Menopause Matters Forum
General Discussion => New Members => Topic started by: yogini on March 06, 2010, 05:48:49 PM
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Just wanted to welcome all newbies - I seem to have missed a few over the last few days. Welcome to you all - this is a great Forum. When I found it I thought I was going mad!!! then discovered I was perimenopausal!!
The forum is a great source of strength to so many of us. We can share this journey and all its challenges, and realise we are not going mad and we are not alone!!
I hope you all join in with posting, and gain strength by joining.
Love Yogini xxxxx
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I was told about this website by a GP & share many of your experiences. It's helped me as I really didn't know terrribly much about the Menopause. I knew about flushes and the like but not some of the other things like tiredness, memory loss. I would have been hot-footing it to the GP thinking I was going bonkers otherwise. SO come on all you Newbies share your experiences. :) Someone will always answer your query.
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Welcome from me as well. You are no longer ALONE :tulips:
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hi i'm a newbie and been going through all this weird stuff for about 10 months now, mainly night flushes, mood swings and a touch of anxiety. Started using Serenity cream last month and feel this month a little better. Night sweats have calmed down so am sleeping better.
Can't get over my appetite though, all I want to do is eat which is very strange for me as i've never had a weight problem before. Glad i came across this site. It's good to know that i'm not going mad. Anybody know how long the dreaded meno lasts for
julie61 x ::)
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Julie 61
I think it varies a lot. I've read anything from a few months to several years. I'm hoping it's a few months, but knowing my luck I'll be stuck with it for years to come. ;) ;)
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Welcome - there seems to be more and more ladies joining in! :tulips:
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Hi all you "Newbies"
Hope this Forum helps you feel more positive - it's been a life-saver for me .... I thought I was ready for the "funny farm!"
There's so much info on here that if you sat all day answering threads and reading, you'd get nothing done. It boosts your morale and bolsters you up when you are feeling down - all of us are at some stage of "THE CHANGE" and they don't call it The Change for nothing.
Look forward to your input
Meggie
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I may be away over the weekend so WELCOME to all new users! Browse round, join in, find our 'funny room', ask, ask, ask :tulips:
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I would like to thank everyone for the welcome. I have never ailed so much in my life and it's nice to know that there are so many lovely ladies out there who feel the same as I do. I think I could cope with maybe one thing, but it seems the Menopause has an array of weapons that it likes to test, sometimes all at once. When I say I feel ****, I really do. Mornings are usually my best time, but as I hit teatime and 5 o'clock my jammies are calling and it's all downhill from there. I hate it. I actually gave up wine because I felt worse, the heat my body gave off was unbearable. Since stopping, that seems to have settled, but I still have no energy towards the end of the day. Other symptoms just play around to see which one comes out on top. Thank you for listening. x
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You are very welcome :tulips2: browse round, join in ..........
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:welcomemm: browse round, join in!
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I haven't been around to welcome you all so :welcomemm: :tulips: you'll soon fit in!
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Well - I go away for 2 days and lots of people drop by ;D :welcomemm: browse round, join in .......... we talk about menopause sometimes ::)
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I found this site through Googling Menopause and presto Im here and soooooo glad I have found you!!
So nice to chat and share with other women who understand how you are feeling!!!
Sue :)
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Keep sharing you're very welcome :cheer:
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Hello !
Just found this forum and thought I would post a query as there are so many nice replies on here .
I suffered badly from PMT every month and thought that all things being equal I would be let off lightly when the menopause kicked in- have had it for about 2 years now and am 55.
How wrong I was ! ;D
Have all symptoms with a vengance - flushes , night sweats etc but the one thing that drives me mad is the anxiety, feeling down and inability to manage day to day things like I used to.
Is it possible that progesterone plays more of a big a part in this meno thing than oestrogen? I know it was progesterone that caused the worse PMT.
I am not a fan of HRT ( breast cancer in family) so have tried all the natural remedy things with varying and usually disappointing levels of success.
Thanks to anyone who reads this!
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Hi SilverPixie
:welcomemm:
I think the answer is that no-one knows and it's different for everyone! Sorry!
I'm on HRT and find that the prog. seems to help me the most - same for those ladies who are trying the natural prog. cream. Many others report that it's the prog. part of HRT which causes their problems.
It was the "anxiety, feeling down and inability to manage day to day things like I used to" as well as increased IBS problems which led me to try HRT and it has helped me a lot but I can understand your feelings about it - many others on here feel the same. Can I ask if you know if the breast cancer in your family was hormone-based? If not, it might be worth re-visiting the HRT issue.
Bixby x
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Great to have you all on Board - I went shopping with Hubby yesterday, came back this morning and hey presto! lots more members :welcomemm:
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Join in browse round, ask away ....... :foryou:
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hello one and all
i have just joined the site , and alredy feel tons better. i have realised i am not mad after all ! :)
my gp put me on to menopause matters after i visited her this morning.
i must say after reading one or two post regarding flushes ,feelings,symptoms etc the relief i feel is unreal
i really thought i was cracking up .
anyway i just thought i would say" hello "
looking forward to reading lots more , hope i find my way around the site ok, cos im new to all this and im not very
computer" savvy"
regards
jayne :)
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Hi jayne
:welcomemm:
"I realise I'm not mad after all" - I think that's the most common reaction when we come here for the 1st time - isn't it great? ;D
Bixby x
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hi bixey
thanks for the welcome :thankyou:
yes it is great , your right on that one .
having the mother of all flushes whilst im typing this , but whats new !
as i said before ,im really glad i have found this site ,it makes me feel better knowing that there are others feeling the same
and that its not all in my head !
off to have a cool bath now and put my jimmies on
but i will be back to read up on all the post i have missed
(me thinks im going to be busy)
regards
jayne :)
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Don't forget to check out the "Funnies" - brilliant! ;D
Bixby x
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Hi Jayne :welcomemm:
don't know where any of us would be without this site, it's BRILLIANT, so many lovely ladies on here, they feel like true friends to me even though none of us have met.
enjoy reading all the posts, my fix for the day is coming on this website.
Sandie x
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Hi everyone
I just registered with this site today. I have posted my story in the hi everyone topic. I'm really pleased to have found this site as like all of you i'm sure i will find it a great help.
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Hi Debz - welcome to the forum - you will find lots of support on here.
Taz x :)
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Hi Debz,
:welcomemm:
Sandie x
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Hi Sandie and Taz thank you for the welcome :)
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:welcomemm: :congrats: you've found us ;) browse round, join in .......
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Hi Newbies - A Warm Welcome to you all :bighug:
I joined the Forum in November, around the time when I reluctantly started HRT. Both choices have helped me immensely.
Being part of this group is such a benefit, it's encouraging, interesting, funny and so supportive. There's so much to read.
Enjoy, join in and try not to be too hard on yourselves. We are all different and this site really does help.
As for anxiety issues - I think it's the worst part of the meno.
Looking forward to your input.
Meggie
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I went away for a few hours and hey, the Forum is swarming with new Members :welcomemm: browse round, join in :tulips2:
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WOW! Lots of people new here WELCOME! What will it be like on my return from Suffolk next week ;D - browse round, join in ........ ask, comment, share .......... greet and meet .......... :hapij:
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Hello, I am also a newbie. Have been on Evorel Sequi then Conti for about 3 -4 years now. The conti didnt suit and it caused bleeds so I was advised to cut down to half a patch . I did this and wasnt too bad but now about a month in I feel really lousy. Headaches, anxiety , tearfulness and just generally awful. Saw the doc this morning and she is doing a blood test to check nothing physical going on then might put me on a mild anti depressant to 'get me through it'. I dont want to do this if I can help it but as several fellow sufferers say - you feel like you are going mad ! Any advice gladly welcomed - I just want to get rid of this headache !
The doc said all the symptoms are classic menopausal which didnt really make me feel that much better . :(
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Hi Sue - welcome to the forum :)
I too was on Evorel Sequi and then conti. The conti gave me constant bleeding so I swapped back to sequi as I didn't mind a bleed every month. I was told not to cut a patch in half as the hormones can "leak" out of the cut side and you don't get a full dose.
If you don't mind a bleed every month then I would say ask to go back onto Sequi if it suits you. I am now on Femseven Sequi but am having problems with them sticking. I changed to them due to the pmt effects I had from Evorel which uses Norethisterone.
You may find that a conti patch with a different progesterone in it (other than norethisterone) would suit you better and not cause the bleeding.
Have a good look around the site. You will find support on here and friendship whatever your problems or questions.
Taz x
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Hi Sue
:welcomemm:
Don't forget to check out the "Funnies" - have had me laughing through my tears!
Bixby x
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Hi everyone! I found this site tonight when I was googling vagifem. I wish I had found it a couple of years ago.I have a feeling it's going to transform my life :) Judi
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Hi Cupcake
Another newbie to welcome - yay! :foryou:
Bixby x
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Hi Cupcake
Welcome to a great bunch of women - all trying to get their head around changes in their life. You'll find this a really informative and amusing site - join in and enjoy.
Meggie
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Lots of newbies! :welcomemm: have you found our 'funny' room yet ;)
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New to new threads ........... welcome back !
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Hi. I only found this forum yesterday after months of searching for a good and active one. I'm very glad to have joined. I have urged my daughters and sisters to educate themselves as much as possible about perimenopause and menopause because I had symptoms for years without knowing what was "wrong" with me. The male doctors I saw only treated whatever I went to see them about on the day and never opened my file to put the big picture together. I thought I was either going crazy or dying of something undiagnosed. It was only when I looked up one particular symptom about 7 months ago when things suddenly got really severe that I realised what was going on.
BTW I'm 48 and from Australia. I have already found a great welcome on this forum. Thank you all.
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:thankyou: :foryou:
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Plenty of Info on here, browse round, join in !
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So glad I happened on this site, I'm actually at work but just can't help but keep reading oll the posts........... ;)
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Glad to have you all on board! Browse round, join in ............ share, absorb, find the funny room
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WOW! went off shopping and the place erupts with New Members :welcomemm:
Browse round, join in ............
