Menopause Matters Forum
Menopause Discussion => All things menopause => Topic started by: Dr. Heather Currie on May 21, 2007, 08:58:59 AM
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There's so much conflicting information these days about HRT. Tell us what you think--is it good or bad? My feeling is that for most people it's good when used appropriately and reviewed but here you can have your say!
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I have only been taking hrt for a week and its had a dramatic effect on hot flushes and night sweats as well as perking up my sex drive! I am taking Nuvelle so I will get a monthly bleed - this may well be when I will feel some side effects.
As to whether hrt is a good thing or not - I did some research and came to the conclusion that its a question of balancing out what I know I feel like now against what any future risks are.
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I have been taking Elleste Duet 1 mg for about 5 weeks now. I had very good results initially as my hot flushes disappeared and I started sleeping better within a couple of weeks as well as feeling generally better in myself. However, my problems started when I had my period which started on about day 3 of the second pack (which is what it said it should do). I felt very low prior to this starting and am struggling to get back up again like I was. I suppose because I hadn't had a period since last summer I had forgotten what it was like but I am disappointed that my feeling of general 'well being' has gone for the time being.
I also think that it is a matter of balancing what you feel now along with the possible risks in the future. I had got to the point that I couldn't go on as I was, feeling so low, all of the time, that I thought it was worth a try.
I know I need to give it a few more months before making a fair decision but up to now I think generally it has been a good thing for me.
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Great for me tho its taken 3 different types and quite a while to get it right.My problem was it was causing bleeds when I shouldnt have had them as my periods had been stopped for a couple of years when I started it.Has improved my life 1000%!Hot flushes gone,night sweats all but gone,mood swings vastly improved...normal life resumed!
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Well, what a day for starting this thread.
I am right now in the midst of weighing up what to do. My gynaecologist has prescribed Oestradol valerate but I just cannot decide whether to take it. He did a blood test and then rang me to say he had done a prescription for me. We have had no discussion on the pros and cons and I have many doubts.
Reading the posts here, makes me more inclined to try. My only problems are heat intolerance, poor sleeping and missing libido and I have been post menopausal for nearly four years.
Frankly I would do almost anything now to get my sex drive back so I am pretty much at a thinking point of nothing ventured nothing gained.
Like marymouse, I have tried to take a balanced picture of it all but as soon as I decide I should give it a try, I find a reason why I shouldn't.
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I think GOOD! - I went back on HRT after stopping it at Christmas ( only because I felt I should try without it - my GP wanted me to stay on it abit longer) and I have tried both patches ( Evorel Conti) and now pills - Climesse. The patches helped with most of the symptoms - hot flushes, mood swings, palpitations and mostly the night sweats ( still had some) but did not have any effect on the terrrible insomnia I started to have once I came off it at Christmas. I suffered for 4 months and tried everything. I felt so ill and my life was very difficult to maintain when I was so sleep deprived - I could not travel or drive very far, everything was a struggle. Then I switched to Climesse on the advice of a consultant gynaecologist who specialises in the menopause. Exactly 2 weeks later I slept through the night for the first time - now all my symptoms have gone completely and I can live life to the full again. My libido has returned to normal and I am really enjoying sex again and feeling much more sensation than I have for ages . I have regular mammos - pay to have one every year and also smear tests and recently had a pelvic scan - all clear. My GP is wonderfully supportive and monitors me well. I have weighed up the risk / benefit equation and I think HRT is great. Sue
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Hi Hot2Trot
It is a very difficult decision to make I agree with you there and I always vowed I would NEVER take HRT, mainly because of all the bad press it seems to get. However, there came a time (about 2 months ago) that enough was enough and I couldn't stand it any longer. I am afraid I shut my ears a bit to all the bad press and just decided to go for it and give it a try. It has helped and I hope it will continue to do so and I am trying not to worry about what happens too far in the future. Initially I am only on a 3 month trial but if the benefits continue then I will be reluctant to come off it.
No one can decide for you but all I would say is that there is a certain element of risk in so many things that we do in our lives and maybe we need to think of HRT as just another one of those things and maybe it is worth a try! I hope you don't think I am being too naive about this but quality of life NOW is so important to us all, don't you agree?
I hope you can decide what to do and make the best decision for yourself.
Take care
Love Libby
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My main issue really is that I feel very well at the moment and don't want to upset that. I could certainly live with getting rid of the heat intolerance and would dearly love a better sleeping pattern. I also want my libido back. This is why I am veering towards going and getting the prescription filled.
If you are naive about this then so am I. I haven't actually looked at what the potential dangers are, I have been more concerned with not wanting to put weight back on and not wanting to start feeling side effects from a medication that I could actually live without.
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Yes that makes a lot of sense as we know that medication often has side-effects that we have to deal with - I can fully understand you being wary of that and also about putting weight on, that is a constant worry for me too. Let us know what you decide.
Libby
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Hi
I have been on HRT for 5/6 years and find it wonderful. No hotsweats, nightsweats, palpitations, very little anxiety and a return to normal sex drive.
I read everything in the papers concerning risks but have decided quality of life is more important. I made the decision to take it and then just got on with it and didn't give it any more thought.
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when i was on HRT i had no sweats, a normal love life. i havnt slept good for years, so no difference there. my moods where stable. and i didnt cry for no reson. but my periods where terrible. every couple of weeks a heavy bleed, and they lasted for 12/14 days.
since i came off the HRT ive had very few periods, but the sweats/flushes/moods/crying bouts.
id love to go back on HRT but untill they come up wuth one that suits a heart patient im stuffed. trying so many herbal remedys.
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Hi,
Having had TAH/BSO at 42 years old I never considered not using HRT.
My first choice, Estradot, ( Oestradiol B17) proved suitable though it took just over a year to find the dose that met my needs.
However, I still didn't feel "well" - neither mentally or physically. After finding a menopause clinic (through this site - I'll be eternally grateful to you :) - my gps were not interested at all >:() who were prepared to allow me to add testosterone to my hrt I now feel back to my normal, pre-op, self. It's taken 18 months and hours and hours of research learning about hrt but I'm finally happy again. 8)
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Hi Soupdragon :welcomemm:
WOW!!!!!!!!!!! that sure is good news, I am sure lots menochicks will be pleased to hear your news, as one who doesn't want to go down the road of HRT I myself have found that a product recommended by my homeopath called Soy Isoflavines were great for the hot flushes, I shall be back onto them quicksmart ;D ;D ;D I have to say that I think of this place as my menopause clinic ;D as I tend to find that there is always someone here who can help with most things :peace:
Please excuse my ignorance but what is TAH/BSO, I have no idea :-\
Love,
Triciaxxx :sunny:
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Hi Tricia,
Thanks for the welcome :)
TAH/BSO stands for Total Abdominal Hysterectomy/Bilateral-Salpingo Oopherectomy - it is the removal of uterus, fallopian tubes and ovaries.
It causes immediate surgical menopause. Although this is a huge shock to the body I guess it makes finding the hrt balance a bit easier than with natural menopause; usually, the hrt will be oestrogen only (no uterus so progesterone is not normally included) and also, because you have no ovaries, the amount of hormones produced by your body remains (relatively) constant.
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I am thinking of taking hrt but know nothing about it.Is there one that you would recommend.I finished reading a book called the boy in the striped pyjames tonight and i cried and cried after it.I have become so weepy its unreal.
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There is a lot of information on the internet about the different forms of HRT which you could read up to have some awareness of options, but only your own treating doctor can recommend treatment for you as this has to be based on your own personal circumstances.
There is some good information on this site if you look at the section called "What is HRT" on the left hand side menu.
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I have only been taking HRT for just over 3 weeks. I was very reluctant to do so but got desperate with the lack of concentration & being unable to stay focussed - this led to bouts of uncontrolable crying & generally feeling run down & tired. I was having trouble sleeping, hot flushes & no energy to do anything, barely managing to get through a days work.
I noticed very little change in the 1st week but toward the end of the 2nd week noticed that I had more energy then I had done in months. Housework started to get done properly & not just a flip round with the duster. This week work was not such an uphill struggle & almost a pleasure again. I am sleeping better too. So yes in some ways they have helped to give me back a bit of my old life & I feel a bit more in control again.
On the downside I feel as fat as a pig, My stomach has blown up like a balloon & I am struggling to get into my clothes. I still get the flushes but not too bad mainly at night.
I shall continue with them for another 2 months & hopefully it will work out ok for me.
Cazikins
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Hey Cazkins, you need to give them a bit longer. The next time i am at the docs when i need some more i might try some other type but i am reluctant to. I would like to try to come off them for a while at least but i am worried it would be disruptive to me. Hope you get some good improvement. x
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I should maybe have given mine a bit longer but my doc seemed to think that the side effects could have gone on for quite a bit longer and I couldn't stand the way my legs were feeling. Maybe I will go back and see her in a few weeks and think about trying another type as I was getting a lot of improvement with my energy levels and I felt so much better in myself.
Libby
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Hi Hotflush if I continue with them for too long I can not imagine how big & bloated my tummy will be - maybe it will settle down again soon.
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Hi all
I had a Total Hsyteramomy 2 year in July. After it I was put staight onto Livial because of Endo and Fibriods was found and removed. Through I managed to stay on this for 3 months then started with bad headaches so Dr changed it to another HRT, from then on I tried lots of diffrent HRT methrods all gave me headaches, mood swings and a feeling of unwell. So last November I made the descion to not to take HRT any more, and to go through the Menopause now at 41, I try to eat healthy food, plenty of milk, fruit( when I can rember) . I find I feeling not as unwell as when I was on HRT, I put up with the Hot Flashes ( with help of battery fan and water spray), so far sleeping ok and moods r ok, have found i'm getting a little bladder weakness and a bit of Vaginal dryness, but find at the moment I can cope, it when I'm at work I find the hard to cope cant use the fan and water spray when I want.
I know I should be on HRT because of bones, but my life was not good on it.
God Bless Sue
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help help >:( ive been taking elleste duet for amonth after much soul searching everything seemed fine flushes reduced sleeping better mood swings improving slightly! in a month ive had three periods 2 smallish and one normal :( is this normal im trying to decide if i shud carry on taking them any afdvice anyone thanx :)
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Hi quinnie!I am on hrt that doesnt cause bleeds but it has taken about 7 month for it not to cause bleeds!I kept having bleeds when I shouldnt and considering its almost 3 year since I had a period,it wasnt right!Its all settled doen now.Now I dont know about the type that gives you a bleed and you are going to have to speak to your gp about it,but at a guess I would think its the same type of thing and your body has to adjust to the hormones its being given.You have had relief from some of your symptoms so please talk to gp...mine will chat on the phone.Let us know how you go on xx
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Hi Quinnie, I suggest you speak to your doctor as Juju says. Tell him/her your concerns.
You have had relief with flushes, sleep & mood swings & that is good yes? but you are getting irregular periods which is not so good. See what you doctor says about it & then weigh up the + & - & make your choice.
I have been on HRT for a month & have felt the benefits but also the side affects but have decided that in general I have a better quality of life. We are all different & have to make decissions as to what suits us best.
Not much help I know but good luck anyway.
Cazikins xx
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I know I should be on HRT because of bones, but my life was not good on it.
Have you discussed this with your GP? HRT is only a second line of defence for bones and should not be given for that reason alone. If there are no other indicators for taking HRT then there are (allegedly) other products you can take which will give you the protection you need.
If I do not continue with the HRT then I too will have to go down another route for protecting my bones as well as eating a healthy diet. My doctor has not said what, and I haven't looked into it yet.
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Help, I don't know what to do!!! :'( Last Friday I went to see my Gynae. He gave me the results of my D&C. He said everything looked healthy, except that the lining of the womb is inactive which goes to show that I'm menopausal. He suggested I take HRT (Prempak), although it could have some risks, but that everything in life comes with risks. I told him I was a bit apprehensive because my grandmother on my mother's side died of breast cancer and my first cousin also on my mother's side has just been through breast cancer. I have been going thru' a lot of anxiety, some depression; sometimes I'm also weepy, etc. My friend has been taking Prempak for 18 years now and she said her life changed, but I still don't know what to do. What are your thoughts?
If I decide not to take HRT, do you know of a good effective anti-depressant that might help whilst I go thru' this.
I eagerly await your replies. Thanks!
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Despite my misgivings, I would certainly prefer to be taking HRT than anti-depressants. You do have higher risk factors than I do, but have you actually looked up what the statistical increase in breast cancer figures actually is? There are some details here http://www.netdoctor.co.uk/diseases/facts/menopause.htm
I found it a difficult decision without having any added risk factors, but now I have started it, I realise that although I thought I was okay, it has had positive benefits. My husband has remarked a few times this weekend how much better I am sleeping and how nice it is to wake in the morning and actually find me still in bed. The hot flushes, which I hadn't really thought of as troublesome, have stopped completely and I am less heat intolerant (this was a major problem but one I thought I was simply stuck with).
I have had a few side effects, the worst being nausea, but this all seems to have settled down now.
I was only give two months supply with no indication of what happens next. My sleeping and ability to get to sleep was zero and I was hyperactive, which was why I was prescribed it in the first place. I will have to go back to my doctor and discuss what happens next but my intention would be to continue for a bit longer at least. As I am under 50, there are firm indications for me remaining on HRT for at least another three years.
Ultimately the decision is yours and you are very wise to consider your family history but anti-depressants may not be the answer either. I think your gynae was rather insensitive to say what he did and I wonder whether your have a supportive GP that you could discuss it with before making a decision.
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Hi Ana - sorry that you are having this dilemma. Can we swap doctors though - I am having to :beat: :beat: mine to get even a "sniff" at anything HRT like :) I have taken antid-s and they make me feel so ill that HRT would be my choice straightaway :(
With regards breast cancer risk there is good information on this site too http://www.breakthrough.org.uk/about_breast_cancer/index.html just click on Risk Factors. I seem to be at as much risk from the glass of wine I have each evening as from HRT :drunk:
Hope that you are feeling not too bad today :hug:
H2T - thanks for posting all the info on your experiences of HRT - it is helpful - and I think that what you say about not realising quite how much you did need it until you started to feel better in other ways is true for a lot of us. By the way, my 11.45 hot sweat didnt arrive last tuesday and I havent had one since, although up till then they were happening every 20 minutes. I can only think that a period is on the way ::)
Love Taz x :foryou:
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Hi Hot2Trot! :) Thanks for your reply, and for the link - it was very encouraging! I think you're a very brave lady. I admire you for making the decision to take HRT, but it still scares me knowing that there's breast cancer in my family. Like I've already mentioned, my friend has been taking HRT (Prempak) for 18 years now and her life changed, but there's no cancer in her family. I will go and see my GP next week and I'll see what she recommends. Thanks again for your help and reply!
Lots of love,
Ana
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Hi Taz! :)
Thanks too for your reply and for the link - I still have to study it. I found that my Gynae was quite helpful and at the end he left the decision to me. As I've already told Hot2Trot, HRT still scares me. In Gibraltar, there's a very high incidence of cancer perhaps due to the amount of pollution, etc and I think, on the whole, women are very wary of taking HRT. Thanks again for your advice and concern!
Lots of love, :hug:
Ana
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If it works I think it's GOOD but as someone who could never go on the pill (migraines etc) I am suffering big time with the side effects - nausea, headache, achine joints, tight chest (asthmatic), skin irritation, feeling unwell etc. As I mentioned on another site GP has said not an option to reduce from 50 to 25 so have to grin and bear it for the next 3 years following my TAH/BSO 3 months ago.
Garnetx
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I have replied on your other thread about your dosage and your doctor's opinion of this. I will repeat it here anyway, which is that the latest guidance is that HRT should not be given solely for bone protection and it seems a bit presumptive to have prescribed it for you so soon without knowing whether you were going to be hit by other menopause symptoms or not.
I have asked you to say on your other thread what you are taking and in what form to see if anyone can help with any other advice.
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Thanks Hot2Trot
I have taken your advice on board and will ask whether reducing the gel and taking additional bone protection is an option. I am currently on Oestrogel 0.06%. It has also been suggested that my taking of evening primrose could be causing side effects so have decided to stop this for a while to see if there is any improvement.
HRT was prescribed by the hospital consultant 4 days post op without knowing whether I had any symptoms or not. Sadly, the consultant does not give follow up appointments. It was up to me to see my GP for any follow up I may feel I need.(not very impressed about this as any other major surgery is routinely followed up).
Thanks again
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Hi
Ihave been taking HRT for around 4 weeks now Iam on Elleste solo and provera ,
the main reason I went on it was for my sweats and bad mood swings and it has helped in both those cases so bring it on i say, the on ly down side is that I have been on a period for just over 3 weeks but my doctor did say that if it dosnt sort it self out then she will put me on a cyclic one then at least i will know when i am going to have a period the only worry i have about that is that my body will have just got used to one lot of tablets and then will have to start again with a new lot ,but I am thinking positive for me at the moment they are a good thing .
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H2T - sorry I missed the fact that you are now on HRT. Like you I struggled for a long long time without it. I tried all the things that I thought would help & get me through it but..
Yes the herbal/alternative products were good for a while but in the end we all know our limitations & what we can cope with.
It was a massive decision for me to go on HRT & a decision that I am still not 100% sure about but like you I have felt & experienced the benefits. I have more energy & stamina. I can cope with my full time job without breaking down in tears when I get home at night. Overall I think I made the right choice - I mean why carry on if your quality of life is so miserable everyday? well mine was. I like to be in control of things & know what is going to happen next.
I hope this relief from the awful symptoms carries on & the side effects that I have (mainly diaorhea) recede within time.
I personaly think that I have to give it another month when the "trial period" is up. My decission will be to carry on as long as I can - if the doc allows me to.
Cazikins
Manypaws - I hope you stick with the HRT after reading the above. I know we are all different but you have to be patient with things like this. There are the plusses & the minuses to HRT. What has helped & what has not?? You have to weigh it up for yourself. :)
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I was in Boots today and still suffering from headaches and nausea due to HRT (been on 3 months) and after a chat with the pharmacist and assistant bought Menopace Plus. This can be taken alongside or instead of HRT. What I intend to do is to gradually come off the HRT and take this instead. Still not sure whether it is worth seeing GP as she was not willing to reduce my HRT when I spoke to her last.
My main worries are osteoporosis (drink 1 pint of milk per day & cheese etc) and vaginal dryness.
Does anyone have any advice?
Thanks
Garnet
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I am quite confused about HRT :-\
Once you come off HRT does your menopausal symptons return? If they do, is going on to HRT just delaying the inevitable?
Also the weight gain issue. Without HRT I don't seem to be able to control my weight inspite of what I do so if I took HRT would my weight spiral out of control even more thus giving more concerns about my health by being overweight?
I would be grateful for any advice. Oh and I have a clueless GP so he wouldn't be of any help. I think he only knows how to prescribe antibiotics!
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Garnet
Could you not take a calcium supplement. That's the one thing my dr did say to take.
Ninfapaola
I'm not on HRT but from what I have read, yes whatever symptoms it stopped come back if you stop HRT. Which I guess makes sense, as loss of hormones causes the problems so you are only replacing what your body no longer makes, and if you stop that supply your body will again react to the loss once more. ??? Well, I know what I mean.
Sleepless
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I must admit when I went on HRT 6 years ago I thought I would experience less symptoms for a shorter length of time when I came off it than I would have done if I didn't take it. One doctor I saw inferred that it was just delaying the inevitable and I wouldn't experience any less symptoms, but gave no explanation why.
I know it is very complex including the reaction of FSH as well as oestrogen and progesterone and probably other hormonal influences - but I wonder while you are taking it, the fluctuations in your own hormones which causes some horrible symptoms such as hot flushes are kept in check by HRT. When you come of it after say a few years although you will lacking in oestrogen and will have to deal with that, but you will find your own hormones won't be there to act, shall I say wildly as the do during probably what is more accurately called the perimenopause.
These are just my thoughts ( and my brain is a bit fuddled at the moment) but I would love someone to give a scientific reason for all this.
Flutterby
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I've been on Nuvelle for two months now. I've had one bleed with another one on its way and to be honest it was no worse than a normal period. I've had some leg pains but they're going off.
The hot flushes and night sweats went within a few days.
I don't have any more energy but I have an unrelated health problem at the moment which is making me really tired.
The other really good thing is that my sex drive came back in an enormous whoosh!! (trouble is, being tired I can't necessarily act on it that much). It has made me feel so much more relaxed and it's great to start fancying mens bottoms again!!!
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HRT is good.
Like Panther I felt that quality of life was more important that some minimal extra risk of some cancer or other.
My male doctor in UK prescribed something that didn´t get rid of periods and it didn´t agree with me (making me fel even more depressed than I was) but then my proper doctor (female) put me on to Premique which was great. I came off last May after nearly a year of reducing and/or taking it when I remembered to.
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What I don't understand about HRT or ERT is why you have to come off it, why not take it for the rest of your life if it suits you, the body needs hormones to function, that's what ageing is. If you view it as a preventative therapy instead of tiding you over the menopause the less stress is caused. I think of it as being healthy and strong for the rest of my life.
The myth is that you get over menopause when in fact you are in menopause for the rest of your life, your body has to get use to reduced hormones, but it is not a healthy state. If you are able to take HRT and it suits you just be glad, and forget that you are taking it and enjoy your life.
Sandy
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Sleepless in London - as Hot2trot says about bone protection I have realised that my GP is incorrect in her advice. I'm not sure whether I need calcium supplements as I drink about a pint of milk a day and eat yoghurts and cheese.
I actually saw another GP yesterday as I have another bladder infectio and severe headaches. She says my blood pressure is raised and repeated what Hot2trot had said previously about bone protection. As I'm 47 she saw no reason why I should continue on HRT if it raised my blood pressure and I'm weaning off it and going to go with the Menopace. However I only used half the Oestrogel last night and have a blinding headache today - co-incidence or what!! I have to go back on Monday to have my bp checked again and hope it's better because I fly on holidays with my daughter on Wednesday! I'm also recovering from a TAH/BSO so am feeling really fed up today and really sorry for myself. But enough moaning!!
Life is never easy, is it?
Garnet
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I have been taking HRT for about 4 months via patches (Evoral) - I am 43 and have never had children and found this to be a lifesaver - all my symptoms have gone, my sex life has improved and I feel normal again - I guess I just got lucky with the patches as I was half expecting to have many different types before I found one that suited me.
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Have just read this on another forum and felt I just had to post the link
http://www.power-surge.com/php/forums/index.php'showtopic=9022&st=0
If you can put up with a long read (two pages) the information and experiences of these women is fascinating.
Sandy
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Hi,
I took HRT - 3 different types - for 4 years. Only problem was headaches. However I was then diagnosed with a Brain Tumour and stopped it last September.
Really suffering with all the classic meno symptoms now.
My GP has suggested toughing it out, but wil prescribe again if I really want to go back on. So I am also having the quality of life dilemma.
My holiday was a disaster as it was just one long hot flush :(
It is interesting to read ther people's experiences, and the decisions they have made.
So pleased I found this site :D
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Hello ladies
I have just introduced myself on the new members thread.
