Menopause Matters Forum
Menopause Discussion => All things menopause => Topic started by: Dandelion on September 25, 2014, 10:56:44 AM
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I haven't been my self since this menopause started.
I've been on femoston a year now and it's useless.
I am waking up wet every morning, and I don't want to start the day that way anymore.
My moods have never been the same since I started perimeno
Yesterday I was stood in the bank dripping with sweat while everyone had a coat on. I said to a woman next to me, Is it hot or is it just me? and she said she wasn't hot, it was not a hot day.
My upper body is always hot, my bras always wet, my neck and head always wet with wet sweaty hair.
I'm a bit scared to go to my doctor because when I asked for an alternative to HRT that did not have norethisterone in, she got funny with me.
I am going to have to do something though.
I cannot go on like this.
I cannot afford to use so much water with washing myself and my clothes.
HRT seems to work for most women, or at least work a bit, but mine is not working at all.
I thought Femoston was supposed to be good as its got good reviews.
The fact that it is failing for me, and I cannot see anywhere online where it has failed so much for others makes me feel bad about myself.
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Hi Dandelion
so sorry you are having such a miserable time, I really feel for you.
I can't offer much help I'm afraid as I'm not on HRT but I'm sure someone will be along shortly to help and advise. You are most certainly not alone, many of us have all sorts of horrible symptoms on this meno journey, it's a huge help having so many lovely ladies on here to turn to when the going gets tough.
Definitely think it's worth another chat with your doctor, from what I gather it can take a few trials with different HRT's to get the one that suits you.
take care
W x
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Can you see another GP? If not ask for referral to meno/gynae clinic. You shouldn't have to put up with this. Many of us have had to try different forms of HRT to find one that gives us the best dosage. The sweats are awful. I remember being in Bravissimo/Pepperberry a few years back. I was trying on a dress & girl said I needed a better bra. By time she was finished getting me sorted I was soaking in sweat. Truly embarrassing!
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Hi Dandelion, so sorry to hear you are not feeling well. Cubgirl is right, your therapy probably must be reviewed. What Femoston are you on, conti or sequi?
Milamam
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:bighug:
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Hi Dandelion
Sorry to hear you are still feeling rotten. I have to say I doubt it is just a matter of more or different HRT. The oestrogen you are using is pretty much the same in each HRT preparation and it is the oestrogen part of HRT that will reduce your flushes. Even if you tried different types of progesterone, the oestrogen would still be the same and so a different HRT wouldn't necessarily help - especially if you reacted badly to a different progesterone.
I think there is something else going on that is making you sweat so much.
The Femoston hasn't given you any negative side effects which is great so this will be helping with many of your meno symptoms (if you stopped using Femoston you would probably really feel the difference).
I do think you need to go to your GP and ask why you are sweating so profusely all the time - what is causing this sweating? There are many other reasons for sweating and this needs to be investigated. Don't necessarily mention the HRT or the possibility of changing the HRT, just focus on your horrible sweating because this seems to be the main issue. If your sweating was just a menopause symptom then the Femoston would be controlling the amount of flushes you get.
:hug: DG x
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Hi Dandelion
Sorry to hear this.
Just echoing the others really. Are they actual hot flushes and night sweats you are getting? If so then it is the HRT and perhaps the dose is not high enough if you are only on 1 mg - but depends where you are in menopause.
I can't remember though how far you are into menopause and how irregular your periods were before you started? Although blood tests are unreliable it might be worth asking the doc to have a blood test (perhaps on several occasions through your cycle) at the time recommended, to test your oestradiol levels, although as I said the results need to be interpreted cautiously.
I presume you have had your thyroid tested too?
Yes do go back to the doctor. If a change in HRT is suggested then your alternative is patch or gel or tablet estradiol along with micronised progesterone ie Utrogestan - but you may not need to change yet.
Good luck!
Hurdity x
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Hi Dandelion
Sorry to hear you are still feeling rotten. I have to say I doubt it is just a matter of more or different HRT. The oestrogen you are using is pretty much the same in each HRT preparation and it is the oestrogen part of HRT that will reduce your flushes. Even if you tried different types of progesterone, the oestrogen would still be the same and so a different HRT wouldn't necessarily help - especially if you reacted badly to a different progesterone.
I think there is something else going on that is making you sweat so much.
The Femoston hasn't given you any negative side effects which is great so this will be helping with many of your meno symptoms (if you stopped using Femoston you would probably really feel the difference).
I do think you need to go to your GP and ask why you are sweating so profusely all the time - what is causing this sweating? There are many other reasons for sweating and this needs to be investigated. Don't necessarily mention the HRT or the possibility of changing the HRT, just focus on your horrible sweating because this seems to be the main issue. If your sweating was just a menopause symptom then the Femoston would be controlling the amount of flushes you get.
:hug: DG x
Hi DG
So, you think that my flushing and sweating is caused by an unknown non-menopausal reason? This is very interesting, and I might look into non menopausal causes for my hot flushes and sweats.
I am also in a low mood all the time for no reason.
It's like no matter who tries to cheer me up, I still feel miserable.
This has only come on this last few years.
It is over and above my pre-existing depression.
I could manage my pre-existing depression, but this feels almost like there is a physical organic, mood lowering unknown cause.
Dunno if it is connected with the sweating.
I had a thyroid function test a couple of years ago and it came back normal.
I get overheated in my upper body and head during the day as well.
I get soaking wet bras and my clothes feel wet and umcomfortable.
I just assumed that the pill form was somehow not being absorbed, as I get IBS-D most mornings, so I dunno if I am absorbing the oestrogen/progesterone enough to stop my flushes.
I will look into a non menopausal cause though
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Hi Dandelion
Sorry to hear this.
Just echoing the others really. Are they actual hot flushes and night sweats you are getting? If so then it is the HRT and perhaps the dose is not high enough if you are only on 1 mg - but depends where you are in menopause.
I can't remember though how far you are into menopause and how irregular your periods were before you started? Although blood tests are unreliable it might be worth asking the doc to have a blood test (perhaps on several occasions through your cycle) at the time recommended, to test your oestradiol levels, although as I said the results need to be interpreted cautiously.
I presume you have had your thyroid tested too?
Yes do go back to the doctor. If a change in HRT is suggested then your alternative is patch or gel or tablet estradiol along with micronised progesterone ie Utrogestan - but you may not need to change yet.
Good luck!
Hurdity x
Hi Hurdity
Yes, I am getting hot flushes and sweats during the day, plus night sweats.
I get overheated in my upper body.
I am already on the highest dose femoston 2mg.
I am perimenopausal and use sequi hrt as I am still getting periods. They used to be slightly irregular, sometimes 3 weeek cycles, sometimes 6 week cycles.
My periods are different, mugh lighter, so I know that I am hormoally altered since starting these pills.
I tried to ask my doctor for more oestradiol, she got funny with me and said I would just have go go through meno without anything if femoston didnt suit, and I was not willing to try the norethisterone based hrt's. She had never heard of utrogestan and even when I asked for micronised, she didn't listen and said she would talk to a colleague, but never got back to me.
She seems a bit funny when I talk about hrt, but is nice as pie when I discuss other medical issues with her.
I'm thinking of buying oestradiol and utrogestan online privately, but resent having to pay.
Do you think I am not getting enough oestradiol?
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I wouldn't Google your symptoms to be honest. Best just ask your GP.
You could end up worrying yourself over self diagnosing.
Honeyb
x
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I wouldn't Google your symptoms to be honest. Best just ask your GP.
You could end up worrying yourself over self diagnosing.
Honeyb
x
I just feel like I am not getting enough oestradiol, and, because my doctor got a bit funny with me when I asked for more oestradiol, I have suffered with the sweats ever since, because I feel someohow, I am not allowed quality of life, and I have to watch others around me heal and move through life while I stay stuck, sweating and overheating, because my doctor gets funny when I say, like oliver twist, "Please can I have more oestradiol"
I seem to need a shedload compared to other women and I don't know why.
Maybe a patch will deliver more oestradiol into my system.
As the current HRT is not enough for me, does this mean I am at risk for osteoporosis?
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No I would doubt it.
Have you tried the Find a Specialist Link at the top of the page to see if there is a clinic near you.
Trouble is if you increase oestrogen then you will have to increase your progesterone too.
Do you get the strange feeling that says a flush is on its way. Every one is different but a lot if us know when one is on its way. Or are you just hot all the time?
Honeyb
x
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Hi Dandelion
Using Utrogestan won't make any difference to your flushes and sweating it is just a different progesterone that will induce a withdrawal bleed. You would still have the same type of oestrogen. As you are still peri menopausal it would possibly be unwise to use more oestrogen at this stage. The amount you bleed each month when on HRT is not a indication that your hormones have changed - the HRT is controlling your cycle now. If you get fluctuations in menopause symptoms e.g. flushes or night sweats, then this may be your own hormones kicking in or dropping. When you next see your GP I suggest you write down your symptoms and your questions, print out the information you want to discuss from this site e.g. the section under HRT Preparations that explains about Utrogestan and see whether you get a better outcome.
I think you need to ask the GP why you are getting so hot and sweaty all the time - I think there must be another reason other than the menopause.
Please, please don't try to self medicate as this can be very dangerous.
A colleague of mine has been prescribed Citalopram alongside HRT and has found her flushes and sweats are greatly improved. I don't know whether you are still on any ADs but maybe you need to discus this option with your doctor. DG xxx
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No I would doubt it.
Have you tried the Find a Specialist Link at the top of the page to see if there is a clinic near you.
Trouble is if you increase oestrogen then you will have to increase your progesterone too.
Do you get the strange feeling that says a flush is on its way. Every one is different but a lot if us know when one is on its way. Or are you just hot all the time?
Honeyb
x
I get random hot flushes during the day. Just a slow 5 minute walk can have me sweating cobs, only on the upper part of my body.
I wake up wet with sweat.
I have a noisy fan on when in bed with wide open windows.
I'm feeling vulnerable to osteoporosis and worried I am on not enough oestradiol.
The flushes and night sweats really get me down and ruin my quality of life.
There is a private clinic about 20miles away from me, so not much cop, as I could not afford it.
I might buy oestragel and micronised progesterone online starting with the lowest doses, but I resent having to pay privately.
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Hi Dandelion
Using Utrogestan won't make any difference to your flushes and sweating it is just a different progesterone that will induce a withdrawal bleed. You would still have the same type of oestrogen. As you are still peri menopausal it would possibly be unwise to use more oestrogen at this stage. The amount you bleed each month when on HRT is not a indication that your hormones have changed - the HRT is controlling your cycle now. If you get fluctuations in menopause symptoms e.g. flushes or night sweats, then this may be your own hormones kicking in or dropping. When you next see your GP I suggest you write down your symptoms and your questions, print out the information you want to discuss from this site e.g. the section under HRT Preparations that explains about Utrogestan and see whether you get a better outcome.
