Print

Please login or register.
1 Hour 1 Day 1 Week 1 Month Forever
Login with username, password and session length

[Beela]

Hi there
I've just joined the forum so firstly Hello! 
I've been perimenopausal for over 5 years and been on HRT for nearly 3 months.
My question is about switching HRT midway through the cycle.

I've been on Elleste Duet tablets and while it was initially absolutely brilliant (hot flushes & night sweats stopped immediately, mood lifted, anxiety decreased, slept better), things have changed a lot the last 3 or 4 weeks.
My sleep and anxiety have got really bad with no other obvious reason (no particular change in family & work stresses). I am struggling to function at work or get more than 3 hrs sleep. I understand that HRT mainly improves vasomotor symptoms, but I really feel that my anxiety is closely linked to my hormones. a recent study shows that HRT can be an effective and safe treatment for low mood that arises as a result of the menopause.

I asked to change HRT to see if this might make a difference and have been prescribed the Estrogel pump and Utrogestan. As I suffer from migraine, a transdermal would be more suitable anyway.
Today is day 16, so I would normally add the progestogen tablets today. I really don't want to have to wait another 2 weeks until this cycle is finished in order to start the new medication.

My question is, can I switch to the Estrogel today and start the Utrogestan today too? That way I can continue my cycle, but just with the new medication.

thanks!
Beela

[Hurdity]

Hi Beela

 

In a word - the answer is yes! Good time to change - at the start of the prog phase.

Progestogens are progestogens and they work in exactly the same way - ie change the structure of the womb lining that has been stimulated to grow by the oestrogen. Then when you stop the prog the lining is shed.

You may get the odd wobble from changing from patch to gel as well as the different prog but plough on with it and hopefully you will feel better

Hurdity x

[Beela]

Thanks Hurdity. I went for it and started the gel and the prog phase.
So far so good. I'm feeling a bit better, although still not sleeping well.

I started HRT back in September and now that the cold weather is settling in, there's one unexpected bonus that I'm really enjoying:
I CAN WEAR JUMPERS AGAIN! 

Seriously, not been able to wear jumpers for the last 5 years due to being hot and sweaty all the time, especially at work. I love me a bit of Autumn knitwear - and a long sleeve! - and I've resented having to change my wardrobe because of peri symptoms. It's a real pleasure to think that I can choose something cosy to wear again. 

Beela