Menopause Matters Forum
Menopause Discussion => All things menopause => Topic started by: Doodle on December 29, 2022, 01:58:34 PM
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Hi all, I’m hoping for a little advice, as I’m seeing no light at the end of this tunnel I find myself stuck in.
I’ll try and be as brief as possible. I’m on Evorel Sequi. Just started my third month. I’m doing ok and a lot of symptoms are improving. But the worst symptom I have seems to be getting worse, not better. VA and general soreness. I was prescribed Yes water based, which did nothing. So I went online and got Ovestin through an online consultation. I couldn’t face trying to see the GP again, and have to see them for a follow up in January. Anyways, after reading for literally hours on here, I did the two week load. All good. Seeing improvements, then dropped down to twice a week, but had problems coming back straight away, so went back to using daily. My problem is the outer labia. It’s raw. Almost all the time. It wasn’t even like this before I started any HRT treatment so I’m so confused as to why this is happening now. After reading on here, I stopped having baths. No improvement. I used Ovestin on the outside, and OMG it seemed to make things 10 times worse. Mmmmm maybe the Ovestin is doing good inside, but maybe the fillers are not agreeing with me on the outside?! (Is that even possible?). So I stopped using Ovestin on the outside and switched to Doublebase to wash with and to try and moisture the outside labia. It got worse still 😢. So then I read that glycerin can cause problems. Looked at the ingredients in Ovestin and Doublebase and it is in both. Sooooo I stopped everything on the outside for a week or so, and ended up with skin on the labia literally flaking off 😳. So decided to try Yes OB. I used this a couple of days ago and overnight I felt relief and even felt soft and nice down there. But now today, the rawness is back. I feel like I’ll never be the same down there again. I can hardly walk today as I’m in so much pain. It looks so nasty down there. Almost like chemical burns.
I know it probably seems like I’ve overdone it and tried too many things, but this has been over about 6 months. Please can anybody help me 😢.
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Anything is possible with VA >:(
Your GP/Nurse Practitioner needs a :beat: :kick:. Put the 'ovestin' in every night for as long as required. Get some KY Jelly or use the 'yes' or 'sylc ' on the outer labia, several times a day. Some find a moistoriroer really helps on the outer areas. U will recover, it seems that the 'ovestin' is too strong for those tender lips.
I'll do a quick search for other products.
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Olive and Bee is also oil-based (olive oil and beeswax are the only 2 ingredients so it's very natural)
I have bumped a couple of threads which have advice about moisturisers
Do U have any ice cubes?
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Hello Doodle. I really am sorry you are in so much pain. VA is very painful and it is good you are using Ovestin daily again. I use it twice a day when I need to as well. I would try and mix the Ovestin with a little of the Yes and then apply it to the outer area. I know for me when I am in pain, using anything hurts but not using anything is no help either.
It is good you have stopped having baths too as sitting in hot water will not help. Do you have any emollient? This can help to provide a protective barrier over the area.
You could be right that you are reacting to the Ovestin but it is difficult to know when you are so sore. You can ask for Estradiol cream instead which is a milder dose.
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Anything is possible with VA >:(
Your GP/Nurse Practitioner needs a :beat: :kick:. Put the 'ovestin' in every night for as long as required. Get some KY Jelly or use the 'yes' or 'sylc ' on the outer labia, several times a day. Some find a moistoriroer really helps on the outer areas. U will recover, it seems that the 'ovestin' is too strong for those tender lips.
I'll do a quick search for other products.
Thankyou CLKD 😁. I was initially impressed, as this lady I saw was described as a menopause expert. Hardly! After reading on here for several months, I now realise she knows nothing. Especially after I presented with severe vaginal pain and discomfort and was only prescribed a water based moisturiser. Surely she should’ve known I needed some local estrogen.
I had to stop the Ovestin inside a few days ago as I started bleeding. So hopefully that’s almost done, and I can start again.
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Olive and Bee is also oil-based (olive oil and beeswax are the only 2 ingredients so it's very natural)
I have bumped a couple of threads which have advice about moisturisers
Do U have any ice cubes?
I do have ice cubes 👍🏻. Thankyou for bumping the threads too. I’ve spent many hours reading ‘The Burning Club’ one. I’ve heard of the olive and bee brand. Maybe that’s one to try next. I bought coconut oil yesterday, but have yet to try that.
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Hello Doodle. I really am sorry you are in so much pain. VA is very painful and it is good you are using Ovestin daily again. I use it twice a day when I need to as well. I would try and mix the Ovestin with a little of the Yes and then apply it to the outer area. I know for me when I am in pain, using anything hurts but not using anything is no help either.