I think you need to ask the GP why you are getting so hot and sweaty all the time - I think there must be another reason other than the menopause.
Please, please don't try to self medicate as this can be very dangerous.
A colleague of mine has been prescribed Citalopram alongside HRT and has found her flushes and sweats are greatly improved. I don't know whether you are still on any ADs but maybe you need to discus this option with your doctor. DG xxx
Hi DG
Thanks, but my doctor hasn't got time to read print-offs.
I am only in there ten minutes.
I was considering trying the patches, evorel, and running the risk of trying norethisterone, because I am crap in conflict and my doctor was seemingly combative when we last discussed hrt.
She got quite hostile when i asked for micronsed progesterone.
I really hate the sweating and overheating, it feels as if there is a heating element where my heart is.
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GPs at my surgery happily look up their meds bible when I ask if anything they are giving me contains lactose as I'm lactose intolerant. They will also look up stuff and print off things fir me to read at home. So surprised to see you saying your GP hasn't got time to read print offs. He/she should if doing job right. If your appointment runs over, so be it. It's not your fault. If you think you need longer ask for a double appointment.
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Hi Dandelion - oh dear, you are in a bad way!! :'(
Your GP practise should be able to give you a double appointment if you ask - this is often necessary when there is a need for discussion.
I don't think you are quite understanding about what I am trying to tell you about the different HRT types. You are on a good dose of oestrogen with Femoston but the patches may not give you any more relief from the flushes or sweats as you will probably be getting the same about of oestrogen. What will be different will be the progesterone(norethisterone) which could give you problems with PMT type symptoms.
You have become convinced that Utrogestan (micronised progesterone) will solve your problems when in fact it won't make any difference to your sweats and flushes. Utrogestan would be a good idea if you were getting bad side effects from the progesterone in Femoston but you are not.
You need to find out why you are constantly sweating and still so anxious despite being on HRT. I believe there are other reasons.
Writing everything down and maybe printing off the stuff from this site and highlighting the section you would like them to read, actually saves time when visiting the doctor as they can quickly read through your concerns and questions and answer them in order of priority - I find it makes the best use of the time and the appointment goes much better.
Count how many flushes you have in a day - or are you simply too hot all the time?
How many times do you wake in the night as a result of a flush or sweat - or are you simply too hot all the time? If you are seriously sleep deprived this will be making you more anxious and tired - solutions to this need to be discussed.
You are on a good HRT that is not giving you side effects. Increasing your dose may actually give more problems at this stage. I think it would be reasonable to ask to test your hormone levels to see whether the HRT is working. If your Oestrogen level is still low then this would indicate it is not enough. At the same time the blood tests can look at other things that could be the cause of the sweating.
I think you should simply ask to have your hormone levels checked to try and understand why you are still sweating. If you need more oestrogen because your levels are still too low then they can tackle this in a different way - with possibly Oestrogel or oestrogen patches together with a Mirena or Utrogestan.
Print off this page and highlight the section about Utrogestan:
http://www.menopausematters.co.uk/to_progestogens.php
- your doctor can read about it in their own time if need be and get back to you if they feel it would be something that would be appropriate for you.
Ultimately GPs are responsible for your health and wellbeing and whilst we can ask for certain drugs /medications, any doctor has to be confident it is the right thing for their patient. If you can be referred to a meno clinic or gynae for further advice that may also be a good option. Blood tests first though.
I hope that helps. Dg x
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Hi Dandelion - oh dear, you are in a bad way!! :'(
Your GP practise should be able to give you a double appointment if you ask - this is often necessary when there is a need for discussion.
I don't think you are quite understanding about what I am trying to tell you about the different HRT types. You are on a good dose of oestrogen with Femoston but the patches may not give you any more relief from the flushes or sweats as you will probably be getting the same about of oestrogen. What will be different will be the progesterone(norethisterone) which could give you problems with PMT type symptoms.
You have become convinced that Utrogestan (micronised progesterone) will solve your problems when in fact it won't make any difference to your sweats and flushes. Utrogestan would be a good idea if you were getting bad side effects from the progesterone in Femoston but you are not.
You need to find out why you are constantly sweating and still so anxious despite being on HRT. I believe there are other reasons.
Writing everything down and maybe printing off the stuff from this site and highlighting the section you would like them to read, actually saves time when visiting the doctor as they can quickly read through your concerns and questions and answer them in order of priority - I find it makes the best use of the time and the appointment goes much better.
Count how many flushes you have in a day - or are you simply too hot all the time?
How many times do you wake in the night as a result of a flush or sweat - or are you simply too hot all the time? If you are seriously sleep deprived this will be making you more anxious and tired - solutions to this need to be discussed.
You are on a good HRT that is not giving you side effects. Increasing your dose may actually give more problems at this stage. I think it would be reasonable to ask to test your hormone levels to see whether the HRT is working. If your Oestrogen level is still low then this would indicate it is not enough. At the same time the blood tests can look at other things that could be the cause of the sweating.
I think you should simply ask to have your hormone levels checked to try and understand why you are still sweating. If you need more oestrogen because your levels are still too low then they can tackle this in a different way - with possibly Oestrogel or oestrogen patches together with a Mirena or Utrogestan.
Print off this page and highlight the section about Utrogestan:
http://www.menopausematters.co.uk/to_progestogens.php
- your doctor can read about it in their own time if need be and get back to you if they feel it would be something that would be appropriate for you.
Ultimately GPs are responsible for your health and wellbeing and whilst we can ask for certain drugs /medications, any doctor has to be confident it is the right thing for their patient. If you can be referred to a meno clinic or gynae for further advice that may also be a good option. Blood tests first though.
I hope that helps. Dg x
Hi DG Sorry this is a long one, but I need to get it out, I have had failure at the doctors regarding hrt.
I went and spoke to a different GP today, she was very thorough.
She did give me extra time.
She says that I am not allowed any more oestrogen as it is unsafe over 2mg.
She did check this with another doctor also, so I cannot fault her for not being thorough.
I said that I just cannnot go on with the flushes and sweats anymore so I may consider buying my hormones privately out of my DLA.
Since menopause, my mood has also been horrible. Before menopause, I did have mental health challenges, but I also used to enjoy good moods some of the time.
Menopause took that away from me.
I don't really know what to do now.
I cannot go on with uneffective femoston 2mg and I cannot go without hrt cos without femoston it would be even worse, but I need something to take away these flushes, sweats and meno induced low permanent mood.
This new doctor looked in her book to see if micronised progesterone was there, and it wasn't. My other main GP also looked for it under utrogestan and it wasn't there, so, as far as my surgery is concerned utrogestan aks micronised progesterone does not exist.
The doctor also noted that I suffer from migraine auras from time to time and that put her off too.
Will not having enough oestrogen put me at risk of heart disease and osteoporosis?
I'd go to the private clinic, in bristol which will cost me loads to get to on public transport. It costs £84 for an initial visit, I think, but if I need follow ups I will have to pay more. This is the nearest meno clinic to me. I would have a train and possibley 2 buses to get there.
I'm hot most of the time and if I exert myself slightly, i.e, walk slowly to the shop, 5 mins away, I end up drenched in sweat.
I sleep with a fan on and the heat does wake me up, so I get around six hours of sleep a night. I wake up sweating but if I didn't have the fan on, I would wake up soaked.
I live near some trees and a field, and I get a lot of wildlife around. I have always loved listenig to the wildlife and the owls while laid in bed, but the noise of the fan drowns out the sounds of nature by night. Listening to the wildlife was something that I did for my mental health also, because I find it very healing to listen to nature before I sleep, but I feel deprived of that, as I get too hot and need a fan.
I've got an apointment with my own GP on the 9th October.
Whenever I have brought print-outs in, even if I have highlighted the main text, my doctor just switches off. I used to be addicted to valium, doctors wean people off too quick causing more troubles, I brought printouts from a professor and psychiatrist who devised a slow weaning off, but my doctor said she had no time to read the prints.
I am well off valium now, luckily, my GP did give me the time to taper slowly, so I got off on 0mg with no post withdrawals thanks to the GP co-operation.
I cant complain about the doctor today, she is just doing the best she knows, but she is going on out of date information, saying the oestrogen is risky. She did take more time. She was a trainee, but she did better than some of the established GP's cos she was thorough.
As most if not all women do well on the max dose of oestrogen 2mg, I am also beginning to wonder if my sweating and flushes are a result of another medical problem.
I might go and ask my GP for a thyroid test, althogh I did have one.
Since menopause, I have gained a few stone. I look well on it, but it is weight gain, and it, together with sweating flushes is a symptom of something.
I know hyper-thyroidism is weight loss though, so maybe not thyroud.
I am just guessing at the moment, and suffering really badly, not knowing why 2mg oestrogen is not helping me like it does other women.
Now that my doctors have nothing, hormone wise to give me, due to the risks they perceive, I dunno if there is any point having another blood hormone level test, as they are unreliable anyway, but I await the advice of this site.
To be honest, I feel a bit too intimidated to go back and talk about my sweating and flushes and I feel even more scared to say I am not getting enough oestrogen. I am only peri so I find it hard to believe that 2mg is not enough.
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Why don't you email Dr Currie for advice and explain everything to her. It costs £25 and would be much cheaper than the meno clinic.
Exertion does not generally cause hot flushes as you describe. It really does sound as if you have something else going on.
Dancing Girl has explained Utrogestan really well. I'm not sure how else any of us can say it......It does not help flushes which is your only issue.
Buying HRT from the internet is really not a good idea. You would not have a clue what the safe dosage would be and you could make yourself very ill indeed. Please reconsider this.
You can ask your GP for a referral to a meno clinic.
You need to look for other reasons for your sweating as it really does not sound as if it's hormone related.
Honeyb
x
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Dandelion - Do read through my last post again as I do cover most of your issues in detail.
honeybun and I both think there is something else going on to make you sweat and I think you suspect this - so get the sweating investigated.
Did the GP today get some blood tests done? If not then when you go back on the 9th Oct ask for a blood test to look at your hormones levels.
When I was peri menopausal I did try the patches which are the same dose as you are taking and I felt very agitated and sweaty I think because the oestrogen level was too high - I didn't like this at all so went on a lower dose again. There has been another lady posting on here who tried going on a very high dose of oestrogen and has now reduced down to a lower dose and feels much better. A blood test looking at your oestrogen level might show whether things are either too high or too low - if the levels are just right then it must be something else causing the sweating.
The GP you have just seen is absolutely right about not using more than 2mg of oestrogen - you are taking the maximum amount so if your sweating is a menopausal symptom then your shouldn't be sweating all the time!!!! :-\
Are you taking any ADs at the moment? Dg x
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Why don't you email Dr Currie for advice and explain everything to her. It costs £25 and would be much cheaper than the meno clinic.
