I have utilized off-the-shelf and compounded cBHT's over the last 10 years. My most recent medical practitioner has taken extensive lab data over 18 months to diagnose and dial-in VERY effective treatment. Prior to, the broad-brush / OTC methods provided by my doctors were not effective or had negative side-effects. Note: prescribed by my doctors. My recent doctor has a "hormone whisperer" working with him, a nurse practitioner who specializes in this. It is a whole new level of care. It is like a light switch- no hot flashes, no excess weight gain, no mood swings, and improved skin quality. I am now 44. I have experience myself, or seen my neighbors, have their OB prescribe birth control pills to manage pre-menopause symptoms. It was not effective (I know of six people specifically where this treatment path has failed). My life has literally been transformed by finding a practitioner who is educated enough in hormone specifics, and dedicated to data-driven investigation, that I hope cBHT remain accessible.