Menopause Matters Forum

Menopause Discussion => All things menopause => Topic started by: clp10 on May 18, 2023, 07:09:10 PM

Title: Surgical menopause, still bleeding on HRT
Post by: clp10 on May 18, 2023, 07:09:10 PM
I’m in the surgical menopause (no ovaries). I use 150mcg Estradot patches. I had almost continuous bleeding on utrogestan, and then took a v high dose of Provera (progesterone but not hrt) for a few months which was the only thing that stopped the bleeding. Had a Mirena coil fitted as oral progesterone makes me feel dreadful. Getting intermittent bleeding again, even though I thought the coil would stop this. Lining is thin, and gyno doesn’t seem to know what to do with me. Anyone else have this?
Title: Re: Surgical menopause, still bleeding on HRT
Post by: Emma on May 19, 2023, 09:27:10 AM
Surgical menopause, which occurs after the removal of the ovaries, can lead to hormonal imbalances and changes in menstrual bleeding patterns. Managing these changes can be challenging and may require a personalised approach.

Estradot patches contain estradiol, which is a form of oestrogen. They help provide the body with the oestrogen it no longer produces after surgical menopause. However, oestrogen alone can cause the lining of the uterus to grow, potentially leading to irregular bleeding. This is why it's usually recommended to take a progestogen (progesterone or a progestin) alongside oestrogen in women with a uterus to protect the uterine lining from overgrowth.

Utrogestan and Provera are progestogens commonly used to balance the effects of oestrogen and prevent excessive growth of the uterine lining. However, it seems that you experienced continuous bleeding with Utrogestan and required a high dose of Provera to control the bleeding.

The Mirena coil (intrauterine system) contains a progestin called levonorgestrel. It's often used to provide localised progestogenic effect in the uterus and can be effective in reducing or eliminating menstrual bleeding. However, in some cases, it may not completely stop bleeding, especially during the initial months of use. It's also possible for the Mirena coil to become displaced or not be positioned correctly, which could affect its effectiveness.

If you're experiencing intermittent bleeding despite using the Mirena coil, it's important to discuss your concerns with your gynaecologist. They may want to evaluate the placement of the coil or explore other treatment options to address your specific situation. It could be helpful to track your bleeding patterns and symptoms to provide your doctor with more information.