Hi
I don't need progesterone so cannot help with that bit.
I started estrogel 6 months ago. I built up gradually. 1 pump for 2 weeks then 1.5 for a couple of weeks, 2, 2.5, 3, 3.5 leaving a few weeks between each. I split the dose am and pm, but some ladies do it all together.
I had some nausea, headaches and breast pain with the increases (I was told this may happen) but nothing awful. I went up to 4 after a couple of weeks on 3 and had some rushes so cut it back to 3 again and gradually 3.5.
I think the key is slowly build up. That way you also have a better understanding of when you have reached a level that suits you. You can always increase and decease if necessary. The waiting can be frustrating though when you just want to feel better again!
I found 2 pumps were great for a while and then I needed to increase again. It is supposed to take 3 months to 'stabilise' but for me it has taken 6 months I would say.
Good luck x