If you’re a woman going through menopause, then you’re already well aware of the unpleasant symptoms that come with it. Fortunately, you don’t have to grin and bear it, thanks to bioidentical hormone replacement therapy. But, you may be wondering, “Does my insurance cover menopause treatments?”
Keep reading to find out!
What Is Menopause, and How Is It Managed?
To put it simply, menopause is the specific moment in time after you have gone a full year without a period. It occurs between your 40s and 50s in most cases, with the average age being 51 in the United States.
Menopause is a completely natural biological process that generally doesn’t warrant concern. However, the hormonal changes that occur before and after can induce some very unpleasant symptoms. Hot flashes, night sweats, changes in mood, weight gain, thinning hair, and vaginal dryness are just a few signs you’re headed toward menopause.
When these symptoms start, which can be up to 10 years or longer before you officially hit menopause, it’s called perimenopause. Many women seek treatments to manage the effects. This can be done through healthy lifestyle changes, certain medications, and hormone replacement therapy. You’re postmenopausal immediately after you hit menopause and still may need treatment, though the unwanted effects typically subside in this stage.
What Is Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy?
Biote is a brand of bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) that provides a constant release of hormones to manage imbalances caused by menopause, thus reducing the symptoms you experience and improving your overall quality of life.
It is available as pellets that are inserted under the skin during a quick, virtually painless visit to your OB/GYN. What makes BHRT so special is that it targets the cause of your problems instead of slapping a bandage on the symptoms. What this means is it actually provides long-term relief and health benefits.
Does My Insurance Cover Menopause Treatments?
One of the most commonly asked questions regarding Biote is, “Does my insurance cover menopause treatments?” After all, you didn’t ask to go through menopause. So, why should you pay the price for it?
Unfortunately, there isn’t a black-and-white answer to this. Each insurance plan is different, so you will have to verify with your insurer. In many cases, they will assist you with the costs of hormone replacement therapy but not always. Call your insurance company and ask for information on what they will and won’t cover.
How Much Does Bioidentical HRT Cost? Is It Expensive?
Much like insurance itself, the cost of BHRT varies significantly, depending on the type you use. Biote pellets specifically cost anywhere from $400 to $500 per session, which is typically scheduled three times per year.
What Are Some Tips for Lowering the Cost of My Treatment?
There is no shame in wanting to invest in yourself and alleviate menopause symptoms with treatments that actually work, nor is there any shame in wanting to save a few bucks while doing it.
Ultimately, there aren’t many ways you can reduce the cost of your hormone replacement therapy. However, many providers offer payment plans and additional resources to make these life-changing medications accessible. So, don’t be afraid to ask about these options during your next visit.
Annandale Ob-Gyn Has Answers to All of Your Menopause Treatment Questions!
Our team at Annandale Ob-Gyn understands how difficult and expensive it is to receive care and management tools for your struggles with menopause. This is why we do our best to maintain accessible and affordable care for all of our patients.
If you have more questions on Biote and its cost, call us at 703-642-7522 to schedule your visit, and don’t forget to check out our insurance and fees page!