Exertion does not generally cause hot flushes as you describe. It really does sound as if you have something else going on.
Dancing Girl has explained Utrogestan really well. I'm not sure how else any of us can say it......It does not help flushes which is your only issue.
Buying HRT from the internet is really not a good idea. You would not have a clue what the safe dosage would be and you could make yourself very ill indeed. Please reconsider this.
You can ask your GP for a referral to a meno clinic.
You need to look for other reasons for your sweating as it really does not sound as if it's hormone related.
Honeyb
x
Hi
Thanks I will email Dr Currie.
We don't have a meno clinic here, some areas don't have them, we are one of those unfortunate ones.
Yeah even a walk to the shop has me sweating, but only in my upper body.
Bed is a nightmare as i get so overheated, i feel like I have a heating element where my heart is.
Bra often wet, neck often wet. I even cut off all my hair as I could not stand the wet collar length hair hanging wet around my neck wet.
My doctor didn't mention any other sweat and flush causing illnesses today, wouldn't she have said if I had something else wrong?
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Dandelion - Do read through my last post again as I do cover most of your issues in detail.
honeybun and I both think there is something else going on to make you sweat and I think you suspect this - so get the sweating investigated.
Did the GP today get some blood tests done? If not then when you go back on the 9th Oct ask for a blood test to look at your hormones levels.
When I was peri menopausal I did try the patches which are the same dose as you are taking and I felt very agitated and sweaty I think because the oestrogen level was too high - I didn't like this at all so went on a lower dose again. There has been another lady posting on here who tried going on a very high dose of oestrogen and has now reduced down to a lower dose and feels much better. A blood test looking at your oestrogen level might show whether things are either too high or too low - if the levels are just right then it must be something else causing the sweating.
The GP you have just seen is absolutely right about not using more than 2mg of oestrogen - you are taking the maximum amount so if your sweating is a menopausal symptom then your shouldn't be sweating all the time!!!! :-\
Are you taking any ADs at the moment? Dg x
Hi DG
As I am taking 2mg oestradiol in the form of femoston, this would give a false reading?
Even if I did ask the doc for hormone tetsts she would say no point cos I am not getting the evorel patch I wanted.
I don't mind asking the doc if she thinks it is something else, but something needs to be done cos I cant go on like this.
I dunno why todays GP wouldn't give me the patch, when last year, they offered me patch or pills.
thankx
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It would be worth having a blood test done as it might show what your oestrogen levels are at that time - either high or low or just right. If you are on HRt the level would include the oestrogen you are getting from the Femoston. I would still be concerned if you changed the type of HRT you are on as Femoston has not given you nasty side effects whereas another type of HRT might! I do wonder if you are actually on too high a dose - this is why a blood test may be advisable.
There are sometimes issues with absorption with patches especially if you sweat quite a bit as this could be a problem. Some women report that the patches don't stick well so then the hormones aren't absorbed.
Did you actually ask the GP if there could be some other reason why you are sweating so much?
Feeling constantly hot and sweaty, as you are telling us, is not always a menopause symptom.
I still think you need to write down your problems and questions and give these to your GP at the beginning of the session so they can address things in a calm way.
ARe you on any ADs at the moment?
Dg x
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It would be worth having a blood test done as it might show what your oestrogen levels are at that time - either high or low or just right. If you are on HRt the level would include the oestrogen you are getting from the Femoston. I would still be concerned if you changed the type of HRT you are on as Femoston has not given you nasty side effects whereas another type of HRT might! I do wonder if you are actually on too high a dose - this is why a blood test may be advisable.
There are sometimes issues with absorption with patches especially if you sweat quite a bit as this could be a problem. Some women report that the patches don't stick well so then the hormones aren't absorbed.
Did you actually ask the GP if there could be some other reason why you are sweating so much?
Feeling constantly hot and sweaty, as you are telling us, is not always a menopause symptom.
I still think you need to write down your problems and questions and give these to your GP at the beginning of the session so they can address things in a calm way.
ARe you on any ADs at the moment?
Dg x
Hi DG
I already said, (in my earlier post) that I only sweated in the upper part of my body only.
A patch would go on the lower part of my body.
I don't sweat below the breasts. Breasts and above.
Lower part of my body is normal. No overheating.
Meno is the only condition I know that involves upper body sweating and overheating. Something is making me unable to sleep without a fan at night.
I never asked the doctor if the sweating could be anything else, because when I googled only menopause came up.
I told the GP today about the flushes and she never said anything about it being something else, she did a thorough job with me, no fobbing me off, etc, so I would have expected her to tell me if she was concerned my flushes may be due to some other problem.
I see the GP I normally see on the 9th October, so I may ask her why would they not give me the patches, that they had offered me when I first went on HRT.
It did not occur to me to ask the doctor that today.
Sometimes, I have a fear of people and things that are obvious, do not occur to me.
I will also ask her if she thinks the upper body flushes and sweats could be being caused by a non menopausal problem.
I just want to get it sorted, whatever the cause is.
It's really ruining my quality of life.
I will email doctor currie, do you know how to go about it please?
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The patches are no stronger than the HRT that you are taking and you are going to add in the progesterone that a lot of women struggle with.
Sorry but that makes no sense to me at all.
Sometimes you just have to accept that medication does not always work.
Honeyb
x
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The patches are no stronger than the HRT that you are taking and you are going to add in the progesterone that a lot of women struggle with.
Sorry but that makes no sense to me at all.
Sometimes you just have to accept that medication does not always work.
Honeyb
x
Sorry but I don't find your post helpful.
I cannot help the physical symptoms I am having, and no one can blame me for wanting rid of them.
I have never come across a perimenopausal woman for whom such a high dose of femoston has no effect on fushes.
The doctor today said the patches were, but we all know that doctors are pretty clueless when it comes to hormone replacement therapy.
Not all women struggle with norethistrerone, I've never had PMT, but like we said above, the cause of my misery may not be meno, so I will ask the doctor next time I see her if the cause could be something else.
It restricts my life, I can't sleep over at anyone elses place because I need my fan, then there's the IBS on a morning, it's a real pain in the ar*e and disrupts my life. I get afraid to go places in case I get too hot, because overheating makes me anxious as well as sweaty.
I have not been myself in other ways for the last five years, something has gone wrong, and whatever the cause, I want to get to the bottom of it. I want my quality of life.
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Dandelion - as you say - you have never come across another women who doesn't get a good result from such a high dosage of HRT which surely means that something other than menopause may be to blame for your symptoms? I don't understand why you say that the patch goes on your lower body which doesn't sweat. The patch is absorbed into your whole system not just the lower half. It's just that it's safer to stick the patch away from the breasts.
Members are only trying to help you. You have had a lot of good advice on here. Honeybun's post is just saying it as it is. I think it's Rosebush who also didn't get relief from HRT.
Taz :)
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Sorry Dandelion. I did not mean to be unhelpful.
I wish you luck with your search for help.
I will not add anymore to this thread as I have no wish to upset you further.
Honeyb
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Dandelion - as you say - you have never come across another women who doesn't get a good result from such a high dosage of HRT which surely means that something other than menopause may be to blame for your symptoms? I don't understand why you say that the patch goes on your lower body which doesn't sweat. The patch is absorbed into your whole system not just the lower half. It's just that it's safer to stick the patch away from the breasts.
Members are only trying to help you. You have had a lot of good advice on here. Honeybun's post is just saying it as it is. I think it's Rosebush who also didn't get relief from HRT.
Taz :)
Hi Taz
Anyone in my shoes would be wanting to feel better.
To be honest, your post doesn't help so much either.
It's like your both being hostile.
Why?
Because I am getting hot flushes and sweats, and dare to complain my hrt may not be working?
DG missed the fact that I said I sweat on my upper body only.
That is why she mentioned about a patch not sticking due to sweat.
I would stick the patch on my lower body, where there is no sweat, so no problem with patch not sticking.
You hated having to deal with hot flushes and sweats, so do I.
Nothing wrong with that.
I do feel a bit of a hostile vibe on here.
I've put up with these horrible flushes and sweats for over a year now, what's the point in suffering more with them?
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Hi Dandelion. We are really not being hostile - we are trying to help. We totally understand how you feel - the sweats and sleepless nights are truly horrid. I think we are all concerned that you are convinced that a different HRT will make things better when in fact the patches may actually make things worse. The progesterone in the patches could bring PMT type symptoms and because the oestrogen level is still the same as in Femoston you will not actually get any reduction in the sweats.
Sorry I missed the fact you only sweat in the upper part of your body but it is still true that many women have issues with patches staying in place and as you are having to shower or bath so much because of the sweating this could also be an issue.
It can be very difficult to be objective about what is the best thing to do - especially when you feel so rotten. Your frustration with your GPs and the treatment you are getting doesn't help. Sadly doctors are human - they have a challenging workload and many of us have experienced that horrid feeling that they simply don't understand and come away from an appointment feeling angry and frustrated.
A colleague of mine at work was struggling just like you with sweats and poor sleep despite taking HRT and her GP gave her a low dose of Citalopram to take alongside the HRT. She is a new women - she has lost weight, is far happier and is enjoying life. There are many women who need this extra bit of help so I am wondering if this route could be an option for you.
This is why I feel you need to go to the next appointment with a slightly different agenda.
Instead of asking for specific things, go with a list of questions e.g.:
Why am I experiencing excessive sweating day and night?
Could there be any other reason, apart from menopause, for this sweating?
Would a blood test show whether I am on too much or too little oestrogen?
Could a blood test show any other issues that could be making me sweat so much?
Do I need a referral to a gynaecologist for further advice about menopause symptom control?
Can you review the other drugs I am taking? (If you are taking anything else?)
Is there anything else I can take alongside the HRT to relieve the sweats and anxiety?
By letting the GP lead the way, in my experience, this brings a far better outcome from an appointment.
I do hope that is helpful.
Good luck :hug: DG xxx
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Hi Dandelion. We are really not being hostile - we are trying to help. We totally understand how you feel - the sweats and sleepless nights are truly horrid. I think we are all concerned that you are convinced that a different HRT will make things better when in fact the patches may actually make things worse. The progesterone in the patches could bring PMT type symptoms and because the oestrogen level is still the same as in Femoston you will not actually get any reduction in the sweats.
Sorry I missed the fact you only sweat in the upper part of your body but it is still true that many women have issues with patches staying in place and as you are having to shower or bath so much because of the sweating this could also be an issue.
It can be very difficult to be objective about what is the best thing to do - especially when you feel so rotten. Your frustration with your GPs and the treatment you are getting doesn't help. Sadly doctors are human - they have a challenging workload and many of us have experienced that horrid feeling that they simply don't understand and come away from an appointment feeling angry and frustrated.