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Welcome on Board! :foryou:
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Hello to all and thanks to all who have so far posted on my thread (New and Desperate!). I just want to thank you all for this wonderful website/forum. For the first time in a few years....I actually feel more 'normal'
Sending lots of love to you all, fellow 'Menopausians'....yes, yes, I know its not a real word, but call it artistic license :P
Thanks again
Debbie
P.S. Quite enjoying this forum lark...never understood the bloody things before!
:thankyou: :bighug:
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This Forum is easy to navigate unlike some I've been on ::)
If you have a query or concern click the 'search' button [ top left small wh/blue line] and put the word in and it will take you to past threads, add to, join in for support and sharing ......... enjoy the smilies too [press more to find yep, more ;) ] - read the green menu on the left too for advice!
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It is easy to navigate around, well done whoever. But i can't seem to read my sent emails/replies? Anyone know how to do it?? Eddie. x
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do you mean your pm's?
Taz
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Yup. Bet you know! :D
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Don't you go to "my messages" and there they are? You can click on "outbox" for the ones you have sent - although I think you have to tick the box "save to my outbox" when you send a pm? Does that help? Brain is not properly working today.
Taz x
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Yah. Thanks again Taz. :thankyou: Eddie. x
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I probably won't be around much for a while so browse round, join in, share, enjoy the funny room, vent, moan, :)
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I probably won't be around much for a while so browse round, join in, share, enjoy the funny room, vent, moan, :)
Why where are you off to CLKD? ???
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??
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Hope all is ok CLKD. Are you off on holiday ?
Viv
x
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Hubby and I were away on days out, plus visiting his Mother in the hospital; resting, gardening, tidying up ........
Welcome anyone who dropped by whilst I was away :wave:
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Thought it had been quiet :sunny:
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:D
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Missing you, Yogini - hope all is well. :-\
Bixby x
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Welcome new Members. I am dripping in and out of the Forum due to family situation. Browse round, join in .......
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Have you started having the dreaded sweats then CLKD? "dripping in and out of the forum" or have you fallen in your pond? Sorry just trying to raise a smile at what I know is a difficult time :)
Taz x
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You Got It 10/10! ;)
Thank goodness I don't have sweats, already being rushed off my feet and all that!
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I've been away at family matters so WELCOME every newbie :welcomemm: browse round, join in ! :foryou:
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:wave: :welcomemm: can't keep up this week ::)
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Welcome from me too.
Meggie
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And me - been away for a week so will take a while to catch up with everything.
Bixby x
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Hi there..Im a newbie and i am still quite an amatuer in the online laptop business.Im trying my best to get to grip with it.My daughter is a wiz on all things like this and has advised me to join a forum.I need to converse more with all of us out there as i know there are plenty....Im looking foward to hearing from you all in the hope that it will help me cope with my symptoms...
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Welcome! Join in browse round, once you get the hang of where each thread is you'll be FINE!
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Hi Maggie, Nice to meet you, i'm sure you'll feel better now you've found us lot, join in and read loads of other threads, maybe it would be better to print off advice for hubbies, i wouldn't like mines browsing around here if you know what i mean. Eddie. x
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Hi Eddie,
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Thanks for welcoming me as a newbie.Dont worry about hubby coming on to this sit eas he is not what you might say computer wise .If hes looking for anything online it is me who has to find it for him.But i will get some leaflets for him to readWhether hell read them or not is a different matter..Nice to meet you and thanks for the tips...............maggiemeh x
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Whoho I go away for a weekend and the place erupts with Newbies, join in, browse round, WELCOME :foryou: :foryou: :foryou:
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Hi jane
Im like you and i just joined last week,and as like yourself im not quite a wizz on this laptop malarky. but im gettingg better and so will you.I think joining the forum has gave me a lttle more confidence on the laptop because i am using it more.And as an added bonus we will meet lots more ladies wholive in the MENO MODE so we will pick up lots of tips.
Nice to meet you
.......maggie x
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<WAVE>
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:welcomemm: join in, we don't bite ;) share, vent, wonder out loud ..........
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:welcomemm:
HI hope your all feeling good and warm
The sites good fun enjoy ;)
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<waves to Yogini > ;)
wow, lots of newbies :welcomemm: browse round, join in!
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Hello everyone
I'm a newbie too. Pleased to be linked in to you all, and look forward to sharing and learning with you all.
FionaP
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Hi all, I am a newby who has joined a few months ago and I just wanted to say how helpful you lot have been :)
Not only medical problems get solved, but other 'un-mentionables' get talked about as well. A new world has opened up for me and hubby is benefitting as well. He doesn't know what has hit him ;D ;D Result a lot more :bed: fun.
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:clapping: :ola: :parti:
Bixby x
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I would like to wish all lurkers, new members, those that are often a very peaceful festive season. Browse round, join in, we don't bite - be back during the day ;-)
:cupcake:
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Seeing Angel's earlier post brings me to this: if you log in for the first time and don't get a response, yes it can hurt but remember we are all dealing with emotional difficulties - so give us a CHANCE! ;) everyone is welcome to browse round, join in, share and sympathise and there won't be many days when the Forum is quiet.
Also if you are lurking from outside the UK Time Zone then again, give us a CHANCE to catch up! :hug:
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Good point CLKD. Also... as quite a newbie myself, sometimes I see a thread title & look at it, only to find that I have absolutely no experience of the subject so I don't reply. It helps if the title is fairly specific if a poster has a question about a particular problem/medication/treatment etc. We are all in this together and there are some incredibly supportive posters who spend a lot of time & trouble here. :great:
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So sending a " :hug: and someone will be here soon with more knowledge" often helps ;-).
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Hi, I'm new! Just been desperately surfing the net for any information on the menopause and saw this site. I thought I need to join; I need to talk to someone who understandswhat it's like!
.......my story.....despite having had a hysterectomy at the age of 38 this menopause stuff is all very new and scary to me . I'm now 50 and I've suddenly started to have really bad sweats both night and day times (particularly at night so much so I can't sleep in the same bed as my hubby anymore as it disturbs my sleep so much, therefore I'm feeling constantly tired). I have bad mood swings, I cry a lot, I just suddenly feel so 'out of control' in both body and mind.........and extremely low. My joints ache, I find it hard to make decisions for , as for motivating myself......that's so tough. I'm normally really bubbly, I normally go to the gym ( which I know exercise is important) but at the moment I just want to crawl into bed and hide. I put on a brave face for others but I'm really struggling with what's happening to me. I am seeking medical help asap this week but just wanted to make contact with others who have and are going through this process to know I'm not going crazy, because that's what it feels like right now and I don't like the feeling!
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Welcome Kitty! You have found such a great forum. Lots of positive support in so many ways. Even just reading through other threads has been really useful for me, even if I can't give advice. There's lots of members with the same symptoms as you- have a look through the members only sections. Even if the physical symptoms don't go away, it's great knowing that we're all in it together! :) :) :)
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Hi Kitty
:welcomemm:
New members sometimes get missed in the middle of old threads so if you don't get many replies, maybe start a new thread on "New Members." ;)
I presume you only had a partial hyster. if you've only started getiing symptoms recently? All of your symptoms sound very familar - I almost "lost the plot" last year before I started HRT but am fine again now. :) Hopefully the gp will be able to help and advise you but sadly not all of them are well-informed on meno. :beat: It would probably be worth having a look through the Green Menu and some of our posts to get some info in advance. Also, consider writing a list of your symptoms and questions so that if you get a crying jag (which I often did at the doctors! :'( ) or have an attack of meno brain, you can pass over the list. ::)
You'll find lots of support here, so ask any questions, join and and feel free to simply rant if that's what you need to do. :cuss: And do check out the "Funnies" - often had me ;D even as I was :'( !!
Bette x
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Welcome from me too Kitty - rest assured that now you have found this lovely haven things will not seem half as bad. Just knowing that others have experienced/are experiencing the same does help.
Taz x
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Thanks Taz, reading some of the posts if I'm honest as I can see myself and what's been happening to me, taking this first step has been a positive move and I don't feel so alone with this problem now kittyh x
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HORMONES >:( browse round, join in !WAVE!
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Hi guys, just an update........I managed to get appointment with a doctor this morning and have just had a load of blood tests done( including my regular thryoid ones). Having seen the state of me he's just signed me of for two weeks, that has taken pressure off me re workwise. After another disturbed night waking every 40 mins or so until about 4am I was relieved as I really don't feel able to cope with me, let alone dealing with others. We talked it through and have decided to wait to till blood test results are back early next week ( I have another appointment booked Wednesday) to find the right HRT type dose etc for me ...... I'm gonna go for HRT give it a try as I can't keep feeling like this. First step back to some normality hopefully! :) kittyh x
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Well done. It's important at this time of Life to cultivate a working relationship with the Doctor and Practice Nurse ;) - feet up, cuppa in hand ........
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I'm very lucky, we have some great doctors and staff at our practice, I know they will help me make the right decisions and help get me through this, .....oh it's so good to have found this site, just to know I'm not going totally crazy after all!
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:congrats: you've found us! Browse round, join in - if you have questions ask or use the 'search' button top left corner. The kettle's always on ;)
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Thank you. Going to doctors tomorrow for results of blood tests. Feeling so much better than last week, a lot more positive. I've come to terms with myself and the process I'm starting to go through and planning my nest stage of life. :) Been so good to release, to talk on here. I'm going to tell my doctor about this site as i think he should pass the details on to other women like us.
Rebel with a pause that's me now! x
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You could run off the advertising page from the Forum and take a few copies along to the GP Surgery ;)
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Advertising page? ........which bit?
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I knew you would ask and I knew I would forget how to tell you which part ::)
Go to the green menu on the left and press 'home', it will take you to the page from where you can run off the MM poster.
