This may be of interest to older ladies, who struggle with progesterone.
I am now 60, and started HRT only last year. I never considered HRT before as my sister died from breast cancer, but apparently this did not put me in a high risk group as I have no other family history of breast cancer. I found out I had very low testosterone levels, which is why I wanted to try HRT as you can't take testosterone without oestrogen. I had hardly any libido, but more importantly, had very low energy levels, which became extreme last year. I tried Tibolone first, but didn't feel any benefit, apart from better sleep, but I did develop acne like blemishes on my face.
I saw a new GP who recommended I saw a private gynaecologist, who she had worked with. I started with 1 Estradiol 1 mg tablet every day as well as estradiol 25 patches twice a week. Almost immediately, I felt much better, so much more energy. Unfortunately, after a few weeks I had to add in progesterone as I still have a womb. I exchanged the tablets for kliovance tablets. I took these for 2 months, but my energy levels plummeted, insomnia came back and I had 4 bleeds. So I went back to the estradiol tablets and instead take Provera 5mg for 12 days every third month. I have just completed taking this for the first time. It was much better than kliovance as I didn't have my energy levels plummet too much and not too much discomfort, though my sleep was disturbed and I had mild flushes. Also my IBS symptoms worsened. I had a bleed following the course. I can plan when to take Provera around my timetable. It seems this suits me better.
Alongside this I am applying 2 pumps of Tostran daily, but the jury is out as to whether I am experiencing any benefit. If I am, it's subtle. So at some stage I shall take further advice on this.
My libido levels have not improved but my energy levels have and I sleep well more often than not.Flushes have gone. It's not magic, but I am able to have a better quality of life than I was having, doing more of the things I want to do.