A colleague of mine at work was struggling just like you with sweats and poor sleep despite taking HRT and her GP gave her a low dose of Citalopram to take alongside the HRT. She is a new women - she has lost weight, is far happier and is enjoying life. There are many women who need this extra bit of help so I am wondering if this route could be an option for you.
This is why I feel you need to go to the next appointment with a slightly different agenda.
Instead of asking for specific things, go with a list of questions e.g.:
Why am I experiencing excessive sweating day and night?
Could there be any other reason, apart from menopause, for this sweating?
Would a blood test show whether I am on too much or too little oestrogen?
Could a blood test show any other issues that could be making me sweat so much?
Do I need a referral to a gynaecologist for further advice about menopause symptom control?
Can you review the other drugs I am taking? (If you are taking anything else?)
Is there anything else I can take alongside the HRT to relieve the sweats and anxiety?
By letting the GP lead the way, in my experience, this brings a far better outcome from an appointment.
I do hope that is helpful.
Good luck :hug: DG xxx
Hi DG and thanks for your post it is helpful.
You probably missed the faxct that I sweat in the upper body cos I wrote so much stuff.
I just felt upset when taz and hb seemed to feel a bit pi$$ed off with me in their tone, as if they were cross because none of the hrt, which normally helps some women won't help me.
I like the questions you put down for my GP, but to be honest, I am scared to go back because all notes are computerized and all GP's read
the notes, and I fear that they will say that they no longer want to discuss the matter with me, and I will have no choice but to stay as I am.
I see that you can write Dr Currie a question for £25, i was rather hoping i could write her a letter rather than a question.
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Your sweating sounds as though it is caused by another condition and is being hinged on menopause. There are conditions where people sweat excessively, this really needs (oh have forgotten the word I require :bang: ) oh investigation ………. usually it's sweaty palms or soles of feet, under the arms or in the groin areas.
Lack of sleep can be demoralising. 1/2 nights a week is bad enough but add to that the possible calming effect of 'nature' being obliterated by the fan :-\
The written word is static. No one intends to upset other Members. But because there are no facial expressions and because ladies are sometimes in a state of flux, anxiety and upset, 'words' can be misinterpreted. No one feels 'pissed' off because the way we learn is by asking, asking, asking; considering how others have reacted to the various medications, yoga, walking etc., deciding if it is suitable for 'our' situations ………
Your GP is unlikely to be too busy to read 'stuff'. What I would suggest is that you make a double appt., is there a Practice Nurse where you may well have access to 'time' rather than feeling rushed?
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Dandelion - Your GP has a duty to treat you appropriately. If they won't listen to and answer your questions then you have a right to complain about them to the health authority.
I really think if you were to write down the questions I gave you then the appointment would go differently. I don't think you should be frightened of what they put in their notes - they are responsible for your treatment and if your are finding the lack of sleep and the inability to function normally because of the way your feel then they are obliged to take notice.
You could certainly email Dr. Currie but you do need to give a good account of your medical history, an outline of the symptoms you are getting now and the medication you are taking so she can give you appropriate advice. If you do this then I would also include the questions I have given you as well.
We are all trying to support and help you find a way forward but it does require some bravery on your part to confront this anxiety about the GP and be open to their advice.
As CLKD says:" asking, asking, asking" or I say "questions, questions, questions" - this all means the same - by asking questions your will find an answer.
Prepare for your appointment on the 9th Oct and be positive. Dg xxxx
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I have found whilst working with medical professionals that they will seem 'ratty' if they have issues from the previous patient; i.e. it must be difficult to listen to the next person when they have possibly given bad news to someone ……. without getting a pause for breath. I also know that there are so many variations of medication these days that it really is Trial and Error.
I take a list of worries with me, hand it to my GP and ask him to prioritise. He and I are of similar age, he has managed my health care for many years and if for any reason he seems dismissive at an appt., I will make another, go back and say "I had my head in the clouds last week could you remind me about …… " - or "Do other ladies have similar problems at my age and if so ……….. " …..
There is a risk nowadays of being struck off patient lists which is why it is essential to build up a working relationship with our health professionals. If necessary I have printed out stuff, taken it to the Surgery and once the GP/Practice Nurse has read it, they will ring the house. Our Dentist is the same, we get on well.
I know that when the problem is 'ours', it is 'in our face', constant, worrying - it becomes all consuming. I also know that GPs like to deal with 1 problem per appt., but in menopause all symptoms can run into each other >:(
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"Anyone in my shoes would be wanting to feel better.
To be honest, your post doesn't help so much either.
It's like your both being hostile.
Why?
Because I am getting hot flushes and sweats, and dare to complain my hrt may not be working"
Dandelion - I can't see anything hostile in my post. Sorry to have upset you. I too will be bowing out of this thread to save further misunderstanding.
Taz
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Dandelion - Your GP has a duty to treat you appropriately. If they won't listen to and answer your questions then you have a right to complain about them to the health authority.
I really think if you were to write down the questions I gave you then the appointment would go differently. I don't think you should be frightened of what they put in their notes - they are responsible for your treatment and if your are finding the lack of sleep and the inability to function normally because of the way your feel then they are obliged to take notice.
You could certainly email Dr. Currie but you do need to give a good account of your medical history, an outline of the symptoms you are getting now and the medication you are taking so she can give you appropriate advice. If you do this then I would also include the questions I have given you as well.
We are all trying to support and help you find a way forward but it does require some bravery on your part to confront this anxiety about the GP and be open to their advice.
As CLKD says:" asking, asking, asking" or I say "questions, questions, questions" - this all means the same - by asking questions your will find an answer.
Prepare for your appointment on the 9th Oct and be positive. Dg xxxx
Hi DG
Thank you for your help.
I want to write to Dr Currie, and I want to give her all the info that you stated in your post, but it looks like I can only ask her one question.
I want to give Dr Currie as much info as possible, but how would I go about this if I can only ask one question?
thanks
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You can't. That is the point of the Forum, we discuss, share expereinces etc..
You could look 'here' to see if there is a meno-clinic or menopause specialist closer to home or within travelling distance?
Excess perspiration is a different issue so should be investigated separately. We certainly should not (although we do tend to ::) ) blame meno for everything ......
Having done a 'search' it seems that excess sweating should be investigated! It can be symptoms of an under-lying cause ......... too many to list here ::) .........
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Dandelion - you have to pay for an email consultation with Dr Currie - it costs £25. You don't have to ask just one question, you give her the information about yourself as I described in my post and ask the questions you would like her to answer. You do need to be concise and accurate otherwise she can't help you.
Give her:
Your age and an outline of your lifestyle.
Tell her when you were diagnosed as peri menopausal and the HRT you are using?
A brief medical history e.g. your experience with valium etc.
Then ask the questions you want her to answer.
You actually only have 2 questions really which are:
"Why am I still sweating so much despite taking Femoston 2/10 sequi? Would a different HRT offer me greater relief or could there be other reasons for this sweating that need to be investigated?"
Here is the link to the MM page you need - you scroll down a bit and there is a section that explains how you email Dr. Currie.
Hope that helps DG x
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Dandelion - you have to pay for an email consultation with Dr Currie - it costs £25. You don't have to ask just one question, you give her the information about yourself as I described in my post and ask the questions you would like her to answer. You do need to be concise and accurate otherwise she can't help you.
Give her:
Your age and an outline of your lifestyle.
Tell her when you were diagnosed as peri menopausal and the HRT you are using?
A brief medical history e.g. your experience with valium etc.
Then ask the questions you want her to answer.
You actually only have 2 questions really which are:
"Why am I still sweating so much despite taking Femoston 2/10 sequi? Would a different HRT offer me greater relief or could there be other reasons for this sweating that need to be investigated?"
Here is the link to the MM page you need - you scroll down a bit and there is a section that explains how you email Dr. Currie.
Hope that helps DG x
Hi DG and CKLD
I managed to find the link. Thank you for outlining what I need to put in my email to Dr Currie.
As I have two questions, will I need to pay more than £25?
I'm not suffering valium withdrawal symptoms, I know for sure, but I know I have to establish the reason for this flushing and sweating.
I will tell her what meds I am on.
Thank you for bearing with me.
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You won't have to pay twice - really both questions relate to the same issue.
When I mentioned about the valium it was to illustrate the type of thing you need to tell her about your past medical history. She needs to know that you have had other health and depression issues as this will help her advice you correctly.
I believe you are very anxious about everything at the moment - which is very understandable - but you do need to be clear about your past and current health situation - otherwise nobody can help you.
DG x
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Type out your queries if you like before sending to Dr Currie. That way you will be precise.
Let us know how you get on! and do ask your Practice Nurse/GP what other conditions might be causing the sweating as you describe.
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Hi DG and CKLD
Thank you. I will type out my question before asking Dr Currie.
thanks
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Dandelion - you have to pay for an email consultation with Dr Currie - it costs £25. You don't have to ask just one question, you give her the information about yourself as I described in my post and ask the questions you would like her to answer. You do need to be concise and accurate otherwise she can't help you.
Give her:
Your age and an outline of your lifestyle.
Tell her when you were diagnosed as peri menopausal and the HRT you are using?
A brief medical history e.g. your experience with valium etc.
Then ask the questions you want her to answer.
You actually only have 2 questions really which are:
"Why am I still sweating so much despite taking Femoston 2/10 sequi? Would a different HRT offer me greater relief or could there be other reasons for this sweating that need to be investigated?"
Here is the link to the MM page you need - you scroll down a bit and there is a section that explains how you email Dr. Currie.
Hope that helps DG x
Hi DG
Hope you can help. You've helped loads already.
I prepared what I will write to Dr Currie, please could you see if it is ok.
Pls see italic text below - thanks
debilitating flushing and sweating in upper body only for approx 4-5 years, getting worse in the last 18months. Cannot tolerate heat, cannot sleep without fan, disrupting life.
Mistook sweating and flushing to be caused by valium withdrawals, but this was not the case as I did a very slow taper off valium, took 5 years to get off 15mg valium, and one year to get off the last 1mg as I thought the upper body flushing and sweating was a withdrawal symptom but it wasnt.
Got IBS-diarrhoea about a year ago.
age 48. diagnosed with perimenopause 12months ago. Took femoston sequi 1/10 did not work to stop upper body flushes and sweats. went onto femoston 2/10 in January 2014, it has had no effects. Other meds, trazodone 150mg a day, quetiapine 12.5mg, propranolol and promethazine prn. Had upper body flushes and sweats before starting any of these meds.
Original hormone blood test was ambiguous result and a repeat test was advised but GP was happy to prescribe me hrt as she could see I was flushing and sweating on my upper body.
Was offered patches or pills at the time and I took pills.