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Thanks CLKD, I found it my doctor knew about the site already bless him, he's a pretty switched on guy. He was really supportive today talked it all through I decided to go on HRT as I need to be able to function in my job. (My FSH was 47 and LH 23)
I've now taken my first pill of PROGYNOVA 1mg.if it works for me great if it doesn't we'll address that prob but for now feeling very positive and more in control of my life again. even though the pills haven't kicked in, but just by taking control myself :D kitty h x
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Being listened to makes a HUGE difference!
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That's great Kitty. That's just how I feel- so much more positive to have spoken to the GP and be trying to get sorted out. Fab!
:medal: Here's a sticker for being brave & going to the doctor.
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Cheers for all the support guys, as I said, just feeling I've got some control back is wonderful!
Aw Thanks Nillers :) kitty x
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I've been away for a few days for various reason so :welcomemm: to any new Members! :tulips:
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Hope all new Members are finding their way round the Forum, joining in, picking up support and advice; don't forget the green menu on the left and our 'funny' room, a giggle helps get us through the day ;)
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PHEW! I go away for 3 days and yet more MEMBERS :welcomemm: hopefully you will soon find your ways around, don't worry if you don't get a response immediately 'cos we have time lapses, memory lapses, topics to talk about - we even discuss meno sometimes :foryou:
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:tulips: :welcomemm: :cheer:
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Welcome to all newbies!
:welcomemm:
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I'm a newbie and want to say hi to all other newbies too :welcomemm:
I've only found this site today and have to say it looks great, it makes me feel like i'm not as crazy as i thought!
The funnies page is sooo funny (guess the clue was in the title of it lol!) and it definitely made me smile!
I'm looking forward to joining in, thanks for having me :thankyou:
CG x
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:welcomemm: browse round, join in, share ....... you are in Good Company ::)
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Hello and THANK YOU!
I am so glad I found this site and as so many have said before me, it is wonderful to know I am not losing my mind! I already feel better....although it is only lunchtime!!! By this evening I wil be knackered again!
Thank you again.
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Hi, I have been looking up this site on and off for a while, but never managed to figure out how to write to anyone!!!!!!!!!!!! I am almost 54, Hit meno at 52 with horrendous sweats day and night (just wrapped in towels) thought I had fever and told by GP hit meno...tried few hrt and ended up with Everol Conti about 18 mths ago. felt a bit hyper but sweats gone in 2 days. Now, goin thru hell with anti-social new neighbours (6 mths). The stress gave me every health scare possible. Gettin to grips with sit but Just got period, tender boobs and the anger is constant!! Just found out from this site anxiety and meno go together!!!
Has anyone tried Everol Conti ? Has anyone suddenly had bad meno sympts after/still takin patches? GP anti drug and wont give me anything just tests which are all normal. (Gosh this sounds like a war and peace novrel...so much to complain about! ).:-*
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Hi aby
:welcomemm:
Is this period the 1st one since you started Everol Conti? If so, it probably counts as an "unexpected bleed " and you should check it with the gp. It could be down to the stress you've been under but would be best to make sure. How long were you period-free before you started HRT?
Bette x
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>:( Hi Betty. Thanks for reply to my post this morning......chaged name and e-mail and still struggling to figure out how to work this site!!!. Not got kids, but think every woman in 50s should have a 20 yr old to help them with gadgets!!
Not first show since on Everol Conti, but longest and never had sore boobs B4. Think it is stress as had severe chest pain and stomach pains for months - all checked out now and normal. Doc anti pill but gosh the constant anger is killing me and the depression. Never knew about anxiety being part of meno but lookin back realise Ive had it for years.
Goin to docs now ... Thanks for reply. R U on HRT? Do you get anxiety? ???
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Hi Larky
Dont understand all the symbols. is it poss to remove a post ? managed to delete and become a guest but not delete post!!! :-\
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Hi Flower
Sounds to me as if Everol Conti might not suit you. The progesterone in it cause pmt symptoms in quite a lot of ladies and sounds like you might be one of those! Also, if you try a different one maybe you won't the bleeds.
Anxiety was one of my worst symptoms pre-HRT, although I started it for physical symptoms, not really thinking it would help the anxiety - which appeared for the 1st time a couple of years ago. I was still having periods (I was 49) so am on a sequi HRT which means I still get periods. Thankfully, all my symptoms are much improved, including the dreaded anxiety.
Bette x
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... think every woman in 50s should have a 20 yr old to help them with gadgets!!
I got one of them gadget-people, indispensable, worth her weight in gold.
Welcome Flower, you made me think of Bambi and Thumper, thank you!
(http://www.smileyvault.com/albums/emoticons/object/object-emoticon-0060.gif) (http://www.smileyvault.com/)
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I'll be away for a few days! Welcome to anyone who sneaks a peek here, browse round join in - most of your worries/concerns will be here somewhere, do a 'search' for the topic and add your penny-worth ;)
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Nice to have you all on Board!
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So glad Ive found this site, took a while before I had courage to join in, and then I think I made a mess of it at first :-\ , With all the messages I'm receiving I do feel there is hope now, whereas I was feeling so alone :'(. I have had a real shock as to how many different symptoms can be caused thro meno, but now I have read up - and boy how I've read, I feel I can go to G.P. with a bit of confidence - which I seem to be lacking in lately, and ask for help with H.R.T. Well done, and a very big Thankyou :)
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You are very welcome :tulips:
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Thankyou Larky, love the detail you,ve got on your replies. How do you do it. x
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:welcomemm: the more the Merrier ;-)
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Hi, I am amazed. I have been suffering from joint aches and pains for nearly a year now. I found the thread on here about joint pain through a search for- I can't remember what- :P and was amazed to realise my pain could be down to the menopause. I am 47 and I think I have just missed a period (memory is going, can't remember when the last one was) but as up until now they have been normal, although shorter, I didn't think I was menopausal although I have been having the most tremendous hot flushes lately.
Is there anyway of knowing if I am ie blood test or something?
Thanks and looking forward to wandering around the rest of the forum.
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Hi Liblob :welcomemm: (great name by the way)
You will find lots of help and support on here and as the day goes on and you read more you will be saying to yourself "That's meno?" and "Yep I have that sympton too"
You will be in peri at the moment which is the eight to ten years leading up to meno. The normal meno age is 51 so peri starts, usually, somewhere in your mid forties. Lots of us on here have found that it is when the period begin to get less frequent then the hot flushes begin as the body tries desperately to get the ovaries to ripen and release an egg. The main blood test is called the FSH test. FSH stands for follicle stimulating hormone. In a fertile woman this is around 7 or 8 and anything over 25 is seen to be peri or meno. It is very unreliable though when you are in the early stages of meno as the hormones can fluctuate so wildly.
It may be a good idea to just go along to your gp to get your aches and pains checked out. My GP says that we should never just put new symptoms down to our age. I found that I had bad joint pains when I had become anaemic but struggled on with it for ages before actually going and having a blood test.
Taz x
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Hi Liblob
:welcomemm:
Taz has said it all - go to the gp and get things checked but don't bother with the hormone level test! Many gps don't do them and prefer to go by symptoms and yours certainly do sound like peri.
You might like to introduce yourself on a new thread in "New Members" as newbies sometimes get missed in the middle of existing threads and others will want to welcome you.
Lots of info and support here - and laughs. Do check out the "Funnies." ;D
Bette x
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Hi Taz and Bette, I have been going to the Drs about my aches and pains. She referred me to a Rheumatologist and Endocrine consultant, as my thyriod keeps going over and under. Thyroid man thinks just a virus and it will sort itself out rheumatologist thinks all my probs are cos of the thyroid.
After reading the other thread I have made an appointment to see my Dr to discuss meno but unfortunately cos of work cant see her til the 12th May.
I would just love to able to walk when I get out of bed, to climb the stairs without pulling myself up by the bannister, to sort my house out cos work takes it all out of me and nothing left when I get home.
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I was like that before HRT Liblob.
Taz x
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Lots of new Members, welcome! Join in find the 'funny' room you're amongst friends :congrats:
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I've been poorly since Wed morning so am back to :welcomemm: - nice to see new Members, you'll soon fit in and there is a 'funny' room ;) :foryou:
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Hi to all, I'm a newbie too. Googled menopause and up you popped, that was only a couple of days ago and I feel so much better all ready. I think every gp should know about this site.
Liblob, I'm going through tests for Rhuematoid Arthritis at the mo. I did put my fatigue down to the meno but never thought joint pain could be that. Seems my gp or Rhuematologist never thought of this either because neither one has suggested it. At least if my tests come back negative I'll be able to say maybe this is what's wrong. Dr's won't think its in my head.
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It is rarely 'in our heads' >:( but it is common for Medics to give that opinion when they can't find a reason! Browse round, join in !
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Welcome .............
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:WAVE: :welcomemm: join in, we don't bite ;)
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Hi everyone so glad I found this site . I'm not going mad after all ::) Thankyou for welcoming me , nice to meet you all :)
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Join in ! Have a look-see at the 'funny' room
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Hi I am new to this site and don't know my way around yet I wanted to ask for help with my menopause symtoms :-\
I have been taking Pempak for a few years and my symtoms came back now I've started using Climagest I have been on it voming up to 3 months but I don't think it agrees with me does anyone have any ideas I could try????
Please
Many thanks for a great site
Vstewx
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Hi vstew62
:welcomemm:
You'll probably get more replies if you start a new thread in "New Members" but don't worry as it takes us all a while to find our way around. ;)
If you look in the Green Menu under "HRT Preparations" you'll find all the different HRTs listed. You can compare what the different ones contain - you may be best trying one with a different progesterone. What side effects are you getting? It sounds as if you're on a peri regime - can I ask how old you are?
