Are bioidentical hormones (BHRT) the missing piece in perimenopause and menopause—or just another wellness trend?

If you’ve been told your labs are “normal” but you still feel exhausted, moody, or not like yourself… this episode is for you.

In this episode of the Inspired Wellness Podcast, I’m joined by Dr. Elena Alawa, a board-certified osteopathic physician and functional medicine expert, to break down everything you need to know about bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT).

We’re cutting through the confusion and giving you a clear, balanced understanding of how BHRT works, who it’s for, and how to approach hormone health in midlife.

🎧 In this episode, we cover:

• What bioidentical hormones (BHRT) actually are (and how they differ from traditional HRT)
• How hormones shift during perimenopause and menopause
• Why you can feel “off” even when your lab results look normal
• The role of functional medicine in hormone balance
• Testing vs. symptom-based approaches—what matters most
• Common myths and misconceptions about BHRT
• How to know if you’re a good candidate for hormone support
• How practitioners (like NTPs + functional MDs) can work together for better outcomes

💡 If you’re struggling with:

• Low energy or fatigue
• Mood swings or anxiety
• Sleep issues
• Weight gain or stubborn belly fat
• Feeling dismissed by your doctor

…this conversation will help you feel more informed, empowered, and supported in your next steps.

👩‍⚕️ Guest Spotlight: Dr. Elena Alawa

Dr. Elena Alawa is a board-certified osteopathic internist and the founder of True Health Solutions Clinic. She specializes in functional medicine and bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT), helping women address root causes and feel like themselves again.

She is also actively involved with The Michigan Women’s Commission, working to advance menopause education and awareness at the state level.

Resources & Links:

Connect with Dr. Elena Alawa:

 True Health Solutions Clinic – Optimal Health Starts with Hormone Balance

 [email protected]

 Questions or topic requests? Email Michelle to be part of the conversation!

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Disclaimer: The content in this podcast is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.