I am 51 this month and had my last period in February 2006, after the perimenopausal stuff that most people seem to be describing - short cycles, flooding, periods going on for weeks etc, etc. Hot flushes started at that stage but were erratic - and relieved by the next period. However (you know the story, girls) once the periods stopped completely it has been uninterrupted hot flushes and night sweats, now with the added delights of vaginal dryness, menofug and joint pains.
In fact for a very brief period at the end of last year I took HRT (Premarin) and reverted to being a fully functioning human being within a few weeks. My family rejoiced! :D
Shortly afterwards though, there was that report from the USA about the reduction in breast cancers which was attributed to the fall in HRT use following the WHI research. I went cold turkey and came off Premarin overnight.
Now, I am thinking again about going on to HRT - there is no family history to suggest that I shouldn't, and I have no adverse medical conditions. I have read a lot of different analyses of the results of the WHI and Million Women Study and it seems that the results have been dramatised for maximum impact in the media. Everything I have read suggests that the best way to control menopausal symptoms is through HRT. I have tried all kinds of alternative remedies - they are expensive, and haven't worked.
If I have a concern about going on it it's that I might have left it too late (18 months since last period). I know that there is a 'window of opportunity' and beyond that time HRT can have a negative effect on the body. But, on balance, I think I'll be going back to the Doc's for a prescription.
Oh, yes, and one more thing have found out - I have often wondered about women doctors, and how many of them take HRT, well, I found a study (University College London) from 1997 which stated that 72% of menopausal women doctors took HRT. It would be interesting to know what the percentage would be now. However, as a friend of mine has pointed out there are plenty of women GPs working part time well beyond retirement age in our part of the world. They look very fit and healthy and were likely to be in the Cohort of 1997!
Just wondered what your thoughts were on this?
Take care, all!
Patricia
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Hi Patricia
Very interesting those statistics on GPs.
Makes you think that probably few of them are actually taking the grin and bear it route, taking into account the percentage of women who are suffer only minor problems or are virtually symptomless. I wonder also how many take 'alternative therapies'
Flutterby :)
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Hello again
Sorry but I have misread that research:
Here is the link to the article about women doctors: http://eprints.ucl.ac.uk/archive/00001802/
And the abstract:
Abstract
STUDY OBJECTIVES: To ascertain the determinants and experiences of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) use by menopausal women doctors. DESIGN: Postal questionnaire. SETTING: UK. PATIENTS: A randomized stratified sample of women doctors who obtained full registration between 1952 and 1976, taken from the current Principal List of the UK Medical Register. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Current and previous use of HRT; reasons for and against HRT use; menopausal status; hormonal contraceptive use; lifestyle patterns; family and personal history of disease. MAIN RESULTS: While 73.2% of 471 users had started HRT for symptom relief, 60.9% cited prevention of osteoporosis and 32.7 prevention of cardiovascular disease. Altogether 18.7% had started for preventive purposes alone. Significant predisposing factors to starting HRT were the presence and severity of menopausal symptoms, surgical menopause, past use of hormonal contraception, and a family history of osteoporosis. HRT users were also more likely to use skimmed rather than full fat milk, to try to increase their intake of fruit, vegetables, and fibre, and to undertake vigorous physical activity at least once a week. They were less likely to have had breast cancer. Long duration users were more likely than short duration users to be past users of hormonal contraception and to be using HRT for prevention of osteoporosis as well as symptom relief; they were less likely to have experienced side effects. CONCLUSIONS: The high usage of HRT by women doctors reflects the fact that many started HRT on their own initiative and with long term prevention in mind. The results may become generalisable to the wider population as information on the potential benefits of HRT is disseminated and understood. However, HRT users may differ slightly from non-users in health-related behaviour and a substantial minority may never take up HRT, at least until the benefit-risk ratio is more clearly established.
Reading it again it says that 72% of users take it for symptom relief not that 72% of respondees said that they took it. However it does refer to high usage by women doctors.
Still interesting, I think.
Patricia
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And another abstract with information on actual level of usage
Link:
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/sites/entrez?Db=pubmed&Cmd=ShowDetailView&TermToSearch=8520274&ordinalpos=2&itool=EntrezSystem2.PEntrez.Pubmed.Pubmed_ResultsPanel.Pubmed_RVDocSum
Utilisation of hormone replacement therapy by women doctors.Isaacs AJ, Britton AR, McPherson K.
Department of Public Health and Policy, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, England.
OBJECTIVES--To ascertain the prevalence and duration of use of hormone replacement therapy by menopausal women doctors. DESIGN--Postal questionnaire. SETTING--General practices in the United Kingdom. SUBJECTS--Randomised stratified sample of women doctors who obtained full registration between 1952 and 1976, taken from the current principal list of the Medical Register. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES--Prevalence and duration of use of hormone replacement therapy; menopausal status. RESULTS--Overall, 45.7% (436/954) of women doctors aged between 45 and 65 years had ever used hormone replacement therapy. When the results from women still menstruating regularly were excluded, 55.2% (428) were ever users and 41.2% (319) current users. The cumulative probability of remaining on hormone replacement therapy was 0.707 at five years and 0.576 at 10 years. CONCLUSIONS--Women doctors have a higher prevalence of use of hormone replacement therapy than has been reported for other women in the United Kingdom, and most users seem to be taking hormone replacement therapy for more than five years. The results may become generalisable to the wider population as information on the potential benefits of hormone replacement therapy is disseminated.
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I'm on a roll now .....
Follow up study on women doctors' HRT use:
Link:
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/sites/entrez?Db=pubmed&Cmd=ShowDetailView&TermToSearch=16096171&ordinalpos=1&itool=EntrezSystem2.PEntrez.Pubmed.Pubmed_ResultsPanel.Pubmed_RVAbstractPlus
UK women doctors' use of hormone replacement therapy: 10-year follow up.Isaacs AJ, Drew SV, McPherson K.
Department of Health and Social Sciences, Middlesex University, London, UK.
OBJECTIVES: To determine changes in the prevalence and duration of use of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) by women doctors over 10 years. METHODS: Questionnaire survey of 1234 UK women doctors (randomized, stratified sample), compared with a similar survey in 1993. RESULTS: In women aged 50-64 years, the age-standardized prevalence of ever-use of HRT had increased from 53.4% in 1993 to 66.2% in 2003 (p<0.001). There was a marked reduction in uptake by women under 50 years, while the age-standardized prevalence of current use in women aged 50-64 years was unchanged at 38.1%. The discontinuation rate in this age group had increased from 27.8% to 42.4% (p<0.001). Over 20% of women aged 65-74 years were still using HRT. The median duration of HRT use was 8.1 years by current users and 5 years by past users. The major indications were symptom relief and osteoporosis prevention. Current users of HRT tended to have more definite views about the potential risks and benefits of long-term use than past or never-users. CONCLUSIONS: The proportion of women doctors starting HRT increased after 1993, but uptake and continuation rates have now both declined, consistent with prescription data, probably reflecting the changing nature of the evidence base. However, many women doctors still intended to continue long-term HRT.
PMID: 16096171 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]
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Hi Patricia
Very interesting, good link too. Mind you statistics have never been my strong point.
Flutterby
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I wonder how many women doctors have tried to come off it (unsuccessfully)?
I think to HRT or not to HRT is a VERY personal and individual choice. Some suffer many symptoms (my own 3 years of hot flushes/night sweats is driving me MENTAL :'(), in the end some are desperate for relief and who can blame them. In most cases HRT will bring back a quality of daily existence which went down the plughole on day 1 of the meno hitting us.
Every day I think "just take the stuff and be cool for a change", but I'm 3 years into this - surely there's an end in sight........!
My problem is the lack of knowledge of some who are on it. No idea that you do not 'bypass' the menopause symptoms. When you come off HRT you will catapult right back to square 1, you don't suddenly start making your own hormones when the artificial ones are withdrawn. The best you can hope for is to minimise the return of symptoms with a controlled and lengthy withdrawal from HRT as opposed to the 'natural' peaks and troughs the rest of us must tolerate.
Many have not researched the difference between bio-identical HRT and conjugated horse pee ones. In UK no natural progesterone is available to combine the oestrogen with, so we are left with only a synthetic choice. Many do not choose which one they would like to try, merely taking the first prescription given. Make no mistake, a GP in UK is driven by PRICE, Elleste Duet is very popular here - it's also the cheapest. Coincidence??
When I visited my GP 3 years ago he gave me a prescription for HRT and delivered his "on it for maximum 5 years or until I was 55" rule (same thing for me). He had no answer when I asked "but what then"? He had absolutely no alternative he was willing to give me at that time and I was sent on my way. I chose not to take it (make no mistake, it is HARD).
The medical profession cannot seem to agree from 1 year to the next whether or not HRT is 'safe', so we are left to weigh it up ourselves. Personally, I don't believe it 'causes' breast cancer, but I do believe it may make those women predisposed to BC move along more rapidly towards it. Many BC tumours have hormone receptor cells, sufferers are frequently given Tamoxifen to 'knock out' their oestrogen after a BC diagnosis and suitable treatment. Do I want to put and artificial version of oestrogen and progesterone into my body after it has reached a time of life when it has decided it is no longer needed? Lets face it, the human body is an incredibly sophisticated machine, does it know what's best do you think?
Enough waffle from me. At the end of the day no woman should feel she has to justify taking HRT nor justify not taking it. We are responsible for our own bodies and must guage quality of daily living and make our own choice. Thankfully we now have the internet, a godsend for info and advice. Good luck to all of us, whatever we decide. :foryou:
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Hi SevenofNine
Couldn't imagine the Borg having meno symptoms does the whole collective suffer - sorry, quite a Star Trek fan myself too.
Seriously though It definitely wasn't waffle what you said - it was very interesting
I don't know whether I subscribe completely to this 'just delaying the inevitable'.How many menopausal symptoms are due to the wildy fluctuating levels of hormones, rather than lack of them. If while you are on HRT, your own hormones are kept in check but are diminishing,surely there is a chance when you come of it the symptoms will not be as bad. This may be a different time scale for different women.
I appreciate your body is not going to replace the oestrogen when you come of it and it makes sense that some symptoms would start again or even new ones. But I know several women that had virtually symptom free menopause so what is going on there.
There are so many variables, my brain just starts to boggle.
Wouldn't it be great if the menopause was taken a more seriously and a lot more research done.
I am hoping I will be like my husband's step mother - Really bad meno symptoms in late 40's, on HRT for 7-8 years came off it - no problems.
Flutterby
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You say you are three years in SevenofNine. From the experience of women on the forums, you may be only in the early days. I was well over two years post menopausal having had a peri-menopause of nearly five years. I was not symptom free at that point and in view of the fact that, as you rightly say, we never produce again the natural oestrogen of the past, I cannot see how we can actually ever be symptom free again. My mum and my MIL and in fact every older lady I know, still suffer from sweats and heat intolerance. Poor sleeping is often mentioned and I have to wonder how much of that is actually down to menopause symptoms and not age. I know my mum has complained for a number of years about poor sleeping and yet on the face of it, there is no real reason why she should not sleep at least reasonably well.
I do have issues with the use of horse urine products, but that is an ethical choice. I am lucky that I have not been prescribed that and because I was started on HRT by my gynae who I see privately, I have also not had to settle for the cheapest. Fortunately my GP has agreed to take on responsibility for my HRT and has put it on repeat prescription, to be reviewed in May (or sooner if necessary).
I was one of the most anti-HRT women you could have found. Having started on it though I realise I was selling myself and other women short. At 46 years of age, the benefits outweigh the negatives. I have a number of years of working life ahead of me, not to mention a desire to have an active and fulfilling retirement. None of this is possible when a lack of sleep at night drives me to bed in the afternoon. Quality of life has to be a consideration and it is this that will make me fight to remain on HRT until I choose otherwise, not because my doctor has a fixation about length of time on it.
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Hi Sevenofnine
I agree it's a very personal choice - and it's something that I change my mind about several times a day! I still haven't been to the doctor's and got that prescription.
It's so difficult not being able to get one coherent line on this from the medical profession. Sometimes I wonder if there is a conspiracy from certain quarters to keep us off HRT in order to save money!
For me there are other considerations, in addition to the obvious ones of relief from constant sweating, disturbed sleep, vaginal dryness and joint pains etc. Like Hot2Trot I have to make a living and, in fact, am the breadwinner in the household. I have experienced panic attacks which come on after/with a hot flush and I have been absolutely unable to think or function. My work involves speaking in public and on a couple of occasions I have had to withdraw from situations which I just couldn't handle. This has been very damaging professionally and has lost me income.
Absolutely vital to me through my life has been running and other forms of exercise - it has been a great stress reliever and an absolute pleasure. However, I have just had really bad cartilege injury and I can't exercise - obviously this is meno related too.
The other things is that in my family (both sides - an aunt and a grandmother) there is a history of early onset Alzheimers and, although the evidence is contradictory, HRT seems to afford some protection against Alzheimers. (Incidentally, one of my relations was still having her periods until she was 56 and then the Alzheimers seemed to strike quickly after her periods stopped - although, of course, there may be another explanation for this.)
As Flutterby says, wouldn't it be great to know why some people 'sail through' and others suffer these symptoms? I imagine that having a print out of your genome would be extremely valuable - then we would know what our individual risk factors are. But that's a long way off, and, I suspect, will only be for the very rich.
Dilemmas, dilemmas!
Goodnight all,
Patricia
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I have to say that without HRT I really could not do my full time job. It has given me back my confidence, I can think clearly again & I am not afraid of going into work anymore. I have job satisfaction again which is vital for me.
My decission was a hard one. I did not want to try it but about 6 months ago I completlely lost it - big time. I worried about my health & state of mind & having lost my mum 2 years ago through dimentia didn't help. I had to think about my quality of life & I still had to pay the mortgage & the bills. Giving up work or taking a pay cut for a part time job was not an option for me. OK it might sound as though I was forced into choosing the HRT route & I suppose in a way I was, but I do know that it was the right choice for me at this time of my life. I could not go on for another possibly 5 years feeling like I did. I do think & worry about how things will go when I eventually come off it but I have to get through those 5 years first, so I take each day at a time & each challenge & problem at a time & that is how I deal with it - tomorrow is another day, & I will be at my desk dealing with my work schedule as well as I did 10 years ago. I sometimes wonder though that if I did not have to work then maybe, just maybe I could do without HRT.
Now let me go & check to see if I have won the lottery tonight & can retire early & get the mortgage paid off....
Err no I haven't :'( :'(
Cazikins
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Hi Cazikins - you have posted exactly how I feel regarding HRT - I know that it is maybe only going to give relief for five years but at least I could have five more years of actually feeling ok and being able to function properly. I was having a similar discussion with one of the teachers where I work. Over the past two years she has gone from a vibrant, energetic, positive person to someone who is unable to properly plan her lessons, control the class and remember names. She is fighting to stay off HRT as her doc sees the meno as a natural process. It is upsetting to see such a change in someone and the staff who are pre-meno are at a loss to understand where their colleague has disappeared to!
My doc has asked me what makes me think I will be better able to cope with meno symptoms at 58 rather than 53 but I think that life is never certain anyway. I could spend the next four and half years battling like I am at the moment without HRT and then die of something anyway, or I could have HRT, enjoy the next four and a half years and still die but at least I will have had a good four and a half years :sunny: Have finished my HRT diary now so will be off to see GP again in the next week or so to have another "discussion" :poke2:
I'm glad that you are feeling positive and enjoying things again. I will think positive now. Actually, my best mate made me a little sign to stick on the fridge or car or somewhere - it says "Positive Thoughts attract Positive Things" - all I have to do is remember to look at it!!
Love Taz x :bounce:
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She is fighting to stay off HRT as her doc sees the meno as a natural process.
Well, so is death but we try to delay that as long a possible. :-\
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sleepless in london that has to be post of the month. Well said!!!!
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Absolutely - I agree. Witty, apposite(spelling?) and so true. Gets my award too. Love Sue
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Hi Taz, good luck at the docs next week, lets hope the HRT diary does the trick & you finally get it. Like your friend says think positive & if necessary hit the doc over the head until you get it.
:valkyrie: :valkyrie:
Please let me know how you get on because you have been so patient in your quest to get it.
Nice one Sleepless, I couldn't agree more. :clapping: :clapping:
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Hot2trot - I think we eventually (some sooner than others) become 'symptom free' because of the body's own ability to adjust. Do you think that might be the key to why the length of time and level of symptoms varies greatly between us? Sounds feasible do you think, some can adapt quickly whereas others can't, therefore it drags on and on for them?
I think we hear mainly from women who have been suffering for years because those that haven't don't need support any longer. I'm positive if I didn't still have the flushes and need reassurance that I'm not the only one, I wouldn't be visiting this board. I'm not sure I'd want to constantly be reminded of such a 'fed up' time of my life once I'd got past it.
Sometimes I wonder why I keep wondering about everything :-\ It does my head in! Maybe it's a meno symptom............... :-*
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I thought I would share with you my discussion with my gynaecologist this afternoon on the subject of HRT. This was blithely prescribed for me four months ago and although I was a bit surprised at the time, I understand now why. My gynae is a staunch supporter of HRT, believes every woman should be given the chance of a better quality of life with it and is very angry at the distorted scares that have been released. He was well on his hobby horse but has totally reassured me that my decision to take HRT and not worry about the consequences is right.
Breast cancer - the warnings given on this followed a study of ladies aged 65 who had never taken HRT. He said that once we reach menopause, without oestrogen, our breasts atrophy. He believes that it is inevitable that if 15 years or so later you re-introduce oestrogen to the system using HRT you have a disaster waiting to happen. HRT introduced at around the age of 50 and continued does not carry the risks that the study did.
Heart problems - He said that a study of two groups of women has been done. One set had been taking HRT for 10 or more years, the other had never taken HRT. The group that had taken HRT had little or no calcification (I think that was the word) in their arteries and their hearts were healthier than the other other group who hadn't taken it. He said that it has been statistically shown that women who take HRT live longer than those that don't.
Duration of treatment - this was very important for me as I am below the target starting age. He was adamant that the medical evidence shows that it is more beneficial to women to remain on HRT continuously and that it is actually harmful to their health to stop HRT just because some milestone on the calendar has been reached. He reiterated the benefits he has seen in women who have been taking it.
I have no reason not to take his word for it. He hasn't prescribed me a specific HRT, the one I have been given is just one of many brands using the same preparation (my script was generic, the pharmacy dispensed just one of those on their shelves of that type) so I don't imagine he has a financial interest in prescribing it. I have summarised what he said from our long chat about it and I felt he was genuine in all he said, and he really did seem to have a bee in his bonnet about how much HRT helps women.
I hope this might be of some help to anyone pondering over what to do.
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Hi Hot2Trot
Do you know what survey it was, I was very pleased to hear these findings
Flutterby :)
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Hi H2T
Thanks for sharing that experience with us.
This is exactly the sort of information I have wondered about since I posted those links to the research into female doctors' use of HRT.
I saw another study which indicated that Gynaecologists and Obstetricians were more likely to take HRT/ encourage their wives to take it than doctors in general, and that doctors were more likely to take it than the general population.
I'm inclined to think that, if it's good enough for them, it's good enough for me!
Patricia
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flutterby: you'll find info on the survey on the news page of this site, specifically -
http://www.menopausematters.co.uk/newsitem.php?recordID=52
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Thanks Rik.
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Oh dear, I had talked myself into believing that my decision to come off HRT because of high blood pressure (160/100, previously 120/70) was the right one. I've been off it three weeks now and coping with the hot flushes but feeling quite down with not a lot of energy. I was on a low dose of Oestrogel but am now wondering whether I should try another one. Does anyone know if a different brand may make a difference?
Garnet
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With readings like that, you can't really risk it. I can't remember whether your BP is controlled by medication or not. Mine is, so I haven't crept back into the danger zone. My own personal choice would be to start BP meds and continue with the HRT but you would need to discuss that with your doctor. If you get benefit from the HRT, then you shouldn't be denied it if you can be supported by BP meds and are happy to take them as well.
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Garnet , you may find my posting in "New Members"... "Food and Menopause" helpful. This book has lots of relevant advice .
love Sarah b x
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Hi Ladies, as one of those who has decided against HRT for many reasons I'd be interested to know just how many of you really feel it has definately helped .
From what I can tell on here there are some who think its an absolute godsend, and some who seem to have to swap and change types and go through a lot of difficulties before arriving at one which DOES help. Then there are those who try it and give up and also those who have never used it.
I wonder, given what we all know are very fluctuating symptoms anyway, just how much of a "cure" HRT really is . The scientific establishment are always changing their minds about the why's and wherefore's and of course the drug companies are going to wish we were all on it !
I have been absolutely desperate at times for something ,anything , to make all this misery stop and have been very tempted by HRT and now it doesn't seem worth it ....the end MUST be in sight surely but I do wonder if I've done the right thing.
Its good that we all make our own decision in the end but what are we basing that decision on ?
love to all , a curious Sarah b x
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I was two years post menopausal and not clear of symptoms. In particular, my sleep pattern was horrendous. I couldn't cuddle up to my OH because I couldn't bear the heat generated from him and we had no marital relations.
Those are the things that changed for me when I fell onto HRT which I had always been opposed to, believing that my menopause was over and not thinking for one moment that what I was going through could be prevented and not really being an advocate of this unless absolutely essential.
My life has turned around on HRT. I can sleep for six hours at night, sometimes longer. I fall asleep being cuddled and now have a full marriage. He was very patient and tolerant, but life is better now. I no longer come home from work and go straight to bed either so I have more hours in the day and feel more in control of things around me.
Preparations do need time to get used to. I could easily have given up because of the nausea I felt in the mornings. This did go away, as the packet said it would, and I haven't looked back. How I got lucky and was given the right preparation from day one, I don't know. I can only put it down to the skill and knowledge of my prescribing doctor.
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Thats really good news Hot2Trot , it must have been such a relief to find something that WORKED , glad you are feeling more like your "normal " self.
love Sarah b x
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Hi Hot2trot
In reply to your question as to whether my BP is controlled with meds - the answer is no, but since coming off the HRT my BP is back to normal. However, I'm coping with the hot flushes and the only symptom is the tiredness which could be as the result of the Hysterectomy (TAH/BSO) 20 weeks ago- perhaps I'm expecting too much too soon??
Thanks Sarah B
I'll certainly go onto your post regarding food. I've been taking Menopace plus for the last 2 months which includes Isoflavines, mins & vits etc so it will be interesting to see if there is anything else I can take as well to help things.
Garnetx
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I've just been reading Hot2Trots interesting post regarding her gynea's view of HRT. I'd have to agree to a certain extent that the WHI study was never broad enough to give accurate results. All it did was scare women to death and they dropped HRT in their droves, most unwisely going 'cold turkey', with a large number going back on it anyway.
The most recent study "Million Women Study" completed earlier this year reversed some of the negative AND some of the positive findings of the WHI study - leaving women more confused than ever in my view.
As with all things, each expert will have a different opinion of HRT, sometimes completely the opposite of each other. Stay on it for life, shortest time and lowest dose etc etc...........contradictions with more or less all of the findings!
I think that's because there is NO definitive answer - yet (maybe never). The medical profession don't have all the answers and research keeps throwing up more information, therefore they will continue to disagree depending which side of the fence they sit. Leaving us going round in circles wondering what to do, take it or not.