Bette x
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Hi vstew, good to have you aboard, as Bette said put a post on new members, we all love looking there to give new members a great welcome. Someone will always reply to you, -we're a great bunch, and we care. If you are new to forum's - ask or scream and we'll come running to help. Noticed you,ve stuck to using Climagest for 3 months and you are still vomiting, umm maybe it does not agree with you. We are here for you.
jenny
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I think that's a typo and she meant "coming" not "vomiting", Jenny! ;D
Bette x
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Sorry but COMING, not VOMITING really tickled me, first time I have laughed in weeks :)
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:rofl:
I must learn to re-read my posts before I press "send." Mind you, it's worth it for the laugh!
Bette x
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Hi Girls,
Thanks so much for your kind replies
Sorry for not replying sooner I had to go out. I am 48years old 49 soon but seemed to start peri when I was 43yrs although I controlled things well with Black Cohosh and St Johns Wort. My symptoms got much worse 3 years ago I started to get hot flushes and dreadful anxiety Doctor put me on Prempak 0.65 which didn't help so upped dose to 1.25 and this worked fine until last winter when the palpitations fuzzy head and depression as well anxiety started again so I asked for a higher dose and she put me on climagest 2mg which has given me bad PMT and spotting between periods I also don't feel that great yet (still have mild symptoms )this is my 3rd month on it shall I give it longer or do you think something else might suit me better
Thank you so much in advance I'm so glad I found this site I don't have much support my poor husband dosen't understand and I hate burdening him with feeling lousy so much THANKS again xxx ;)
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Hi vstew62
First of all, have you seen this thread? You might like to show it to your husband.
http://www.menopausematters.co.uk/forum/index.php/topic,2458.0.html
Climagest contains Norethisterone which is notorious for PMT symptoms. Several ladies on here have had success with Femoston which contains Dydrogesterone whihc is meant to be a "kinder" progesterone. It comes in 1 and 2 mg - in fact, I'm starting the 2mg one today!
They suggest trying each type for 3 months so if you're not settling on it, maybe it is time to try a different one.
You'll find lots of support here so browse round and join in. Plenty of laughs too - do check out the "Funnies." ;D
Bette x
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This site has been a life saver for me. I was starting to think that I was going totally mad. Every day when I told my husband about my latest symptom I saw his eyes glaze over and that look of "what next" xx
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Thanks Susan and Bette for your advice Femoston seems a good choice you mentioned the Gel is that the estrogen with a progesten tablet does that work how do you apply?
Thanks :)
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Welcome to all new members - I've been away intermittently and am finding it hard to keep up! Browse round, join in ! :foryou:
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Welcome to all Newbies from me too.
I've been out of circulation for a while and it's nice to be back.
Meggie
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(http://bestsmileys.com/welcome/9.gif) to all Newbies from me too!
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Welcome back Meggie and Hi to all newbies : browse round, join in!
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;) Hello everyone, and welcome to all the newbies.
Im quite new on here, and must say this forum has been a life saver for me, i dont have a mum to talk to about my meno symptoms, and my friends havent reached their menopause yet, so i feel quite alone.
Then i found menopausematters, thank God! It has helped me so much, getting the help and advise from kind understanding ladies.
Just like to say Thank You.
xxx
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<waves>
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Hi Everyone, I'm a newbie and found this site last week when I was at a very low point and desperatey searching for help. I just wanted to say what a fab site, the best I've found for peri and menopause and all the wonderful stuff that goes with it ??? I've realised that I'm now well and truely peri. For about a year now I've thought I was going mad and then the night sweats, hot flushes and chills really set in, I wasn't getting any sleep and just when I thought I couldn't go on I found this site. So many lovely kind people all willing to share and help, and lots of really useful info. I'm reluctant to go down the HRT route and for now I'm trying natural remedies, though I seem to be taking quite a lot of different things. I've lots of reading to catch up on here on this lovely forum and hope to help out when I can be of use!
best wishes to you all. Kx
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Hello KC and :welcomemm:
I too felt I was going bonkers before I found this site, that was 6 years ago and I still feel bonkers but realise now that I'm not alone ;D. Hope you find lots of help and support.
Sleepless
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<waves to sleepless> how's you?
I'm away for a while: anyone peeking in, browse roudn, join in, we don't bite ;) and we sometimes talk about menopause!
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Shows how popular we are - this thread is 12 pages long ;)
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Join in, the more the merrier. :welcomemm:
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Hi Mrs P
Here's a big purple thanks to you...well...in black type...and not really that big...because I can't work out how to change the size and colour...still, it's the thought that counts isn't it, ha ha!
Love, JoJo.
:ola:
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Now that's just showin' off, lol - love it!!
I'm not sure if this will work, but...
:lol:
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Nope, didn't work - my grand plan fell a bit flat...typical...the story of my life...
Lol, JoJo
Xxxxx
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Yay - well done!
When you post, look above the box you're typing in and you should see dropdown menus for "Font Face", "Font Size" and "Change Color". Highlight a passage, hold down Ctrl and C and then click on the action you want to do. Sorry if I've not explained it very well - I'm not much of a techie! :worm:
Bette x
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Thanks, Mrs P and Bette
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YAY, for gold stars!! Y'all may regret teaching me how to do this now, Ha!
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We're a riot of laughs here, between the meno problems ::)
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Hi CLKD,
Laughs are good; I'm remembering slowly how it's done! Someone told me it's good for the facial muscles too which is great news for me as the wrinkles have kicked in and I have the facial expression of a depressed bloodhound!
Nice to "meet" you CKLD ;D
Love, JoJo x
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Happy New Year!
:welcomemm: we're a great bunch of gals, full of experiences and sympathy and we don't spit or bite ;). There's even a funny room which usually brings a smile to the face :D.
Browse round, join in, ask away. Don't be afraid, most subjects are here - if in doubt do a search for the symptom or ask right out loud!
:congrats: on finding us. :great:
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:welcomemm: :congrats: you are no longer alone!
Browse round, join in ............ :yes:
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:welcomemm: to all those joining in! Don't be afraid to ask away, use the 'search' button and the menu left of screen. We don't bite ;)
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Thank you ???
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You're welcome - we have a 'funny' room too which can usually lift a smile on the bleaker days ;)
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Hi again everyone!U know what-after reading through all the new messages today i've realised that many of us are so similar.I thought it was just me that felt fairly normal first thing in the morning but as the day wears on i start to feel like a different person( a real jekyl and hide), its like someone a flipped a switch and mrs nasty surfaces-isnt it just fab being female!!!!
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:welcomemm:
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:'( hi reckon I'm new to the forum. 4 years into menopause madness though. Have tried toughing it out but having been told I have vaginal atrophy to add to 100 hot flushed a day and soaking night sweats feel so low. Posted in the wrong place earlier - gently re directed here. HELP !! ???
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Hi Loony - welcome to the forum from me!
You have found the right place - things wont seem so bad now you have us lot to chat to and laugh with and commiserate with and, if I may say so, your choice of forum name shows that you will fit in perfectly!
Have you considered HRT - it sounds as if life is miserable for you at the moment. I found that HRT was the only thing that sorted out my VA and made life so much better. Do you mind me asking how old you are?
Taz x
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Thanks for the welcome I am 52 have heard so many hrt horror stories not sure about it. :D
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Most of the "horror stories" are based on old, now de-bunked - research, loonylady. There's lots of good, factual info in the menu on the left and also in the "Leaflets" section in the top menu. Obviously, HRT isn't for everyone but many of us on here have found that it's given us our lives back. :)
Bette x
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:welcomemm: have a good look round, read the menu on the left of screen, find the 'funny' room ;) - kettle is always on !
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:) thanks for the welcome. Found this site whilst researching for some self help. Got a brilliant gp v v v understanding & has seen m thru dark times. Has prescribed vagifem & ovestin so will give it a go. Feel better knowing I no longer have y grin n bear it all. Gp thinks atrophy could be causing ligament pains in pelvic area so may improve with this medication. He wants to see me in 4 weeks so watch this space. Brain feels better already!
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That's good news! Onwards and upwards ;)
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:welcomemm: have been away !
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Hi,
This is my first posting, I have bee lurking and reading for a while.
I am 47 and really not sure what my title is yet, I have been experiencing perimenopausal symptoms for probably most of my fourties, brain fog being the worst originally. Since January this year I have had no period, and I have severe hot flushes up to 10 times a day, and 4-6 night sweats a night, I am also expereiencing urge incontinence, which seems to be worse some days more than others, mood swings and lack of interest in life in general, no sex drive ( husband not happy, but very understanding) also feel like I could just stay at home all the time and go nowhere.
Last week I started using Serenity cream and Sage leaf tablets, I also made an appointment to see my Dr. as I was at the point of despare and willing to try HRT despite my concerns in its safety and side effects.
Well my appointment was on Thursday last week and I had started the Serenity and Sage on the Monday.
By the time I went to my Dr my hot flushes were down to 2-3 a day and only one night sweat, plus only getting up once to go the toilet which is great for me.
I showed my Dr all the information about Serenity cream and told her I am trying Sage, she said great, if it is working for you keep going with it and see how you go, but obviously if it doesn't continue to work then HRT would be the next thing to try.
I am going back to see her today as I want to try the tablets she mentioned to help relax my bladder on the days it plays up as it is so awful to suddenly need to wee and if you don't get straight to the loo you start to wet yourself! :(
Well that's me and where I'm at x
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Hi Lisajp
:welcomemm:
This is from the menu on the left:-
SAGE This herb can be taken as a tea or as an extract to help with hot flushes. There are studies ongoing into its effectiveness but does seem to have a regulating effect on hormones. Caution with HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE and if taking TAMOXIFEN
Hope that it works for you. ;)
Let us know how you get on with the gp; I'm sure that there'll be other ladies keen to hear about those tablets!
Bette x
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Sorry you may read this twice - posted on main board - did not realise there was a newbies thread
Hi, lovely to finally become a member (kept forgetting my password, is this a sign of menopause )
Like probably most people on this forum I am finding some conditions I seem to be having all of a sudden hard to deal with and put it down to the menopause.