It is good you have stopped having baths too as sitting in hot water will not help. Do you have any emollient? This can help to provide a protective barrier over the area.
You could be right that you are reacting to the Ovestin but it is difficult to know when you are so sore. You can ask for Estradiol cream instead which is a milder dose.
Hi Flossieteacake, thankyou so much for replying. Is Doublebase an emoilment? I had been using that successfully (or so I thought) for a week or so, before the rawness came back. I’ll ask about the Estradiol cream when I go back in January. I don’t want to sound grim, but I know I need estrogen in the outer area too, because it looks, well…….different. The ‘hood’ looks weird. Different to how it’s always looked. It’s disappearing. It’s not good at all. Plus all this is having an affect on my sex life with the hubby. Things would be much simpler if it was my knee or my arm that was sore 😄. Without meaning to sound ridiculous……it’s not fair! ☹️
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It isn't fair but there are other ways of playing with hubby :vibe:
The bleeding could be due to the area being dry ...... what have you in the house that you could use? Try ice cubes wrapped in a flannel, laid on the sore area gently.
U need something that you can pat onto the area without needing to rub hence KY Jelly or similar may help internally and externally. It's what I use when required. Cooling and easy to apply. Some however find it aggravates ::). I have used 'savlon' on the outer labia. DH tells me not to put too much on or it 'will heal up' :o ::)
The idea is to get the area as moist as possible which lessens the ithchy dry feelings. A little olive oil on the tip of a finger, or try the coconut oil, many have success with it in small amounts. Little and often. Go without knickers if possible wearing a skirt ........ less chance of rubbing. When bad it can be nice to sit on a rubber ring so allow the sore areas a chance to breath. With the weekend approaching you need to get some relief!
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Hello Doodle. I really am sorry you are in so much pain. VA is very painful and it is good you are using Ovestin daily again. I use it twice a day when I need to as well. I would try and mix the Ovestin with a little of the Yes and then apply it to the outer area. I know for me when I am in pain, using anything hurts but not using anything is no help either.
It is good you have stopped having baths too as sitting in hot water will not help. Do you have any emollient? This can help to provide a protective barrier over the area.
You could be right that you are reacting to the Ovestin but it is difficult to know when you are so sore. You can ask for Estradiol cream instead which is a milder dose.
Hi Flossieteacake, thankyou so much for replying. Is Doublebase an emoilment? I had been using that successfully (or so I thought) for a week or so, before the rawness came back. I’ll ask about the Estradiol cream when I go back in January. I don’t want to sound grim, but I know I need estrogen in the outer area too, because it looks, well…….different. The ‘hood’ looks weird. Different to how it’s always looked. It’s disappearing. It’s not good at all. Plus all this is having an affect on my sex life with the hubby. Things would be much simpler if it was my knee or my arm that was sore 😄. Without meaning to sound ridiculous……it’s not fair! ☹️
I had not heard of doublebase and looked it up. It says it is an emolient.
You can speak freely on here so please do not hold back. I know what you mean as my vulva looked the same. It does show you need oestrogen.
Yes, it will have an effect on your sex life. Please do not try anything when feeling so sore. Your husband will understand.🤗
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Poor you, a nasty and chronic case of VA. Throw everything at it every day, you don't mention Vagifem pessaries but they work well alongside the Ovestin and tons of moisturiser. The problem with VA, it takes such a long time to feel normal again and you will think to yourself that this is never going to get better, but it does with loads of patience.
Once you get into a regime knowing what treatment works best for you then you are half way there to feeling relief from this disgusting condition.
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Agree that you may need to ask to try vagifem alongside a estriol cream of some sort when you go back in January.
Are you wearing cotton pants & only washing them in water or very little powder & rinsing well.
I would also cut out coffee tea tomatoes anything spicy etc to avoid tannins etc coming out in urine & irritating the vulva. Really anything to eliminate potential irritants.
I would also give it a bit of time before you try different products on the vulva else you can’t tell which is helping.
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It isn't fair but there are other ways of playing with hubby :vibe:
The bleeding could be due to the area being dry ...... what have you in the house that you could use? Try ice cubes wrapped in a flannel, laid on the sore area gently.