It is a bit of a generalisation to assume most male GP's would happily give it to their wives and most female GP's would happily take it - unless there has been a study?
Something I have noticed that puzzles me - women on HRT can be very defensive about being on it, women not on it can be equally defensive about that too. Each side seems to want others to 'do what they do', maybe 'safety in numbers' factors in that - for both sides I mean. If the majority are on it then that must be the right decision (and vice versa). Is it just me who thinks this is happening?
Personally, I don't particularly want to use it, but I haven't ruled it out. I change my mind practically on a daily basis depending on how many flushes I've had. However, it matters not a jot to me what everyone else chooses to do, each of us have to decide what is best for ourselves and neither side has to justify their choice. The point of a forum (for me anyway) is to gain as much knowledge and experience as possible from others. To compare 'findings', to get links to sites with even more info, to digest who's on what, tried what, results, positive/negative feedback. It ISN'T to criticise women on HRT or to justify my current decision to stay off it. Each to their own :D
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Hi Sevenofnine
I think you are right, that people are seeling reassurance that they are doing the right thing for themselves, their loved ones, their careers .... Life is a lot more complicated and demanding for everyone now, men and women alike. My mother used to say how sorry she felt for my generation - that somehow we lacked the boundaries and definites of her generation and those before her.
On the other hand, haven't we had some great opportunities, a better education and more freedom to chose to live the lives we have wanted? And, it seems to me that what we are striving for is the best possible life for as long as possible.
Personally, I have been seeking a full range of information on which to make a decision, and when I have made that decision I want to get on with my life. I am sure that all this constant reviewing of options, all the worrying is negative and drains the life force.
The wonderful thing about this forum is that we can discuss these things openly, and I would like to thank Dr Currie for providing us all with this opportunity. (Dr Currie, I would present you with one of those bunches of flowers, but lack the technical expertise! :D)
As you said, it's very important not to make generalisations about GPs' behaviour without backing it up with studies. So, I'm including some links to doctors' and doctors' wives' HRT use below. Some of these I have posted before, and there are some additional ones as well. Personally, I think they provide a balance to the the hype resulting from the Million Women Study and WHI study.
1. Why do women doctors take HRT in Britain -1997, pre Million Women Study and WHI:
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/sites/entrez?Db=pubmed&Cmd=ShowDetailView&TermToSearch=9328541&ordinalpos=1&itool=EntrezSystem2.PEntrez.Pubmed.Pubmed_ResultsPanel.Pubmed_RVDocSum
2. Different report on data from same study:
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/sites/entrez?Db=pubmed&Cmd=ShowDetailView&TermToSearch=8520274&ordinalpos=2&itool=EntrezSystem2.PEntrez.Pubmed.Pubmed_ResultsPanel.Pubmed_RVDocSum
3. Ten year follow up by same researchers:
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/sites/entrez?Db=pubmed&Cmd=ShowDetailView&TermToSearch=16096171&ordinalpos=3&itool=EntrezSystem2.PEntrez.Pubmed.Pubmed_ResultsPanel.Pubmed_RVDocSum
4. Use of HRT by doctors and doctors' wives in Italy:
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/sites/entrez?Db=pubmed&Cmd=ShowDetailView&TermToSearch=15255286&ordinalpos=4&itool=EntrezSystem2.PEntrez.Pubmed.Pubmed_ResultsPanel.Pubmed_RVDocSum
5. Clinical and personal relationships between oral contraceptive and hormone replacement therapy use among US women physicians:
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/sites/entrez?Db=pubmed&Cmd=ShowDetailView&TermToSearch=12627038&ordinalpos=11&itool=EntrezSystem2.PEntrez.Pubmed.Pubmed_ResultsPanel.Pubmed_RVDocSum
6. Personal use of postmenopausal hormone replacement therapy by women physicians in the United States:
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/sites/entrez?Db=pubmed&Cmd=ShowDetailView&TermToSearch=9412312&ordinalpos=1&itool=EntrezSystem2.PEntrez.Pubmed.Pubmed_ResultsPanel.Pubmed_RVAbstractPlus
We will all chose our own paths, and I wish everyone the very best on their own journey.
Patricia
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!'m 59 and have been on HRT for more than 12 years now - initially to relieve the early symptons of menopause but then continued taking it in the hope that it will help reduce the liklihood of osteoporosis which runs in my family.
I started on a low does of Prempak and stayed on this for around 11 years. There was a tremendous improvement in the way I felt and apart from the first couple of weeks while my body adjusted to the influx of hormones, I 've had no ill effects - in fact I've felt and feel great. I do think its important to stick with it during the first few weeks until your body adjusts - don't be tempted to keep switching in the early days unless the side effects are severe.
I'm now on Tibolone and have no bleed. Again, I feel really good on this. After making the initial decision to give HRT a try and, experiencing the benefits, I've never looked back. I go for the usual checks and discuss any new research and findings but don't spend my life worrying whether its the right thing to do because so far it has worked for me. I'm aware of the possible risks but feel the benefits outweigh the negatives and I get on with my life and for the vast majority of the time I barely give HRT a second thought - its just part of my life now.
Reading all the posts it seems I'm fortunate in having no problems (that I'm aware of and fingers crossed) on HRT. I don't know whether the placebo effect is partly responsible but when I started taking it there was no doubt in my mind that it would be a good thing for me, I had only heard of positive reports at that time. So, how much of it is mind over matter I don't know but I'm beginning to think it must play a part because it can't be just luck that it has worked so well for me. I do, of course have slight concerns over the long term because it seems I may be on it indefinitely but even so, I have to balance the risks with the benefits and so far my choice is HRT.
My advice to anyone on HRT and feeling good on it is, get checked regularly, discuss any fears with your GP and as long as you are fit and healthy - ENJOY! Dont spend your life worrying - nothing comes with 100% guarantee but its not good to be constantly anxious.
As for the Tibolone - it has been an incredible boost for the sex drive! :)
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Hi Kat
Glad to read your post as I had been on Prempak 0.625 for nearly 7 years, the doctor I saw at the menopause clinic said she would recommend a 'non bleed' one now (I am 55), and prescribed me Livial.
I am a bit concerned as she said wait seven days before starting it. I know I had more night sweats when I missed even one tablet. I realise I have to have the bleed before starting the Livial hence the 7 days, but the product info says start taking it at the end of the bleed which could be even 14 days later as it does vary when I start.
Can you remember when you changed over? I would be grateful for any experiences or advice eg did it take a while to kick in. Is your concentration, memory better or worse on Livial?
Love Flutterby
PS Haven't mentioned increased sex drive to OH yet, not too bad anyway, but sounds good, bit worried about possible acne
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Hi Flutterby
I started taking Livial immediately I finished the last tablet of Prempak, no break in cycle and no side effects - no change in memory or concentration but noticably increased sex drive. I've been on it for just over a year now and have absolutely no sign of acne, weight gain or facial hair. I'm wary now about reading the possible side effects on any medication because anything one takes seems to have a string of possible nasties and is very off putting - I'm sure in my case ingnorance is bliss - I never expect anything bad to happen and I've been extremely fortunate with my experience of HRT. Until I discovered this forum I had no idea that it didn't work for everyone, particularly as most of my friends are on it and flourishing. I would say give it a try and if you have problems there are many other options.
I saw a consultant gyneacologist last week as I had had spotting and slight discomfort and fortunately it was just a small fibroid which he said had probably been growing slowly for a long time and nothing to worry about. He also said Livial was a good thing to be on as it tends to inhibit the growth and development of fibroids and cysts and he was very pro Tibolone for a number of reasons. I was given the full works, internal and external scan and an internal examination so it was very comforting to know my uterus and overies were in very good nick after being on HRT for so long.
Hope this is helpful to you my - GP said at the time of changover that I should just follow on from the last Prempak tablet. Maybe there are different schools of thought but I don't think it can make that much difference.
Would love to know how you get on.
Love KAT
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I am feeling well on my very low dose patch and am 60 now but 60 is the new 40 now! and thankgoodness us baby boomers can look it now. I have had a partial hysterectomy so have had to worry about the progestin side of things.
Here's an interesting link
http://www.ingentaconnect.com/content/adis/derm/2001/00000002/00000003/art00003
I must confess to mixing a very tiny dab of estriol to my moisturiser and applying once a week and have done for years.
Sandy
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Hi Kat
Thanks for your reply. I definitely feel a lot happier now hearing your experiences.
Love Flutterby
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Would not know personally as I am not allowed to have it because I suffered a brain haemorrhage six years ago.
A few of my friends have had problems with HRT - one came off it completely and felt much better, the other just had her dosage adjusted and she is now fine.
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Hi Flutterby
I've just got back from a weeks holiday and got your message. I did reply but am new to this so am not sure if you received it.
Love KAT
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Hi Kat
Yes I did get your message - thanks :tulips:
I have been concerned as the livial did not seem to be kicking in even after 10 days. However last night I only had one sweat and not getting as warm today so I am keeping my fingers crossed. Will keep you posted.
Love Flutterby
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Hi All,
I went to the docs today as I had to have my 3 month check up & get some more Evorel 50 patches. I was a bit concerned because I had a slight worry that my BP could be up (what with a few stressful things going on at the mo, although not serious). Anyway it was 70/120 oops I mean 120/70, which she was very happy about. Then I stepped on the scales & had it confirmed - 11 1/2 stone, bugger the bathroom scales are right after all >:( >:(. That is a stone in a year. She said don't worry too much about it as it is expected with the menopause (what a wonderful woman she is).
I have now been given 6 months supply & am extremley happy to be on HRT.
XX
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Yep 8)I love my hrt! and Cazikins remember STRESSED is DESSERTS spelt backwards!
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I was put on a trial two months of HRT, I had breast cancer almost 4 years ago and had premature menopause. The symptoms were so severe that my Dr suggested we just try HRT. It really started to help, however one of the Dr I have been under the care of, says I should not be taking it. I would rather have quality of life NOW, I am driving myself and my family mad because of the dreadful symptoms, I have become a different person, i don't like very much. It seems like a hard decision to make. Is there anyone out there who does take HRT despite having been treated for breast cancer and how did you make the decision?
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Hi Moocow (love the name!) Sorry can't help with the HRT question but just wanted to welcome you to the forum :)
No doubt someone will be along soon to offer advice and support :hug:
Love Taz :bounce:
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Hello.
I'm new to the forum but was diagnosed with POF at the age of 32 (42 now) & was prescribed HRT 2 years later...............what a difference it made to my life. Prior to taking it I'd been off work for 5 months with depression (definitely menopause related) my GP always said if I'd had been treated with HRT earlier perhas I wouldn't have got so bad. Anyway not wanting to harp on but all the horrid menopausal symptoms I'd been suffering with disappeared and I felt like I had my life back. I've been on tablets and patches & tablets together and now just combined patches (Evorel sequi - 2 months ago) Yes I've had to put up with most of the side effects that go with it but to be honest its been a small price to pay (apart from the weight gain............that I can't forgive!) I'd kill before give it up.
Talking of side effects & I'm sorry if I'm in the wrong place to be asking this but one that I've never had before and has just become really noticable is hair loss, when I have a shower I block up the plug hole - a real clump so that I end up standing in a bath full of water. Has anyone else noticed this,especially with this brand of HRT or do I just need to change my shampoo?!?
Nice to meet you all.
Take care,
LesleyH
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Hi everyone
Can someone tell me what the difference is between all the different types of HRT. How does a doctor decide which to prescribe? It seems everyone on here is on something different. I have just started on femoston 1/10mg but can't seem to find anyone else on this and was just wondering if anyone has been or is on it? I have only been taking it since Wednesday but already feel so different -is this possible?
I would love to hear your comments.
Love Julie xx :)
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Hi, got to say I cannot cope much longer with the flushes and night sweats and everything else. Really feel like getting HRT implant done . I have been on HRT for 23yrs started age 32 went on shock change after having hysterectomy 29yrs old, both ovarys removed 32yrs . Have been off HRT for 2 yrs specialist was worried said i was high risk for breast cancer . I thought well shouldnt think i will get any problems now after all iam 59yrs old . Wrong how wrong i was I have had full blown symtoms sleepless nights, cramps, pain in joints, worst of all Hot flushes and night sweats. dont think doctor will give me any hrt and so i dont know how i am to cope . After going on the forum and reading some of your messages i know i am not a lone .
Amyjean
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Hi Amyjean
Sorry you are having a horrible time :hug:
I am 55 was on Prempak for nearly 7 years and I am now on Tibolone for 10 weeks, which is not working as well as the Prempak did for sweats and flushes.
Was the specialist just basing her concerns for breast cancer on the length of time you were on HRT. Some schools of thought, do not put much emphasis on counting the years on HRT up to 50 ( the 'usual' menopause age ). If you do think of HRT again I personally wouldn't go down the implant route. Is there a menopause clinic you could be refered to?
There are other alternatives - natural progesterone cream for one, but of course like HRT they don't work for every one.
Here's hoping you find something that brings relief soon.
Love Flutterby
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Hi Amyjean
I've been on HRT for 13 years and am the same age as you. Until now my GP has always been very pro HRT but a new GP I saw a couple of weeks ago tried to pursuade me to come off it - however, I'm desperately hanging onto it. When I first started meno symptons I was prescribed Prempak C and almost immediately I felt wonderful - end of symptons and I'm still that way. I really don't want to let go when its working so well on every front and having considered the risks Im convinced the benefits outweigh them for me.
The problem with the medical profession is their views vary so much and its not easy to know what to do for the best. As Flutterby suggests, perhaps there is a menopause clinic within reach of you. You need to understand the risks so that you can make an informed choice.
Quality of life is so important so I hope you find a solution that suits you.
Love Kat
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I have been thinking about this a lot over the last few days and I have decided that taking HRT has been the best thing I have done in a long, long time. I don't think I realised how bad I was feeling - it is only now because I am feeling SO MUCH MORE LIKE MY OLD SELF AGAIN, that I realise that I have been down in the dumps for a long time, certainly due to my fluctuating hormones and the onset of the menopause 2/3 years ago.
Even little things like setting off some fireworks in the garden last night for my daughter felt good, whereas last year it was something I went along with just for her and got absolutely nothing out of it but last night it was different - I actually enjoyed it. It was the same when we went on holiday at the end of October, it was such a pleasant experience, unlike my summer holiday which was an absolute nightmare from start to finish, it just seemed like hard work.
I know there are risks in taking HRT. In fact, I went to see my rheumotologist a few weeks ago and she is running tests to check on my bloods as I have had positive diagnosis of lupus anticoagulant and antiphospholid antibodies in the past and this puts me in a slightly higher risk category for blood clots, etc. than someone without. If they come back positive this time (and they were negative in February) she is going to put me on a low dose of Aspirin.
Even with all this, I can't imagine how I would cope with life without my HRT now and I have only been on it for 3 months but I feel like a completely different person. I have my bad days now and again but they are not anything like as frequent as they used to be and I am coping with what life is throwing at me at the moment much better.
Sorry to ramble but this has been on my mind for a few days now and I wanted to share it with you all.
Libby
x
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Hi Libby
Thanks for posting your positive message about HRT. If it feels to you that it's the best thing that you have done for yourself for a long time, then it will be.
It seems to me that, the physical benefits of HRT are felt almost immediately for many people and there should also be a huge benefit from the 'feel good' factor that we get from knowing we have done something good for ourselves.
Unfortunately, many of us (and I include myself here) have been so terrified by the reporting of research results that despite the fact that meno symptoms have eased we still struggle to feel good about our choice.
Like you, Libby, I have decided to feel positive about taking HRT - I started two months ago - in the last couple of weeks two people have told me (1) that I am like a different person, much more confident and with a personality (2) that I look ten years younger. (Well, I did that day! ;)
It's when other people make comments like that that you realise what the effects of HRT are.
Good luck, Libby.
Patricia
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Hi
Yes I agree, when I was taking HRT I had more energy, no aching bones and muscles, no incontinence, no depression, I also looked 10 years younger, had good hair and skin. What the hell is going on with the doctors today. My doctor took me off because I was "too old" at 59. I felt great on it and had a good sex drive etc. I now am suffering..............
Chris
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Hi Chrissy
I really sympathise with you - I am just thanking my lucky stars that I feel OK at the moment.
A while ago I read about this really low dose HRT - apparently Jane Seymour the actress went on to it - she's been interviewed loads of times about taking HRT. She's said that she couldn't stop it altogether but she has gone on to a very low dose.
I'm on Premique 0.625/10 MG but I think this other stuff is lower than that.
I wonder if anyone knows anything about this?
Patricia
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Well after thinking i was going out my mind last january, i had a blood test and was put on HRT fem7 sequi Patch. Initially it was fine
i had a bleed as promised, which was a great relief i used to love my periods, i felt more able to cope during menstration,, strange but true...the bleeding then stopped, urhhh. now after god knows how many months worth of patches, my hot flushes have returned and my depression and anxiety has got worse again.
Just as you think its safe to come out your shell, something makes you hide away again.
satrted menopause age 41 now 43 and the prospect of feeling like this for next ten years is well freaking me out, how come my mother and my maternal grandmother went thru their change in a year and had no hot flushes symptoms at all after that, surely i should follow them?? should i have had another blood test from doctor by now? should my hormone levels be regularly checked or something or do i just keep applying patches and till someone notices me??
claire
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Hi Claire41,
Sorry don't have any experience of taking HRT but from what you have said it sounds like its not actually benefiting you at the moment.
There are lots of ladies on here who have taken various forms of HRT so I'm sure someone will come along soon who'll be more help than I am.( eg there are lots of different ones to try) . I would say though that a trip back to the doctor sounds like a good idea ...haven't you had any kind of follow up to see how you are doing ?
As for the blood tests .......they don't really tell you much actually . Apparently your hormone levels can fluctuate from one day to the next so you don't get an accurate picture from a one off test anyway.
hope you soon get some help
love, Sarah b x
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Hi
I took kliovance for 6 months (am surgically menopausal due to endometriosis) and had to stop taking it as my liver function was affected, I also had stomach ulcer symptoms so am taking omeprazole for that now. My GP has suggested I stay off the HRT for the time being and maybe discuss the patch when the stomach ulcer has healed. I have been put off HRT by this experience, and am not sure what to do next. :( I am taking fish oil tablets (omega 3, 6 and 9) and Confiance which is quite high in B vitamins.
Anyway am glad I found this site, it was recommended to me by the menopause clinic.
Forgetful
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Hi everyone, I have now been within the menopause for 2 years plus, hot flushes, poor concentration, mood swings etc, unfortunatly 28 years ago I was the victim of a hit and run accident and suffered a DVT as part of a major pelvic trauma and now all these years on I can not take HRT ( unless any one knows different ) my mum has taken HRT for 20 + years ( yes 20 ) and now at 75 still has the energy and drive of a teenager, sometimes life becomes too hard to bear ( I also have diagnosed CFS ) but hopefully one day the dreadful symptons will go and I can have my life back, would I take HRT and live for today.....oh yes.
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Hi Annlet - welcome to the forum. You will find lots of support on here.
Have you been told categorically by your gp that you cannot take HRT? Opinions change all the time so it may be worth asking again - a low dose may be ok for you.
Keep posting :)
Love Taz x ::)
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Hi Taz,
Yes with having the DVT it was a confirmed no from my GP, but i will keep asking.
Regards
Annlet
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Hi Like LibbyBabe I have started on Elleste Duo 1 mg today. i will let you know how I find it. I too decided that quality of life was the deciding factor to give it a go. I will report how I get on when my monthly bleed comes along. To be honest my last proper period was in Sept 07 but I have had all the usual "delightful" symptoms that come along every month since... the migraine, feeling nauseus, ratty etc so maybe I wont react too badly. Will have to see. I'm hoping ;D
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I think you have to give it three months at least to find out. My first bleed was horrendous in terms of cramps and flooding but the second one was much better - only lasted 6 days and only one day when I had to take a hot water bottle to work!! Am now working up to the third one - next weekend it is due - and I think the sore boobs and pmt are slightly less bothersome than the previous two times :)
Hope you get quick relief.
Love Taz x
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I have just read a report in the Telegraph (26th Feb) which gives the results of a survey carried out by (i'm not sure who as it didn't seem to be specified) which seemed to say that it is the first year of HRT taking which can lead to breast cancers. Rik or Dr Currie - Help!!! Have you seen this article or could you give us some more details on the actual survey.
Thanks.
Taz
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Hi Taz
Yes, I picked this up as well. This is partly what I was worried about when I started the other thread. I think this Daily Telegraph report is re-hashing the information which is in the news articles on this site.
It talks about abnormalities being identified within first year of taking HRT - but what sorts of abnormalities does it mean? Breast cancer or other things - like calcification, for example?
To relate this to my own personal concerns:when I had my routine scan after my fiftieth birthday, a tiny amount of calcification was found in each breast. I had keyhole surgery to get rid of this. I was told that there was a one in 20 likliehood of this being cancerous - but the results came back negative. Now I am concerned that this might have been the result of my taking Prepak for about six weeks about five months earlier. If there is a connection, I wonder what is happening now when I have been taking Premique for seven months? What are the implications of having abnormal scan results even if the condition is found to be benign? Does this indicate an increased risk of something more serious in the future?
I would be also be very grateful for some more information from Dr Currie.
Thank you,
Patricia
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Dr. Currie's added a comment to the news item:
http://www.menopausematters.co.uk/newsitem.php?recordID=70
The bit you'll really want to hear tho is: "... the report is NOT saying that there is an increase in the risk of breast cancer in the first year."
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Hello Rik and Dr Currie
Thank you for explaining this so clearly. It is much appreciated.
Kind regards
Patricia
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Women's Health Concern,the Charity, have very straightforward advice, Dr John Stevenson puts it in perspective. The figures in ie the Telegraph look very bad, but when you analyse them, they are minimal.
The advice is: carry on
Me: I'm sticking to my patches, I can't live my life like it was, I work 40 hours a week, my kids need me upright, as does my lovely hubby. Roll on our 35th wedding anniversary 23rd March....I will be up and partying........well, up until about 11pm ;)
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I am coming to the end of my first week on Kliofem.
Not the miracle cure I was expecting...but, I do beleive the flushes and boiling sweats (up to 30 a day/night!!!!!) are beginning to diminish :sunny:......only noticed about 3 so far today, whereas by now I would normally have had a couple of showers and changes of clothes......
So for me it's so far so good.......
just one thing I have noticed though, although the pills i am on are the continual no-bleed type (my doc thought that as I just turned 50 and only had one or two periods in last 12 months, I would 'get away' with this type???) for three days now i have felt very pre menstrual, tearful, and with severe period pains although no period. Is this the norm with these pills?
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I'm not sure if it is the norm or not for continual hrt. I am on everol sequi as my gp was adamant that as I had had three periods in the past year there was no way I could get away with a no-bleed type. What are we to believe!!! I am 54 by the way. I hadn't had a period for 9 months but she still said that the risk from endometrial cancer was too great as I had not gone a whole year without a period.
Hopefully someone will be along soon with more info for you but I hope you feel better soon. I feel like you for the second half of the month and have been told it is the fact that my patch has norethisteronein it. The benefits so far though outweigh the negatives so I will carry on with the one I am on.
