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[DawnieC]

Hi 👋

My first time posting here.

I'm struggling massively. My mood has been so so low and I've been off work because of it. I go back on Monday.

Currently on HRT - Estradiol 0.06% transdermal gel, Utrogestan 100mg capsules. Aswell as venlafaxine - I've been on many antidepressants over the years due to severe PND when I had my first child.

I am so fatigued, no energy, I cry alot and my mood is up and down, to the point I think everyone would be better off without me. I don't have any plans etc and I have my protective factors.

I had an assessment with a counsellor and e has referred me to a menopause group which focuses on CBT - I'm hoping this will help.

Noone seems to get just how bad these symptoms are, especially at work. I feel inadequate and that I'm going mad, like noone believes how bad it is. They all think it's hot flashes and periods.

I'm terrified of losing my job, I'm already being monitored. I feel ill at the thought of going back on Monday but I can't afford anymore time off.

I just wanted to rant. Thank you if you got this far x

[CLKD]

Morning.  And breath!

Did any of the ADs help with your symptoms of PND and were you offered support?

When did your GP/Nurse Practitioner run blood tests, i.e. for VitD levels and thyroid function because we shouldn't put all symptoms down to peri-menopause.  What were your period doing in the last 2-3 years?

Depending how large your company is in terms of employee numbers, over a certain number there has to be access to a Company Nurse/GP.  Who has suggested that you will lose your job, mayB this is the time to ask the question.  Have U been given written warnings for example?

Many companies are coming round to the idea of engaging with menopause problems ...... many however are slow on the uptake!

[DawnieC]

Hi

Thank you for your reply. I was not offered any help at all, it was nearly 2 years before I went to the Dr. I was terrified my baby would be taken off me.

I've had bloods done recently but not related to menopause etc haematologist wanted so blood tests done. Just waiting on results of those.

I don't even know if the meds are making a difference in all honesty - I do know when I haven't taken them though 

I work for the NHS, they have been ok - but they just don't get the other symptoms that go with perimenopause!!! I have had written confirmation that I am on a stage 2 and will be monitored until September. But that was from last time I was off.

I'm just so conflicted 

[bombsh3ll]

I'm sorry you're struggling with this and receiving not just little support but punitive measures from an employer which frankly should care more about the physical and mental wellbeing of its staff.

As this is having such a devastating impact and threatening your job, I would suggest considering whether you could fund an appointment with a specialist clinic dealing in hormone related mood disorders - examples include Louise Newson's clinic, and the late Professor Studd's clinic in London which is still being run by those he trained.

They could optimise your estrogen therapy and also consider testosterone, which can be extremely helpful for some of the psychological aspects.

I can't guarantee that this would solve all of your problems but is certainly worth exploring.

[CLKD]

I worked in the NHS for many years: my take on it was that if we dropped dead we would be rolled under the nearest bed! 

Where were the family during your babies early years, or were U able to 'put on a face'?  PND may impact for years later down the line as hormonal upheaval rears its ugly head!

Do U have written warnings stating which aspect of your work load is under scrutiny and why? 

[Mary G]

Sorry to hear you are having such a difficult time.  It sounds like you are progesterone intolerant and the 100mg Utrogestan you are taking (every day?) will not be helping.  The fact that you had very severe post natal depression suggests you need more oestrogen and low dose progesterone.  The late, great, Professor Studd had many years of clinical experience with progesterone intolerance and post partum depression and he did a lot of research too.  You might find this interesting:

https://www.studd.co.uk/postnataldepression.php

It's 10 years old but it's still very relevant.  You need to consult a specialist who understands your problem with progesterone and is prepared to prescribe a lower dose.  Utrogestan is not really the best choice because it's not well tolerated despite being body identical.  Professor Studd always recommended 3 pumps of gel for women with a history of progesterone intolerance and/or PND, testosterone and a reduced dose of Utrogestan - 7 days @ 100mg or 100mg continuously every other day.  He also recommended regular uterine scans to check your womb lining.

I hope that helps.

[Kathleen]

Hello DawnieC and welcome to the forum.


I am sorry to hear that you are having problems.

 You may want to contact The Female Hormone Clinic which is an NHS clinic in London who offer online appointments.
They specialise in helping women who have experienced psychological symptoms due to hormonal changes.

I hope you find the correct help soon and I wish you well.

Take care and sending hugs.

K.