U need something that you can pat onto the area without needing to rub hence KY Jelly or similar may help internally and externally. It's what I use when required. Cooling and easy to apply. Some however find it aggravates ::). I have used 'savlon' on the outer labia. DH tells me not to put too much on or it 'will heal up' :o ::)
The idea is to get the area as moist as possible which lessens the ithchy dry feelings. A little olive oil on the tip of a finger, or try the coconut oil, many have success with it in small amounts. Little and often. Go without knickers if possible wearing a skirt ........ less chance of rubbing. When bad it can be nice to sit on a rubber ring so allow the sore areas a chance to breath. With the weekend approaching you need to get some relief!
I like emoji, gave me a chuckle 😄. And the savlon comment, also gave me a chuckle 😄. Thankyou, I needed a chuckle 😁.
You see, that’s where I was thinking I was maybe going wrong. I mean, how can I heal the rawness if it’s constantly wet. I even tried talc, which I know is not good now. I’ll try the ice cube thing after I shower later today. I’m willing to try ANYTHING now. I have tried a cool flannel before, which was soothing, but it’s not ideal as I don’t seem to have much time to spare to do things like that. Unfortunately it won’t be a restful weekend either, as I’m working. I think the job isn’t helping things either, as it’s quite a physically demanding job. So lots of sweating involved and not much time or opportunity to ‘air the bits’ 😄.
Oh and the bleeding is definitely my menstrual bleed. The sore area down there has appeared to ‘weep’ at times, but it’s been clear weeping and not actually bled. Yet.
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Hello Doodle. I really am sorry you are in so much pain. VA is very painful and it is good you are using Ovestin daily again. I use it twice a day when I need to as well. I would try and mix the Ovestin with a little of the Yes and then apply it to the outer area. I know for me when I am in pain, using anything hurts but not using anything is no help either.
It is good you have stopped having baths too as sitting in hot water will not help. Do you have any emollient? This can help to provide a protective barrier over the area.
You could be right that you are reacting to the Ovestin but it is difficult to know when you are so sore. You can ask for Estradiol cream instead which is a milder dose.
Hi Flossieteacake, thankyou so much for replying. Is Doublebase an emoilment? I had been using that successfully (or so I thought) for a week or so, before the rawness came back. I’ll ask about the Estradiol cream when I go back in January. I don’t want to sound grim, but I know I need estrogen in the outer area too, because it looks, well…….different. The ‘hood’ looks weird. Different to how it’s always looked. It’s disappearing. It’s not good at all. Plus all this is having an affect on my sex life with the hubby. Things would be much simpler if it was my knee or my arm that was sore 😄. Without meaning to sound ridiculous……it’s not fair! ☹️
I had not heard of doublebase and looked it up. It says it is an emolient.
You can speak freely on here so please do not hold back. I know what you mean as my vulva looked the same. It does show you need oestrogen.
Yes, it will have an effect on your sex life. Please do not try anything when feeling so sore. Your husband will understand.🤗
Thankyou 😊, the hubby is very understanding but I can’t help feeling a bit guilty about how things are at the moment. It’s such a rollercoaster. There was a couple of times this year when I thought ‘yay, I’m cured!’, and it was full steam ahead with the sex life 😄, but then it’s back to square one all over again.
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Poor you, a nasty and chronic case of VA. Throw everything at it every day, you don't mention Vagifem pessaries but they work well alongside the Ovestin and tons of moisturiser. The problem with VA, it takes such a long time to feel normal again and you will think to yourself that this is never going to get better, but it does with loads of patience.
Once you get into a regime knowing what treatment works best for you then you are half way there to feeling relief from this disgusting condition.
Hi Ayesha, I think at the moment the Ovestin seems to be working well on the inside, so I might ask for more when I see the Doc again in January. It’s costing me a fortune buying it online. I am tempted to ask for Vagifem to try after reading all the positives about it on this forum though. I’m too afraid to use Ovestin on the outside though after reacting to it badly. But…..I’ve also read that it can cause pain until the tissues ‘plump up’, but I just couldn’t tolerate the pain. I also couldn’t distinguish between the pain of ‘improvement’ and the pain of it just not agreeing with me. So I gave up. I bet this makes no sense at all 🤯😂.
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Agree that you may need to ask to try vagifem alongside a estriol cream of some sort when you go back in January.
Are you wearing cotton pants & only washing them in water or very little powder & rinsing well.
I would also cut out coffee tea tomatoes anything spicy etc to avoid tannins etc coming out in urine & irritating the vulva. Really anything to eliminate potential irritants.
I would also give it a bit of time before you try different products on the vulva else you can’t tell which is helping.