Love Taz x
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Hi Hotmomma!I was on no bleed and had kliovance and kliofem....cant remember which first but I hadnt had a period for over a year and was over 50,however I did have bleeds which I shouldnt have had.It is quite normal to have them for the first three months so dont be surprised if you do.I am now on premique and have been for about a year or more and I havent had any bleeds with them.The main difference for me to was that the flushes eventually almost totally stopped and i regained the confidence I had lost and lost the generally wobbly feeling I had most of the times pre hrt!Julie xx
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Hi
I took Kliovance for 6 months, by the time I came off them I was tearful, anxious and feeling sick all the time, they affected my liver function as well as my moods.
Now four months later, no moods, feeling much better (so far) just putting up with the hot flushes and tiredness.
I think it is the progestogen in the continuous HRT that gives you the PMT symptoms.
It is a personal decision but so far I prefer the hot flushes.
Forgetful x
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:thankyou:
thats very helpful input.
I think I need to go back to GP. I was just so grateful that she gave me HRT....I accepted anything, and hadn't really researched the different types that much.
Are the patches easily obtainable? AND AS EFFECTIVE? I must admit i like the idea of them more than a pill....as I have said elsewhere, I am very susceptible to drugs and always have adverse reactions..... :-\ :-\
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My patches started working within 12 hours. I went from hot sweats - totally drenching ones - every 20 minutes to none at all but I've never had the pills so cant compare but I really worked hard to get the patches and I'm not giving them up now!
Love Taz x
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Doc has told me to leave off kliofem, for two weeks :hotflash:......
After that she will give me patches plus a pill containing progesterone....I think :-\
Does that sound right?
just worried how I will feel on 2 weeks off the HRT (only been on it 2 weeks LOL)....
watch this space............ :-\
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Hi Hots
You may have a residual benefit from the Kliofem for a couple of weeks - fingers crossed.
Patricia
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Thanks newstart, I hope so.
But I have got horrendous period pains now, so looks like i might have a period/withdrawal bleed anytime now... :'(
I can just about cope with that LOL, just so long as the sweats dont come back whilst I'm on me cruise :bang:
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Hi Hotmomma
There are two continuous combined patches that I know of (reason being these are the only ones I can have as I had endo, found this out at the meno clinic though I am not on any at the moment as was put off by kliovance experience) they are:
Evorel conti (Change after 4 days)
and Femseven conti (change once a week)
Evorel conti has norethisterone as the progestogen and Femseven has levonorgestrel.
I was told that as I didn't like the way the progestogen in kliovance made me feel it might be worth trying levonorgestrel. ???
I have to have a liver scan next week and a further blood test to see if my liver function has returned to normal before I can think about whether to try patches.
Anyway hope this info helps you
Forgetful x
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Hi everyone,
I have just joined this site, and would like some advice from anyone!!
Have just been to docs this morning as cant stand the symptoms any longer. I havn't slept properly for weeks due to the most horrendous night sweats. I also just do not ever feel completely 'normal'. He has sent me away with the usual paper info and has booked me in for FSH test next week and in the meantime i have to decide whether or not i want HRT. Its so difficult to way up the pros and cons. Any advice would be welcome.
Thanks
Jules
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Hi Jules
:welcomemm: The only thing I can suggest is do as much research as possible and then if you want to give HRT a go give it a try. I took Kliovance which is estrogen and progestogen, but to be honest found I felt better without it than with it, but it did affect my liver function adversely so that didn't help, and I had to stop it. I am still thinking about whether or not to try a patch but to be honest have been put off it quite a bit due to the kliovance experience. Because I had endo I can only use an HRT with progestogen in it continously and as it is usually the progestogen that causes most side effects this is the problem for me.
However lots of other ladies do fine on HRT.
Good luck
Forgetful x
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HRT is a complete no-no for me because I'm at high risk of breast cancer. Having spent my life avoiding cigarettes, drinking only very moderately, watching my diet etc etc I don't want the risk or worry of taking a hormonal replacement that could potentially increase my risk factor even further. Thankfully the hot flushes don't seem to have hit me fully yet, so when / if they do I might change my mind!!!
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That must be such a worry for you. Have you ever been offered mastectomies if you are at such a high risk? I just wondered as someone I knew finally took the plunge (!) at 46 to have hers removed and didn't look back - she said that she felt like a huge cloud had been lifted from over her head and for the first time since she was 25 she could actually live properly. The reconstruction was fantastic. Sorry if this is a bit blunt but I just wondered :hug:
Love Taz x
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Hi Taz,
I don't mind you asking in the slightest. No, I haven't been offered mastectomies - I'm not sure i would want to go that route myself, but I can see why others might. My own risk is 40% which, as i told the doctor when he was 'breaking' the news to me, means I have more chance of NOT developing cancer! :D So I prefer to stay positive, stay vigilant, and stay away from hormones/HRT ;)
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That's the way to be Grumpy!! 60% risk at not getting it then - sounds the right way round to me!!! :)
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Thanks Taz. I really appreciate your interest and support :) :) :)
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I don't really think the question is whether HRT is good or bad, I would say it is up to the individual. You have to weigh up the options; on the one hand there is evidence that HRT in the long term may lead to breast cancer and other serious ailments, however, some studies have also shown that taking HRT reduces the chance of getting cancer of the colon or rectum and reduces the chance of developing osteoporosis.
Its all about how each individual feels and it is important that they make an informed decision - if you want to know more about HRT and althernative treatment for symptoms of the menopause go and see your GP. It is unadvisable to take medication, including many natural alternatives such as black cohosh and isoflavones, without advise so if you are opting out of HRT and won't go and see a doctor you could always visit a site such as www.supplementscompared.com which rates menopause products according to their quality and value for money - you could end up squandering your money on products that have little or no positive effect on your health otherwise.
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I found this information - http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2001/06/010620073721.htm
Its made me feel better about continuing with my very low dose patch (0.25) at the age of 61. When I went to see the cardiologist about palpitation ( they were panic attacks to a traumatic op and have stopped now) I told him that I took my patch off and put it on according to what I read in the Daily Mail!! and he said that I should continue with patch and that it was a good thing, and thats coming from a cardiologist so I shall continue with it knowing its beneficial effects on my body.
Sandy x
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Hello, I have just started HRT for the first time, my GP has given me Elleste Duet Tablets, 2mg Estradiol and 1mg Norethisterone. I have been on them for almost a week now, but have been feeling very nauseous and have even had period pains, despite not having had a period for over 9 months now. My poor hubby has been very supportive, but I am sooo hoping that this will settle and I will feel more normal. Has anyone else taken this HRT and if so, did it help eventually? Many thanks - Ellie May
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Hi Ellie May
I have been on the same HRT as you since August last year. The only problem I had in the first 3 months or so was that I had some bleeding on and off but it settled down by about November and I have not had a bleed since then (although my periods had already stopped before I started taking it). It has helped me with my hot flushes, I sleep better and generally feel better than I did. I still have 'off' days but I am sure the HRT is making a difference. I hope you settle soon with it but it can take a while for your body to get used to it. Best wishes,
Libby
x
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Here is a link to reading about HRT, I think its the best information that I have read about menopause and Natural Hormone replacement, I keep going back to it and reading the articles as they are such a good read.
Sandy x
http://www.antiaging.com/cyberhealth/index.html
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Hi Heather,
HRT is the best thing since sliced bread when you're on it, but when doc takes you off it after recommended time all symptoms plus a whole lot more come back with a vengeance, after two years since HRT I've still got the sweats, flushes,with extras such as joint pains and just a general lack of energy and motivation! So I would only say yes now to HRT if I could stay on it for the rest of my days (even with all the risks it carries!!!)
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I am a newbie here and love to come and dip into the site to reassure myself that there are lots of other women out there that have suffered the same symptoms. Each have found their own way of coping whether taking HRT or not.
I fall into the camp that HRT is the best thing since sliced bread. I took it for six years as I was perimenopausal. Then when I was 50 the big scare arrived and I decided on the advice of my doctor to come off it.
The symptoms came back with a vengeance and I struggled on for two years without HRT. But then, I changed my doctor and was gobsmacked when she said I could take HRT again but this time the no-bleed variety (as I had not bled for 2 years since stopping my previous HRT). Her reasoning was that if I felt my quality of life was poor I could way up the pros and cons and decide what I wanted to do.
I must admit I was a little apprehensive at first because of the risks but decided that my quality of life was non-existent with continual fatigue, aching joints, hot flushes etc. Needless to say, I have been taking Kliofem for 4 weeks now and do not regret returning to HRT. My joints have stopped aching, my lethargy has reduced considerably and I feel sexy again.
Only you can decide what it best for you. But for me HRT continues to be the best thing since sliced bread albeit the risks.
Life's journey is all about choices good or bad.
Miss Feelingood (but starting to feel a whole lot better now I am back on HRT)
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I thought you might be interested in this. :) Yesterday I went for my regular dental check and my dentist said that the general condition of my gums has improved since last time I was there (6 months ago) and I said jokingly, 'that's probably due to the HRT' and he laughed but he agreed that as gums can suffer during pregnancy due to hormone changes, then there is no reason why the HRT will not help to improve the condition of the gums. It has certainly made a difference in my case so that's another plus for HRT from me!
Libby
x
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Hi Libby
That's great! I love it! ;D
Patricia
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Yep - thats what my dentist said too - once oestrogen levels drop then you are much more prone to bleeding gums etc. It is only the oestrogen thats holding us together obviously :bouncing:
Love Taz x :bounce:
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Oestrogen............ who can live without it? Judging from this website not many women!!
Oestrogen = Quality of life
Reduce oestrogen and :'( :'( :'(
Miss Feelingood
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I have been on HRT for 2 and a half months and have put on alot of weight I was on femstone the hot sweats calmed down but still had the pains in my legs. Then I changed to Evening Primrose Siberian Gin ::)seng and 5htp I feel much better and found I have more energy people have said I look much better. After loosing weight at ww I felt down that I had put a stone and a half on and my hunger levels rose but it may take a little time to work but I found the herbal way ok.
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Hi,I went onto hrt just 3 weeks ago estradol? I had my tah 2 years ago at the age of 39 but decided to take the natural route,well i didnt notice much difference and cost me a fortune!So had a chat with a different gp who said i should be on it beacause of osterporosis,i was suffering with bad hot flushes,not sleeping and kept crying for no reason,well although its only been 3 weeks the improvement in my flushes has been amazing and im not crying!so here is hoping its for me! :)
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Hi Ripata - Welcome to the Forum.
I'm pleased that you have decided to take HRT as you have quite a few years before you get to the "normal" age of meno and you do need the oestrogen to protect your heart and bones.
I too found quick relief from the hot flushes when I started it in December.
Look forward to hearing more from you.
Love Taz x
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I met up with a friend yesterday who I hadn't seen for over a year. She sent me a text this morning which said that I never seem to change and don't ever look any older (perhaps she needs an eye test! ;D). I can only think it is the HRT working its' magic on me so i will stick with it for as long as I can.
Libby
x
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Hi Libby,
That was nice of your friend. I met a friend last night for dinner and whilst waiting for her (as usual) outside the restaurant a 30-ish man walked past me for the second time and said 'not waiting for me, are you? When I related the story to my friend she asked if he'd had drink taken ! Charming. ;D
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My GP didn't recommend HRT, and I agreed with her. I tried herbal remedies, including Black Cohosh which I didn't find very effective. In the end I found Agnus Castus really helped with my symptoms - particularly hot flushes. I'd recommend trying that first, before taking HRT.
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I have just read this thread in it's entirety and the common theme is confusion. I have not had a period forn 3 years but have all the worst symptoms for the last 4 years. I work full time and have no energy for anything else, my house is a tip. I have around 20 flushes a day, when I get home my clothes are wet, my hair is a mass of frizz, I don't sleep, I cry a lot and have a vile temper. I have read so many articles on HRT my brain hurts. My friend recently had a breast removed, she was on HRT, not saying there is a connection but she stopped as soon as she was diagnosed and went straight back to the way I feel now. A number of posts in this thread say the sypmtoms return when HRT is stopped. I have been torturing myself should I try it or not. I feel after 4 years it must be comning to an end, if I take HRT am I just dragging it out. I know women who stopped when the scares first started and without fail the flushes etc returned. Why does it have to be so difficult???? No ohter area in life is this harsh or confusing. I feel if men went through this there would have a been a solution long since, after all we can fly men to the moon, why can't we have a safe solution to such a common series of symptoms. There is so much scare mongering and confusion in the media. I reaxch a point where I think I can't cope any longer and then read something scary in the latest findings. I hate being the way I am, but, am muncertain if it is worth starting HRT so late in the day, I am 51 now, and feel I must be reaching the other side of it soon. In the meantime like all of you I work, have family and get fed up being so miserable. Sorry I am rambling, I do find your views helpful and interesting
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Lillybee - I think :-\ I replied to your other post but not sure!
I don't think that there is a set time for the flushes etc to stop. If you are only 51 now then you are at the normal age for meno. Just because you started early does not necessarily seem to mean that you will finish early. I am going to be blunt here - and you wont want to read this next bit - but in the docs last year I met a woman who was 72 and had been having severe flushes for the last 20 years! She had one while we talked. She talked to me about HRT and how she wished she had been offered it as, even if the flushes had returned, she would at least have had some more years flush-free. My own personal view is that your quality of life seems so poor at the moment you should return to your GP and ask to try HRT.
I started mine in December having first battled with myself to do without it and then with my GP when I finally went to her for a prescription. My sweats were leaving me dripping from head to socks every 20 minutes. I was having to take changes of clothes into work. I didn't sleep which left me feeling unable to cope with the smallest thing. Within 12 hours of me hesitantly sticking on my first patch the sweats had almost gone to disappear totally within the next day. Sleep returned - quite good sleep too - joint pains went, skin became less dry and hair stopped falling out.
I know that we feel that if these problems affected men then a "cure" could be found but there is not a cure for everything and I think that our "cure" is HRT. My GP has said that I can have it for 5 years and possibly 10. I am 54 at the moment. I told myself that "ok it may only give you a reasonable quality of life for 5 years but, then, over a 5 year period you could become ill with something non-HRT related, you could die in an accident so, hey, why not enjoy them and see where you are in 5 years time when you have to come off it"
I researched HRT and the risk of breast cancer. I found that the risk from alcohol is the same if not higher than from HRT. I have had five friends develop the disease and non of them have been on HRT. More info on breast cancer risks here http://www.breakthrough.org.uk/about_breast_cancer/prevention_and_early_detection/risk_factors/index.html
Taz
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Hi lillybee
I too agree with taz2, ive given hrt considerable thought and decided my quality of life now is more important. I am 51 and work looking after people with cancer and well aware of that side of things, however of all the women i meet with cancer only a tiny handful have been on hrt. far more have been smokers or drinkers, those makes the risks far higher.
Im still not sure about the hrt though, i am only into my second month and have had some side effects to deal with, but hoping they settle. on balance tho the flushes are less severe in intensity and sleep pattern is improving, but not the instant results i was expecting. I have 2 met women who have had flushes into their 70's, my mother in law did and never went down the hrt route. i figure if all goes well i will try and reduce the hrt when i retire, as work is the biggest problem in dealing/coping with the meno symptoms.
hope you feel better soon
love
julia :foryou:
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Thanks both of you, you have been really helpful, as are the others in here. I admit I have gone past the cancer concerns as such, I am probably just wishful thinking that it must come to a conclusion sooner rather than later and the thought of it coming back when you come off HRT is a bit off putting. I have thought of nothing else over the last week or so. I was prescribed anti depressants and decided to come off them recently having taken them for 12 months. That has not helped, the symptoms are the same but I feel even more weepy and low. I have an appointment next Wednesday with my GP I will discuss HRT with her and if she gives the all clear I think it is time I tried it. I can't keep on this way and my family must be fed up with me too, it would be nice to feel normal for once. Thanks for the support it means a lot. xx
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Good luck with it, lets us know how you get on.
love
julia
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To be honest i just dont know, i have been on my HRT for about 2.5 years now i think,
a patch i cant face yet another pill entering my body i already take enough for my ohter ills, im on femseven sequi , for the main the only benefit is that it has stoped the hot flushes most of the time, I do still get them esp at times of great strain.
I am not sure if this is related to patch or the anxiety/depression meds.. but my psoriosis which i have had since age 10 only limited to knees and elbows, has now spread to all sort of places. Its not improved my mind as i tought it might. And i have irregular bleeds with it too, not once a month as my GP said i would. and i do miss them. And the thought of being stuck to a patch till im 52 does not bare thinking about so i try not to, and im still uncertain if when we come off patch/pills if we have to go thru all the side effects of menopause again i just dont know yours confused.
claire
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Hi to you all - I'm new to the forum and I have found all your comments extremely interesting. I am now 61 and have been on HRT since I was 50. I decided to try and wean myself off it slowly as stopping completely did not work at all. I took 1 tablet every other day for the past 7 months but the dreaded flushes returned.
All I can say is that if I had known that the symptoms would return when you stopped HRT I would never have started on it without trying EVERYTHING else first. I innocently assumed that the menopause only lasted for so many years and then you were through it! Obviously not. I, like a lot of you, have decided my quality of life is more important so I am back on 1 tablet a day, Climesse, and after 2 days and I am not woken in the night at all. How long I will carry on with it I don't know. Just read in the paper of a well known lady who has been in it 20 years so that made me feel a bit better!:-\
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Hi
the menopause as I see it is withdrawal from estrogen. So if you are putting estrogen into your body when its not supposed to be there and then you stop it you will eventually get the menopause you should have had years ago which will last until your body adjusts to having low levels again. Obviously the drug companies don't tell women this because if they did less women would bother with it.
I find I'm better without it but everyone is different.
Forgetful x
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I've been on HRT for 3 years, but not before trying other things first. When I started getting bad hot flushes I was prescribed Clonidine, which worked very well for a couple of years. Then I had a really bad period (which turned out to be my last) and the flushes started up again with a vengeance, even though I increased the dose of Clonidine from 2 to 3 tablets per day. I was just sweating all the time.
I tried Black cohosh, and that did calm things down a bit, but not to the point where I had a reasonable quality of life. I'm the correct weight for my height, go to the gym, eat healthily, don't smoke and rarely drink, so I feel that the only risk factor in my life is taking HRT, which has worked wonders for the flushes and I feel so much better on it. I've since been diagnosed with low bone density, so that seems to be another thing in favour of HRT.
When I eventually come off HRT, I will ask my GP to let me try Clonidine again if I start getting flushes, as it worked before. However, I'm 48 now, so I expect to be on HRT for another couple of years, until I reach normal menopause age.
Marina
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I saw my GP yesterday and got a prescription for Premique low dose. I am praying loke mad it will work. I read lots of articles about the symptoms coming back when you stop and decided I need help now. I am having 18-20 flushes most days, I sit in work in wet/damp clothes all day, don't sleep and could cry for the Uk. I discussed with bthe doctor about flushes coming back. Some people are unlikely but many will have flushes for only a short spell. I have tried Black Cohosh, Isoflavins, red clover, combination remedies from the health shop, everything I read about I tried. I am 51 and have been like this 4 years. If the HRT works for me I will be so grateful just to feel normal. I have tears streaming down my face now, for no reason. I work full time and it is hard to cope on so little sleep. I was on a nti depressants, venluflaxine for 12 months, they didn't stop any flushes but calmed me down a bit. I decided to come off them as I don't like being on them, the withdrawal, even weening off slowly is hell, won't go through that again. I thought long and hard and decided to try HRT and just hope it will work. My doctor gave me a low dose and said she is limited what she can prescribe as I don't want breakthrough bleeds, not had a period for 4 years. Fingers crossed and I will let you know if it works
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Hi lillybee, I really feel for you, and I hope the HRT works. I started on Premique Low dose 3 years ago, and it was fine, but then it was unavailable for a while. I think this was to do with the leaflets in the packs not conforming with rules & regs, so I guess this has now been sorted out.
Anyway, I changed over to Kliovance when I couldn't get Premique LD, and that has been fine, no breakthrough bleeding at all. So if Premique LD doesn't work out, Kliovance could be an alternative.
Good luck, and if my experience is anything to go by, you could start feeling better after 10 days on HRT. Hope so.
Marina
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Hi Lillybee - I hope that the HRT works - have got everything crossed for you!
You sound just as I was in December when I started on Evorel Sequi patches (was still having irregular periods so had to have a bleed-type). I am not sure about the pills but within a day of putting on the first patch I had no sweats at all. They were happening every 20 minutes day and night up till then. It has made such a difference to the way I feel - I will cope with coming off them when I have to I suppose but hope to stay on them for as long as possible.
Love Taz x
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;D Hi Everyone I am new to the forum - I have being taking HRT Tridestra for 10 years now since a fairly early menopause at age 44. This is one that you take for 3 months then stop for a month and have a period. I am lucky to be really healthy and have a full health private health screen every year which I have so far passed with flying clours
However frightened by all the negativity about HRT, also having much heavier periods than I ever had naturally plus concerned that my husbands mother (no blood relative of mine) who took it for HRT for 15 years and without any family history got breast cancer, recovered from that then died suddenly of acute myloid leukaemia at age 70. I decided to go cold turkey about 5 weeks ago. So far I have hot flushes and night sweats back with avengeance, a bit of bad temper and lot of loss of libido, but not too bad on the emotions. Also noticed loss of head hair but gain of facial hair - grim! I havent been to Docs as I really think this is my decision.
I feel like a junkie, am desparately tempted to go back and take the HRT, am taking any amount of herbal treatments - Menopace, Ginseng and now Sage. Do I suffer unecessarily when I was perfectly healthy on HRT? What would you do? It would be good to hear from anyone on Tridestra too. Thanks for listening!
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Hi Chrissie,
:welcomemm: I'm not on HRT so I can't give you any advice on that subject. I'm sure there'll be someone along soon who can assist.
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Hi ChrissieAnn,
As I understand it, going cold turkey is not the best way to come off HRT, it's much better to gradually reduce the dosage over a period of time. A friend of mine did this after 10 years or so on HRT and it worked well for her.
Perhaps a visit to your GP to discuss it would help? I would imagine most GP's would be happy to support a patient who wanted to come off HRT and would suggest how best to gradually reduce the dose.
Good luck whatever you decide to do.
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For me it will be day 7 on Elleste Duet tomorrow. The flushes have reduced (down to 5 or 6 today instead of every 20 mins) and I'm experiencing far less sweating. :) I would say I'm back to where I was about a year ago on the flushometer! Even if it gets no better, I feel I could cope with this. I'm glad I didn't rush to take HRT. Holding on has given me first-hand experiene of just how bad hot flushes can get! A year ago I was telling everyone how marvellously I was coping using natural remedies such as sage leaves and progesterone cream, but in the last month they've been about as much use as a chocolate fireguard.
The test for me will come when I start on the coloured tablets - will I have an allergic reaction? They are green, and that has not been a problem in the past - but watch this space.
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Good luck Rivadan. I hope mine kicks in soon if it is going to. It has been a gorgeous sunny day and I spent most of it weeping. I am so fed up being hot and wet, I can't help myself at the minute. My 17 year old daughter got upset because I was and I feel really bad about that. It just seems to be going on forever, I never feel fresh or clean, I flush, then I am wet, then I am shivery and cold, day and night. Fingers crossed something starts working soon, I have 3 months premique, not sure if they will work or when.
