Menopause Matters Forum

Menopause Discussion => All things menopause => Topic started by: Biblese20 on September 03, 2024, 07:44:00 PM

Title: New to HRT for peri, have PCOS and progesterone questions
Post by: Biblese20 on September 03, 2024, 07:44:00 PM
I am 45 and have been experiencing peri- symptoms for a few years that have been worsening so have been prescribed estradiol pessaries and HRT patches (estradot 50) and nightly progesterone. The issue is that I have PCOS which means I rarely ever have periods and I take desogestrel for contraception which seems to have stopped them completely. I've not had a proper period for 6 years but we don't actually know if I am peri or post. I am experiencing PMS type symptoms since starting the HRT and don't know if that's due to the progesterone or if it will just stop. Does anyone have any advice on how to manage this?
Title: Re: New to HRT for peri, have PCOS and progesterone questions
Post by: bombsh3ll on September 04, 2024, 09:02:46 AM
If you tolerate desogestrel well but are getting PMS like symptoms with the progesterone - which makes sense biologically as it is the PMS hormone - an alternative would be to take 2 desogestrel tablets every day for endometrial protection ie 150mcg instead of the progesterone.

This is currently off label but is supported by the BMS based on clinical evidence showing effective endometrial protection. They have information regarding this on their website.

You won't know when you're in menopause (unless you stop all hormone treatment including the pill and wait for the 💩 to hit the fan) but who cares as long as you feel well and have a good quality of life!

Title: Re: New to HRT for peri, have PCOS and progesterone questions
Post by: Biblese20 on September 04, 2024, 09:52:21 AM
Thank you, that's really helpful. I'll definitely look into that.  :)