Hi Minusminnie, I’ve recently switched back to non-bio laundry liquid after using highly scented products for a while. I’ve even just bought some reusable sanitary pads to cut out contact with the chlorine and plastics in disposable sanitary products. I’m not a spicy food fan, so that’s not a problem, but I do have a few cups of tea a day, so I’ll try and cut out the caffeine. I’ll stick with the Yes OB for a little while, before trying anything else. Thankyou for your advice. It’s much appreciated 😊. I’ll ask about the milder estrogen cream as well when I go back in January.
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You make perfect sense. It is hard to know if it is the Ovestin causing the pain or not when first trying it. This is all so new and we tend to think the treatment will make us feel better quickly.
Ovestin mixed with the Yes should make it a little easier to tolerate on the outer bits. Keep posting for support. We all understand the horrid pain of VA.
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Any moisture means that the skin doesn't get itchy when dry. Natural lubricant is taken for granted until VA sets in >:(
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You make perfect sense. It is hard to know if it is the Ovestin causing the pain or not when first trying it. This is all so new and we tend to think the treatment will make us feel better quickly.
Ovestin mixed with the Yes should make it a little easier to tolerate on the outer bits. Keep posting for support. We all understand the horrid pain of VA.
Phew! 😄. I’m now considering trying the Ovestin on the outside again. Maybe REALLY try and persevere. I have another week at work before I’m off for 10 days, so maybe that might be a better time to try again. Am I right in thinking that estriol and estradiol are different? And one is stronger than the other? Is Ovestin the stronger cream? And if it is, do you know the brand of a weaker one that I can specifically ask for at my next appointment? Also does vagifem help the outside as well as the inside, or do I still need an estrogen cream on the outside even if I end up using vagifem? So sorry for all the questions.
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Any moisture means that the skin doesn't get itchy when dry. Natural lubricant is taken for granted until VA sets in >:(
Yup, I’m almost certainly as dry as a bone then. The itch is unlike anything I’ve ever experienced before.
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Hi Doodle,
Am I right in thinking that estriol and estradiol are different? And one is stronger than the other? Is Ovestin the stronger cream?
Yes estriol (in 0.1% Ovestin & 0.01% Estriol creams) is a weaker form of oestrogen than oestradiol (in Vagifem).
do you know the brand of a weaker one that I can specifically ask for at my next appointment?
Estriol 0.01% is the weaker of the 2 cream formulations if you just want to apply a little externally rather than using the applicator to insert a measured dose.
Also does vagifem help the outside as well as the inside, or do I still need an estrogen cream on the outside even if I end up using vagifem?
Some women need both (I do). Vagifem's effects are quite localised. I find the 0.01% Estriol cream very soothing & have been using it in combo with Vagifem for some years as prescribed by a well respected NHS menopause clinic.
I hope you manage to get what you need.
Wx
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Did U dare try the ice cubes in a tea-towel?
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Poor you, how awful for you. I do hope you soon find some relief. I remember when it all started for me, it affects your life dramatically. I use estriol cream externally and it's very soothing alongside vagifem internally. I'm much better than I was, not perfect but comfortable ish nowadays. Best of luck xxx
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Cara99 - is that daily?
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Buy a copy of "Me and My Menopausal Vagina" written by a member of the forum.
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CLKD I use Vagifem alternate nights but use estriol externally every night, tried cutting back the Vagifem but can't as yet. I only use a small blob of estriol. Is this too much do you think 🤔 xx
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Hi
Others have mentioned vagifem and I would definitely recommend this to try. Thanks to on here, this is what others recommended to me.
Ovestin did nothing for me, but vagifem has most definitely helped with the use of YES moisturiser too.
I was on a daily dose of vagifem for the first two weeks then it says cut down to 3 times a week, but noticed that the itchy feeling and burning feeling was back, and the feeling “I need a wee again” came back too.
I don’t know if you can submit online with your GP a request for vagifem as an online consultation, or with a nurse, but see if you can and pick the prescription up from the surgery so you have it.
Don’t suffer you shouldn’t have too.
As other have said don’t wear underwear if u can for a few days, I would come home from work and change in to a nightie and walk around the house, free so to speak.
Good luck.
Peanut31
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I learnt the hard way by not applying treatment often enough :o
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Hi
I had the same problem for months and I so sympathise with you. My doctor prescribed me Trimovate cream for the outer labia which really cleared up my problem - I suffered for months and had been given various things to try. I now use Dermol for washing and Ovestin cream twice a week. Hope this helps you.
Best wishes.
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Cara999 - U can use the treatment every night if necessary. It's never 'too much'.