Briefly around July of last year - my gyno found I had Ovarian Cancer after having one ovary and FT removed - I went on to then have a radical hysterectomy which removed pretty much everything around that area (did not loose weight, strange you would think they weighed something ) Anyway that was four months ago and no more treatment needed - as the cancer was found early and had not spread - how very lucky was I.
It is difficult for me to know for certain when I get a condition I do not understand - is it the healing after the hysterectomy - is it the menopause - is it because I have been affected by having cancer. Unfortunately or fortunately (I know there is a debate on good v bad) but I cannot take HRT because of the cancer.
My most immediate worry is that 4 times since the op I have had bouts of sickness - I spoke to my oncologist who assured me it would be nothing to do with the OC. Therefore I am either thinking it is because they took the lining of my stomach so maybe need to look at what I eat or it is a sign of the menopause.
Your ideas or past experience would be a great help to me
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Replied on your other thread, suzykeens. ;)
Bette x
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I will be in and out with Himself for a few days so :welcomemm: - don't lurk, join in ! :foryou:
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:welcomemm: lovely to have new Members on board. Browse round. We talk about meno sometimes ;) ::). Read the menu on the left of screen, we have a humerous room and lots to share and discuss! :tulips2:
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Love it Mrs P ;D
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I can't keep up!
:welcomemm: to anyone lurking, joining in, browsing - we don't bite, kettle is always on, even with a time delay through the various World zones someone is usually here ;)
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I am also a newbie 8) ... Came across the site by browsing... Its a great site... Wish i had come across it 2 years ago... When my G.P would not take me seriously and i thought i was going mad...
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Glad to have you on Board!
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hiya all wrote on here a couple of week ago glad i did u ave helped so much,but just wondering does anyone else get really stiff shoulders with afuzzy head feeling and my neck feels warm as well not had this before only had it the last couple of days on and off through the day but it really knocks me wierd anyone can help me please :)xx
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Hi lollipop,
Welcome to the forum, I've had fuzzy heads, but not warm neck but really hot face every now and then, I'm on HRT patches now have been for seven months, most of the systems have disappeared now, but I have also been diagnoised with ms silent migraine and yesterday under active thyroid. I will be starting medication for the thyroid any day now just waiting for the prescription from doc.
There are so many menopause symptoms over 30 I believe and they are very similar to thyroid and ms talk about confusing.
Do you get any head pain, or is it painless or maybe feels like a tight band around your head, or is it you can't think straight or concentrate .
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Lollipop - post in the main thread areas or your query will get lost ;)
You can do a 'search' too top right hand side of screen.
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Hi lollipop get the weird head feelings my neck gets warm usually at the start of an hot flush, and for the stiff shoulders most of the time then again they go with my other stiff achey areas :)
Cazza xx
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:welcomemm: with all the jolity of last week I haven't had the opportunity to wave welcome to you all - browse round, join in! Kettle is always on. I miss Yogini who began this thread :-\ - hopefully she drops by occasionally ;)
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holiday never = wasted time ;)
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:welcomemm: join in! We're a great bunch of Gals ;) ........... we talk about most issues, including Menopaus[e] 8)
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<wave Mrs P >
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Just popped in to see how the Newbies are getting on - hope this forum is helping and keeping you sane.
Meggie
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<wave Meggie > :foryou:
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Welcome every one, if you are lurking join in - if you need advice, support, a giggle and a cuppa here's the place!
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I've been away watching the Olympics and there are lots of new 'faces' :congrats: you have found us - :welcomemm:
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WOW - what a difference a week makes.
:welcomemm: we really don't bite. Browse round. We have a funny room for the really bad days ;) and the kettle is always on. There is a search button and the menu on the left of screen has useful advice etc..
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You will see a list of menus on the left of screen which have useful advice, FAQ etc. and you may well find that your symptoms and problem/s are already discussed in the Forum. Browse round, use the search button and ask, ask, ask ;) ..........
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This website is brilliant so glad i found it. :-* ;D
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:thankyou:
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Thankyou so much, lovely ladys. :)
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Browse round all you newcomers, welcome on Board ......... kettle is usually on ..........
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Well I've been away - dipping in and out of here as time allows
:welcomemm: anyone lurking, come on in - kettle is always on and we don't bite ;) - browse round, join in!
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:welcomemm: join in, browse round, we don't bite ;)
We do have a funny room which can lift the heart too ........... if you can't see what you want do a 'search' or ask the question!
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So many new members, you are amongst others going through similar situations. Join in. We don't bite ;)
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USING TESTO GEL AND SANDRENA GEL; SHOULD I ALTERNATE SITES? ALSO TETS RESULST BA
« on: Today at 08:45:03 AM »
hi i am new need advice... using both these and have been putting sandrena on left thigh and testogel on right every day...had my levels tested 3 months later and tstosterone is still 0.3 which is what it was when started? maybe i need to alternate the site? anyone know? also latest estriodol level is <100 anyone know what this means? and progestone was 14..( am on 100mg uterogestan caps) si that level ok?
thanks
fliss
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If you put this in 'other health discussions' area? Someone will be along!
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Welcome new members. We don't bite. Browse round, join in :foryou: - I can't keep up and welcome you all individually ::)
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Lovely to see lots of new faces! :welcomemm: .... ask away, no query is too small ;)
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:welcomemm: It's great to see so many members here getting support! Ask away, we don't bite ;). The menus left of screen are useful and the search button can take you to topics, i.e. anxiety threads, you will see you are not alone!
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Join in! Ask away. No question is too embarrassing or 'silly' ;)
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More Members - :welcomemm: we have lots of info left of screen in the menus; if you use the search facility to ask questions; we also have a humerous room for when all else fails ;-) :great:
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Great to see you all On Board! Browse round, ask away .......
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Welcome! Glad you are aboard. Ask anything you like, use the menu left of screen and there is a search button ....... if you have a joke to share, please do!
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:welcomemm: all you newbies!
Join in where and when you can.
We have a one word and a three word game going.
Can be fun.Give it a go!
How am I doing CLKD? ;D
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:clapping: absolutely fine! :thankyou:
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I was away for a few days - full of anxiety the week before :-\ but fortunately OK whilst camping.
Browse round; read the menus left of screen; ask away <wave>
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WELCOME! browse round ............
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I went away for 2 days and LOTS of new Members : :welcomemm:
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Welcome New Members! so much to read here, especially the menu - left of screen. Use the search button for any medication you need a guide with and we have a 'funny' room too ;)
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The power of the media ::)
Join in, browse round ……… read the menus left of screen - we have a funny room too!
If you need to know about your symptoms - use the search button above the MM banner, type in one symptom and you will see previous threads. Most and everything has been discussed!
Someone will be along but we do have a time lapse for anyone from over-seas ;)
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I just want someone to talk to .. :'(
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Lots of us here for a chat.
Why don't you introduce yourself in the new members section and then we can welcome you properly.
Your post may get lost in amongst this one and we like to say hi to all the new members.
Honeyb
x
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:hug: you talk away. Scan through the threads, if you can't see your symptoms put them into the 'search' button and threads will pop up!
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I'm latest recruit. Unsure if I can help, but think I will learn a lot. It seems we all live expecting, dreading this time. I've dreaded it. Thought because ive a lot of soya in my diet, for the past five years, mum was in 50,s. It wouldn't be just yet. But it decided to arrive just as I married at the end of December. Loss of libido on honeymoon was challenging. But loss of libido isn't horrendous in the scheme of things. So far, restless nights and hot glows are here. I've inherited high cholesterol
, so just recently was started on statins. My other great fear. Both arrived at the same time. Statins are a life saver but I've worked hard to avoid them, maintaining slim figure deliberately, but its not worked. Feel quietly full of fear, menopause, cholesterol, effects of menopause on my heart...mum died aged 53 of sudden cardiac death, did it contribute? Its all a bit much all at once. No females to discuss with. Be interesting to see what your all experiencing. Libby
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Hi libbyloo
:welcomemm:
Sorry to hear about your worries and of course losing your mum at a relatively young age is sad and naturally you would be worried.
You haven't said how old you are or, or whereabouts on the meno joruney you are ( in terms of periods, symptoms etc). Why not introduce yourself in the newbies section with a new thread and ask anything you want and we will try to help?
Sounds like you are doing the best thing you can to keep yourself healthy eg re body weight and I am sure also you will be following your doctor's advice re keeping healthy generally. I think some aspects of high cholesterol are genetic rather than due to diet although I haven't looked into it?
On a more cheery note, my next door neighbour is 73, also has high cholesterol (for some time) takes statins and goes to the same two exercise classes each week that I do, and is always going off on holiday, abroad - keeps fit and active - and is obviously well post-menopausal! She is very healthy and tries to keep herself that way, so as long as you are doing the best you can for yourself and to try to feel positive about it - that is what matters... but sometimes easier said than done!
Hurdity x
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According to recent reports in the news and papers Drs will be prescribing more statins.
On 12 February 2014 there was various press coverage like this...
http://www.channel4.com/news/statins-cholesterol-pill-drugs-health :-
Millions of Britons already take statins, but many more could now be prescribed the cholesterol-lowering drug in a bid to prevent heart disease.
Lubylou
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Drug companies pushing again ::) …………….
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From what I understand taking statins does not help women at all. I would never advise, so check out Dr John Briffa's blog and Dr Malcolm Kendrick . More health professionals are now questioning the cholesterol story and statins.
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:congrats: you have found us! Browse round, join in, share experiences - read the menus, left of screen. You are no longer alone!