Visited GP on Friday to ask for patches as femoston not working at all, but GP reluctant to prescribe patches as I have had some migraine auras without headaches.
"Why am I still sweating so much despite taking Femoston 2/10 sequi? Would a different HRT offer me greater relief or could there be other reasons for this sweating that need to be investigated?"
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Hi Dandelion,
That looks fine to me.
Ellie
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Hi Ellie, thanks, I will copy and paste it to Dr Currie.
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Dandelion - sorry I didn't get back to you sooner - it's been a busy day!!! That looks great. As ellie says - just copy and paste to Dr. Currie.
Keep us posted about your progress. DG x
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Dandelion - sorry I didn't get back to you sooner - it's been a busy day!!! That looks great. As ellie says - just copy and paste to Dr. Currie.
Keep us posted about your progress. DG x
Hi DG
Heather currie wrote back and said that pills are more poorly absorbed than patches and that my migraine is NOT a reason not to have patches.
This is what she wrote
"There is a huge variation in how much estrogen we absorb from the bowel
from tablet HRT, and then how quickly we break it down--some women just
do not get enough estrogen into the system from tablets to control the
symptoms. Therefore if no help from Femoston 2/10, would agree that
patches would be better. With a history of migraine, patches anyway are
preferred rather than tablets so migraine is NOT a reason NOT to use
patches, instead, migraine is a reason to use patches!"
I don't have a clue how I am going to tell my GP that I went over their heads and spoke to a consultant gynaecologise though.
I don't wanna move surgery cos these doctors know me really well.
I am on Employment Support Allowance, and these doctors write my evidence letters, if I were to change, I would not have anyone to write my evidence letter for my reassessment of ESA.
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I had to go over my GPS head recently through desperation, and they where fine about it, more relieved actually I think.
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Just print out Dr Curries response and show it to the GP.
Just be very calm with them and explain you needed some advice from a Gynaecologist that specialises in menopause symptom control and that DR Currie set up this website to help women with menopausal problems and you paid £25 to have her advice which goes towards maintaining the site. Show them the email you sent Dr. Currie and also her response. when I did this with my GP she was fine and kept all the print out's fro her records - your GPs should do the same.
You have just asked for a second opinion and they should be happy you took the initiative.
Good luck DG x
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Just print out Dr Curries response and show it to the GP.
Just be very calm with them and explain you needed some advice from a Gynaecologist that specialises in menopause symptom control and that DR Currie set up this website to help women with menopausal problems and you paid £25 to have her advice which goes towards maintaining the site. Show them the email you sent Dr. Currie and also her response. when I did this with my GP she was fine and kept all the print out's fro her records - your GPs should do the same.
You have just asked for a second opinion and they should be happy you took the initiative.
Good luck DG x
Hi DG
Thanks for your post. I will do that.
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Every day is a learning curve. GPs can't keep up with modern technology and you may be pleasantly surprised - yours may be pleased that you have positive information to work with. If not, time to find another GP Practice!
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Is it just me I am on elleset duet 1mg when I start green tabs I get very windy my boobs hurt is that just because my period due to come or do the tabs make you windy and sore :)
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Every day is a learning curve. GPs can't keep up with modern technology and you may be pleasantly surprised - yours may be pleased that you have positive information to work with. If not, time to find another GP Practice!
Hi CKLD
My GP is a real sweetie. She is always fully booked. I have quite a few friends who have her, and they all speak highly of her.
I really like her, and she said she is really fond of me, but no one's perfect, and there has only been two problems I had with her in the fourteen years I have been with her. One was she said it was ok to take prescription diazepam 2 or 3 times a week and not het hooked.
I did get hooked, diazepam has an enormously long halflife, so the last lot was still in my system when I was taking it again, for about 6 years.
HRT is the other thing I have had problems with her.
She only knows what she is trained though and they are so hellishly busy that there is probably no time to bone up on the latest menopause research.
Ironically, she is going through menpause herself, but she says HRT is contra-indicated for her so she has to 'put up with the flushes'
As for the internet, she is an old fashioned one, even though she is only a few years older than me. She knows I use the internet, but when I tell her I got info from a website, I can sense her switching off.
Other than that, with my mental health, my lungs, my ibs etc, she is great.
She also makes me laugh, she is a pretty woman, and very dotty, and anything gives her the giggles.
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Dandelion - I understand your dilemma. I see a practise nurse at our GP practise who is absolutely delightful - she was the one who encouraged me to take a break from HRT to see how I felt and was the first to try to treat my Vaginal Atrophy. She is also going through meno and can't have HRT because of a family link with breast cancer so I can tell she is rather anti HRT. Health professionals are human - perhaps your GP is struggling with meno and because she can't have HRT herself has a bit of a mental block about it. She has made up her mind that it's something dangerous or at least negative so is reluctant to prescribe.
You will have to approach this subject very carefully when you see her. TRy to rehearse an upbeat and positive way to tell her about the advice you have been given by Dr. Currie.
Good luck Dg x
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Dandelion - I understand your dilemma. I see a practise nurse at our GP practise who is absolutely delightful - she was the one who encouraged me to take a break from HRT to see how I felt and was the first to try to treat my Vaginal Atrophy. She is also going through meno and can't have HRT because of a family link with breast cancer so I can tell she is rather anti HRT. Health professionals are human - perhaps your GP is struggling with meno and because she can't have HRT herself has a bit of a mental block about it. She has made up her mind that it's something dangerous or at least negative so is reluctant to prescribe.
You will have to approach this subject very carefully when you see her. TRy to rehearse an upbeat and positive way to tell her about the advice you have been given by Dr. Currie.
Good luck Dg x
Thanks DG, I'll need it - hahhahahaha
I'll write it down as much as possible but as brief as possible,
Maybe I'll drop in that the british ladies (*my doc thinks I read american stuff, and 'stuff's different there') on here are recommended this site by their GP's as well as the obvious being, the fact that Dr Currie is an NHS consultant Gynaecologist.
Hopefully that'll show her I am talking with people who she recognises as credible, one of her kind, medics from nhs. :)
Yeah, your nurse relationship sounds very similar to me and my dotty doctor.
I thought I read on here that there were hardly any contra-indications and that most people could actually take hrt?
It seems such a shame, if so, that there is so much falsehoods spread about and taken as truth by so many women, and so much needless suffering, with it's knock on effects, as in negative effects of our meno on others etc.
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Have you got a close friend or relative that would be prepared to go with you to give you confidencre and act as your advocate if necessary Dandelion?
Hurdity x
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Have you got a close friend or relative that would be prepared to go with you to give you confidencre and act as your advocate if necessary Dandelion?
Hurdity x
Sadly no, although my friends care, they think doctor knows best and as they don't know about menopause, it will take some convincing from me to tell them otherwise.
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Femaston did not work for me either, I took it for 4 months, hot flushes got much worse in the end I stopped taking it !
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Femaston did not work for me either, I took it for 4 months, hot flushes got much worse in the end I stopped taking it !
Hi
Did you change to another hrt, if so which one?
thanx
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*sighs*
Woke up early sweating and hot, and it isn't even summer.
Am really worried about going to the doc next week.
I'm seeing the doc who got cross with me a few months ago, when I told her femoston did not work.
I'm worried she will tell me she has no time to read dr curries email, even though Dr Curry really helped me.
Worried they may just deregister me from the surgery.
Why all these obstacles, I just want the right hrt for me.
EDIT - I've started taking mebeverine for IBS on tuesday, it has helped my IBS - I wonder if it will help with absorption of femoston?
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The last few nights have been very hot and humid - it's been torture for me as I'm not on HRT at the moment.
Could you perhaps write a letter including a print out of the email from DR Currie to give in before you appointment asking the doc to read in advance so you can discuss this when you see her? Explain that you wanted some advice from a specialist on menopause and HRT to see if there was a better approach to dealing with your terrible sweating and this was the easiest way to get this advice. You may like to mention that DR Currie is part of the team who are putting together the new guidelines for the NHS on the treatment of Menopause that will be released in 2015. If you then go in and she hasn't read it you can start by asking her to do so and take it from there.
I understand you worry but you need to 'bite the bullet' somehow.
DG x
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The last few nights have been very hot and humid - it's been torture for me as I'm not on HRT at the moment.
Could you perhaps write a letter including a print out of the email from DR Currie to give in before you appointment asking the doc to read in advance so you can discuss this when you see her? Explain that you wanted some advice from a specialist on menopause and HRT to see if there was a better approach to dealing with your terrible sweating and this was the easiest way to get this advice. You may like to mention that DR Currie is part of the team who are putting together the new guidelines for the NHS on the treatment of Menopause that will be released in 2015. If you then go in and she hasn't read it you can start by asking her to do so and take it from there.
I understand you worry but you need to 'bite the bullet' somehow.
DG x
Hi DG
Sorry to hear you have had problems with heat, I can't imagine how horrible you have felt without hrt. Why are you not on hrt?
I have my appointment on the 9th so I don't think there is really enough time for me to send my Doctor a letter for her to read as she only works part time.
Maybe I should book a later appointment?
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I've been very hot the past couple of days too, Dandelion. I've just started on the HRT last weekend, but I'm putting it down to the humid weather and hoping the patches do their business!
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I came off HRt for a break last autumn. I am 58 and the nurse at the GP practise I saw thought I should see how I coped without HRT for a while. During the winter I was OK but this long, hot and humid summer has been challenging. I am seriously thinking of going back on HRT.
Re: seeing your GP on the 9th. If you can get the letter to her so she can at least read it on the day you have your appointment that would be good. Could you hand it in yourself on Monday?
If you go to the appointment in a positive frame of mind and emphasise your need to get some decent sleep without waking in terrible sweats all the time, hopefully she will listen to your problems and be open to Dr. Curries suggestion. Simply ask her if she will let you try the patches to see if they work better for you.
Sometimes we need to handle our doctors with care - they are human with fragile egos so we need to be careful they don't feel the patient is demanding something that they don't think is right or makes them look ill-informed.
Good luck. Dg x
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I came off HRt for a break last autumn. I am 58 and the nurse at the GP practise I saw thought I should see how I coped without HRT for a while. During the winter I was OK but this long, hot and humid summer has been challenging. I am seriously thinking of going back on HRT.
Re: seeing your GP on the 9th. If you can get the letter to her so she can at least read it on the day you have your appointment that would be good. Could you hand it in yourself on Monday?
If you go to the appointment in a positive frame of mind and emphasise your need to get some decent sleep without waking in terrible sweats all the time, hopefully she will listen to your problems and be open to Dr. Curries suggestion. Simply ask her if she will let you try the patches to see if they work better for you.
Sometimes we need to handle our doctors with care - they are human with fragile egos so we need to be careful they don't feel the patient is demanding something that they don't think is right or makes them look ill-informed.