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CLKD thank you, I was worrying lol xx
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Lots of us do. It's a small amount of active ingredient so it is OK to use as necessary until symptoms are under control.
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CLKD thank you, I was worrying lol xx
I use Ovestin every single day and have no intensions of ever reducing it. :)
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Could it be lichen sclerosis. I use dermovate steroid cream twice a week as a maintenance solution.
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Hi I could have written this myself. I’m having the exactly the same problem. Also started evorel sequi 4 months ago and am experiencing a burning sore red outer labia more on one side than the other. Visited the doctor this week who has taken a swab to be sent off but I know it’s not thrush or bv as I don’t have any discharge. The gp has given me a steroid cream which takes the redness down but doesn’t last long and it’s soon back to burning red and sore. I’m wondering if it could be the hrt as before I started it I had some mild discomfort but nothing like this.
I have a phone call next week with gp and going to ask for vagifem and ovestin cream for the external skin.
Fingers crossed we will feel better very soon.
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Hi I could have written this myself. I’m having the exactly the same problem. Also started evorel sequi 4 months ago and am experiencing a burning sore red outer labia more on one side than the other. Visited the doctor this week who has taken a swab to be sent off but I know it’s not thrush or bv as I don’t have any discharge. The gp has given me a steroid cream which takes the redness down but doesn’t last long and it’s soon back to burning red and sore. I’m wondering if it could be the hrt as before I started it I had some mild discomfort but nothing like this.
I have a phone call next week with gp and going to ask for vagifem and ovestin cream for the external skin.
Fingers crossed we will feel better very soon.
Hello Buzzbee and welcome. I am sorry you are in so much pain. It is great you have been reading up on the forum and know to ask for ovestin and vagifem. Do not forget to check out this thread for more tips. :)
https://www.menopausematters.co.uk/forum/index.php/topic,22886.0.html
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Hi all, thankyou so much for the replies. I’m not sure about the Lichen Sclerosis. I did look into that, but after seeing pics (😦) I’m not too sure if it is that.
Just a little update. I stopped using Ovestin 10 days ago. Mainly because I noticed a significant amount was gathering in the folds of the outer labia. Exactly where the soreness was occurring. I couldn’t believe that something could be working well on the inside, but causing irritation on the outside. But…..I decided to test the rather bizarre theory, and to my amazement I’ve been healing nicely down there since stopping the Ovestin. But……I’m back to square one with the discomfort inside. But…..I have been prescribed Vagifem today (I asked for it directly). So, fingers crossed that I have better luck with this.
And another but, and it’s a big one……the doctor I saw today stopped my patches because my blood pressure was high. I can’t believe he did this. When I arrived at the docs surgery, the meno nurse was off and her appointments had been passed over to a locum doctor. He was so abrupt and wasn’t budging in his decision. Even though I was quite firm and was really trying to stand my ground, he wouldn’t write the prescription until I’ve monitored my blood pressure at home for a week and then he’d ‘look at me going back on hrt’. I’m furious and upset and after looking online, see that hrt can actually lower blood pressure. I’ve not even completed my 3 months trial yet 😢😢.
The last 3 months feel a complete waste of time. I’m concerned what the effects of such an abrupt stop will be. I can’t speak to the nurse who originally prescribed the patches until Thursday (and that’s if I can even get an appointment), plus I’m out of patches tomorrow. I take my last patch off tomorrow. I’ve also read that having high blood pressure is NOT a reason to stop HRT. It should just be monitored. I even suggested this to the doctor…..that could I please go away and monitor my blood pressure for a few days but STOP ON the HRT for now. He said no. I have to stop now. Today.
I’m in bits ☹️. My cycle will be messed up totally and by the time I get my HRT back, I’ll have had a 4+ days break, depending on if I even get another appointment this week. Things have been tough over the last few months, but I really felt things were beginning to settle down. Now this!!
Any advice? 😢
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Hi all, thankyou so much for the replies. I’m not sure about the Lichen Sclerosis. I did look into that, but after seeing pics (😦) I’m not too sure if it is that.
Just a little update. I stopped using Ovestin 10 days ago. Mainly because I noticed a significant amount was gathering in the folds of the outer labia. Exactly where the soreness was occurring. I couldn’t believe that something could be working well on the inside, but causing irritation on the outside. But…..I decided to test the rather bizarre theory, and to my amazement I’ve been healing nicely down there since stopping the Ovestin. But……I’m back to square one with the discomfort inside. But…..I have been prescribed Vagifem today (I asked for it directly). So, fingers crossed that I have better luck with this.