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Thankyou Hurdity.......for reply. I am 49. Very simple cycles all my life, been fortunate. I got married 8 weeks ago, my libido flatlined :'(. Then very warm glows arrived, restless nights. Early early days for meI, nearly logged out after reading what many women are Suffering. But my short sightedness, has been corrected by great encouragement from this forum that I may be able to bring something to the forum and as time goes by I Will need it more than I do now. In just two days, I've read awesome tips. Omega oils sound incredible, vitamin d. My personal thing I'm fairly hot on and I think its crucial, is fitness. For me keeping control of my weight, is my way of coping with life. Losing my mum aged 53, triggered that almost obsession in me. But its balanced and I think will aid in coping with this new dawn in my life. If I can give any support to anyone, it would be the power in fitness, it unlocks many things we can be slave to. Little tiny steps towards it for anyone who struggles with that area, its daunting but exciting too. Libby :-*
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:thankyou:
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My body makes too much cholesterol, the condition caught my mum out aged 53, extremely young. So, although it isn't ideal. I'm horrified to be on it. I don't do tablets. I'm from the self heal brigade and fully endorse that. But for me at present until another alternative is available, nasty statins have brought my cholesterol down to where it should be. I can't risk it at 49. Now to understand more about this menopause business........💒💒
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Thanks for the update.
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OK Girls! <wave> I'm off for a few days (see holiday 2014 thread) so do join in , browse round, ask questions …. no query is taboo here !
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I seem to have missed several newbies this week - browse round, join in :welcomemm: no need to lurk, no need to worry about thread topics, ask away!
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Hi everyone, eventually got my butt in gear and had a right good browse around. Wish I'd done this months ago. I'm 41 and been struggling to get my head round this menopause carry on. I'd been suffering for months with the dreaded night sweats, irritability lack of concentrations and couldn't accept what my GP was saying when he said early menopause. I was referred to hospital for a bone scan and consultation to discuss HRT. I was given Elleste Duet which lay in the cupboard for months, but in January I decided enough was enough, I was really suffering and was advised the benefits of HRT outweighed the risks. My main fear was weight gain. After loosing 5.5 stone on WW I was terrified of going back to a big size. I've been on HRT for 4 months now and I can honestly say I would give it 9/10. My weight has remained unchanged, but I still get rather irritable at certain times of the month. Has anyone else experienced this with Elleste Duet 1 mg. My GP has suggested changing my prescription to Prempak C, however I have read some not very nice reviews about this 1. Anyway nice meet everyone. I hope someone out there can share their experiences with Elleste Duet v Prempak C.
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Your irritability may stem from the progesterone in Elleste. The best HRT in tablet form with the kindest progesterone is Femston is really fantastic I started off on that one. Lots of women on this web site swear by it too.
The Norethisterone in Elleste is notorious for side effects. Years ago I took to delay a period for an exam its awful stuff. I had raging PMS from it, never again.
Prempak oh yuck its made horse wee those poor horses. Just tell your GP you have ethical objections to Prempak that is what I said to my old GP (to stop her suggesting it). It was written in my notes I have ethical objections to it. :)
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Hi Ellie
Read your last post re femeston.
I know some hrt are made as you say from horse wee. How do we know which ones are more ethical? Would like to find out more? Where would i get this info from?
I have just started on livial so need to see how it goes.
Thanks Linsey
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Its anything beginning with "Prem" that are the horse ones, the others are ethical. You should have difficulty reject the "Prem" on ethical grounds. Just tell your GP no on ethical grounds. They are also the oldest HRT and the least safe. There are much better alternatives.
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Thanks Ellie that give me an idea of where to start reading
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Hi DIANEJ
Hurdity x :welcomemm:
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:welcomemm: :great: browse round!
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This is a nice thread really welcoming thanks. I got my entrance ticket today and am now looking round to decide what to look at first
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<wave> ……. we have a 'funny' room too, sometimes we even talk about menopause ;)
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To any new members that I have missed and have not greeted - :welcomemm: (I have just found this banner and wanted to use it ) :)
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Hi - I joined this forum a while ago whilst researching menopause.
My main problem is hot flushes and night sweats. I have tried every phytoeostrogen and herbal supplement out there over the past six months. No help whatsoever. As a last resort as I feel so rotten I saw my GP this am who commenced me on Elleste Duet. I explained I was a bit worried about the side effects of HRT as I used to suffer severe PMT symptoms for two weeks of every cycle. Therefore I am a bit surprised that she has put me on a higher dose tablet? Anyone any ideas on this? and how long does it usually take to kick in? All I want is 8 hours sleep! Currently awake at 03.30 every morning drenched!
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Hi kimmyfish
:welcomemm:
How old are you and have your periods begun to be irregular? The further into peri-menopause you get the more predictable the results from HRT are as your don't have your own cycle to contend with.
Some women find they react to some of the progestogen types in some of the HRT preparations but others are fine. Equally some women are fine with tablets, others prefer patches or gel HRT. If you do feel bad during the second half of your cycle on this type of HRT then there are others to try, and also the possibility of referral to a menopause clinic if there is one in your area - but first things first - the best thing is just to try it and see. Many women find it works farily quickly in reducing flushes - it did for me but I used patches.
Hopefully others will be along with their experiences too!
What dose have you been put on?
Good luck and keep us posted
Hurdity x
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Welcome Kimmyfish
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Hi everyone, I'm a newbie. This is my background...
I am now 38 but when I was 36 (after a lifetime of regular cycles) totally out of the blue I went 6 mths without a period. After the first two missed cycles, I went to see my GP who ran bloods. He said FSH was a bit high so we should redo in 6 mths and take from there. As we were hoping to have another baby (and had an inkling my fertility wasn't right) I insisted on being referred to a specialist instead of waiting. There, I had the AMH test and was told, still at 36, that my fertility was so low it hadn't even registered - less than 1% and that IVF wasn't even really an option. We tried 3 or 4 goes of Clomid but as my periods were then intermittent I didn't really know when/if I was ovulating, so nothing came from it. I should say at this point my mum was in her late 30s when her periods started to end.
So last year, about 3 mths after being told I was infertile due to prem meno, I was made redundant. It all took a massive toll on my nerves and I have battled with anxiety now for around 18 mths. But this past week my anxiety has felt different...whereas in the past I have been somewhat able to deep breathe or distract myself through tense moments, now it comes on so instant and so quickly like the flick of a switch but most notably is that as soon as I feel anxious I get incredibly hot. I then feel dizzy and get headaches (which I've never suffered from). So now I don't know whether this is even related to prem meno or it's just the latest development in my anxiety. I have also been crying loads these past few days. Interestingly, I began using an app on my tablet when I was having periods to try to work out ovulation, and it still tells me when things are due to happen so I looked at it today out of curiosity and if I were still having periods, today would be three days into a period so that then got me thinking maybe I'm feeling so bad because hormones have gone haywire due to absent period??
I've booked a GP appt later today as I have sadly had to admit to myself that if this cr@p is happening without a job, how the hell would I manage to go to work with it? So I feel if I can have maybe 6 mths of financial support and have one less huge worry, I maybe able to focus on managing the anxiety and getting better with treatment/support. I tried Prozac after the redundancy and lasted about 10 days on it as I hated the feeling it gave me as if I were numb and almost out of body experience! But now I don't know whether to approach it from an HRT point of view or general anxiety.
Other than the anxiety, I've noticed other on and off symptoms...the condition of my hair has rapidly deteriorated, low sex drive, bizarrely one side of my face seems to have lost its shape!, I had a phase where I could feel my pulse all over my back when it was against anything!, noticed an extra tyre developing above my tummy area!, loads of aches in knees arms etc, bit of IBS, massive lethargy, when I did have periods they were incredibly heavy, obv not being able to have another baby is a massive blow, but apart from that...!!! I just wonder now if this heat when anxious is the start of flushes? But that doesn't really seem to make sense...from what I've read, the flushes begin at night time?
My last period was in April this year and I have a hunch (maybe wrong) that I won't be having any more. It just feels like it's all ended. I understand once it's been a full 12 mths, is it that I'm officially in the menopause...or is it that I'll have had it then? I also don't know what to do about HRT as I read the longer a woman goes with low oestrogen (obv longer for me being in 30s) the greater risk of bone issues. But my mum worked with loads of women when they were all around meno age and said only one woman went on HRT and sadly she got breast cancer, so that does kind of play on my mind. I've joined a gym recently to hopefully lose a few stone but more so to give me more energy.
Anyway, sorry it's turned into an essay and amazed if anyone has lasted til the end here but thanks for reading if so. xx
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:welcomemm: your symptoms sound like those experienced by other ladies. Peri-menopause. Weird and strange skin sensations are 'common', anxiety can be difficult to deal with and is mentioned many times on the Forum; what you are explaining: "but most notably is that as soon as I feel anxious I get incredibly hot. I then feel dizzy and get headaches " : may well be a kind of 'hot flush' .
Reading the menus left of screen may help. Keeping a food/mood diary for 3 months is often recommended which is something you can then discuss with your Practice Nurse/GP.
Weight bearing exercise is good for staving off osteoporosis. HRT comes in many forms and the risk of developing breast disease is fairly low - quality of Life being important.
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Thanks hurridity!
I'm post menopausal - I think as last period was over a year ago . I think that's why Gp put me on continuous hrt? Day five now and still no change in night sweats or flushes during the day. Am I expecting too much too soon?
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<wave> to all those browsing - step inside, we don't bite! we have conversations about most topics as well as menopause ;)
Have a look-round at the menus, left of screen. Have a giggle in our 'funny' room …….. :welcomemm:
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<wave> - come on in …….. don't be shy ;)
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Join in! You are welcome here, stop browsing and come on board! Lots of good information in the menus, left of screen - ask away!
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>wave< ask away, browse round ……… someone is usually 'here' !
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<wave> ……… drop by , we don't bite ;)
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My first post!
I am 50 years old and have had erratic periods over the last 2 years. In 2014 I had only 3 periods and then nothing since October 2014. I've not had any hot flushes during the day but have regular night sweats and suffered a serious period of anxiety in December 2014 resulting in me handing in my notice at work - and feeling much better, less stressed and more positive! I am looking for part-time work now and will take up volunteering work too after a meeting with the local volunteer centre next week. :)
I am taking St. John's Wort and a multi B vitamin for hormone control, daily, all of which I think help my mood. I also meditate regularly (a new and very powerful addition to my new and very hormonal life), walk daily and have started doing hatha/breathing yoga after many years of avoiding it. The combined benefits of all of these are working. I also gave up alcohol and caffeine 2 month ago, again, it helps (but life is a bit dull without my Friday night glass or two or three of red wine... so that might start again!).
