average cost of HRT to help you prepare for treatment.
What affects the cost of hormone replacement therapy?
Many factors impact the price of hormone replacement therapy, including:
Type of HRT
Estrogen-only and combination medications containing both estrogen and progestin are standard treatments for menopausal women, while testosterone therapy is more common for men. Your baseline hormones and goals for treatment will determine your ideal solution.
Insurance coverage
Most health insurance plans cover part or all of the cost of hormone replacement therapy as long as it’s considered medically necessary. If you have any concerns about your coverage, your healthcare provider may be able to advocate for you or file an appeal with your insurance company.
Location
Of course, your location will also impact the price of hormone replacement therapy. While big cities and metropolitan areas may have a higher concentration of providers offering these services, the cost of living in any given area directly affects how much money you can expect to pay.
Related reading: Does HRT Help Weight Loss?
What types of hormone replacement therapy are there?
Let’s explore the many formulations used in hormone replacement therapy:
Creams
Patients with mild menopausal symptoms, such as vaginal dryness and localized tissue thinning, may benefit from specially formulated topical creams. Since these are often compounded medications, they may not be covered by insurance.
Gels
Gels are great for those who want systemic relief from symptoms like hot flashes, mood changes, and weight gain without relying on an oral medication. Costs for gel and cream hormone replacement therapy solutions are typically more affordable than more potent forms like pellets and injections.
Pills
Oral HRT medications are simple and straightforward. You’ll take one pill every day to maintain healthy levels of the hormones your body is missing. This type of hormone replacement therapy is generally very cost-effective, with generic prices as low as $10 per month.
However, they may increase the risks of blood clots and heart disease. Be sure to tell your doctor if you have a family history of breast cancer, as oral HRT may not be safe.
Patches
Transdermal patches release a steady stream of hormones through the skin, meaning they don’t need to be metabolized through the liver. They present a lower risk of adverse effects and may be more convenient than oral pills, as they can be applied every few days or once a week. Generic patches can be more affordable than other forms of HRT.
Injections
Popular for testosterone support and gender-affirming care, injections deliver rapid results. Administration requires intramuscular or subcutaneous injections, which may be a dealbreaker for those uncomfortable with needles. However, many feel the effects are worth it and quickly acclimate to the sensation.
As with oral estrogen HRT, estrogen injections may increase the risk of blood clots and other adverse effects. These solutions are typically sold by the vial.
Related: Your Guide to Peptide Injections for Health and Wellness
Vaginal suppositories and rings
Patients who primarily suffer from vaginal dryness, painful intercourse, and frequent urinary tract infections may benefit from vaginal rings and suppositories, which supply a low dose of estrogen directly to the vaginal tissue.
These treatments won’t improve hot flashes or mood changes, but low systemic absorption means fewer harmful side effects. Plus, they may be more affordable, especially with insurance.
Pellets
Pellets are tiny spheres injected under the skin near the hip or buttocks that release continuous bioidentical hormones for three to six months at a time. Since this hormone replacement therapy requires a minimally invasive procedure and delivers long-lasting results, it tends to cost more than other options.
What’s the average cost of HRT?
Depending on your location, the types of hormones you need, and your insurance coverage, you can expect to pay between $10 and $500 per month for hormone replacement therapy.
Let’s break down the factors behind this cost disparity:
Hormone replacement therapy for women
With insurance, oral estrogen and progestin pills may cost as little as $10 per month. While pellets are incredibly effective and low maintenance, they’re rarely covered by insurance. You’ll pay a premium for high-quality, long-lasting solutions when compared to generic options.
Hormone replacement therapy for men
Testosterone tends to be more expensive than estrogen, with cash-pay rates around $100 to $200 per month for injections. You may pay as much as $1,000 every three months for pellets.
Related: Should You Consider Kenalog Injections?
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