And another but, and it’s a big one……the doctor I saw today stopped my patches because my blood pressure was high. I can’t believe he did this. When I arrived at the docs surgery, the meno nurse was off and her appointments had been passed over to a locum doctor. He was so abrupt and wasn’t budging in his decision. Even though I was quite firm and was really trying to stand my ground, he wouldn’t write the prescription until I’ve monitored my blood pressure at home for a week and then he’d ‘look at me going back on hrt’. I’m furious and upset and after looking online, see that hrt can actually lower blood pressure. I’ve not even completed my 3 months trial yet 😢😢.
The last 3 months feel a complete waste of time. I’m concerned what the effects of such an abrupt stop will be. I can’t speak to the nurse who originally prescribed the patches until Thursday (and that’s if I can even get an appointment), plus I’m out of patches tomorrow. I take my last patch off tomorrow. I’ve also read that having high blood pressure is NOT a reason to stop HRT. It should just be monitored. I even suggested this to the doctor…..that could I please go away and monitor my blood pressure for a few days but STOP ON the HRT for now. He said no. I have to stop now. Today.
I’m in bits ☹️. My cycle will be messed up totally and by the time I get my HRT back, I’ll have had a 4+ days break, depending on if I even get another appointment this week. Things have been tough over the last few months, but I really felt things were beginning to settle down. Now this!!
Any advice? 😢
Appalling!! I am so sorry. I would ask to speak to the practice manager and explain HRT can lower blood pressure and you urgently need your patches right away! I cannot believe the doctor did this without even understanding anything about menopause. Try to call now while they are open. I wish you luck.
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Hi all, thankyou so much for the replies. I’m not sure about the Lichen Sclerosis. I did look into that, but after seeing pics (😦) I’m not too sure if it is that.
Just a little update. I stopped using Ovestin 10 days ago. Mainly because I noticed a significant amount was gathering in the folds of the outer labia. Exactly where the soreness was occurring. I couldn’t believe that something could be working well on the inside, but causing irritation on the outside. But…..I decided to test the rather bizarre theory, and to my amazement I’ve been healing nicely down there since stopping the Ovestin. But……I’m back to square one with the discomfort inside. But…..I have been prescribed Vagifem today (I asked for it directly). So, fingers crossed that I have better luck with this.
And another but, and it’s a big one……the doctor I saw today stopped my patches because my blood pressure was high. I can’t believe he did this. When I arrived at the docs surgery, the meno nurse was off and her appointments had been passed over to a locum doctor. He was so abrupt and wasn’t budging in his decision. Even though I was quite firm and was really trying to stand my ground, he wouldn’t write the prescription until I’ve monitored my blood pressure at home for a week and then he’d ‘look at me going back on hrt’. I’m furious and upset and after looking online, see that hrt can actually lower blood pressure. I’ve not even completed my 3 months trial yet 😢😢.
The last 3 months feel a complete waste of time. I’m concerned what the effects of such an abrupt stop will be. I can’t speak to the nurse who originally prescribed the patches until Thursday (and that’s if I can even get an appointment), plus I’m out of patches tomorrow. I take my last patch off tomorrow. I’ve also read that having high blood pressure is NOT a reason to stop HRT. It should just be monitored. I even suggested this to the doctor…..that could I please go away and monitor my blood pressure for a few days but STOP ON the HRT for now. He said no. I have to stop now. Today.
I’m in bits ☹️. My cycle will be messed up totally and by the time I get my HRT back, I’ll have had a 4+ days break, depending on if I even get another appointment this week. Things have been tough over the last few months, but I really felt things were beginning to settle down. Now this!!
Any advice? 😢
Appalling!! I am so sorry. I would ask to speak to the practice manager and explain HRT can lower blood pressure and you urgently need your patches right away! I cannot believe the doctor did this without even understanding anything about menopause. Try to call now while they are open. I wish you luck.
Hi Flossieteacake, thankyou so much for the reply. I did ring the doctors after I got home and had had a little cry and calmed down a bit. She was sympathetic and said that the Meno nurse was back in later this week and to ring to speak to her then. Do you think I should ring again and ask to speak to the practice manager?
I’ve just gone online and ordered a singular pack of patches which are arriving tomorrow. So I feel better about that, but the lack of knowledge from ‘doctors’ is astounding. I’ve read so many articles this afternoon. Some by Louise Newson too, saying that HRT is ok to have if a person has high blood pressure. The annoying thing is, that a lot of us have high blood pressure in the doctors surgery. It’s a known fact. And yes I’m anxious 😥, but that doctor has just made that anxiety 10 times worse.