Not sure where I am in the menopause cycle - am I perimenopausal? am I in the menopause completely now? will it get worse, better, stay the same? I wish I knew! My mum has dementia and is in a care home, I have no older siblings and no older female friends, so I am at a loss of someone to ask what is "normal" and what their own experiences are.
Happy to have found this forum and have subscribed to the magazine also.
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:welcomemm:
Have a browse in the other 'rooms'. No question is taboo, there is a private members only area, we have a 'funny' room too ;) …….. many ladies use Yoga, walking, cycling as methods of controlling anxiety, weight issues, to improve general well being. Usually 1 has to wait for 12 months period free as Nature can play tricks, I had several months free then a bleed would show itself >:( ::) ….
Join in!
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Hi Sunderland99
:welcomemm: from me too!
As CLKD says, you need to wait until 12 months have elapsed without a period before you know whether you are post-menopausal - and then date the start of your menopause from the date of your last period!
Your periods tailing off sounded just like mine - erratic for 2 years and then hardly any - I think I went 9 months without one and then had another one at 53 1/2. However I went onto HRT 6 months later so no idea whether that would have been the last or not!
So good to hear you are controlling your anxiety with exercise and breathing and limiting alcohol and caffeine (as well as giving up a stressful job!) - now is the time to make all these lifestyle changes! I gave up alcohol in January as I always tend to have too much over the prolonged festive season, but have resumed and just have it at mainly at weekends now - and really this won't do you any harm - well not sure about 3 glasses but a couple at the weekend Fri/Sat would be fine. Three would give me a terrible hangover these days and probably a 3 day migraine!
You can't say whether it will get worse or better - I hope you continue to be flush free - at your stage I was plagued by them, and night sweats are debilitating, if they interfere with a decent night's sleep over a prolonged period of time. Don't rule out taking a low dose HRT if you find the night sweats and other symptoms are interfering with your ability to enjoy/make the most out of life. :)
Oestrogen levels drop for a couple of years following the last period, so some women find that symptoms appear or become worse at this time.
Hurdity x
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Sunderland etc.: Join in on the main forum, have a browse, add your comments ;)
:welcomemm: come on in, we don't bite ;D
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Hello ladies.
A big welcome to all newbies whoever you are and wherever you may be.
There is knowledge, comfort and support here and it really does help.
Best wishes everyone.
K.
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Anyone lurking, come on in, we don't bite ;)
Lots of advice, experiences and suggestions to share. We have a humorous room as well as a holiday thread ;)
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Welcome new members - lots of people browsing and joining in since the end of December. Read the various 'rooms, make notes. Ask any questions, someone is usually listening ;)
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Browse round Newbies! We don't bite. Make notes, ask questions :welcomemm:
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This could become a sticky ???
Have a good browse round - if you are lurking, join in! we don't bite (often) ;D
Lots of info. here. A place to vent, share, pick up tips ………. <wave>
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Hi I'm new on here
I have spent the last 3 days reading everything ... It's a great resource
I am 50 just ..
This week I went to the GP to get HRT
I went 2 years ago due to irregular periods and she took blood and confirmed I was peri menopausal - and gave me info to read
Honestly I didn't realise what was going on for me as I had a very full on life style ..
I was based in ibiza and working in Exeter once a month so flying a lot
It's really hard to find affordable accommodation in ibiza and I moved 6 times in a year and a half !
The place I eventually took turned out to be very noisy hard to park .. It drove me a bit nuts .. I really struggled as I never liked it from the start but there wasn't a lot of choice for my budget and
I had struggled renting rooms from people .. Seemed to fall out with everyone ...
2 months after I got this place I had a lump on my lip
Jan 15 - April 15 - I was under the doctor in uk for a suspected cancerous lump .. Got knocked off hospital lists .. Nightmare situation and 4 months to get a result - all the while with no place to live as I was in uk at my parents home ... Feeling in the way ...
When I got the positive result I was so flat .. I was not elated .. I just thought 'huh so I have to keep on living then !!! .. ' I knew something was wrong so went to dr and got anti depressants ...
Which I didn't take .. I'm not keen on this kind of medication .. Preferring holistic
I went back to ibiza had a good month teaching yoga ...
At the beginning of June my father was rushed into hospital heart problem nearly died - diagnosed with prostate cancer - I was 6 weeks in uk .. Again no where to stay .. In total shock ( I had no partner or kids so closest relatives are my parents and siblings .. )
I was very tearful and my stepmother called me dramatic .. And I was pushed away it felt ...
I Went back to ibiza in August .. Super hot ... Sweating off the scale ...
Returned to uk .. Still sweating ?? ... Weird ..
At the end of sept / beginning of October my mother was diagnosed with lung cancer stage 3 ...
(My parents have been separated 40 years both have other partners )
The Bottom fell out of my world ...
Still no where to stay ... My sister didn't want me there although she had a spare room - said I was aggressive ..
My mother and sister and I have a close but very difficult relationship ..for the previous 2 years I had been unable to connect with my mum without arguing as she always seemed to press my buttons ..so it was devastating news .. So much confusion guilt ..
I moved back to uk as I wanted to spend more time with her ..
I should say that my sister and my mum kept saying I was having some kind of breakdown ..( But expecting me to behave normally) .. I was really angry at them .. It felt like a personal attack ..
No one in my family would offer me somewhere to stay - my aunt said it was because I was angry and stressy .. I felt it was precisely because no one offered me a bed .. That I was angry and stressy!
So I packed up the flat in ibiza in 10 days and came back .. Exhausted for my mums birthday .i had to rent a place which I could not afford .. Then bought a studio .. So lots of moving ..which was so overwhelming .. .
I have been totally useless .. Unable to support my mum ..very weepy .. She didn't want me around it seemed ... My sister was going with her to appointments for chemo and others .. I was never invited .. Or asked .. I felt left out and rejected it all made me feel worse ..
Mum has just finished radiotherapy .. She is experiencing nasty side effects .. And unbelievably the last two times I have seem her have been really difficult.. I was crying and she said she didn't need anyone needy around her .. Which I totally get .. I feel so terribly guilty as I want to support her but I'm a mess ...
There's more but this is just a flavour .. Of why I missed what was happening for me ..
Because of the circumstances of my life In the last 2 years I thought that this was causing my crazy time ..
A few days before my 50 th birthday which I was totally anxious about .. And hadn't arranged anything as I have not reconnected back with friends in uk bar a couple ..and felt isolated from my family .. . As I felt I had nothing positive to offer ... I'd gone to ibiza to see 2 of my best friends .. I fell out with them .. And the dinner I had arranged got cancelled by the venue ..
I had spent the last days before this bed ridden with fever .. Boiling hot and freezing cold ... Thought I was ill ...
So on my 50 th I had a total meltdown ..
I have been recovering since ... I have just taken a week off .. As I had another emotional meltdown at work .... Due to no sleep (on call ) it was after this I saw my mum and ended up in floods of tears .. I was trying to hide how I felt ... But it didn't work ...
On Mother's Day I tried again to do lunch for my mum .. Both her and my aunt told me that my grannie had a really terrible time with menopause .. Total depression ..
I had noticed my anger a lot in the last days ...
So I whet to the GP - a man - he prescribed tablets .. My mum said to get patches as she had suffered a lot with digestion issues - I went back got a prescription for patches ..evorel sequi - 3 chemists didn't have them and couldn't get them .. Supply issue ! I thought it was the doctor being uninformed and got cross with the receptionist ... I was desperate at this point ...
Then they gave me another prescription for fem 7 ... I got the last packet in the chemist there is - also a supply problem with them ...!!! What no supply ??? But I'm desperate !
I used the first patch yesterday ... I really hope I am ok with them .. I had been hoping to get bio identical hormones .. But mum told me her and her friends tried everything .. All the healthy options and nothing worked except the patches .. I was so desperate by the time I went for help .. I was just - give me something now .. I'm having a breakdown .(.I'm not sure doctors realise how desperate it gets .... )
I also have an appointment with a menopause specialist .. Private in May !! First available appointment ( her NHS budget was stopped a few years back ! )
And I read this forum ...
I now realise that throughout this crazy crazy time I have been suffering with the symptoms of menopause .. But didn't realise the intensity .. I was taking ayervedic supplements which I think helped ... And I teach yoga so was doing a lot of yoga until October .. When my mum got diagnosed ...and life got more crazy .. I stopped doing yoga .. And I've had a block about getting back on the mat .. I've been smoking and drinking coffee .. I seem to have gone into self-destruct mode ...
Through out this time I also thought I had lost money from my house sale by investing with a friend .. Every month for 8 months he said it was coming and it didn't ..I also saw that as a reason for my state of mind ..
I was aware that my life style and choices were not helping ...I thought that all of the above was why I was experiencing tiredness anger fear ...
What I didn't realise til now is that all of the things I was trying to cope with and all of the bad choices I made and running all over the place .. Was Probably BECAUSE I was in a full blown menopausal state - I was procrastinating, indecisive, un sure, changeable , falling out with people ,
I have had one period in 14 months .. But I cannot have evorel conti til I am 12 months clear of a period the GP says - the one period I had was 4 months ago ..
Having read this forum back to back .. I now recognise that for the last 2 years plus I have been operating from a hormonally unbalanced place ..
Angry stressed depressed rejected poor me victim .. Life's unfair etc etc .. The mental stuff has for me been very incidious I think - so I did not notice it ..and thought it was to do with the various traumas ..and life challenges and the fact that I've always found life hard .. Maybe I've always been depressed ..
I did notice The sweats periodically - but the last month cranked right up..
Now I realise that being so menopausal and having to cope with all of the above would have been a really really hard thing ...
No wonder I'm where I am ...
