Has anyone taken HRT for osteopenia or to prevent heart disease after going through an early menopause?
I started in peri menopause at 38/39 (could have been slightly earlier, but that's when my symptoms started... although I was very moody since 36) and had my first FSH test at 39, which indicated my FSH levels were high. I had my last period in March 2017 at almost 42, so I am now post menopausal.
I had a Dexa scan in May and I am osteopenic. My doctor said I could either take HRT for 5 years, which I was reluctant to do, as I'm worried about side effects such as blood clots, risk of breast cancer, headaches and bleeding.
The other option is to ensure I'm getting enough calcium and vitamin D through my diet. I'm having a blood test in a week and if I'm not getting enough calcium and vitamin D, my doctor will prescribe a supplement or I can take HRT. I'm also reluctant to take calcium as calcium supplement give me an upset stomach.
My doctor said HRT is reccomended for women who go through an early menopause and it's only putting into your body what it's missing.
I've had hot flushes since 39, which were quite bad during the first year, I've gained over a stone and I have belly fat for the first time in my life, which I hate, loss of muscle tone, dry skin, thinner hair, dizziness, sore joints, especially my hips (had sore hips for 5 years, but only just realised this was connected to the menopause), moodiness, lack of motivation.
So after researching, I am beginning to wonder whether the benefits of HRT would outweigh the risks. If I could have no hip pain for 5 years, that would be great. But would it be worse when I stopped taking it after 5 years along with all my other symptoms? Also, I was worried that HRT might make me gain even more weight, but then I read online that it could get rid of the belly fat.
I just don't know what to do. I just wanted everyone's opinions. Thanks!