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The only issue with that is you will not have a patch by the time the meno nurse is back will you? I am sad you had to order your own patches but thank goodness you were able to and I hope they do arrive tomorrow.
I still think it is worth calling the practice manager and letting them know what happened. It caused you such a huge stress and that rude Dr did not even listen to your opinion.
It is very true many have high blood pressure at the surgery and they even call it white coat syndrome. I hope you are feeling okay now. I would have been distraught.
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The only issue with that is you will not have a patch by the time the meno nurse is back will you? I am sad you had to order your own patches but thank goodness you were able to and I hope they do arrive tomorrow.
I still think it is worth calling the practice manager and letting them know what happened. It caused you such a huge stress and that rude Dr did not even listen to your opinion.
It is very true many have high blood pressure at the surgery and they even call it white coat syndrome. I hope you are feeling okay now. I would have been distraught.
Exactly Flossieteacake 👍🏻. I tried explaining that when I rung the surgery…..that Thursday isn’t helpful because I needed the patches today, or tomorrow at the latest. I could almost hear the receptionists shoulders shrugging as I was speaking 😡😔. Things are hard enough as it is, without being thrown curveballs at every opportunity. I have checked my blood pressure a few times since I’ve come home, and it is quite high, but I feel that this is making things worse.
I was (still am) quite distraught. It’s upsetting that I’m having to spend more money to get the help I need. It shouldn’t have to be this way. It’s so hard.
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The only issue with that is you will not have a patch by the time the meno nurse is back will you? I am sad you had to order your own patches but thank goodness you were able to and I hope they do arrive tomorrow.
I still think it is worth calling the practice manager and letting them know what happened. It caused you such a huge stress and that rude Dr did not even listen to your opinion.
It is very true many have high blood pressure at the surgery and they even call it white coat syndrome. I hope you are feeling okay now. I would have been distraught.
Exactly Flossieteacake 👍🏻. I tried explaining that when I rung the surgery…..that Thursday isn’t helpful because I needed the patches today, or tomorrow at the latest. I could almost hear the receptionists shoulders shrugging as I was speaking 😡😔. Things are hard enough as it is, without being thrown curveballs at every opportunity. I have checked my blood pressure a few times since I’ve come home, and it is quite high, but I feel that this is making things worse.
I was (still am) quite distraught. It’s upsetting that I’m having to spend more money to get the help I need. It shouldn’t have to be this way. It’s so hard.
What a terrible day you have had. I really feel for you and feel angry on your behalf. Menopause is hard enough as it is without having this to deal with on top of it. I think you telling the practice manager may be an idea as you deserve an apology and that Dr needs to know what happened is not acceptable.
I would not check your blood pressure any more today, Doodle. You have had a very stressful day so it is bound to be higher then it usually is. Is it possible to do something nice for yourself now? Something that will relax you a little perhaps.
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I’d love a bath. But that’s out of the question 😬🤣.
You’re so kind, thank you so much. I’ll be ok. I suppose we have to be. I am going to complain to the practice manager though. I hate complaining, because I know how hard things must be for the doctors and nurses too, but I feel like I’ve been fobbed off and backed into a corner too many times now. I will make a verbal complaint……if they’d answer the phone 🥴.
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I’d love a bath. But that’s out of the question 😬🤣.
You’re so kind, thank you so much. I’ll be ok. I suppose we have to be. I am going to complain to the practice manager though. I hate complaining, because I know how hard things must be for the doctors and nurses too, but I feel like I’ve been fobbed off and backed into a corner too many times now. I will make a verbal complaint……if they’d answer the phone 🥴.
I know that feeling. I used to have hot baths with bath bombs to relax me. We have to settle for warm showers now. ;)
Do not feel bad to make a complaint. Think how you are helping others as this will happen to them too.
Perhaps watching or listening to something nice and eating something tasty will be a different kind of relaxation. :)
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I’d love a bath. But that’s out of the question 😬🤣.
You’re so kind, thank you so much. I’ll be ok. I suppose we have to be. I am going to complain to the practice manager though. I hate complaining, because I know how hard things must be for the doctors and nurses too, but I feel like I’ve been fobbed off and backed into a corner too many times now. I will make a verbal complaint……if they’d answer the phone 🥴.
I know that feeling. I used to have hot baths with bath bombs to relax me. We have to settle for warm showers now. ;)
Do not feel bad to make a complaint. Think how you are helping others as this will happen to them too.