And that really is why I'm writing this post .. I feel I just didn't realise what was going on in my mind .. I didn't realise how my mind had been effected ..
So I have started the patches ...
I will get back on the mat ..... I can see that yoga has definitely helped deal with things before.. as the contrast of no yoga since October is profound ..
I had no idea this could last for years ...! It was depressing to read that but hey now I know what I'm dealing with ... It's so much better to know
I will now look at putting in place a much more healthy lifestyle. Eat well take supplements ...
I am horrified that there is so much ignorance and lack of help out there .about a life changing debilitating cycle of a woman's life ... It is still a taboo .. It is under the radar it seems .. and for sure I have been in denial ...
Blaming circumstance rather than hormones for everything that has been going on for me ..
I now see that trying to do everything I was doing and coping with ...was of course never going to be easy with all the symptoms i have ... Symptoms I was not fully aware of until I read this forum
Thanks for being here everyone ... You all rock !
If I can offer anything I would say get on the mat ... I will be ..
I did a menopause yoga workshop with Bobby Clennell a while back .. At the time I did it for info didn't think I was menopausal !!!! Durh !
Her book
The woman's yoga book
looks at yoga for the cycles of a woman's life including peri / menopausal / post menopausal
I think it is a gem .. I intend to put together a yoga class for menopause and get it out there ...
This has been a huge wake up call for me ..
Lastly yesterday I went for a massage ... I got lucky .. It was a cancelled appointment slot .. She is usually totally full ...
It was a mixture of different methods ..
Amazing .afterwards ... I felt for the first time for months that I was 'back in the room'
She said my soul / life force had kinda checked out ... I wasn't in my body ...this can happen with trauma ...
From reading some of the posts .. It is clear to me that there is major trauma with menopause ..
And perhaps having massage and treatments can be a way of coping ... As We need to get grounded ..and be heard ..
I send love and hugs to all of you amazing women out there ...
We are strong .. We CAN do this together ...
Phew it's out ! ..I will take up journaling from now on .. !
:)
Thanks for listening X
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Crikey! My Mum told me 2 years ago that she can't do with people who are ill any more, nearly 90 she deals well on a daily basis but is no longer a 'carer'. For over 25 years I haven't told her any of our problems because she was never sympathetic.
In hindsight you could have listened to those around telling you that the anger issues were driving you away. Now that you have spoken to a Doctor and have a treatment plan, maybe keep a mood/food diary to get a basis on what the triggers might be?
Broswe round! Join in on the main Forum.
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>wave< join in browse round ;)
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Hi there newbies - I've been away on holiday and see there are loads of new members so just wanted to say hello to all of you as I'll never catch up with all the threads!
:welcomemm: from me and hope you enjoy your time on the forum and find it helpful - the main site is brilliant too - packed with information :)
Hurdity x
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I've been away so want to welcome all New Members as well as those lurking - come on in, we don't bite [much] :D
Use the search button for products, ask away .....
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I've been away for 24 hours and there's more joining :welcomemm:
Browse round!
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I found it by chance too ! It's helping lots as I felt as if I was losing a grip on my personality. It really makes a difference to find out that all the lesser known symptoms are out there and are experienced by so many other women. Nice to be in touch with you all x
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Nice to have you on Board! :congrats:
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Hi all
Just found out I am Perimenopausal and also to add to the mix an underactive thyroid. Has anyone else found this out at the same time?? Just turned 44 feeling quite lost! Diagnosed with Fibromyalgia last Agust , who says life starts at 40 lol looking for any advise, hints and tips xx
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Hi Maria Roberts - welcome to the forum. I believe that finding out about thyroid problems at the same time as becoming perimenopausal can happen quite often although I haven't had personal experience of it.
Just to say that although this thread is NEWBIES there is also one called New Members where new posters tend to get picked up more quickly so you might like to post there as well?
You'll find lots of support on here so you wont feel half as lost now!
Taz x :)
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Hi there all new members who have joined in the past two or three weeks! I started to go through some of the new members' threads from back then but it will take me too long and anyway other helpful members have answered you :). Hopefully I'll get to know some of you soon.
Hurdity and just wanted to say :welcomemm: x
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Here it is - Rik offered to make this a sticky years ago :-\
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Sorry that I can't :welcomemm: everyone, been away on family duties ::)
Browse round. Join in. Make Notes!!
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Hi all I'm sapphire
Have just joined this forum after coming across this on a menopause search anyways I am 49 and had a partial hysterectomy in my early 30s due to heavy periods all was well after that until I was 39 and kept going back and forwards to the drs with tummy pains swelling etc was going back and forward till I was 42 when eventually a locum go sent me for a scan and found a huge ovarian tumor and when I say big I mean big 2 days later I was in having everything else removed this tumor that the god said was all in my head was just under 7lbs in total weight thankfully it wasn't cancer which they thort it was I was so scared as I'd nurses my own mam through this and she passed at 47 anyways I'm now 7 years post op still suffering horrific sweats flashes etc and yes on hrt as well been told I'll need it for a while yet so that's me great to meet you all ❤️ Xxx
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:welcomemm:
Crikey, that weighed more than I did when I was born ;D [3lb 4oz].
Browse round. Join in.
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Hi,
I was recommended this website by my wonderful GP so hoping I can get some words of hormonal wisdom. I've been having hormonal shifts for just over 12 months now. My cycle is getting more erratic, random hot flushes and awful, awful rages. Hubby works away which doesn't help the stress levels. GP suggested either a mild anti depressant or cyclical HRT. I just can't decide which way to go. I'm quite happy for my periods to stop but I wonder if having regular bleeds for a few more years is a small price to pay for better moods and sanity, especially for my kids as they are only 7 and 5. Any advice or recommended threads would be most welcome.
::)
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Hi NannyOgg
I sympathise with your dilemma and my experience seems to have been similar to yours so you might find it interesting to hear what's happened to me on HRT.
My natural periods had been very erratic for about a year and when I started HRT I hadn't actually had one for 7 months. Mood changes / anxiety were the symptoms that finally led me to ask for HRT which I've now been on for 4 months and it's been a game changer. Many of the physical symptoms have also stopped (hot flushes, night sweats) but best of all, my mood has stabilised. I was feeling suicidally depressed some days - I now have very few bad days - and the anxiety and nightmares have stopped.
I am on sequential HRT so I have periods again and all the associated discomfort but it's preferable to the despair and hopelessness I was experiencing pre-HRT.
I was also offered anti depressants as an alternative to HRT but I was convinced my symptoms were hormone related so chose this route.
That's been my experience so far. I understand from reading on here that things can and may change again but for now I can honestly say HRT was one of the best things I ever did :-) Best of luck to you x
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Hi Tiddles.
This is just what I wanted to hear, thank you. I'm very low risk for BC so that is not really a worry for me. My Mother In Law said that regular periods for a few more years will be a small price to pay for not feeling psychotic. I have had the most dreadfully dark thoughts and trying various natural remedies just haven't worked at all. Did they say how long you would need to be on that one and if your bleeding will stop naturally while you're on it or if you will need to change at a later date? xxx
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Hi NannyOgg
My understanding from what I've read is that it varies greatly from woman to woman how long menopausal symptoms go on and that what HRT does is to mask the natural symptoms of menopause caused by the hormonal changes whilst your actual menopause process carries on in the background for however long that takes. My understanding is that all the while you take sequi HRT you will have 'forced' periods, not related to the natural menopause going on in the background and will only know if your natural periods have stopped forever if you come off it long enough to find out.
So in my case, what I'm thinking is I'll give it a couple of years and then come off and see how I am. If the symptoms are still there I will go back on it. Some ladies on here have been on HRT for 10 years or more. I imagine at some stage the GP will want to review things anyway but at the moment mine is saying I can stay on it as long as I want. I never want to go back to how I was feeling at the start of this year so I am in no hurry to come off!
My GP has said that once a full year has passed since my last natural period I can switch to conti HRT and not have 'forced' periods. I'll look into the pros and cons of that when I reach that stage in August.
With HRT it seems to be trial and error and waiting long enough to see what happens when you try something new. There also seems to be many diffferent combinations of types of HRT to try which compliicates things even more. The good news is there are some ladies on this forum who really seem to know their stuff and so if you do decide to try HRT and then find your regime needs tweaking down the line, they can give you detailed advice about what to try based on your specific circumstances. I've also found keeping a symptom diary invaluable for helping me keep track of changes, positives, negatives etc.
Bottom line from me is HRT has worked a miracle. I didn't want to go on it - resisted for quite a while, (tried menopace, cutting out caffeine, all sorts of things and nothing helped) and I don't like the idea of being on it for decades but stacked against those emotional symptoms before I started taking it, well give me HRT and quality of life any day :-D xxx
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Hi Tiddles,
Yes it is all a bit of a minefield isn't it? That's good to know that there is an annual check up. If I'd had kids a lot younger or if they were a few years older then I would possible battle on a while longer but at their age, they need a Mum who is much more stable than I am now. I have to put their well being before my own determination to do things 'naturally' as it were. I have been trying Menopace too, before that was Black Cohosh and St John's Wort but as with yourself, it just hasn't touched it at all.
Thank you for the solidarity Tiddles, it has really helped already xxx
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Just joined this forum, think I am past the worst of menopause, and starting to feel much better, there does seem to be life after all when things settle down. Hoping I may be able to offer encouragement here and there to some ladies.
I am not on hormones now and feel much better.
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Welcome tika,post away maybe start a new thread we love to hear success stories too,well done xx
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Just to say :welcomemm: to all the Newbies who have joined in the past 2-3 weeks while I've been away - won't have time to read all the posts! Hope you're all enjoying the forum and getting lots of help and support from all the wonderful women on here :)
Oh - Daisydot has left again :-\
Hurdity x
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Er, don't think she came back ???
Wish she would though.
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Bit of a sidetrack but yes she left and came back and has now left again!
Hope all newbies are doing well and settling in - we don't bite ( often...) :)
Hurdity x