Good luck. Dg x
Hi DG
Sorry that you are having problems yourself with meno.
I decided that I will write a note and give the doctor it to read at my appointment. I wil also take along a print of Dr Currie's email.
I have written a note out, but I am struggling not to make my own doctor look ill informed.
Below is a copy of the email from Dr Currie, and below that is a copy of the note I have prepared so far. If you can think of anything I can add, I will welcome the suggestions.
Dr Curries email
Thank-you for your question and I am sorry that you are having these
problems.
There is a huge variation in how much estrogen we absorb from the bowel
from tablet HRT, and then how quickly we break it down--some women just
do not get enough estrogen into the system from tablets to control the
symptoms. Therefore if no help from Femoston 2/10, would agree that
patches would be better. With a history of migraine, patches anyway are
preferred rather than tablets so migraine is NOT a reason NOT to use
patches, instead, migraine is a reason to use patches! --sometimes the
daily fluctuation of hormone levels from tablets can worsen migraine
while patches tend to provide a smooth level of hormone more directly
into the system.
Evorel sequi would give a medium dose estrogen and contains progestogen
for the 2nd half of the pack, leading to a monthly bleed.
Regarding other investigation, suggest checking that thyroid function is
oK, unless it has been checked recently.
I hope that this is helpful.
Best wishes
Heather
My note
I recently asked to try the HRT patches as an alternative method of delivery, as my meno symptoms have made my life a misery for the past year, but Dr ***** refused them because of my migraine auras.
I was desperate for some advice and have been in contact with Dr Heather Currie NHS consultant Gynae at Dumfries and Galloway Royal Infirmary. She is also Chairman of the British Menopause Society, and Director of Menopausematters, a famous British menopause site which many British GP's direct their patients to.
In exchange for a fee (which goes towards site maintenance costs) Dr Currie answers women's questions by email.
I've got a copy of her email in my bag.
She says tablet hrt can worsen migraine due to the fluctuation in oestrogen levels and that patches are best for it as they give a smoother level.
She also says some women on tablets don't abosrb enough oestrogen from their bowel to stop their symptoms.
The doctors appointment i have on Thursday is only ten minutes long. Somehow I felt more demanding handing in a letter before thursday's appointment, as my doctor is very busy.
I just hope she believes the email is actually from Dr Currie, and that she does not put up a wall without reading my note.
She is the doctor who said that I would just have to go through menopause. She is also the doctor who I told I am scared to try norethisterone.
I will give evorel a go, and hope it doesn't make me feel horrible like some women on here.
I feel it would be too much to ask again for the utrogestan/micronised progesterone, as none of the doctors found it in their book.
Maybe the evorel doesn't work, I will email dr currie again regarding utrogestan, but surely I cannot be that unlucky, given the lack of luck i have had so far with hrt and meno.
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Why not see your Practice Nurse instead of the GP? For a more relaxed discussion? Also, a patient is able to make a double appt., I usually ask for a late session so that if it 'runs over' my GP isn't expecting anyone else.
Your GP may have had an 'off' day. Please consider that GPs are over-worked, they are put under huge pressure by the Government of the day to meet 'deadlines', they may also have had to give the previous patient/s bad news and still be half thinking about that. They, like us, also have home worries. It would be nice to believe that GPs focus purely on the patient in the room at that moment however ………
Putting the message from Dr Currie into the Surgery earlier than your appt. should be OK. It gives the GP time to read the information and if necessary, contact Dr Currie with any queries.
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Why not see your Practice Nurse instead of the GP? For a more relaxed discussion? Also, a patient is able to make a double appt., I usually ask for a late session so that if it 'runs over' my GP isn't expecting anyone else.
Your GP may have had an 'off' day. Please consider that GPs are over-worked, they are put under huge pressure by the Government of the day to meet 'deadlines', they may also have had to give the previous patient/s bad news and still be half thinking about that. They, like us, also have home worries. It would be nice to believe that GPs focus purely on the patient in the room at that moment however ………
Putting the message from Dr Currie into the Surgery earlier than your appt. should be OK. It gives the GP time to read the information and if necessary, contact Dr Currie with any queries.
Hi CKLD
We don't have a practice nurse at our surgery. We don't have anyone who specialises in meno.
Also, my doctor only works part time, and is only at work one day before my appointment, as she is off on mondays and works on a hospital ward on wednesdays.
She is so busy that I very much doubt she would have time to read the letter if I sent her it beforehand.
The fact that the doctors are so time strapped is one of the things that contributes to my stress.
I had booked thursdays appointment to deal with another matter.
What did you think of my letter to the doctor?
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Good luck DG x
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Is your GP on a training rotation then, i.e. 6 months in each speciality before qualifying? (sorry if you've explained this but I'm tired this evening) : I know that when I was in the hospital GPs headed the Casualty dept. several times a week but that was on their 'off duty' days - if they weren't in Casualty they would be out doing hobbies.
I thought all GP Surgeries now have Practice Nurses, as well Nurse Practitioners who can write prescriptions to save GP time, also access to physio., Phelbotomists etc. :-\ ……… ours is a satellite surgery but we have access several times a week to all that is on offer daily at the main surgery 5 miles away.
It should not matter what I think about your letter; the important issue is that Dr Currie replied and you now have information to take to your GP.
Good Luck!
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Is your GP on a training rotation then, i.e. 6 months in each speciality before qualifying? (sorry if you've explained this but I'm tired this evening) : I know that when I was in the hospital GPs headed the Casualty dept. several times a week but that was on their 'off duty' days - if they weren't in Casualty they would be out doing hobbies.
I thought all GP Surgeries now have Practice Nurses, as well Nurse Practitioners who can write prescriptions to save GP time, also access to physio., Phelbotomists etc. :-\ ……… ours is a satellite surgery but we have access several times a week to all that is on offer daily at the main surgery 5 miles away.
It should not matter what I think about your letter; the important issue is that Dr Currie replied and you now have information to take to your GP.
Good Luck!
Hi GKLD and DG and thanks for the good wishes.
No problems CKLD, the trainee GP was the one who refused me patches.
The GP I am seeing on Thursday is the one who said that I would just have to go through the meno if none of the hrt suited, and both of them could not find utrogestan.
The GP I am seeing on Thursday is an older established GP and is going through meno herself but is not allowed hrt.
She works on the local hospital ward on a wednesday as part of her duties.
I am debating whether to make another appt with another GP about the hrt.
This is because when I got addicted to valium, that same GP was not happy with prescribing me enough pills to do a safe slow taper.
I took in a print out of part of the Ashton Manual, which has a safe taper protocol and is written by a consultant psychiatrist at Newcastle Hospital, but when I told my GP this, she said she did not care who it was written by.
This makes me worried that she will also not care who my email is written by.
Does any of you think that note I have written above sounds like it will insult the doctor at my surgery?
I am open to any suggestions to make the note better.
thanks
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I would be worried too but I would by now have a Plan of Campaign. I think referall to a Gynae or memo-clinic would be my request, after all GPs are there to prescribe and if they are not able to 'solve' the problems, then they should refer to the appropriate Consultant ;).
Do you have a Cottage Hospital then?
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I would be worried too but I would by now have a Plan of Campaign. I think referall to a Gynae or memo-clinic would be my request, after all GPs are there to prescribe and if they are not able to 'solve' the problems, then they should refer to the appropriate Consultant ;).
Do you have a Cottage Hospital then?
Hi
We have a community hospital and I think the ward my GP works on is a geriatric ward.
I forgot to answer your question re practice nurse, we definitely don't have one, cos I asked. I have seen nurses there before but when I asked about one re meno the receptionist said no.
I think my surgery are a bit sick of me regarding hrt, what with me asking three times about utrogestan/micronised progesterone.
Can they refuse me a referral to a gynae?
I'm just really scared of one more knock back.
I am worried I will have to go private as theh costs are astronomical.
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All Consultant referrals cost the Practice but this shouldn't deter one should a patient require it! Thank you for explaining the role your GP has on a Wednesday, similar situation in 'cottage' hospitals which are probably GP-led.
You think your Surgery are 'sick' of your being there often, but it's often the way at 'our' age, we don't go for years then suddenly we require more care ::) ……. but that's your interpretation because you are worried over-all!
Even if you go 'private' your GP has to refer you. What would you consider astronomical? after all you will be paying for 'time'. My only criteria is that I get the 'full' hour ……. !
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Hi Dandelion
Firstly you should not have to go privately as the NHS should be there to treat you. It does sound as though you have been unlucky and from what you are saying, it seems unfair that your previous medical history might be clouding their treatment of you.
You should absolutely not be made to feel stressed and especially as you say you have had problems with depression and anxiety.
(By the way CLKD - it is not the job of patients to make any sort of allowances for doctors and how they might be feeling. Of course we should be polite and listen, and of course they are human like the rest of us, but they are not gods and they are paid a huge amount of money to treat us in a highly professional way. I realise also that they may well be overworked - but they are paid for this and it is their professional responsibility to ensure that patients needs come first. If anyone is belittled or made to feel uncomfortable or that they should suffer (eg through menopause) then they are failing in their job, which is to focus on each patient fairly and give the best possible treatment and advice.)
Dandelion - if the doctors can't find Utrogestan they are just stalling you. Irrespective of what they look up in their books it is listed on this website as you know. Also I just put this into a google search "general practice doctors - where to find medications listed book" and MIMS came up 5th (I do hate it when organisations get so well known by those in the know that they don't tell us mere mortals what their acronym stands for!!).
http://www.mims.co.uk/home/
Anyway this has all the medications listed so all they have to do is go to MIMS and put Utrogestan in the search box on the right and it comes up listed - as for menopausal disorders. They will find it. It doesn't matter if you go over your time of 10 mins. You need to finish what you went to your appointment for.
If you do get this far they will need to know that the 200 mg cyclical dose is discontinued so you will need double the amount of 100 mg.
I agree with CLKD do ask for a referral to a menopause clinic if they are not properly listening to you.
I hope you don't mind my saying but if it's a long way away could you get help with travel costs from the powers that be to attend a medical appointment?
Personally in your situation I would prefer not to try Evorel but if you wanted to start transdermal HRT - patches I would suggest Femseven - but you may need some extra due to sticking problems!
Having said all of this - peri-menopause is a tough time with our hormones fluctuating and even though I was not a depressive, I was a weepy thing a lot of the time - and I didn't understand why because my periods were still regular! Even with the best HRT you will still go through ups and downs in mood but at least you will know that you have the best possible hormonal support.
Hope this helps
Hurdity x
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Hi Dandelion
Firstly you should not have to go privately as the NHS should be there to treat you. It does sound as though you have been unlucky and from what you are saying, it seems unfair that your previous medical history might be clouding their treatment of you.
You should absolutely not be made to feel stressed and especially as you say you have had problems with depression and anxiety.