Perhaps watching or listening to something nice and eating something tasty will be a different kind of relaxation. :)
Ohhh me too. I so miss my ‘Lush’ bathbombs.
That’s a good point about my complaint helping others in the future. I’d never thought of it that way.
SkyMovies have the Twilight Movies playing back to back at the moment. I think I might settle down and watch that tonight. Cheesy viewing I suppose, but I like them 😄.
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I’d love a bath. But that’s out of the question 😬🤣.
You’re so kind, thank you so much. I’ll be ok. I suppose we have to be. I am going to complain to the practice manager though. I hate complaining, because I know how hard things must be for the doctors and nurses too, but I feel like I’ve been fobbed off and backed into a corner too many times now. I will make a verbal complaint……if they’d answer the phone 🥴.
I know that feeling. I used to have hot baths with bath bombs to relax me. We have to settle for warm showers now. ;)
Do not feel bad to make a complaint. Think how you are helping others as this will happen to them too.
Perhaps watching or listening to something nice and eating something tasty will be a different kind of relaxation. :)
Ohhh me too. I so miss my ‘Lush’ bathbombs.
That’s a good point about my complaint helping others in the future. I’d never thought of it that way.
SkyMovies have the Twilight Movies playing back to back at the moment. I think I might settle down and watch that tonight. Cheesy viewing I suppose, but I like them 😄.
Lush was my 'go to' place anytime I wanted a treat. I cannot use any of their stuff now and cannot even smell them without feeling sick. Lol.
Oh yes, you will be helping others and also ensuring the locum Dr does not ruin other peoples day.
That is a great idea! I hope you enjoy them. :)
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Get your self onto the 'phone now and ask for a referral to a dedicated NHS menopause clinic. There are waiting lists for both NHS and private Clinics. Speak to the Practice Manager too.
Good that you have found the reason for the soreness!
High Blood Pressure should not however, be dismissed. I can't remember if you take your readings at home?
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I’d love a bath. But that’s out of the question 😬🤣.
You’re so kind, thank you so much. I’ll be ok. I suppose we have to be. I am going to complain to the practice manager though. I hate complaining, because I know how hard things must be for the doctors and nurses too, but I feel like I’ve been fobbed off and backed into a corner too many times now. I will make a verbal complaint……if they’d answer the phone 🥴.
I know that feeling. I used to have hot baths with bath bombs to relax me. We have to settle for warm showers now. ;)
Do not feel bad to make a complaint. Think how you are helping others as this will happen to them too.
Perhaps watching or listening to something nice and eating something tasty will be a different kind of relaxation. :)
Ohhh me too. I so miss my ‘Lush’ bathbombs.
That’s a good point about my complaint helping others in the future. I’d never thought of it that way.
SkyMovies have the Twilight Movies playing back to back at the moment. I think I might settle down and watch that tonight. Cheesy viewing I suppose, but I like them 😄.
Lush was my 'go to' place anytime I wanted a treat. I cannot use any of their stuff now and cannot even smell them without feeling sick. Lol.
Oh yes, you will be helping others and also ensuring the locum Dr does not ruin other peoples day.
That is a great idea! I hope you enjoy them. :)
Oh no! It’s terrible isn’t it?! I’ve not actually smelt any lush stuff for a while, but my sense of smell is…..different to what it used to be. Much more sensitive. I can smell things that other folk can’t too, which is annoying ;D
Thankyou, and I’m just settling down to watch the films. Mustn’t eat too much crap as I’m doing so though :)
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Get your self onto the 'phone now and ask for a referral to a dedicated NHS menopause clinic. There are waiting lists for both NHS and private Clinics. Speak to the Practice Manager too.
Good that you have found the reason for the soreness!
High Blood Pressure should not however, be dismissed. I can't remember if you take your readings at home?
Hi CLKD, I gave up trying to get through to the doctors this afternoon. I’m definitely not going to let it go though. I’m going to make a verbal complaint to the surgery and progress from there. Then if I can’t get to see the menopause nurse that I saw originally, I’ll ask about a referral. The one I saw originally did seem more sympathetic and open to things and more knowledgeable, and I’m annoyed that I wasn’t seen by her today. I understand that maybe she is off ill, but I would rather they had just cancelled my appointment than seeing the locum I saw today who literally took my blood pressure and then point blank refused to give me another prescription.
I’m not a frequent blood pressure taker, but I have a monitor at home that I bought a few years ago, so I’ve used that today.
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Let us know how you get on.