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I've been told it takes 7 - 10 days to kick in Lillybee.
Its really not surprising we get weepy is it? The sweating in particular just gets intolerable. Hairstyles fall out, make up runs off, and I've also (being a woman with cleavage!) started to get sore around the bra area. When you're at work 9-5 you can't keep popping off to have a shower, which is all I really want to do. Then there's the shivering afterwards. I've had two really bad colds in the last few months. I know there's a theory that you don't catch colds from being chilled but it does make me wonder.
I'm lucky in that I don't have any kids at home now (in fact I'm due to become a grandma in September so I'm really hoping to feel more myself by then), but friends who do, have told me how their symptoms are upsetting the entire family. My husband's been a rock. He's spent our entire married life up to now listening to me saying "its a bit cold in here", so he knows I'm definitely not right! I'm also in a supportive atmosphere at work as several of my colleagues are around the same age - our windows are continually being opened and closed!
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Chrissieanne If I were you I would say get thee back on that h r t, why suffer when you don't have to good luck Love Dipsyxx
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Rivadan I hope you love being a Granny as much as I do, :) :) they bring all the joy without the work, I know I have 3 Love Dipsyx
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Hello my name is Michele and I am new to the site, I have been taking Elleste Duet 1mg for horrible mood swings and anxiety as well as hot flushes, my doctor has just increased it to 2mg - feeling sick in the mornings and painful boobs, still suffering with the anxiety, my doctor has suggested a mild anti-depressant really not sure about this can anyone give some advice.
thanks
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I have been on premique low dose for 3 weeks now, no change. I am as hot as ever, weeping all the time and not sleeping. I have been keeping a diary for a while and there is no change in the number of flushes. I read somewhere it can take 3 months for HRT to kick in, I am thinking now I could try for 3 months then start again with something else and it might not work. It is so depressing. I was on anti depressants for 12 months to calm me down, I decided to come off them and wish I hadn't they were taking the edge off my stress and bad temper. It is hard to believe such a natural process can be so horrific to live with.
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Sorry you're not feeling any benefit yet Lillybee. Its very frustrating. I think we started on the HRT tabs about the same time. I'm three days into the progestogen phase now. As I said in an earlier post, my flushes have reduced and while the weather was cooler I was finding it tolerable. However, this last few days while its been hot I've really been uncomfortably warm. Flushes aside, I feel as if my entire body thermostat's been turned up too high! So how come I'm not burning up fat??
We usually take our holidays abroad at the end of September and my hope was that I'd be feeling more normal by then. As it is I don't think I could stand the heat. I'm just hoping that as the weeks go by and my body gets used to it, things will improve. Like you, I'd hate to end up trying one thing after another, and I'd like to avoid going onto a higher dosage. I think patches would be my next choice - although Im reluctant to go that route because of my history of skin allergy.
Anyway, hang on in there, and let us know how you get on.
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Hi Lillybeen
I can really sympathise with you in relation to the HRT not sure of the dose you are on but my GP has just increased my to 2mg - hot flushes slightly better still trying to deal with mood swings and anxiety.
Hopefully you will start to see some improvement really soon
Michele
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Hi lillybee
Hang on in there! Im now on my third month of hrt initially on evoral sequi, and it has taken much longer than i expected to get the relief from the hot flushes. in fact i still get one or two a day but no where near as severe i can cope with these, the anxiety and tearfullness has also taken a while to settle but again at a more copeable level. I have just changed to femseven sequi, same dose of oestrogen, but lower progesterone as i was having a terrible :stretcher: time on that, so im hoping this will help. like you im on holiday in sept and was hoping id be feeling fine by then. heres hoping ;D
love julia
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Hi Lilly, really hope your HRT kicks in soon, i am not on HRT now but did take it for 6mths, dose was made higher last tree months but no difference, however i wish to god i had kept trying other types, just for hot sweats, i have coped with them now for 6.5yrs, and they are still ruling my life. :'(..... sooo please give HRT a little longer, and sooo hope it works for you :hug:
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Oh Rosebush 6.5 years! I used to think it would be just a few months either side of periods stopping and that would be it! I now know differently. My sister's been enduring flushes for about 5 years - she can't take HRT because of endometriosis. I also have a work colleague who hasn't had a period for four or five years and is STILL experiencing some flushing and night sweats.
I can't help feeling we women must have a design fault when something as disruptive as this comes along just at that time between parenthood and old age when we could be really enjoying ourselves!
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Thank you for the replies, this is one place I don't feel like an alien ;D. I will keep on with HRT as four years of this is really getting to me. I am exhausted, it has taken over my life. Keeping everything crossed and will keep you posted.
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There's so much conflicting information these days about HRT. Tell us what you think--is it good or bad? My feeling is that for most people it's good when used appropriately and reviewed but here you can have your say!
I had a hysterectomy when I was 42 after suffering years of maniacal PMT. I tried one or two different pills which didn't agree with me but then I was put on oestrogel. I am now 61 and I am still using oestrogel. No one could imagine the difference this has made to my life. I still have hot sweats, even when using the oestrogel but it has always helped with the mood swings making me a much more placid person than I used to be.
None of my doctors has ever suggested I come off it so I have never offered to come off it. I look years younger than 61 (so I'm told) and I certainly don't feel anything like that age. I am hoping to keep using it forever and I will be the eternal teenager!!!!!!!!
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I am hoping the mood swings will even out when I get some relief from the flushes. I am either screaming at everyone of sobbing for no reason. I was on anti depressants and came off them as I thought they were not helping, I was wrong. I am thinking of asking to go back on them as I am not coping very well at the minute. I did read somewhere hrt doesn't help mood swings so not sure. My weight is going up and up and I am now puffing up in my fingers, feet and ankles. I look like the michelin man, my lovely hubby says I am voluptuous bless him :D
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Lillybee I would go and consult your doctor if I were you. Coming of anti-depressants can be pretty tricky at the best of times, and just now you already have enough to cope with. Have you noticed any improvement at all in your hot flushes? I've just taken tablet 28 of my first pack of Elleste Duet. My flushes have reduced and I'm sleeping better. During the daytime I'm still feeling very warm and my forehead and neck often break out into a sweat (its so becoming!). I'm just waiting now to see what the 'period' will be like.
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No change at all yet apart from puffy feet and hands. I have kept a diary for a while and the flushes are the same, 1-2 every hour. My doctor did say it can take 3 months to take effect so I will wait and see. I feel I am never away from the doctor these days, fingers crossed it settles soon. Thankfully have not had a period for over 3 years, that is the one good thing
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Lillybee - have you consulted your doc about your puffiness? I don't think that it is a side effect of HRT. Don't want to worry you but I would get it checked out :hug:
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No I haven't been back, it only started this last week so I thought it was a side effect. I will get an appointment Thanks
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I haven't posted on here for ages but I'm hoping to get to see a female doc at my surgery at some point this week. Hot flushes started in the new year, fading out when I got a period, which arrive about once every 2-3 months. Earlier in the year (around April) I got horrendous headaches which definitely seemed linked to hormonal fluctuations. The male doc I went to see blithely assumed I should take HRT but was persuaded to try something else first. He gave me 3 months supply of Propolanol for the heads, and it did improve.
However, the hot flushes are a fixture again at the moment and waking me in the night, with the familiar sleep deprivation, lack of energy etc that goes along with it. In themselves the flushes aren't bad but having several a day and at night is wearying. I have had the occasional bout of headaches but not as bad as earlier in the year. I've been taking Menoherbs since January which have alleviated the flushes somewhat but I'm starting to run out of the energy to cope with them. I've been off Uni since 20th May and so far haven't had the energy to do very much on my 'to do' list at all! I'd hate to think I'll look back on my lovely long summer break and think it was a waste.
To add to the mix, I've just done one year of a degree course at Uni (the headaches were no help at exam time!) and we've had a particularly stressful year in other ways too. So I find it difficult to ascribe symptoms purely to the menopause as opposed to stress. Oh, and the amount of Ibuprofen I took for the headaches gave me oesophago-gastritis: I've just finished medication for that and am waiting for blood test results for 'unfriendly' bacteria in my gut!
The upshot is that I'm starting to think about HRT whereas before I was exploring alternatives. I know I'm the only one who can make the decision but I would be grateful for any comments.
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I don't think any of us have gone onto HRT without a lot of thought. For me (as for most) it was a case of trying all the alternatives first, but then coming to the point where my quality of life had become so compromised I was ready to try anything!
HRT has virtually eliminated the hot flushes and night sweats I was having. I'm now back to getting a good night's sleep which affects how I feel during the daytime (less headaches, better mood etc.) It took a good three or four weeks to kick in though, and the first "bleed" was quite heavy. I'm told this should settle down in subsequent months.
Good luck with making your decision.
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I have taken HRT for seven years (I'm 55) and have felt good on it the whole time. However a few weeks ago the Gp found a breast lump. I had to wait for 3 weeks to have it checked and have never felt so frightened or worried. But by the time I was seen in breast clinic they couldn't find the lump on examination or on the mammogram. The GP stopped my HRT straight away and now I am having night-sweats and hot-flushes. However I am now much too frightened to go back on it. I was always quite unconcerned about the risk of breast cancer before and hoped to keep taking it until I retired, but now I feel as though I shouldn't tempt fate, especially as the risk increases after taking it for 5 years after age 50. However, I do miss it.
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I can well imagine that must have given you a big scare. I think currently, if you are over 50 when you're first prescribed it, they're only anticipating you taking it for a max. 2 years or until age 55 whichever comes earliest.
I've actually been having a few breakthrough flushes this week - just to remind me what they're like! All being well, I intend to wean off very slowly when the time comes, although in your own case that wouldn't have been an option. What a pain it is. Still, at least you can look back on several years of feeling comfortable. Fingers crossed your flushes will ease off when your body's adjusted to the change in hormone levels.
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Yes that's what I'm hoping. Thanks Rividan.
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I am halfway through my second month of tablets now. I have been off work the last two weeks so didn't keep my diary up to date. I am having fewer flushes, had about 4 yesterday and I am sleeping better. Fingers crossed it carries on now I am back at work. So sorry you had such a scare Marjoriel, it is the one we all dread but glad yours was a false alarm. I thought long and hard too like we all do, but if it works for me I hope I can have at least a couple of years free from the flushes. I think getting older brings it's own risks, there is always something to worry about if you let it get to you. If I believed everything I read I would eat a very restricted diet, never drink alcohol or tea, even using cleaning sprays can carry risks, imagine not being able to clean ;D
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I have had some difficulty getting to grips with the whole issue of HRT.
I am six weeks post op (TAH BSO) to remove two very lage fibriods and to resolve long stading heavy bleeding. As a result of having my ovaries removed I was pushed into a surgical menopause and had the most horrendous flushes and sweats within days of the op, which was dificult, as I was still in pain and trying to recover surgically. As a result of this, my consultant started me on estragel, one dose daily.
Some years ago, my GP precribed various typs of HRT and I coul get along with it at all. I felt I swapped one set of bad symptoms for another. This time, I opted for a bio identical, topical application but just feel quite unwell and in a complete depressive funk, which is gradually geting worse.
Had I been able to progress trough the menopause naturally, I think I might have coped a bit better but this sudden drop in hormones has ben difficult to manage. I am not sure where to go from here. I was thinking of finding a menopause clinic, as my GP doesn't seem that informed about HRT and I am not seeing my Consultant till November.
I feel strongly that recovering some hormonal balance is as crucial to my recovery as the surgical side and believe the right balance of HRT can help.
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Found this site , and using all of your experience to ease my mind. ;DSymptoms started probably 2+ years ago but as a non pill taking , never sick - avoid the GP if you can type of person I feel like my life has just unravelled before my eyes. :hotflash:The hot flushes - occasionally started -put that down to being unfit and a little overweight , then came the numb hands and feet mostly at night and in the morning - and then about 18months ago the night sweats- with vengence. So some accupuncture and clonidine seem to keep that in check plus taking Evening Primrose and Red Clover to help what seemed like return to puberty !!! ....until about March this year ...all symptoms have become over the top - so a recent blood test said that the FSH was so high I should be Post menopausal and the other ( LH ? ) still had a bit to go to confirm that this is Early ? Menopause. Frankly whatever my life is completely limited ..I have to drive 60 miles to work - a bit difficult when your left hand is numb - and clearly not safe , add to that being totally shattered and waking up most days like I have a hangover , then the mood swings and tears - someone looks at me the wrong way and I'm in the loo shedding tears ...what is that all about for goodness sake ? ??? :oFunctioning right now is a nightmare - and I was thinking I was losing the plot , incompetent , pathetic , egtting old - you name it. So right now I am just trying to get my head around that maybe HRT can help. My GP was reluctant to prescribe it and me not really wanting it ...but since when I asked what else I could do to get this in check .......come back in 2 months for another blood test wasn't really tenable ..so I have the script and I have to try this out ...oh did I mention that last week I put some bacon on the grill left the kitchen And then went on the phone ...just avoided the kitchen being demolished - what if I'd gone out ....as someone who had an excellent memory - and I supose still recalls more than most this too gets in the way of the job- someone else on here said about speaking to someone on the phone and then as soon as you hang up you've forgotten who and why .....That's me - and that doesn't work for my type of job either ..... ;) ..and this un structured blurb just shows that my brain is all over the place ..............! please tell me this will get better :D
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Hi Loz & welcome,
Almost everything you have said I can relate to, especially the work. I struggled for months & months with various alternative remedies but in the end turned to HRT as my work was suffering so badly that I thought I would be given the sack or that my boss thought that I was going insane. I couldn't concentrate, I couldn't get motivated, I had to write everything down on a big note pad where as before a post it would have been enough. I told customers the wrong things & ordered the wrong products from suppliers. Something had to give. I didn't want to go on HRT as I thought I could ride it out naturally err wrong. After talking it over with my lovely lady doctor it was decided that I give HRT a 3 month trial. Within days the flushes all but dissapeared & my concentration started to get better. I didn't ache as much iether. It worked for me & it helped me to do my job properly again.
However that was over a year ago & things have changed dramatically for me. I have had to give up my full time admin job as I couldn't cope with it all. I went through 6 different types of HRT in about 18 months but after a while I got side effects from them ranging from nausea & diarrhoea plus a reaction to the patches & gel.
But it did give me an extra 18 months in my job, I was able to carry on working. I have just taken a month off unpaid & start back on Monday part time. What I am trying to say is to consider HRT, it may work great with the first trial for you.
Quality of life is so important when going through the menopause & there are a lot of ladies on here who will know what I mean.
Let us know what you decide to do Loz & I wish you well.
Cazikins x
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Loz, have you been tested for underactive thyroid? Its just that some of what you're describing - e.g. numbness in the hands - can also be a symptom of hypothyroidism - and the thyroid doesn't have to be VERY underactive for it to cause havoc - as I know only too well!
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Have any of you ladies tried feverfew for hormone headaches? I have used it with good results. I grow mine in the garden and just roll a few leaves up and chew them. But they do sell the supplement in Holland and Barrett.
My husband is picking up my HRT later - but I did tell the Gynae that I would try the Menopace first so I'm giving it a chance. I also restarted 5htp and that seems to be improving my moods. It is a good supplement but interacts with some anti depressants and pain killers so anyone considering it should check this out.
Re the NSAIDs I do know that you must try and ensure that your stomach has something prior to taking the medication.
Years ago I had Gastritis and saw a well known Professor who recommended bran for an upset digestion. It works wonders.
Jacksfullofaces
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Regarding the HRT good or bad? I'm wondering why it is that taking the birth control pill for years is considered safe and without controversy and yet HRT which contains less in hormones is considered so potentially hazardous?
I spent years not taking the pill as I felt that overloading the system with hormones is surely more risky then replacing missing ones at the menopause.I was thoroughly scolded by the Family Planning Clinic who said I should be available for my husband regardless of how I felt.
Also I don't really believe that HRT is a big factor in breast cancer. I'm certain that there are many factors involved including genes, life style and let us not forget that men can get breast cancer and they don't take HRT.
I'm rather cynical but I get the distinct feeling that some of the hostility towards HRT is about control of women and hormones. There seems to be a prejudice from society about women who dare to retain youthfulness and sexuality past fertility rather then disappearing and becoming invisible.
Also from the NHS point of view there is the cost of the therapy. I did see a wonderful exchange between a former MP Theresa Gorman and Dr Richard Sullivan on the Frost show. The lady in question styles herself St Teresa of the menopause and has spent over 30 years on HRT and feel marvelous (she doesn't look bad either)
If you google Teresa Gorman HRT Frost BBC you should see the exchange for yourself.
Jacksfullofaces
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You can view the interview here http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/programmes/breakfast_with_frost/3139395.stm It does make interesting reading though it is five years ago and I think that opinions over the safety of it have changed a bit. Also, she makes the point that breast cancer runs in families and that woman only have to check their family history. This, of course, is wrong. Some breast cancers are genetically passed on but others are due to different factors.
My GP was anti-HRT and it was only after having an appointment with a gynae who wrote to her saying that in his opinion it would help me that I actually received it. I think the main point is that the longer our bodies are exposed to oestrogen then the more at risk we are from certain cancers (hence being in a higher risk factor if you begin your periods at a younger age) but the upside is we protect our heart and bones - until the next survey which tells us the opposite ::)
My partner doesn't like me taking HRT - he thinks that it is meddling with things but I feel so much better on it in ways which I can't really explain to him. The wooly-headed feeling has gone, I can do my job properly again, I sleep (at least sometimes) not to mention the sexual side of things.
Love Taz
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I am back on HRT after a brief lapse. I developed every symptom listed very quickly after stopping taking it overnight, which I wouldn't recommend.
I had had a breast cancer scare with microcalcification showing on my routine mammo. Thank goodness the bopsy was benign. Anyway, surprisingly, as you get the impression everyone is against HRT, my doc said as there was no cancer I can continue taking the HRT (I'd expected to be encouraged to stop!). I asked if she had many post-menopausal women on HRT and she said she did.
The worst menopausal symptoms in my opinion were being weepily depressed, could hardly drag myself through the day, and loss of sexual sensation where it matters (which is still not discussed much - maybe most women don't have much of a sex life so don't miss it?).
Anyway, all problems disappeared in a week or so after resuming the HRT, though sex drive is taking longer.
Oh, I have stopped drinking alcohol since reading an article which suggests a possibility of alcohol raising some of the oestrogen levels of HRT in the body. I had been suffering achey breasts (toothachey pain, not premenstrual discomfort) which the breast surgeon said was due to the hormones being taken long term, 10 years in my case, but it's hard to find much info on this online). The breast pain has almost gone so maybe there is a link.
So much of this stuff is still being researched who knows?
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Quick update. I am halfway through the third month on Premique and I am so much better I can't tell you. The flushes and night sweats are virtually non existent. My moods are getting better and not feeling so down and weepy. I am feeling like my normal self and it such a massive relief. Quite a few people have noticed too. Fingers crossed it stays like this for a while. I wish I had done it 3 years ago, but back then I had no idea it would drag on
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Good for you Lillybee :) long may it continue x
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goodmorning all
apologies if this post should be elsewhere :o
I am on hrt for the past 20 + months, (premarin)
my question is this....
how do i know if i still suffer with the severe meno symptoms i started with??
how long do meno symptoms last
should i stop hrt to see if i can cope without them??
mind you i would be slow to do this just in case!!!!
when i read threads from ladies who say "i am over the worst now" i want to know .. how do they know they are????
I would love some feedback from anyone who may be a bit ahead of me on the meno road.
thanks
charlie
XX
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ive got to go to the docs in october to see how im doing . now what i want to know is will i need to go on hrt?
i had a hysto about 15 yrs ago but they left 1 ovary so i didnt have to go on hrt at the time . all this meno thing came as a bit of a shock i thought id dodged that bullet. doc put me on ads and adviced the herbal route. now 4yrs into this im coping sort of but will hrt speed it up or should i just carry on as i am.
thank you :)
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My advice would be if you are coping, carry on as you are. I would only take hrt as a last resort. Check some of the other posts on here. It can help relieve hot flushes, night sweats and other symptoms but a lot of women say they return when you come off hrt. I would think about it carefully, there is a lot of good advice and info. on here and discuss it with your doctor if that is what you would like to do
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Luvdogs.. carry on without HRT if you can.im not on it either DR has offered but i said no. im only peri meno so i guess ive a long way to go as yet but if i only need herbal tablets thats what im sticking too, all the older ladies i know who have had HRT, said when they came off it ,all their symptons came back with avengence.. no thank you very much.... :-\
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Charlie - in answer to your question I would say that the ladies who say they are over the worst of it are probably not taking HRT.
The standard time to take HRT seems to be five years so you still have some time left to enjoy the benefits. It is also normal nowadays to be weaned off slowly. My friend took six months to come off it as her Doc carefully advised her. She has had minimal symptoms and they were worse for the first three months following complete cessation of HRT.
As for how long do symptoms last - well - how long is a piece of string ;D I know women in their 70's who still have hot flushes and my doc is forever telling me "let go of the old you - don't expect to go back to who you were. It's not called the change for nothing" which I think means that some of the symptoms will probably always be there such as dry skin, sexual problems but that we find ways round them and of coping with them. The hot sweats were what finished me off and I defy anyone to live a normal life while being drenched every twenty minutes. I, for one, will take HRT for as long as I can and for as long as it works for me.
Love Taz x
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thank you so much for advice :) still not sure as the night sweats are the worst :'( but must admit they seem to be easing think ill wait a bit longer as i have read peoples posts on the subject i think ill have a good natter with the doctor im lucky ive had the same doctor for 25yrs he was there at the birth of my youngest 2 and all my madness so i trust him :)
jacqui
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As soon as I start suffering unpleasant symptoms the HRT patches are coming out of the drawer. I spoke to a doctor recently who isn't an expert but many of his patients have been on it for years. He said that a small minority of women should not take it but other then that he saw no reason why it should not be used indefinitely. This doctor thought that more research should be done into pin pointing women at high risk from using HRT.
It is interesting that the Birth Control pill contains higher levels of oestrogen but is considered acceptable medicine.
Obviously every woman must make her own choice. I recall my mother's new GP trying to get her to stop taking it. Her reply was short and decidedly unprintable and HRT didn't cause her subsequent ill health and death.
From the research I have been doing alcohol intake and cigarettes pose a higher risk re breast cancer then HRT.
Jacksfullofaces
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jff thats very interesting i had nothing but hassle on the pill they made me ill maybe thats why hes a bit wary ;)
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Luvdogs
Interestingly my mother had huge problems with the pill but was fine on HRT without any unpleasant side effects. But I have always marvelled at the Medical Establishment and the arbitary no HRT or only for 5 years and yet "sure take the pill for 20 years"
Logically by taking the birth control pill a woman is overloading her hormones rather then topping up missing ones. I suspect long term use of some of those Birth control pills might have a greater risk then lower doses of HRT. Next time I go into Foyles I will stop by the Endrocrinology department and check out the books.
Jacksfullofaces xxx
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thany you jff :)
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I have been on HRT for four years now and have no plans to to come off. I was wary of taking it as I did not get on too well with the pill but the night sweats made up my mind. I figured poor sleep was going to do me far more harm than HRT.