(By the way CLKD - it is not the job of patients to make any sort of allowances for doctors and how they might be feeling. Of course we should be polite and listen, and of course they are human like the rest of us, but they are not gods and they are paid a huge amount of money to treat us in a highly professional way. I realise also that they may well be overworked - but they are paid for this and it is their professional responsibility to ensure that patients needs come first. If anyone is belittled or made to feel uncomfortable or that they should suffer (eg through menopause) then they are failing in their job, which is to focus on each patient fairly and give the best possible treatment and advice.)
Dandelion - if the doctors can't find Utrogestan they are just stalling you. Irrespective of what they look up in their books it is listed on this website as you know. Also I just put this into a google search "general practice doctors - where to find medications listed book" and MIMS came up 5th (I do hate it when organisations get so well known by those in the know that they don't tell us mere mortals what their acronym stands for!!).
http://www.mims.co.uk/home/
Anyway this has all the medications listed so all they have to do is go to MIMS and put Utrogestan in the search box on the right and it comes up listed - as for menopausal disorders. They will find it. It doesn't matter if you go over your time of 10 mins. You need to finish what you went to your appointment for.
If you do get this far they will need to know that the 200 mg cyclical dose is discontinued so you will need double the amount of 100 mg.
I agree with CLKD do ask for a referral to a menopause clinic if they are not properly listening to you.
I hope you don't mind my saying but if it's a long way away could you get help with travel costs from the powers that be to attend a medical appointment?
Personally in your situation I would prefer not to try Evorel but if you wanted to start transdermal HRT - patches I would suggest Femseven - but you may need some extra due to sticking problems!
Having said all of this - peri-menopause is a tough time with our hormones fluctuating and even though I was not a depressive, I was a weepy thing a lot of the time - and I didn't understand why because my periods were still regular! Even with the best HRT you will still go through ups and downs in mood but at least you will know that you have the best possible hormonal support.
Hope this helps
Hurdity x
Hi Hurdity
I prefer utrogestan but Dr Currie's letter says evorel.
What do you mean by stalling with regards to utrogestan?
Why would they want to delay me feeling better?
Also, I am scared to ask for utrogestan on top of everything else.
Do you think I should write another email to dr currie explaining the difficulty I have had with my GP and mention utrogestan plus her previous email?
EDIT. I just looked up utrogestan on mims
I was going to get the pip code, as a lady on here said it was made by ferrier but mims says its made by besins. This means I can't give them a pip code.
This is getting too difficult and complicated and I feel like giving up, yet this meno is making my anxiety so much worse. I just dont feel I stand much chance of getting what I need.
I keep going on about time because the doctor said to me last week after refusing patches that I have run out of time, and the other gp also stands up and ushers me towards the door really quickly.
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Yes I see Dr Currie suggested Evorel but there are two transdermal HRT types - both listed on here - the other being Femseven. If you think it will look better if you follow Dr Currie's advice completely and try that one - I can see that.
Utrogestan is manufactured by Besins in France. It used to be marketed by Ferring in UK but I see my new 100 mg utrogestan just has Besins on the box whereas the old ones have Ferring on them. Maybe they've been taken over. It doesn't really matter - they will be able to find it just as easily as I can as a patient.
Now you just need to think about what you really want to ask for, and how you are going to approach it as calmly as you can before Thursday. We do wish you all the best at your appointment - practice what you want to say and try to be brave and confident and let us know how you get on!!
Hurdity x
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So make a double appt next time.
In the mean time, do some relaxation exercises which I found out, require practice ::) which meant I forgot to do them and then got cross with Me for not remembering ::)
Worrying is a part of ageing but you may be nicely surprised ;)
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Yes I see Dr Currie suggested Evorel but there are two transdermal HRT types - both listed on here - the other being Femseven. If you think it will look better if you follow Dr Currie's advice completely and try that one - I can see that.
Utrogestan is manufactured by Besins in France. It used to be marketed by Ferring in UK but I see my new 100 mg utrogestan just has Besins on the box whereas the old ones have Ferring on them. Maybe they've been taken over. It doesn't really matter - they will be able to find it just as easily as I can as a patient.
Now you just need to think about what you really want to ask for, and how you are going to approach it as calmly as you can before Thursday. We do wish you all the best at your appointment - practice what you want to say and try to be brave and confident and let us know how you get on!!
Hurdity x
Hi CKLD and Hurdity
I was going to give the evorel a try, but am nervous in case the norethisterone affects me badly.
I never ever suffered from PMT though and I heard norethisterone mainly affects those who have had pmt.
Thanks for the information about bessins.
Do you think the GP's were trying to fob me off when they said they cannot find utrogestan?
If so, how can I get around that?
I will mention mims, should I also look it up in the BNF
I'm just so nervous because I am so eager to get rid of the meno symptoms and get on with my life again.
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What upsets me is that I hear so many women say life improved so much after the right hrt, and yet it seems I cannot have that.
I feel powerless against a doctor who gets shirty when I ask for utrogestan.
It's like she has scared me off asking again, yet I would feel much happier if I was given the opportunity to try utrogestan and patches or gel.
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Utrogestan does not stop flushes though which is your main problem.
You asked Dr Curries advice and you have her email. I think you I'll confuse things if you go with a letter recommending one thing and then asking for another.
Best to stick with the experts advice.
Honeyb
x
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Utrogestan does not stop flushes though which is your main problem.
You asked Dr Curries advice and you have her email. I think you I'll confuse things if you go with a letter recommending one thing and then asking for another.
Best to stick with the experts advice.
Honeyb
x
Hi Honeybun
Thanks, I know utrogestan does not stop flushes, oestradiol does.
I want the utrogestan because I am scared to risk horrible side effects from norethisterone.
I am toying with the idea of emailing Dr Currie again about the utrogestan.
This is because, if Dr Currie agrees, I will print off her reply to the second email and invite the doctor to see that also.
I have already drafted a letter to Dr Currie. I know it will cost but I am really anxious to get this sorted.
Here is a copy of the second email I have drafted for Dr Currie:
I am the lady who you recently helped, about not absorbing femoston and patches for migraine, thank you. In your reply you mentioned evorel. I am prone to anxiety and depression, perimenopause has made this much worse, and I heard lots of women get worsened anxiety and derpession from norethisterone. I am afraid to try norethisterone. I was advised on menopausematters forum, that utrogestan is much easier. I know other british women are prescribed it on the NHS, but I am having difficulty obtaining it at ******** medical centre, my own surgery. I asked two different GP's at ********, and neither of them could find it in their book, even though they looked under 'utrogestan' and 'micronised progesterone/prgestin'. Last year, my GP also advised me that I will not be able to stay on HRT permenently due to the risks, but I would rather take a small risk and be on hrt for as long as I want, rather than live in misery with menopause symptoms. I have assertiveness problems and perimenopause has made me even less confident, and I am scared of how the doctors will respond when I ask again, so I wondered if you could suggest anything that may help me obtain transderman oestradiol and utrogestan.in this matter please?
It would give me some confidence if someone could read the above note before I send it off to see if it is ok, or could be improved in any way
thanks
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One step at a time! You have a short appt time on Thursday and as suggested, try not to confuse the issue in hand, otherwise not only will your GP be trying to deal with several issues, so will your body. Medication takes time to work and sometimes needs a hike in doseage or a change completely. Our bodies don't get where they are are over-night so have to adjust to anything 'thrown' at them ::). When I was depressed I wanted a cure and I wanted it yesterday but I had to wait so the panic for me was 'will the treatment work', 'when will I feel better', 'will I ever feel better' :'(
But I did improve and .......... most days ;)
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I agree with honeybun & CLKD - don't confuse things at this point. I only mentioned the Utrogestan because of your worries - and also many of us are very busy and some are working (like me) and can't remember all the details when we come on here to post, and I think we are all getting tied up in knots in trying to advise you.
You took the step of consulting Dr Currie and the best thing to do is to go with her advice and suggestions. You said you didn't suffer pmt and you are OK with the progestogen in Femoston. Most women are fine with norethisterone - we only hear on the forum about the women with problems - if the side effects were widespread it would have been taken off the market by now.
Now - work out what you are going to say and practice before Thursday and good luck!
Hurdity x
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Good advice from Hurdity.
Let us know on Thursday how you get on.
Honeyb
x
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Dandelion - your've had great advice from CKLD, honeybun and Hurdity. Go with DR Curries advice. At the end of the day your GP knows you quite well and has to decide what she feels is best for your general health.
If you go with a positive attitude then you may be surprised how well the appointment goes. Deep breath. Good luck DG x
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Dandelion - your've had great advice from CKLD, honeybun and Hurdity. Go with DR Curries advice. At the end of the day your GP knows you quite well and has to decide what she feels is best for your general health.
If you go with a positive attitude then you may be surprised how well the appointment goes. Deep breath. Good luck DG x
Hello
I made a doctors appointment for a double session on Tuesday next week with a doctor who is new to the surgery. I have a single appt on thursday with my own gp, but that is to discuss my recent mental health consultation, so there will be no time to discuss hormones in that one.
I also rang Besins healthcare and they are going to get back to me to see if they can give me the PIP code for utrogestan 100mg capsules, so hopefully the doctor wont fob me off.
Talk about fragmented.
EDIT, I now have the PIP code for utrogestan, so hopefully the doctor won't fob me off this time.
I get IBS-D badly, and it's only been with me since meno started.
Maybe, the right hrt will stop the IBS-d if i am right and meno has caused it.
Meanwhile my doctor gave me mebeverine for the IBS-d. They would rather treat the symptoms than the cause, crazy innit :)
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Good luck with your appointment day.
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Good luck with your appointment day.
Hi Ellie
Thanks. I won't have time to discuss horones today, as the appt is only ten mins and is about my mental health, but I have made a double one next week, especially for hormones.
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I have had awful night sweats for over 4 years. I'm being treated for pmdd. Dandelion you probably know all these but here are my night sweat top tips:
- Sleep naked and have a pile of clean towels next to the bed so you can wrap yourself up and sling a wet one out all through the night with minimal disruption
- I invested in an outlast mattress protector which does help to wick some moisture away - didn't tell OH it had arrived and he noticed difference without me telling him it was on the bed
- also have a climarelle duvet but not sure this works
- sometimes I eat a handful of almonds in the middle of night, which makes me feel better mentally at least
- give yourself a break, so few people really have experience of night after night of drenching sweats
FYI I use 6 pumps of oestrogel a day and it has taken the edge off my sweats but does not control them, tricky balance with breasts that turn into nuclear warheads!
