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[jayneaddo]

To all

Last year because of bleeding I reduced my HRT dose, which I had increased because of bladder problems. This was 5 months ago and I have had the all clear for the bleeding. I didn't restart the extra dose though as I was feeling okay. This week though my bladder problems have returned and I am looking for some advice.

I am an interstitial cystitis sufferer and have VA. I use vagifem and have done for three years.
What suggestions do you have:
I use femosten 1/5 continuous and vagifen 10mg twice a week. Ialso used to use Estradot 25mcg with full control of bladder symptoms.
Obviously a number of things could be going on so do I try a two week re-load with Vagifem first and then consider more HRT.
Seeing a specialist in June about it all

Thanks
Jayne

[Hurdity]

Hi jayneaddo

I agree you could try a re-load of the Vagifem - because perhaps as you say it is not enough for you. Also you could maybe think of trying a differenty vaginal preparation eg one of the estriol creams to this if this is better for you?

You are on quite a low dose of systemic HRT but many women find that systemic HRT along with vaginal oestrogen is sufficient to control bladder problems to a great extent.

I am surprised you were given Estradot on top of your Femsoton, without additional progestogen and were your bleeding problems the result of a thickened lining? However I presume this is being done under supervision and perhaps you are having regular (eg annual) scans?

You haven't said how old you are and how long since you went through menopause ( alhough you may not know if you started HRT earlier) but oestrogen levels continue to fall after the last period for the next couple of years when they reach their approx all time low - and it is at this time that some women experience a worsening of symptoms or other symptoms appearing for the first time.

If the re-load doesn't work, - then you shouldn't have to wait until June to change to a different vaginal preparation or increase your HRT again. Do let us know how you get on!

Hurdity x

[jayneaddo]

Hi Hurdity

Thanks for replying.
I am52 and been post menopause since early 40's when GP wouldn't believe that I could be. Since my mum and grandma were about the same age it shouldn't be a surprise.
I have taken Femosten since then and then had awful bladder symptoms about 4 years ago and was prescribed Vagifem 25mcg which was like a wonder pessary for me, and diagnosed with VA.. No symptoms after a couple of days. All was ticket boo until May 13 then I started to get bladder problems again and panic attacks and headaches.
My gynaecologist thought too little oestrogen plus vagifem had reduced to 10mcg by this time. He prescribed estradot 25mcg. I was surprised about this at the time without progestrogen as well. He thought it was perfectly safe and for 15 months I felt great. Was rather attached to my little patch. Then in September 14 i started to bleed and the scan showed a thickened womb lining.I stopped my estradot but continued with the other regime. I then had a hysteroscopy and a biopsy which was clear. The consultant said I could restart the estradot.

However I didn't and have been fine until this last week.
There could be a number of reasons for the symptoms however. I suffer with IC and been eating more fruit, plus could be infection, could be my VA or could need more oestrogen. Have rung GP who has ordered one box estradot for me and see how I go.

I am seeing a consultant privately which is why it is June. Nick Paney in London as he specialises in URo genital and menopause. Thought it worth a try as it makes you pretty miserable.

Wish me luck!!
Jayne

[scriv]

So sorry to hear about your troubles, jayne, and I do hope your consultation with the specialist helps you. It really is a miserable thing to have to endure. I have extra sympathy and empathy as I also had a very early menopause at 39 when the doctor disbelieved me at first!