I am now on my third type, the first gave me a withdrawal bleed each month and I changed to a no bleed sort when I was nearly 55. I had constant spotting with the no bleed type which I put up with for nearly a year and I am now on a miriena/patch combo which is great.
My GP is great, has been my doctor for 29 years, his wife who is his practice nurse is the same age as me. between them they give me great care.
Lynne
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thank you lou lou its great when you have the same doctor im defo gonna speak to him :)
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The difference between taking the pill and taking HRT is that you take the pill during your normal fertile time of life. HRT prolongs the oestrogen being added to your body and so it is considered not as safe. It is much the same as somebody who begins their periods earlier and ends later than "normal" being more at risk of breast and cervical cancer because of the longer exposure to oestrogen.
That's how it was explained to me anyway :)
Taz
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Taz
That is one theory - but I'm not entirely convinced. Example danger of woman getting breast cancer having been on HRT for 5 years goes from 24 in 1000 to 25 in 1000. The statistic is essentially meaningless mathematically.
Considering the amount of women who get breast cancer I think there far more to it then HRT and oestrogen.
Also men are known to get breast cancer and they don't take the pill or HRT.
How about oriental women who are typically less likely to have early menopause yet less vulnerable to breast cancer?
I had cervical cancer in my twenties due to the pap virus - nothing to do with oestrogen.
Personally I believe that to a degree HRT is being used as a bogey man and that there is an attempt by some of the Medical establishmennt to frighten women off a medicine that can be highly beneficial.
You only have to compare the zeal in getting people to take simvastatin for raised cholesterol levels. That drug can cause muscle weakness, depression, digestive problems and quite a few serious side effects including death but there is an evangelical zeal to get people to take the stuff.
It seems that many women who need HRT are being scared by a small statistical blip yet other medications with dangers are dished out very freely and are even available over the counter.
jumping off soapbox :)
Jacksfullofaces
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I agree with all that you say JFF. With breast cancer though there are a lot which are not oestrogen receptive and not caused by hormones - this is the kind which men get too. As you mentioned before alcohol puts us at risk too which is why, when prescribing HRT, my GP advised me to cut back on alcohol (which mimics oestrogen) as this would give me a double dose.
The breast cancer figures have to be studied in two separate halves - those which are oestrogen receptive and in which HRT may have played a part and those which are not. It's all too confusing - I'm off up the pub :drunk: :ola: :drunk:
Love Taz x
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well hope ya happy brain gone bang ;)
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Well. I'm so fed up of the flushes and night sweats that I've decided to start using the patches again, especially as people at work kept saying I was looking stressed.
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Hi Taz
thank you for your input....i really appreciate your feedback :thankyou:
You always make so much sense of everything, are you a medical person?
In fact i think i will consult you in future, ::) you have more patience with my petty questions than my GP!!!!
Can you write prescriptions???? :gym:
love
charlie xx
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Wish I could write prescriptions Charlie - I would be on a GP's salary!!
I am not a medical person but always try to find out as much as I can whenever any medication is prescribed. This stems from when my mum was ill and I was told that she had probably got cancer of the pancreas and that as she was 80 the best thing was to "let her be". I couldn't believe that the medical profession had given up on her just because she was seen as past it. I researched all the drugs she was currently taking (she was a diabetic and had heart disease) and discovered that one of her diabetic drugs gave the exact symptoms she was suffering from as a side effect. It also said not to be prescribed for elderly people.
I voiced my concerns to her GP - I lived 150 miles from her so I had to phone him - he promised to look into it and decided to take her off the drug. Within days she was so much better and within a month she had put back a stone of the 3 she had lost.
When both mum and dad were in hospital I think the staff had that sinking feeling whenever I arrived on the ward. I checked all their charts etc and queried any new medicines and treatments. I have learned that you have to take responsibility for your own health and medication because you could always be the exception to the rule and you could be the one in a million who reacts differently to what the GP has always seen in the past.
Now, trust me, I'm a woman ;D
Love Taz x
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Taz
I couldn't agree more. Like you I always investigate drugs and treatments and am not afraid to query. Years ago DH showed signs of appendicitis. Consultant was not convinced until I rang him and discussed it.Doctor agreed to remove appendix and sure enough it was inflamed inside. DH made an amazing recovery and 24 hours later was out of bed and wandering around his swanky room courtesy of Medical insurance :)
It got so that if DH needed to see our GP - the doctor would ask what I had given him. This came about after regular GP was away and DH suffered a horribly painful virus with diarrhoea and cramps. I fed him a mixture of peppermint tea, cannabis and a small dose of mogadon. This relaxed his intestinal spasms and he got much needed rest. Gp laughed until the tears rolled down his face and said that although unorthodox it was a good combination.
Jacksfullofaces
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I like to read up on the pros and cons too, and make my own mind up. My last GP refused point blank to prescribe HRT to anyone, she was an absolute cow, Last time I saw her I walked home sobbing and changed doctor. I struggled fr 3 plus years with nightsweats and hot flushes, and like the previous post they were every 20 minutes and drenching. I spent half my time crying, it is so miserable, being tired all the time, worn out, sitting in day clothes at work all day, frizzy hair and streaky make up. I am almost through my third month on HRT and people are commenting how well I look and how much better. I am back at the doctor next week for a 3 month check, I will definitely be asking to stay on HRT.
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Good for you, Lilly.
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Hi Katy
yes I have checked out The International Menopause Society and also done mathematical calculations. HRT is a very emotive medication. I don't think there is a regime involving medication that attracts so many scares.
Also there is an awful amount of publicity given to various breast cancer scares compared to other forms of cancer. It has made me quite cynical as "they" are always finding links to breast cancer. I believe one mentioned a few years ago was the type of ear wax a woman produced ::)
Jacksfullofaces
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Hi Katy
Dr John Stevenson has plenty to say about the scaremongering
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/health/article-1058565/Cancer-heart-disease-scares-million-women-HRT-year.html?ITO=1490
I agree- I think the media just love breast cancer. As I said to Dh it sems every woman is at high risk according to the doom mongerers. I try to ignore them. The F***** idiots make it virtually impossible to enjoy having breasts and that is very wrong.
Jacksfullofaces
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Katy
Later I will take a glance. I love showing my G cups off with a low neckline. No crepy skin either as I have never been a sun worshiper :)
Jacksfullofaces
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Been to the doctor this morning for my 3 month check up. It was great being able to tell her the hot flushes have stopped, feel so much better. My blood pressure and everything else is fine so got my next 3 month prescription. Can't believe the difference it made and I was so lucky getting one that suited me straight off, Premique.
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Lillybee
That is great news
Jacksfullofaces
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Thank you, and thanks for the support too. This forum is so helpful and supportive and it keeps me sane
:thankyou:
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I,m feeling much better now I'm back on HRT patches. When I came off the flushes were much worse than before I went on it, although the mood swings didn't seem as bad. Its just so hard coping with shifts with the flushes and night sweats. Don't know how long GP will let me stay on it this time.
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So glad to read that you are all getting the relief with HRT.
I have been off it now for almost 2 months & the hot flushes are still increasing but I am coping ok. I've had a few bad nights sleep which usually occur when I have work the following morning so I'm thinking it is stress related (although work is better now I am part time).
I'm hoping to carry on for another month to see how I get on w/o it. I do have the option of going back on it but face another round of trying to find one that doesn't give me a load of side effects.
Blimey it is like a mine field. I never thought I would get the bad reactions I did from HRT as the only thing I was ever allergic to was penicillan, but since going through the meno practically any antibiotic I have I get sickness & diarrhoea.
xx
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is this advertising allowed?
Edit by Rik:
there was a spammer posting above here but they've been deleted.
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no Poppins it isn't allowed
Jacksfullofaces
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Thanks JFF will report
poppinsxx
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thanks Rik. :o
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Let me reveal myself and initiate you my fellow sisters into the great mysteriousness of life. You should worship at the altar of the almighty Goddess. Her hand reaches out to you - offering you a magical potion of feminine strength and beauty called oestrogen.
This mysterious secret is Ying and Yang. Together the couple maketh the clouds and rain.
Balance and harmony is restored as you indulge in the magic potion - taken nightly stolen from the phallus of your loved one.
You will awaken - a true woman in every sense of the word - fulfilled and sated. The cool air upon your shape as you dance naked around that tree at midnight cursing as you stub your toe and yell "where did I put my f****** hormone pills - these flushes are killing me"
He gazes into your flushed face
" darling I caught you eyeing up the Postman so I flushed them down the lavatory"
He gets burned at the stake and you run off with the post man who is only doing the job to keep himself occupied while his lottery win is processed.Then you get a fresh prescription
Jacksfullofaces
Well I think it is as good as the version above ;D
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Myzterious
I like my ovestin cream. Devil take natures course. I'm heading in a different direction straight into bed for rampant sexual activity :)
Jacksfullofaces
You just go off and commune with nature and while you are doing that I shall enjoy myself with a good pounding when my lord and master gets home ready to oppress and take advantage of my desires
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Then I suggest that you join a convent you won't have to preach celibacy there as nuns practice it. I haven't been murdered by my husband in the past 21 years so I think that might be an unlikely prospect - same odds as drawing a royal flush. However if he doesn't give me a good pounding I might get a teensy bit angry and dose him up with Viagra to make him a stud for my pleasure :)
I'm not very tolerant about a droopy cock.
Jacksfullofaces
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Terribly sorry you don't appreciate my attitude old girl :) But I thought you were a spoof act designed to amuse us and I was merely trying to be entertaining for you.
I see the error of my ways - you are on a deadly mission to prevent loving sexual relationships between happy couples.
Well I understand you completely and I'm sure you will want to be where I am right now some time in the future.
Jacksfullofaces
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Well that was quite a blazing post for a new member Mizterious. I hope all your posts wont be quite like that ;).
You will soon learn that we are all very different & all have our own opinions on here. We respect one anothers feelings & try to support one another.
This is a very hard time for a lot of woman & we are all going through different stages.
It sounds like you have had a very hard time as you have told us quite a bit already about yourself. There are many,many woman on here who are in loving relationships with their partners & get tremendous support from them. I'm very sorry that you are not one of them.
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Troll deleted from this thread so it's a bit disjointed now
(and makes jackfullofaces sound a bit bonkers?)
;)
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Troll!!! That's the word I was searching for.... ;D ;D
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(and makes jackfullofaces sound a bit bonkers?)
;)
And me ??? ???
Thanks Rik
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rik
LOL I am a bit bonkers ;D
Jacksfullofaces
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Bonkers.....and very entertaining ;D
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Am i going mad, cant make sense of anything here this evening
poppinsxx
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This loony preacher turned up and went on about the evils of HRT and fornication so I had a bit of fun ;D
Jacksfullofaces
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Oh sounds like i missed a load of fun then :( ::)
poppinsxx
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Can someone please help me, i am new here so dont know if i am in the right part. I am supposed to be taking Hrt but i am just so scared to, i have just realised i have a myrena coil and realised it is giving me some hormones and i am supposed to take the others to balance them out. ITS REALLY WORRYING ME , should i have the coil taken out? am i at risk of cancer because i am only recieving the hormones from the coil? HELP i have had the coil 5 years previously of menopause then after early menopause a year or so with the new coil. I am 45.
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Hi there, I am supposed to be doing the elleste solo mx 80 patch, but im so very confused, apparently 3years ago i had a blood test which said i was menopausal, but i was not told, another gp told me my lack of periods was because my mum was dying. Then last year one gp looked back in the notes and said i had been post menopausal for a while. I was getting palpitations and feeling dizzy then. I smell so horrible, i have never ever had a sweaty smell but i bathe and its back again and i am soaking wet. I just cant find the confidence to put that patch on and i am scared it will make me put weight on, i am immobile and have put on 4 stones this last year i feel so depressed and miserable.
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Hi Nelly
The chances of getting breast cancer from using HRT rise from 44 women in 1000 not using it to 45 users in 1000 that are using it. The statistic is meaningless. Go and slap on that patch
Jacksfullofaces
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Hi docs not very supportive, i had a spinal op, and not recovered well after op was not done right so need another major op.
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Nelly
HRT doesn't make you gain weight long term. Some women gain for a short time due to fluid retention. Have you got a physiotherapist to help with your lack of mobility?
I can't walk very far due to Ehlers -Danlos Syndrome but I haven't gained weight.
Are you on any other medication as steroids for example can cause weight gain.
Jacksfullofaces
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Tht is quite a mixture of mood altering medication along with the analgesics. Tramadol and Gabapentin both cause dizzinness.
Jacksfullofaces
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I am quite new to this site and have posted the info on the newbie forum but after reading the posts on here thought l should post....My orginal Quote was
Hello My name is Tina l am 48 :-\
When l was 43 started getting real bad dizzy spells with hot flushes would put me of my feet for couple of days at a time only every once in a while to start with was told at first that it was to do with my ears this contiued for couple of years. The spells started to get more frequent Gp no help. Went back saw a different Gp when l was having one of the episodes had a blood test came back showing that my estrogen levels where very low was sent to menopause clinic.
Had more tests and was told l was having early menopause. Testerone level was low as well,low libido,tired snappy hotflushes night sweats with servere dizzyness. To start with was put on mirena coil and elleste solo but put on weight, bloating, didn't get on with mirena so after 6mths decided to have it out lost half a stone within 2wks...
Put on elleste duo tabs to start with but bloating was a problem and bleeding
was then put on patches after trying 2 types stuck with them my symtoms did get under control but patches gave me a skin reaction l started to bloat again and my weight crept up to 11st 3lbs. Can't really blame that all on Hrt wasn't as active as could have been though l do eat healthy, decided to come off to see how l coped with out and to see if it would help me loose weight. So in FEb stoped and started taking menopace and joined ww lost 18lbs. Didn't have any menopausal symtoms.
In this time my periods had got heavy and more frequent and lasting 18 days then 2wks and start again flooding as well.
In sept hubby noticed a lump in my belly Gp also noticed when having routine check it turned out to be a fibroid 18wk preg size (large melon) and on Nov 5th had a TAH/BSO hysterectomy to remove it so l am now experencing surgical menopause. Have been having mild flushes but over the last 2 days they have increased yesterday think my body caught on that my ovaries were missing.
Hot flushes tearful, Bit Grizzly bear ,hairloss etc...
Really scared in case the dizzy spells come back Just want to get to a place where l am me and not in shut down mode. l know its early days but hopefullly this time l can find the right meds whether Natural or Hrt . I have spoken to Consultant about hrt with the thought of trying gel or nasel spray and testotrone but undecided
Cant go on Hrt anyway till l get the all clear from the Histology report from op.
So have taken some soya Insoflavones to see if this helps relive symtoms.
On monday got letter back from Consultant and womb and fibroid was benign given ok to go on hrt started today Oestradose given the low dose to take but can increase if l feel the need.
has anyone else been on this and did it effect your weight at all as l dont what to put on what l have just lost if l can help it Gp said it might effect it so watching my diet and am getting a bit more mobile after the op up to 30 mins now walking which is quiet good for 4 wks post op so l am told.
been reading through your post on here feel 75% sure l am doing the right thing as this time no progesterone which caused the side effects l had before.
hubby not sure asked me this moring if my side effects where that bad and maybe to wait. thats made me indesisive not sure oh well...
(http://i476.photobucket.com/albums/rr128/mrslovejoy/thMJZ1689.gif)
all the best tina
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Hi Tina - what a relief to know that everything was benign :congrats: :congrats: :congrats:
As for Oestrodose - I must admit this is not one I have heard of so not sure if it is very new. What does the leaflet say, which comes with it, about weight gain?
I think that you are doing the right thing to at least give it a try but can understand how you do not wish to put on weight again. It is a case of weighing (!) up your current symptoms and, if you really do feel rotten without HRT, then give it a try. With me it seems to be the progesterone which gives me the :argue: :cuss: :beat: :bang: :poke2: :angryfire: symptoms so hopefully you will be much better with just the oestrogen only.
Let us know how you get on.
Love Taz x
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Hi taz :thankyou:
Its oestrogel (estradiol) thats what l was hoping that without the progesterone it would be ok . another lady using it puts her weight done to the oestrogel.
but will see how l do with being more active and following ww programe..
it is a relief to know everything is ok after op.
been to the hosp this afternoon to see dermatolagist? as have small patch of skin on my nose that wont heal , had it frozen couple years ago but its come back.
been told its sun damage and given some cancer cream to put on to kill the cells that aren't behaving have to use for three weeks hopefully this should clear it up
If not one thing its another.
Will let you know what happens with both things
Have a nice evening going to watch daughter sing at a NSPCC Christmas concert tonight my first big trip out got hubbys work do tomorrow will have to pace my self
:crutch:
Love Tina_anne: :worm: :drunk:
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Hi Tina,
I tried to reply to this a few days ago but I kept losing the connection so here I go again.
I tried oestrogel for a short time. I was on patches but after several months I came out in a bad rash. My doctor thought it could be the adhesive :-\ so I gave the gel a go. It didn't help as I had the same reaction, itchy dry skin on my upper arms. The doctor seems to think I am allergic to estragen full stop :(.
As for putting on wait, well I have been on HRT for over 18 months & have gone from 10 1/2 stone to nearly 12. I did come off it altogether for about 10 weeks in August to see how I got on. I was hoping to shed some pounds but it stayed put (around my tummy).
But we are all different & react differently to different medications so you maybe ok. East sensibly & do regular exercise (unlike lazy old me).
Good luck & keep us posted with your progress.
Love Cazikins x
:cat48:
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I have had really good results from HRT.Unfortunately I have been on almost 3 years and will be 55 next year,so my GP who I get on with very well....and is female and probably late 50's...has said that after this next six month batch I need to attempt to wean off it ???.The thought is terrifying.It has been my life saver.She says that after 5 years of hrt or once you are 55 the risk of breast cancer increases a lot.She also said that breast cancer is so common now that its impossible to tell if it does.I will have to try easing off it but I will object strongly if I go straight back to the way I was.HRT has enabled me to carry on working and live a relatively normal life! :)
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Juju
Check out the website of Professor John Studd. He is a leading expert in the Uk and he disputes the idea that hrt should be restricted for five years.
Many Gps are instructed by the primary care trusts into getting patients off hrt after five years (partly a financial incentive). The statistics for breast cancer don't really alter much from hrt usage (the incidence of breast cancer rises from age and life style) but often skewed information is given to Gps.
Why don't you ask for a specialist opinion?
Often you will find that the view will differ from that of the Gp and your doctor might have her mind put at rest.
Jacksfullofaces
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Hi have had a good look and will see what happens....as I said I have six months worth.I think I have probably been the most successfull hrt woman ever.No negatives.And I have just finished work.....10and half hours,constantly on my feet.I will certainly stand my ground.When I mentioned this website to my gp she said that mostly it is women with probs or who dont get on with hrt who post here. Could be right.I hardly come here now as it has made such a massive difference.I was a wreck two or three years ago. :)
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Juju
Your Gp sounds quite astute ;)
Jacksfullofaces
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Hi TinaK
:welcomemm:
Just wanted to give the other side of the story re HRT.
I am also surgically menopausal (Hysterectomy 2006 for fibroids/endo and BSO 2007 for continuing endo) I have tried HRT twice and both times had to stop because it affected my liver function adversely however because of the endo I had to take progestogen as well and inspite of meno symptoms I do feel better without it than with it, as Taz said the progestogen is the hormone that gives the worst side effects.
The only way to find out if it agrees with you is to try it, however I have found that when stopping it again the symptoms seem to be worse for a few weeks before coming back to a bearable level, the other thing to keep in mind is that if you take HRT you are only putting off what will happen eventually , your body will at some point have to get used to a low level of estrogen whether you do it now or do it later. Doctors tend to gloss over this fact when prescribing HRT.
I personally would rather get it over with now than have it hanging over my head in the future.
Symptoms are supposed to peak at two years post meno, and then tail off to nothing, but it is a personal decision and it is certainly not easy to go without HRT when surgically meno because it is all speeded up and a big shock to the body when compared with natural menopause.
My main symptoms are hot flushes ocasional palpitations tiredness and dry eyes, but I am being tested to see if I have sjogrens syndrome which could be a cause of the tiredness and dry eyes.
Anyway good luck with whatever you decide
Forgetful x
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I've never taken HRT but have friends who are currently on it. They've found it beneficial for the most part but have had problems either when they;ve attempted to come off it or found that over a period of time, the initial effects kind of "wore off" and they started to have problems on it.
I've been in the meno for 20 months now (since April 07) and am trying hard not to resort to HRT. I get hot flushes, night sweats and sadly the vagina is now a 'sand paper tunnel' to quote one person on this board :) and I think my libido is lowering. That could be down to the sand paper effect I guess. Anyhow I'm trying to view the meno as a natural event that at some stage we all have to get through and come to terms with. I guess I'd be more interested in HRT if I felt I could see an expert who'd prescribe the best bioidentical hormones for my situation. I am very put off by approaching my GP as in my view, most of them have a hit and miss idea to prescribing HRT and that can lead to all kinds of problems.
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quoteI've been in the meno for 20 months now (since April 07)
this is what i am trying so hard to get my head round when you say "been in the meno" do you mean symptoms or finished having periods?
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got answer in other post
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Hi
Dando you are at about the same stage as me then, I had my BSO in May 2007.
Forgetful x
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Dando
There is bio identical hormone therapy in the Uk -but not on the NHS. If you want details I have them
Jacksfullofaces
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Hi not been in for a while. Just to let you know I am 5 months on with Premique and it is amazing, changed my life. Fingers crossed it stays like this for a while at least. When I read my old posts I can't believe it's the same person. I just feel so normal now. The hot sweats have gone, I am sleeping through and not constantly dripping wet. ;D
I do have terrible mood swings and rages from nowhere, will be discussing on my next check up but am trying to work through these. Just need to sort my weight now, joining slimming world after christmas.
So I would highly recommend trying HRT if you are suffering like I did. It has given me my life back. I am well aware I could have problems if the doctor decides I should come off, but will cross that one when it comes
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BEST THING SINCE SLICED BREAD! If I thought that I could stay on HRT until the end of my days I would be over the moon, but after 5 years doc reccommended I come off it and it has been horrendous, 4 years down the line I'm still sweating albeit it was a lot more severe when I came off it at first, and I also had a lot more horrible extra symptoms e.g. sore joints & lots and lots of wind!!! Although sweats have eased off a little (or I've just became immune to them), I would maybe think twice about starting HRT if I thought that it would result in all this craziness when you're taken off it! >:(
Sorry to be so crabbie it's this bl***y menopause. ::)
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A few weeks shy of 50, I have been on HRT for 3 years and believe it has made a huge difference to my life. However, I am now in a state of panic as I have just been to a male doctor (my usual doctor is female and very sympathetic but is away) to renew my prescription. The male doctor has stated that I must come off HRT as the risks are too high. As a single female who has to support myself, I would sooner continue on HRT than run the risks associated with coming off it. In the current climate if my perfomance drops due to emotional swings and insomnia, the symptons which were most problematic before, I could very easily find myself out of work. Surely the decision to continue should be mine?
Help.
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Yes I agree it should.
I think I would rebook with the female GP when she returns, at the very least to ask her opinion of this decision.