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I have had awful night sweats for over 4 years. I'm being treated for pmdd. Dandelion you probably know all these but here are my night sweat top tips:
- Sleep naked and have a pile of clean towels next to the bed so you can wrap yourself up and sling a wet one out all through the night with minimal disruption
- I invested in an outlast mattress protector which does help to wick some moisture away - didn't tell OH it had arrived and he noticed difference without me telling him it was on the bed
- also have a climarelle duvet but not sure this works
- sometimes I eat a handful of almonds in the middle of night, which makes me feel better mentally at least
- give yourself a break, so few people really have experience of night after night of drenching sweats
FYI I use 6 pumps of oestrogel a day and it has taken the edge off my sweats but does not control them, tricky balance with breasts that turn into nuclear warheads!
Hi Chickpea
6 pumps of oestrogel sounds like a really large dose of oestrogen.
Could this be too much, and that is why you are still sweating?
Thanks for the tips.
I get really bad IBS from the menopause.
Instead of giving me sufficient oestrogen, to stop the IBS, the doctor prescribed me mebeverine to stop the IBS symptoms.
The mebeverine is giving me such awful heartburn that I am going to have to stop taking it.
I wouldn't put it past my doctor to prescribe anti heartburn drugs to combat the side effects of the IBS meds, costing me even more money in prescriptions.
I am just glad that I have Dr Currie's emails which I will take next week to the GP.
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IBS is caused by many different conditions mine began long before I was aware of oestrogen. Anxiety, stress, worry, excitement ……….. I did have 'the runs' 10 mins before period began though even when one wasn't due >:(
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IBS is caused by many different conditions mine began long before I was aware of oestrogen. Anxiety, stress, worry, excitement ……….. I did have 'the runs' 10 mins before period began though even when one wasn't due >:(
Sorry to hear you have IBS also.
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Gosh I've had it from age 3. Along with a disruptive up-bringing, enough to make anyone's guts churn >:(. Old habits die hard :-\
My GP saved my Life by prescribing suitable medication which helped a lot. Then I graduated to Actimel 2/5 pots daily ........ when I get slow transit these days I know what to take ;)
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Gosh I've had it from age 3. Along with a disruptive up-bringing, enough to make anyone's guts churn >:(. Old habits die hard :-\
My GP saved my Life by prescribing suitable medication which helped a lot. Then I graduated to Actimel 2/5 pots daily ........ when I get slow transit these days I know what to take ;)
Hi CKLD
I've heard lots of people say they get help from actimel. What does it do? Do you find it really helps IBS?
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Yep. It's the 'good' bacteria in every bottle ......... don't know how it works but for me it does.
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Yep. It's the 'good' bacteria in every bottle ......... don't know how it works but for me it does.
Hi thanks.
I've been taking mebeverine but the heartburn and acid regurgitation is so painful I have had to stop it.
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It often depends upon when we take medications as to whether we get heartburn - I take most of mine an hour before going to bed
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CLKD, you mention actimel for slow transit, i have slow/lazy bowel and i am sure it is because of AD that i am on, would you say actimel or a probiotic supplement could help?
Tks
STooth
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I have taken anti-depressant medication since 198something ......... if I miss a dose/2 then I notice my bowel speeds up. I tried Actimel drinks because a friend recommended them and for me, they certainly keep the bowel 'moving' comfortably, no bloating nor the feeling of wanting to 'go' but not being able to do so. It's Trial and Error ::)
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tks i will try some actimel and if no good i might try a probiotic
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Mebeverine is a muscle relaxant, and it relaxes that sphincter which lies below our oesophagus but above our stomach.
With this muscle relaxed, acid is able to reflux back into the food pipe, and with me, I was being sick in my mouth with the most awful tasting, and burning acid. It felt like I would imagine battery acid and my sphincter in the stomach felt very irritated and sore.
I have been using pepto-bismol for my IBS and the heartburn faded.
Sometimes, I would forget to eat after taking mebeverine, you're supposed to dose 20mins before food, but I could never remember and sometimes as I plan moment by moment, i can suddenly decide to eat and forget to take the pil.
I am a bit scared of taking mebeverine again to be honest, the stomach was so sore, it was an awful experience. From my mouth to my anus, all irritated. Sorry tmi :)
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Morning Ladies! Dandelion, so sorry about your miserable time, but everyone here sympathises I'm sure, as there is such a myriad of symptoms discussed, and a wealth of good advice offered, way beyond anything the medical profession can offer, trust me, I know only too well! I now have a wonderful lady GP, who herself is embarrassed about her profession's ignorance of the very, very complicated stage of our lives that is just brushed under the carpet! She has put me on a regime, that is finally, finally start to make me feel human again after 3 years of mental hell!
I didn't have the horrible sweats that you are having, and my main symptoms started about 18 months after my last period, although looking back, I understand that there were a few hints of what was to come, low mood, flushes, dry skin, genital atrophy, unable to concentrate etc.....that all started about the age of 48, I am now nearly 57. What I wanted to say was, one of the very worst of the symptoms that literally appeared overnight, was gastric/lower digestion problems. Started with horrendous bloating, grumbling and rumblings, right from under the diaphragm right down to the pelvic area, and a squeezing sensation when I lay down, no pain as such, just weirdness!! And horrendous constipation!! I also had a feeling of wanting to have a BM, but didn't, if you know what I mean!! This is all due to the sluggish motility of our digestion which if affected by a drop in oestrogen.
I have been on quite a few low dose HRT prescriptions, but it's only now that I am on Evorel Conti, Venlafaxine, and Pregabalin, that I am feeling a little more like my old self, not 100% but a lot better than the 0% I was 6 months ago! There is no magic HRT for IBS I'm afraid. Also watch what you eat, sadly, chocolate is a killer, due to the sugar, anything in a tomato sauce, spicy foods, fruit juices and citrus fruits, also grapes, as they ferment in the gut! I asked my GP for a constipation prescription as well, and I am on Molaxole, which works really. You don't realise either how the digestive system can make you feel rotten, in fact a lot of the IBS symptoms mimic menopause.
I hope that this has helped you a little, from the bits that I know about!
WANDERER. XXX
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Morning Ladies! Dandelion, so sorry about your miserable time, but everyone here sympathises I'm sure, as there is such a myriad of symptoms discussed, and a wealth of good advice offered, way beyond anything the medical profession can offer, trust me, I know only too well! I now have a wonderful lady GP, who herself is embarrassed about her profession's ignorance of the very, very complicated stage of our lives that is just brushed under the carpet! She has put me on a regime, that is finally, finally start to make me feel human again after 3 years of mental hell!
I didn't have the horrible sweats that you are having, and my main symptoms started about 18 months after my last period, although looking back, I understand that there were a few hints of what was to come, low mood, flushes, dry skin, genital atrophy, unable to concentrate etc.....that all started about the age of 48, I am now nearly 57. What I wanted to say was, one of the very worst of the symptoms that literally appeared overnight, was gastric/lower digestion problems. Started with horrendous bloating, grumbling and rumblings, right from under the diaphragm right down to the pelvic area, and a squeezing sensation when I lay down, no pain as such, just weirdness!! And horrendous constipation!! I also had a feeling of wanting to have a BM, but didn't, if you know what I mean!! This is all due to the sluggish motility of our digestion which if affected by a drop in oestrogen.
I have been on quite a few low dose HRT prescriptions, but it's only now that I am on Evorel Conti, Venlafaxine, and Pregabalin, that I am feeling a little more like my old self, not 100% but a lot better than the 0% I was 6 months ago! There is no magic HRT for IBS I'm afraid. Also watch what you eat, sadly, chocolate is a killer, due to the sugar, anything in a tomato sauce, spicy foods, fruit juices and citrus fruits, also grapes, as they ferment in the gut! I asked my GP for a constipation prescription as well, and I am on Molaxole, which works really. You don't realise either how the digestive system can make you feel rotten, in fact a lot of the IBS symptoms mimic menopause.
I hope that this has helped you a little, from the bits that I know about!
WANDERER. XXX
Hi Wanderer
Sorry you had a tough time.
What I meant was that hopefully my estradot patch will provide enough oestrogen so ibs symptoms go, not hrt for ibs as such,
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One of the problems is that HRT can cause it's own issues due to side effects.
Utrogestan used vaginally for me caused a painful bladder. I really did not feel good on it at all.Many women report tiredness and lethargy and headaches too.
Too much oestrogen for me causes digestive upsets.
The only way to really control IBS is by diet especially if it the D type.
A food diary to work out what triggers you have and then it's a process of elimination till things settle.
Herbal preparations can also be very good.
HRT has never helped my IBS, only trial and error with food has done that.
Perhaps if you get your flushes sorted out then you will feel better placed to look at your other health issues.
Honeyb
x
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One of the problems is that HRT can cause it's own issues due to side effects.
Utrogestan used vaginally for me caused a painful bladder. I really did not feel good on it at all.Many women report tiredness and lethargy and headaches too.
Too much oestrogen for me causes digestive upsets.
The only way to really control IBS is by diet especially if it the D type.
A food diary to work out what triggers you have and then it's a process of elimination till things settle.
Herbal preparations can also be very good.
HRT has never helped my IBS, only trial and error with food has done that.
Perhaps if you get your flushes sorted out then you will feel better placed to look at your other health issues.
Honeyb
x
Hi Honeyb
My IBS only started after my meno.
Sorry to hear that you have also got IBS and that you have had it since you were small.
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My IBS started around meno too. I think its CLKD who has had it since she was small. I think mine was stress related after a period of events that just kept on coming. I was on HRT at the time.
Good luck with your new regime when you start but also start to consider what you eat and drink to see if there are any triggers you can avoid. HRT might help a little but all IBS sufferers have things that make it much worse.
Honeyb
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My IBS started around meno too. I think its CLKD who has had it since she was small. I think mine was stress related after a period of events that just kept on coming. I was on HRT at the time.
Good luck with your new regime when you start but also start to consider what you eat and drink to see if there are any triggers you can avoid. HRT might help a little but all IBS sufferers have things that make it much worse.
Honeyb
Hi Honeyb
My apologies, I got you mixed up with CKLD.
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Hi Dandelion
Can I suggest that when you start your new HRT regime you keep to a good routine of regular meals, a bit of daily exercise (maybe a 15 minute walk) and go to bed and get up at the same time each day, so you can determine how you feeling more easily? The discipline of maintaining a routine can be really helpful and could help your IBS as well.
Good luck. Dg x
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Hi Dandelion
Can I suggest that when you start your new HRT regime you keep to a good routine of regular meals, a bit of daily exercise (maybe a 15 minute walk) and go to bed and get up at the same time each day, so you can determine how you feeling more easily? The discipline of maintaining a routine can be really helpful and could help your IBS as well.
Good luck. Dg x
Hi DG will do.
I do excercise and eat ok, and sleep ok, (so long as I have the fan on) but as my flushes and sweats are so bad at the moment, I absolutely hate it when I overheat really badly from excercise.