Three years is within the guidelines I'm sure.
Good luck!
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Hi Hermione - welcome to the forum - sorry that you have been treated like this. The guidelines seem to be that five years is a good amount of time to be on HRT - after this time it is recommended that you should gradually come off it - over three to six months - to see how many of your symptoms return. If you are still experiencing bad symptoms then you can restart it provided that your overall health is good.
Is your blood pressure high as this could have scared the doc into not prescribing you your next batch of HRT. I'm not sure what risks he is talking about - did he actually say which ones?
Taz x :)
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Just a few thoughts on this five years business with HRT. I have been going through all of the menopause misery for over four years. My doctor is very negative about HRT. I have had three goes with it but came off because of side-effects. There has been no advice as to how to taper HRT to individual need as seems to happen in the U.S. To me it feels as if we are light years away from finding solutions to really help women and in fact we may have gone backwards in the NHS and I dont know if any research is going on to find any answers because if the cash strapped NHS cant afford the drugs what incentive is there for drug companies to do any research. I do wonder if men were going through all this whether more of a ruckus would have been kicked up. It seems to me very cruel to say that a woman cannot have HRT for as long as she wishes if she is feeling better on it than off it because for many women the symptoms just seem to come back without the HRT.
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Meg - what side effects did you get from the HRT you were given and were you offered pills or patches.
I agree that it seems as if the meno is trailing behind in the research stakes and if it was men then maybe things would be moving along faster but I think in this day and age we expect a "cure" for everything and for some things this just isn't possible without some risk being involved.
I think that as women we have taken more control of our lives, we have good careers, own our own homes and expect that our health will also change with time. Things that our mothers went through we feel we shouldn't have to because we have changed in so many other ways. At the end of the day, though, nature seems to have decreed that loss of egg production equals loss of a lot of ourselves and we are a long way off evolving into women who can produce babies naturally into our 70's and 80's.
I hope that makes sense!
Taz x
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Taz
If I remember correctly the first HRT I tried was about 18 months after my last period. It was a patch, Femapak 40 with 10 mg progestogen which was duphaston. Felt a bit better on the oestrogen patch for the first two weeks though I did have one experience where I felt a bit outside of myself, sort of as if I was out of my body, a sensation I did not like. Like lots of ladies I felt progressively worse on the progestin. Like very bad PMS, low backache, bad temper. Then I had a bleed which seemed to go on for about two weeks so I thought that I wouldn't be able to tolerate that month after month and packed it in. I also tried Evorel Conti but had pretty constant PMS with that plus pains in the uterus and really bad wind so it was intolerable. Would never try the continuous combined again as I couldn't tolerate the progestin all of the time. At present am slogging things out and struggling on.
Regards
Meg
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I've been on HRT for around 10 years, about 4 years of which I've been on Premique 0.625mg, and I've felt great. The nurse at my surgery was totally in favour of staying on it for the rest of my life (I am now 60). However, today I have been to see my GP and he suggested that I should consider gradually coming off it. Having read some of the posts about the problems resulting from stopping HRT, I am now uncertain what to do. My GP said that the disadvantages of continuing outweigh the advantages. Does anyone have any thoughts - I know the ultimate decision is mine, but any additional information would be welcome!
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Here's a good website which analyses some of the flaws in the research to date and concludes that long-term HRT isn't necessarily a bad thing or as dangerous as the two main studies to date have suggested.
http://www.studd.co.uk/
(Ooops - I had to edit the post to add the link. Blame my meno-memory!!)
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Hi Snoozy - welcome to the forum.
It is always difficult when it is "suggested" that you might like to come off HRT - though lots of docs refuse to prescribe it after the age of 60 and some even set 55 as the limit.
Obviously the final decision is yours and if you are happy with staying on it and have read up on all the possible risks and benefits then there seems to be no reason why you shouldn't stay on it. My own doc is of the opinion that all ladies after five years on HRT should at least try to come off it with a view to seeing where they are symptom wise. If symptoms are still unbearable then HRT should be restarted.
Have a good look around the forum - there is much, help, information and support to be had, and please let us know what you decide :)
Love Taz x
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Dear Snoozy
Was talking to a lay today in here early seventies who started HRT a couple of decades ago when the prevailing opinion seemed to be that it was OK to stay on it forever I suppose. To me she seems pretty good for her age. Good skin, good hair, getting about OK, articulate, pretty confident but she is having a battle to stay on her preferred HRT and she told me that her friend, a contemporary of hers, cannot get HRT anymore of her GP. I thought, what a mess all of this was. I should imagine that without topping up hormones you will feel the decline in them which are well known to women on the forum here. For myself I have had a what feels like a myriad of symptoms associated with the decline in oestrogen and possibly other hormones that I was producing in more abundance before the onset of menopause. In my most cynical moments I wonder if the medics want women off HRT because of the costs but I feel there is so much that science does not really know about the interaction of the hormones, dosages etc. I envy women who have found an HRT to suit them because so many dont and they are trying to slog things out on a daily basis. If you are on something and it makes you feel better at least you have the improvement in your quality of life.
Good luck
Meg
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Hi, I'm new to this Forum but would really appreciate some advice regarding HRT.
I'm 58 and nine years' post menopausal, most of which time I've been plagued with hot flushes and night sweats. The first six months after my final period were the best in my life hormonally speaking, as I've always suffered from terrible PMT, so it was great to feel like a rational person for the first time since I was a teenager! However, it wasn't long before the hot flushes arrived and I started on my first round of HRT, Femapak, which brought pretty instantaneous relief, but caused me to gain around a stone in weight.
I don't know whether it was the oestrogen or the progestin part of the combo, but I felt constantly hungry and strangely bloated. After about 18 months, I stopped it and the flushes and sweats came back with a vengeance, but thanks to diligent dieting, the weight gradually came off again.
My aim was to tough it out - 'it has stop eventually,' I kept telling myself brightly, but apparently not and at the back end of last year I was suffering so badly from night sweats that sleep became impossible and I started on HRT again - this time a continuous regime, Evorel Conti.
Once again, the relief came quickly and for three months all was well, but then I began to suffer from intermittent bleeding and a near constant feeling of PMT, complete with horrendous bloating and water retention. I was also gaining weight again at a tremendous rate of knots - I put on a stone again. I stopped using it and now six weeks later, the night sweats are back with the concurrent sleep problems. I feel so fed up and I really don't know what to do - put up with broken sleep or expand like a barrage balloon! Thinking back, I could never tolerate the contraceptive pill either, so maybe synthetic hormones just don't suit me. Has anyone any ideas regarding a new HRT regimen or any recommendations as to an HRT combo that doesn't lead to weight gain?
I'm no sylph at the best of times, so I really can't afford to be any fatter!
Thanks.
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Hello Maghag and welcome.
I'm 58 too. Can't help with your query as I have never taken HRT but maybe if you post your question again on New Members, or start a new topic in All Things Menopause, you may reach a wider audience. Just a suggestion. Hope someone can help you.
Sleepless
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Many thanks Sleepless, I'll do as you suggest!
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Hi Maghag & welcome.
I'm pretty much in the same boat as you. We are damned if we do & damned if we don't.
I couldn't endure the hot flushes either, especially the ones at night. It was affecting my work, my social life & it took up every waking hour of my day.
I am on HRT - 1mg Cimaval & the mirena coil. The hot flushes have gone but I have put on a stone since the start of all this (nearly 3 years now).
I don't like being overweight but I can't live the life I had.
I don't know if it is the HRT causing the weight increase or not, I remember when I was younger woman always seemed to get bigger around their 50's, I was always told it was the middle age spread.
I hope you get some relief.
Love Cazikins
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Hi Maghag Just wanted to add my 2 pennyworth! I am 59 and had to come off HRT recently as I had a small DVT following foot surgery and was put on Warfarin. They said when the Warfarin stops ( in August) I had to be off the HRT. So i started to wean off the HRT very gradually. I had been on it 6 or 7 years ( I think) and tried twice before to come off - both times disastrous. I had very bad sleep problems which didn't even resolve for ages after I went back on it - also heart palpitations like skipped beats, also hot flushes and panicky feelings. Anyway now I am into my 3rd week of being off the HRT and for the past 2 months only on decreasing tiny dose. I started to use natural progesterone cream the day I stopped HRT ( I think its called Serenity - mail order from Jersey) I know its very early days and I am being cautious but I can report the following. Hot flushes came back as I was weaning right down but have now stopped. Sleep is fine so far - skipped beats been quite bad but getting less and less, mostly after eating now but quite mild and no heart racing. And I feel really well, calm and very happy! So .... I am glad I have stopped the HRT. So far its not as bad as I feared - I THINK the cream may be helping! I will keep you posted, but so far so good
SuzieQ
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Gals I am in a quandry, have made an appt to see my doc nxt week . Have spoken to him b 4 and got a presc but decided against it. My natural mothers sister has had breast cancer, dont no what to do. On one hand if I hadnt known bout it, I would have been trying HRT, but as I do no , I cannot decide what to do. Am I putting myself at risk , Any help advice would b so welcome
een xx
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Hi Een - what a dilemma for you. There is a lot of advice on HRT and Breast Cancer on this site http://breakthrough.org.uk/index.html They give risk factors and also the family link. I think that if the cancer is oestrogen receptive then you would be advised not to take it but a lot of breast cancers do not have the hormonal link and if your auntie had one of those types then I think your risk would be the same as anyone else.
I am sure someone else will be along in a minute with more advice but in the meantime check out the Breakthrough link. It makes for interesting reading, especially the risk factors.
Taz x
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Hi Taz thx for the link, will have a good look tonite.
een xx
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Hi Een,
my doctor put me on HRT even though my mum had breast cancer (specialist told her it was hormonal & was caused by the HRT she took for years) her mum also had a breast tumour (no HRT in those days though!)
He told me that for short term it would be fine & the increased risk of cancer was minimal, I did read up about HRT & the risks before deciding it was worth a try :)
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morning gals, am going to give it a miss i think , i have kinda decided to see if doc will give me something to keep at home for nxt time , to use to stop the heavy bleeding . Not sure what way to go as so much going on in my head , and do not want to add to it. sleep is bad enough lol.
een xx
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Ladies just wanted to ask what dosage of Hrt are you taking, and is it helping with your symptoms, i have been taking Femsven Conti 50uj for 3.5mths to eliviate hot sweats, day times are very good now, but not night times, so feel i may need a higher dose, but a bit scared as i have just reached 60..
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Rosebush - I have been using half-patches of Evorel Sequi (oestrodial 25mcg/24 hours) which has worked brilliantly in reducing quite severe hot flushes for 3 months. Alas, they're back with a vengeance now so I'm going to have to try the full 50mcg/24h dose and hope that this provides more lasting relief.
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I have just been to my doctor today and he has prescribed Elleste Duet Conti 2mg. I contracted a virus infection in October last year which caused a lot of muscle inflammation to the point I couldn't walk, drive my car, apparently a very rare condition. Almost
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Sue hope you are feeling much better now, sounds like you were really poorly for a while, was this in any way connected to menopause, you will see range of symptoms on here, that are put down to meno??... :-*
Karen sorry to hear your 1/2 patch has stopped working, i am on 50mcg Femseven conti... just come to the end of my 4th month, it took around 6wks for HRT to kick in and stop hot sweats, but i was still getting bad nightly hot flushes, but sadly after a further 6wks, night flushes have turned to hot sweats, which each last about 15mins, only getting about 4-5 so far, hence my question re dosage, i know the next dose up is 75mcg, but i have just gone 60, so a tad apprehensive about a higher dose, but i only went on HRT to stop the sweats, had them 24/7 for more than 8yrs, so a higher dose seems my only option, although i have just picked up my next 3mth supply, so had a chat with Hubby and have decided to see how things are at the end of 3mths... :'(
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Hi Rosebush, thanks very much for your good wishes. No my illness was not linked to menopause I picked it up as you would lupus or ME. I am much better than I was but now it is difficult to know which is my condition and which is menopause. The symptoms I am getting seem to be more menopausal that is why I decided to research HRT. I have just printed off some info from www.studd.co.uk and will be studying that. As I said I have the HRT tablets to take but I don't know whether to take them, if the benefits outweigh the risks then it will be worth it, but who can tell ?
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hi.
i've only just started experiencing menopausal symptoms and if possible i dont want to take HRT. that said my symptoms are not too bad at the moment. i have not had hot flushes or not been able to sleep, etc but its early days.
i'm keeping an open mind and if it things get that my quality of life becomes unbearable then i will go to my GP and ask for help.
I'm don't know anything about HRT, only aware that it had a bit of 'bad press' but i'm confused when i read some of the posts that say that after you've taken HRT and THENstop, you still get the menopausal symptoms. why's that?
thanks
Karen
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Hi Karen, it's not an easy decision. You are obviously in the early stages and wouldn't it be nice if that's as bad as it gets, it may be for you, I hope so. As you say keep an open mind, just do your research don't rely on what your GP says. Take a look at www.studd.co.uk and www.breakthrough.co.uk to get more info. I don't think the risks are as bad as the press give out, my mum died from breast cancer about 15 years ago, as far as I know the only one in my family to get it so I have thought long and hard. However at the moment because of a previous illness I am aching from head to foot and have trouble walking which may not be down to my illness, could be the menopause. I have decided to try HRT for 3 months, going to see my doctor in 2 months to see if there is any improvement.
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Hi Sue01 - welcome to the forum by the way! I use the Breakthrough site a lot. From this and also from my GP I found out that I am at more risk of breast cancer from the alcohol I drink than from the HRT I use. My GP recommends no alcohol if on HRT due to the fact that alcohol mimics oestrogen and that means with HRT you would be getting double the dose. I haven't listened yet though - still enjoying my glass of wine most evenings ::)
I have the "aching all over" too but this is from fibromyalgia which I have had for the past 10 years or so. Sorry to hear you are suffering Sue.
Taz x
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Hi Sue01,
:welcomemm:
sorry you are suffering, it's worth giving the HRT a go, even if it's only for a short while.
I took it for 8 months until I decided that I was over the worst (sheer panic feelings etc etc) :)
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Has anyone any experience of coming off HRT after taking it for a long time. Is it better to do this gradually. Did the flushes etc., disappear and how soon?
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Hi beck,
:welcomemm:
i can't help you on that one, but I am sure that someone will come along that can help :)
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Beck:
http://www.menopausematters.co.uk/stopping.php
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I had been taking HRT for a few years, but it definitely wasn't doing the trick. Night sweats weren't my problem, day sweats were. I couldn't breath without looking like I just took a shower. The Dr. increased the HRT dosage, for now anyway, and I am finally getting relief! As far as my libido is concerned though, it doesn't exist. I suffer from Fybromyalgia, along with other chronic pain issues. and I do take pain meds, plus other meds for other problems, so that could be why my libido hasn't changed. They may be stopping it. I am being closely monitored while on these meds, with mammograms, biopsies, frequent visits to the Dr.'s, etc., but I'm still not where I want to be. The answers will come soon I hope.
Have a great day!!
Platte
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Hi Platte :)
I have a great issue with hot sweats, had them over 9yrs >:( ...but my prob is night sweats, been on HRT for 4.5mths, which has stopped my days sweats, but i am still getting sticky red hot type flushes at night, hence no sleep, i have an apt with my Gp tomorrow to discuss a higher dosage, what dosage are you on now.?
I see you are still having periods, mine stopped at 55, thats when my sweats really started 24/7... so i would love to have my monthlys back.. ::)
Welcome to MM and i hope you find loads of helpful info.. :-*
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May I ask Dr. Currie if she has any thoughts or opinions on natural progesterone cream?
Thanks,
Corky
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Hi Rosebush, The OB/GYN started me on Premerin I think they were, .3 mgs, then increased it to 0.625, and now, I take 1 1/2 of the 0.625's each day. Since I still have all my parts so to speak:), the Dr. also put me on progesterone, and he explained, this was to try to help keep the bad things like, cancer from happening. That has only been since March, and he is monitoring me quite closely with uterine biopsies, mammograms, frequent office visits etc. For the 1st time in years, I'm not sweating. Sometimes, I feel a hot flash just below the skin, trying to give me that dreaded wave of heat, but it goes away quickly. He explained, some women just need more than others. Hopefully, it won't be for too long. We tried so many other things, and nothing worked, so I guess this is it for now.
Oh, I almost forgot...I have severe chronic pain issues, and the doc also has me on Gabapentin (sp?). It is a med that is used for people who suffer with seizures, and it is supposed to numb the nerve endings, so that's why they use it for pain as well...apparently, it is also beneficial when it comes to sweating. This may also be a factor in my new found dryness:)...I can't say I am completely free of the sweats, but at least I can go out after dressing up and curling my hair, and not look like it was raining outside when i arrive at my destination, and that my new friends, is a miracle!!
Take good care of yourself, and stay safe and cool:)
Love,
Platte
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Hello, Im a newbie with this and have a bit of a strange case of HRT!
I have had full body radiation therefore leaving my body to not produce its own hormones therefore having to take HRT. I am 21 and have been on HRT for about 7 years. My doctor has tried me on a lot of different things increasing the dose on the way. I was on the pill as a type of HRT for 2 years and have recently gone back onto Evorel Sequi patches. The reason for this changing was becasue i was feeling very depressed and down within myself and experiencing really low sex drive. I have been with my partner for 3 years and feeling like this at my age has been a huge stress on our relationship.
From going on Eveorel Sequi the first two weeks i felt like a new person, the mood swings and angrness had gone and i finally felt more confident within myself improving my sex drive hugely!! I have recently gone on to the second patch for weeks 3 and 4 that contains progestogen and i feel awful again! Has anyone esle had this?
I still experience hot flushes and sweats regardless of being on HRT but i think this may be specific for my case.
Look forward to hearing from you. Lexyb
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Hi lexyb,
:welcomemm:
sorry you have suffered so much at such a young age :(
I am sure someone will be along soon to answer your query, I know that lots of ladies have problems with the different 'ingredients' in HRT.
I know that I took an hrt (tablet form) that had 2 different tablets in it & i felt horrendous taking the 2nd part of the hrt, wanted to kill or hit everyone & everything, so went back to the doctor & got it changed :)
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Hi Lexyb :welcomemm:
The progesterone in Evorel Sequi is Norethisterone and this is known to cause bad pmt symptoms in some women. I was on it for a while but the mood swings and depression in the second half of the cycle were difficult to cope with. My doc changed me to Femseven Sequi which has a different progesterone and I have had no mood swings at all on this one.
Keep posting - you will find lots of support on here.
Taz x
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Hi Lexy :)
I am also on Hrt Femseven Conti, and have not had bad mood swings, maybe your Gp would change you to F.S its worth a try..so sorry you are suffering all this at such a young age, i am 60 and think its the pits.. >:(
xx
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Hi Lexy, I'm so sorry you are suffering. It's horrible at any age, but at 21, I just can't imagine how you cope. You are obviously a very strong woman. Like the other ladies said, I don't know anything about what you're taking, but others here will. Good luck to you in finding yours answers. :bighug:
platte
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Hi,
Just wanted to say thank you for all the recent replies, it is so nice to know i am not the only one going through this.
Look forward to hearing more.
Lexyb
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Hi, This is my first post so hope I do it correctly. I had a hyst at 32 years of age, went on Premarin at 41 years, went off Premarin when the big study came out, got a Cystocele (prolapsed bladder) almost immediately, went to gyn who was upset that I stopped taking HRT and we decided to try the patch as it might be safer. Went on estradiol and my prolapse lessened immediately. However, a few years later it worsened and I am now on a very small dose of the patch (cut it in 1/2) and am starting to add estrogen cream (estrace) to try and lessen the prolapse. I wish I had *never* quit hormones as my friends are still on them (my mother is 93 and has NO prolapse and still on Premarin) and have no prolapse issues. I think the study overplayed the danger and customizing the HRT is what matters. I prefer the patch because it is not metabolized in the liver (although perhaps less effective??) and wish I had stayed on it because now the prolapse (2-3 degree) seems to be permanent.
Even in patches there is variation. One patch caused me side effects but the Climara (USA) causes no side effects for me. I will not go off HRT again unless there is a very serious reason. I am 70, a retired registered nurse, and very active (except for the problems with prolapse).
Appreciate this forum and the opportunity to learn how folks handle many female issues.
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Hi Trey,
What an amazing story. You are 70, and your mother is 93? Both still taking an HRT, wow!! That's awesome!!! I'm sorry to hear of the problems you have had though. That study caused a lot of suffering.
My sister, (she's a yr. older than I am), had a hysterectomy when she was in her early 40's, and was prescribed Premarin. A few yrs. later, I was on it too. When the controversial study came out, she panicked, and stopped taking hers......so did I. The mood swings were quite severe....couldn't sleep at night, and the sweats made us look like we just stepped in from the rain.
I still have periods, and I'll be 57 in November UGH!!! To make a long story short, after extensive research, a few yrs. ago, we both decided to go back on it... I feel so much better, and she said that I saved her life. Her husband jokes it saved their marriage.
I am going to tell her about you. She will be so happy to hear of another HRT success story.
I know that just because other ladies made it safely through menopause while taking HRT, it doesn't mean that everybody will. It's just nice to hear the stories of the women who do.
Thank you for posting, and I sincerely hope everything works out for you.
Take care.
Platte
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Hi, another newbie joined last night!
Your story really is fascinating, Trey. I was on HRT, first tablets and then patches (Prempak, I think?) for 9 years from 45 - 54 due to fainting attacks. They used to come out of the blue, extreme nausea followed by blacking out. I was told this was due to dips in hormone levels. I was frightened it could happen when I was driving as it was very very quick so went on HRT. I came off HRT because at that point - 9 years ago - the advice was mostly for only 10 years maximum. I am now wishing I had never come off it as over the last 3 years I have had such problems with cystitis and kidney infections which I am now thinking might be from the vaginal atrophy. I am currently in the middle of my second attack in 3 weeks and using Ovestin cream.
I came off HRT reasonably quickly and didn't find it too difficult although I do still get some daily hot flushes.
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Hi to Trey & Crescent
welcome to the forum :) for some reason I can't get the 'more' button to work so have put a smiley!
HRT at 70 & 93, wow!! I saw a doctor the other day about going back on it (only took it for 8 months to help with anxiety & panic) becasue i am worried about osteoporosis, but she wasn't keen for me to go back on it (it was my own male doctor that recommended it before!)
After reading your post I am seriously thinking of going back & insisting :)
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Thanks for the welcome, Hotnbothered :)
Yes it does make you wonder about going back on it, doesn't it? If I thought it would definitely help stop these cystitis attacks, I'd be very tempted as they are making me not only feel rotten but also very anxious all the time. Particularly if I go on holiday.
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Hi all, Thanks for the wonderful welcome to this friendly, helpful forum. I have another friend 77 yrs old (young!) who is still on Premarin (5 days/week, smallest dose). She has survived a burst aneurysm (1999) where her heart stopped four times on the way to the hospital. Her doctor told her, after her hyst at 40 years old, to stay on Premarin and don't listen to those studies that seem to come out every ten years. She has no problems at all with her gyn parts - she also had ovaries removed, which I did not at time of hyst. I take precautions very seriously and do have a mammogram (digital) every 12-18 months and do have a gyn check every 12 months. So, it is not like I don't worry, but honestly I think that Lipitor and tons of other prescription medications are dangerous as heck for many people. My theory is quite simple: our bodies have not had time to mutate to compensate for our longer life expectancies and therefore we are left with outliving our estrogen levels. I tried dhea twice (stimulates many hormones) and quit after it gave me acne (yuk) and also sent my heart racing. So, again, use caution and make sure any hormone replacement is made to fit your needs. Thanks again for the welcome and kind remarks. Oh, for the record, I don't feel a bit different at 70 than I did at 45 (maybe it is hrt-who knows?). Trey
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Hi Ressurection - welcome to the forum :)
I am interested that you are on testosterone. Are you in the UK and have you had a total hysterectomy?
Taz x
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Hi Resurrection,
What an excellent point you make in the replacement of other hormones. My son has been diabetic since 36 months and would not be alive without insulin. I cannot believe I am a nurse and I did not make that very appropriate analogy. Somehow it feels like studies are manipulated to scare women or to push a ton of anti-depressant drugs but take diabetes and because it is gender neutral you hardly hear anything about whether replacement therapy is good or not. Maybe Addison's or rheumatoid athritis would be even better comparisons because one does not have to take therapy for those to live.
Anyhow, thanks a bunch for adding to my confidence.
BTW my mother still drives at 93 and has no sign of any type of dementia. She's not my favorite person (TMI) but I am grateful for seemingly good genes (expect for the prolapse). Had I not gone off the Premarin I'd be willing to bet anything that I would not have this miserable cystocele.
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I have a cystocele Trey - have you considered surgery for it if it is making life miserable? I put it off two years ago but fear that eventually I will have to have it done.
Taz x
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Life can be crap enough with out going with out something that can make you feel better
Crescent thinks she has AtrophicVaginitits if i so HELLOOOOOO its bloody awful
Ive been oin HRT cream and the mini pill now for over 14 years and will take them for another 14 as long as I get relief
Good luck
Taz Cystole nooo dont not unless abso ness the failure rate with in 6months is about 30% thats a lot
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On the subject of prolapses, I'm with SuziQ on avoiding surgery if possible. One of my best friends who has had a trouble free menopause, No HRT, no real problems suddenly suffered a triple prolapse at 59, totally out of the blue as she had had no symptoms. She had the operation and now has nerve damage from that op and also another prolapse returning! I was at that time scheduled for a TVT op as I have stress incontinence to add to the fun of cystitis ;) - but cancelled it asap!
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Ress does your Hrt stop all flushes/sweats.?
I have been reading up on Testosterone, and wondering if this would help with flushes, i am trying to gather as much info as posible, to take to meno clinic apt ..when i get one. :-\
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:-\Prolapse: Surgery or Not, Other methods to deal with Prolapse (s)
Good morning, US time. I wake up thinking prolapse, I go through my day having to lie down because of prolapse, I woke up this morning daydreaming about a belt or something other than an internal pessary to support my cystocele. I was on the posture forum (I'll call it that)in the US where they are almost violently opposed to surgery. I could not take the anger towards the medical profession and seemingly toward those of us who have had surgery. I think successful surgery is threatening to those who are trying desperately to avoid it *but* this is so silly because surgery is *always* a risk and success is far from guaranteed. My hyst at 32 was totally successful for thirty years. My mother had a hyst at 55 and has no prolapse issues. Friends have had successful repairs, *but* many have had repeated repairs and now the horrible issues with the mesh and erosion of tissues. I know no one who has prolapse and I have lots of friends and neighbors?
My only solution for prolapse has been HRT. My friends on HRT since surgery have no prolapse.
I worked as an office RN for three years in a urology surgery office and did not hear much of failure of repair.
Something seems wrong to me in that I am hearing of so much prolapse in the younger set of post partum ladies. I never heard of this when working at Stanford Medical Center (a well known US teaching hospital in California). I should not say never - but never in young women. So what has changed??? The only thing that has changed in the peri-menopause group and older is the study on HRT that had women (like me) stopping HRT and then getting prolapse. But that does not explain younger ladies getting prolapse now.
I am trying the posture that the US website advises. I am watching my diet to go as anti-inflammatory as possible. I am exercising. I used to be a ranked tennis player (not professional, but very good) and was in great shape. I am now 70 years old (yee gads) and still work out and find the prolapse infuriating as it limits the time I can stand and it forces me not to lift or create intra abdominal pressure. I packed for three moves as I may have mentioned and cared for my husband when he was severely ill (better now) and all the lifting did me in this second time. The HRT saved me for about eight years the first time.
So I am avoiding surgery because of the high failure rate. I am hoping they will come up with a laparoscopic surgery that will shorten ligaments to support whatever has fallen. I am not a good surgical candidate because I am allergic to almost all antibiotics and other meds are problematic. So, right now, I am afraid of surgery, but I have not ruled it out. I want my life back. But I must consider that I have other bigger issues (cervical spine) and not be ungrateful that I am basically very healthy. So I use methods to help me deal with it - I believe in acupressure and myofascial release and trigger point therapy for many things. I am all for natural, but remember, I did chose hysterectomy and I have had an emergency appendectomy (at 61) so I am not opposed to surgery - only surgery that has a high failure rate and prolapse surgery has a high failure rate in my mind.
I love this forum because of its acceptance of a wide variety of views and its tolerance level. We all need the support of each other and who knows maybe the wonderful doctor (s)? who support this forum will learn from us and come up with workable solutions. Trey
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Answer to when we started on HRT. My mother is 93, had her hysterectomy when she was about 55-65 (I don't really know) and I am 70, had hyst at 32, but did not begin HRT until approx. 41. That would be approx. 30 years ago and that would then be about 1979. The patch was not heard of then as far as I remember, only premarin, I believe. I cannot remember exact years, but these should be close. I do remember my FSH was a screaming 85 and I think normal was 0-30 depending on time of month. I just Googled "when was Premarin developed" and got one site that says "Premarin was developed in Canada in the late 1930s". This post is about PETA and cruelty to horses. Hope that helps. Trey
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Hi Ressurection - could you share how you manged to get prescribed testosterone. I feel it would be a great help to a lot of us in getting back our sexual ooomph but as guidelines here are that it should not be presecribed to women with intact uterus and ovaries I have not been able to obtain any. Also, I am worried about the ovarian cancer risk as I have lost three friends to this nasty silent
killer.
As for how long HRT has been known about - my mum was prescribed it when I was 14 in 1968. She took it for a year and found her hot sweats and other problems had disappeared after that time. That's 41 years ago. It was a pill then of course as patches came later but I believe HRT has been around since the early 60's
Taz x :)
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Maybe a look at the web-site - oh my meno brain today :bang: :bang: :bang: ovacome that's it ....... also I was told by my GP several years ago that my voice would drop with testosterone and never come back up ::) however, would anyone notice and if it means I feel sexy again, at my age ............ :-*
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Hi again Ress - so come on - how did you persuade your doc to prescribe it or was it a private consultation?
Taz x :)
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Thanks Ress. The guidelines are actually from the manufacturers not from the NHS and I feel that if the manufacturers really felt that there was only a small cancer risk then they could be making so much money from prescribing testosterone to all the women who need it to boost their flagging libidos. I take HRT to enable me to live a much more productive life and also to be able to continue in my job. Obviously HRT has its risks but I would hesitate to take something that puts me at what seems to be quite a high risk of cancer purely to boost my sexlife - much as I miss the ooomph!
Will give it some more thought. I wish that we could have our testosterone levels checked when we are younger (all the hormones actually) so that as we grew older we could see the extent of the decline. After all what is normal for one woman is abnormal for another and it is surely the amount by which the hormones decrease in an individual which leads to the changes we experience.
Taz x :)
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Just goggled Testosterone Gel and it seems you can buy this for £40 on internet, not sure if its the same thing as Ress is using..?
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Just spoke with a new friend and finally asked her if she'd had any experience with prolapse (decided to explain why I cannot walk too long) and she said, "I had a hyst at 35 and my doctor said go on Premarin and never go off". He told her it had not been studied enough and that she would need it with a total hyst. She is 75, looks 60 and in good health. She is on the lowest dose of Premarin. She has no prolapse of any kind.
Do you have DHEA in England? It is written about by Dr. Ray Sahelian, who gives good conservative advice. DHEA is a precursor for many hormones. I *do not* take it as it makes my heart race and if I did it would be at a tiny dose. I think in many ways it could be safer than testosterone and my gyn agrees (with lots of cautions). I got acne from it after three days and oily skin, but I felt great - darn - wasn't worth it.
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This is a heartwarming study. http://eclips.consult.com/eclips/article/Psychiatry/S0084-3970(08)70557-7 It was a small trial and over a small amount of time but it does show positive effects.
Taz x
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Ress - I am on oestrogen and progesterone it is just the testosterone I am missing.
How long have you been taking HRT for and did you start it before you were getting any adverse meno reactions or did you wait until you were feeling dreadful?
Taz x
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Thanks for that info Ress. I can't understand what symptoms you would have been experiencing with a FSH of 6 though - this is a normal reading for a fertile woman of around 25! My FSH was 178 by the time I needed to try any hormone treatment :)
What age were you when things were "not right" if you don't mind me asking such a delicate question ;D
Your HRT regime sounds like mine - oestrogen only for two weeks then added progesterone for the second two weeks in order to bring on a bleed and so stop your womb lining from thickening and causing endometrial cancer. I appreciate that your doses are probably much smaller than mine but then with an FSH of 6 you wouldn't need much oestrogen. I feel that by the time your FSH gets into the hundreds then you will probably find that a higher dose of oestrogen is needed. It is good that you caught things early and can start low and gradually increase as your own hormones diminish. Do you know why you lost your undearm hair - just curious!
Taz x
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must admit, I haven't thinned anywhere else, but I don't have to shave under my arms very often anymore -quite pleased because I used to find it such a chore ;D
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What a helpful post. You've given so many symptoms of hormone deficiency. Having to deal with it at a younger age sounds awful. You've actually encouraged me to re-instate my hormone levels at a much older age. I got a prolapse two weeks after stopping hormones (ten years ago) and the price I've paid in losing any semblance of a normal life is ridiculous when I realize that just replacing the normal hormonal loss would have solved everything and let me deal with other life issues. Thanks for writing in such descriptive detail. Again, I think we have not evolved to catch up with longer age spans and in your case surgically induced reduction of hormones. My gyn had no problem with my trying dhea which is a precursor to many hormones: estrogen, testosterone among them. Also, she felt if that did not work we could try testosterone cream. The dhea did not work, but I think upping my estrogen (cream and patch) is helping somewhat. I, too, had the hair loss and small re-gain. Never thought I'd enjoy occasional shaving again!
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Good for you Ress :)
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Um hello!I hope I am not being thick.....but I cant see any posts by anyone called Ress.....or anything that looks like what you are all referring to?I only came on this section to say that I have just been to the GP today and thought they would not prescribe me hrt again as I have been on it 3 and 1/2 years and am 55.However this one has and says as long as I start to come off before I'm 60.Things are obviously different in USA!!!!I am having the cholesterol fasting test next week as I've never had one before.So relief again.I would be happy taking my chances with hrt for as long as I can.Phew! ;)
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Hi Juju - Ress has mysteriously disappeared. She is not showing as a guest and all of her posts have gone.
Taz x
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If you need to chat to Ress i have her Sisters e mail addy, she will put you in touch with Ress... just Pm me..i donot know why Ress left the forum though..xx
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Chucked off, not bland enough which is a huge shame >:(
I have her email if anyone wants to PM for it (after I've asked her if she minds it being passed on of course).
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Hi
Have recently come off hrt Elleste solo, experienced most of the side effects. However, not giving up that easily. Would appreciate if anybody has got info on Estrofen - Bio identical and any experiences.
Regards
Poppy50
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Poppy50 - have sent a PM
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Hi all I am new to this site have now been taking prempackc for the last 3 month felt like I am going of my head really down goes worse when i start on the 2 tablets on the 17 day went back to dr said to finish pack then start on new tablets climagest in 12 days but feel I can't cope not sure if to come of all together has I am sure that it wasn't this bad be four I went on Hrt please help anyone I can't go on like this making everyone's life miserable
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Hello Stellababes
I've never been on Prempack but I did have problems when I first started on HRT. Have you tried the "Climagest" yet? I think that has a different type of Estrogen in it - the prempack has estrogen derived from horse's urine and Climagest is Estrogen Valerate - which is Bio-indentical as far as I can make out....
Sometimes the progestin in HRT products can cause problems, it certainly did for me :(
Hope you soon feel better - as regards to HRT in general - I had to kiss a lot of frogs before I found the Prince ;D Sometimes takes a while to find out what's right for you....
Valx
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Thanks Val for all your info was of help you are right that is what my GP said re different type Estrogen It as help reading all the mail be four I plucked up the courage to join has I thought I was going mad or having a breakdown Thanks again take care
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Great for me tho its taken 3 different types and quite a while to get it right.My problem was it was causing bleeds when I shouldnt have had them as my periods had been stopped for a couple of years when I started it.Has improved my life 1000%!Hot flushes gone,night sweats all but gone,mood swings vastly improved...normal life resumed!
Which one ar you now on ??
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Hi Julieandrea,I just saw your question.I'm on Premique 0.625/5mg.That post was 2 1/2 years ago!But still on them,just had to go and plead my case a few weeks ago as I have been on HRT over 3 years and am 55,but the doctor agreed to leave me on it.It has made a huge difference to me.My biggest problem is dryness down below,and I find it difficult to get enthusiastic about sex! I was pretty much rampant before all this.I still wake up hot a few times in the night but nothing like I was suffering.And I'm still working,whereas I dont think I couldve continued in my job if I hadnt found something to help.Julie xx
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I am 50 and peri menopausal and started Elleste Duet 1mg 5 months ago and the night sweats stopped and my libido improved but after a while I noticed the Norithisterone tabs the green ones gave me terrible PMT symptoms and this escalated into full blown depression and crying etc. and I felt so awful even to the point of being suicidal, so today I started Femseven Conti patches and if I can get them to stay on I will report back :-\
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Hi Can any one out there give me some hope been on prempak c for over 3 month felt awful now on climagest just over a week can't cope any more feel like I shud give up on HRT as I am sure I did't feel this bad be four I started it I cant sleep feel so depressed anxious so not me.Can anyone please tell me what the best thing to do is so desperate please help Stella
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Hi Stella - do you know which climagest you are on - the 1mg or the 2mg? I thought first of all that it may have been the norethisterone making you feel like this but if you have only been taking them for a week you will only be on the oestrogen part at the minute.
Sorry you are feeling so bad. It can take a while to get the right HRT but it is worth persevering. It can take three months for the full effect of HRT to be felt. It could be that you would be feeling this bad even without the HRT given all the different stages that meno goes through. Have a hug :hug:
Taz x
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Hello
Have started to use 'Red Clover' as an alternative therapy. Would appreciate any comments of anybody who has used Red clover and how long it takes to kick in, if ever.
Regards
Poppy50
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Hi all
I'm new to HRT and have avoided using it for years, hoping all the negative feelings and flushes would go away - nobody else around me seemed to be having the same symptoms. However, I have succummed to using OEstrodose estradiol gel Monday-Friday with Saturdays & Sundays "rest". I've only been using it for 10 days, the first Saturday without I felt awful, legs like jelly and light headed. Yesterday, the second Saturday felt really odd, had 5 hot flushes in 2 hours and very emotional (probably because it frightened me). I'm finding it hard to stay positive at the moment but the more I read the more I understand that I have to give this treatment longer before judging it. Might I say that over a period of 24 hours pre HRT I was having as many as 25 hot flushes, it has reduced to between 7 and 15 - surely that's worth giving it a go !
Good Luck to everyone "in the same boat"
Meggie
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Hi Sarah
I like you was adamant that I wasn't going to take HRT . I am noe 8 years since last period and only 53. I thought I had got through the worst. Sex life was virtually nil and libido had got up and gone. But I thought hey I can cope with this. until a few months ago vaginal atrophy kicked in. i didn't really know what it was. Just knew I was sore, always having a discharge and finding it difficult to walk long distances because of course theyre was always that urge for the loo. I was sleeping only a ccouple of hours a night.
I saw a very good Gp and have been on Fem seven conti patches for four weeks now. I feel fantastic, interested in hubby once again, concentration improved and hey sleeping at night. The vaginal and bladder symptons have gone. I have however more bouts of indegestion and have been feeling more stressed. (but this could be Christmas panic). My quality of life is so much improved I had forgotten what feeling normal was.
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Bad bad bad! I have had a very negative experience with hrt used to combat the effects of Decapeptyl and can honestly say that I will NEVER touch the stuff again. I'd rather have the effects of chemical menopause than take the risk that is hrt.
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I'm sorry you had such a bad experience EndofTether - did you only try one sort or did they make you try loads. The pills especially are difficult to tolerate - especially if you are already going through difficult treatments - and the different progesterones can also upset moods.
Taz x
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I tried Kliovance which gave me really hellish migraines and then Livial which got me arrested! No more hrt for me I think!
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I have been on several types of HRT for more than 2 years now. I have tried tablets, patches & gel.
Tablets can give you a bad tummy + diarrhoea (thanks Catweazle for the spelling of that word). :-* They are absorbed through the stomach so if you are sensitive in that department then you could have problems.
Patches - excellent for me for about 9 months, no problems with diarrhoea or nausea but in the end I got a reaction to the adhesive & my thighs ended up looking like a patchwork quilt...red & sore.
Gel Well this was the funniest. I had to apply this pump gel twice a week to my upper arms & I came out of the bathroom with my arms akimbo in fear of touching hubby..... who could have grown breasts if I had touched him for the next 30 minutes or so (by all accounts from the leaflet that came with the gel)....
I am now on the lowest dose of HRT tablets (1mg, I was on 2). It has stopped the hot flushes but not the panic/anxiety attacks :(, for that I have started beta blockers which I hope to eventually come off of....hey but then I thought the same about HRT.
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After reading all this Im not going to bother ever
If theres no new cream then sod it
The sides to HRT seem worse than the meno
Its really scarey
Suzi Q
just talked to my cousin she got HRT again for the 6th time this time she took 3 was so ill
She threw them down the loo and demanded to go back on HRT cream
:'(she said enoughs enough she wasnt prepared to be a guinea pig any more
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I remember all the problems I had in my twenties with the pill, tried so many, so many awlful reactions. Had to give up on that altogether. Then later I ended up having fertility treatment, yet again, hormone treatments made so ill. Now here we are, full meno for 3 years now. I was dead against trying ANY hormonal treatment, had been through enough although when it gets really bad I sometimes just wish I could find a magic pill but my doc won't give me HRT anyway as I lost my Mum to breast cancer. I'd love to know just how much money I've wasted on alternative treatments, all a waste of time. Think I'll just try and ride it through now in the hope that it will come to an end. Just trying Serenity cream at the mo (4 weeks)...and ACT (as from yesterday). Worrying though...my poor Mum had hot flushes for 40 years....... :o
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I was totally against taking HRT until my symptoms got so bad I had to give in. Nothing "over the counter" worked, I tried Red Clover, Star Flower Capsules, Evening Primrose - it cost me £100's over the 4 years before HRT then, whilst at the docs for a different problem I had a really bad flush, threw jacket and jumper off, out came the Spanish fan donated by a friend and I was flapping about trying to cool down for 5 minutes. The doc immediately made arrangements for me to see a Specialist and when I went the following week I was so desperate that I spread the Oestrogen Gel on my home whilst travelling home ...... no I wasn't driving.
I'm now in my 3rd month and it's made such a difference, flushes down to 3 today (usually have a couple more during the evening 'cus it gets hot in front of the log burner) and sleeping much better too.
It really depends on the individual - I think I've been lucky up to now.
Meggie
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Terri,
I didnt take the pill either tried 2 or 3 had terrible reactions then I went back home on leave (I was in the WRENS)
I went to my family Gp who threw 40 fits and said I could never take it
Unbenownst to me my Mum had gone on the pill in the early 60s when it first came out and had a heart atack at 32
They were very strong in those far off days in fact I remember dont ask me why
In 69 they took nearly all the pills of the market literally overnight google it and see think they took something like 30 off
Women and young girls were dropping like flys girls coming back from the honeymoon and dieing of heart atacks it was the pill
So untill I went premeno or in fact I was in my first year of no periods it was then I took the mini pill and Ovestin cos of dry vagina
This was the time in the 90s when the HRT scare was and millions of women world wide came off it Drs wouldnt prescribe it
There was no internet no real information GPs didnt talk about meno except to say come back if you feel bad(antdepressants)
All the aches pains dizzienss headaches depression sadness weird woozzy feeling anger achy bones
Never once put those things down to meno till I joined this forum last August I just thought I was going nuts my Mum had 7bdowns
I thought untill last year it was wonky periods hit flushes and mood swings never thought all the others were meno symptoms
So I never went back to the Gp about them I just carried on with the HRT cream and the mini pill
Thinking now maybe it was best I didnt know I was on my own (lady wise) I never talked about it to anyone I thought it was me
Reading now even with Av which is shite wouldnt wish that and the vanishing fanny (way too early for that)
Im glad thats all over yes I still get the hot flushes and the headaches but thats now to do with not taking the Ovestin
Maybe ignorance was bliss in my case probably right
\Suzi Q :-\
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Hello, I'm new to this site and hoping that someone can help me with my recent introduction to HRT. I started on Evoril Sequi patches which were fantastic for the first month - hadn't felt this well in years. Unfortunately halfway through the second month I was experiencing severe daily headaches and the practice nurse at my GP Surgery told me to stop them immediately and changed me to Climagest 1mg. I've been taking these for 3 months now and whilst the hot flushes have gone I am experiencing all the other horrible things that come with the menopause/peri menopause; sleepless nights, anxiety attacks, palpatations, very emotional etc etc. In two weeks the Evoril Sequi had got rid of all those awful feelings but in 3 months Climagest hasn't made a jot of difference. Any advice would be greatly appreciated.
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Hi Susanm - welcome to the forum :)
I have checked the make-up of both evorel sequi and climagest. Evorel Sequi contains estradiol hemihydrate and Climagest contains estradiol valerate. We were talking about this yesterday on here as we are not sure what the difference is. They both contain Norethisterone as the progesterone which is notorious for causing anxiety and pmt type symptoms. Are you feeling anxious all the time or only in the second half of the cycle and have your headaches disappeared with the Climagest?
I was on Evorel Sequi but changed to Femseven Sequi due to the mood swings and general low mood that Everol gave me for the last ten days of my cycle. Femseven is good but the patches fall off with monotonous regularity!!
Have a good browse around the site - you will find lots of friends on here and there is always someone around to give advice or a hug (or both) :)
Taz x
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Hi Susanm
Hope you feeling happier today
We all know what your going through
Take good care
Suzi Q
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Thank you Taz for your advice and kind words - I will take this info with me when I visit my GP next week.
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And thank you Suzi Q - I'm feeling a little happier today after browsing this site and realising that I'm not actually losing the plot!
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COURSE YOUR NOT
HEY its THURsday nearly weekend
Have a lovely one
Suzi Q
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Hi,
I have been on the Serenity natural progesterone cream for about 2 years. I think it definitely helps with the hot flushes and insomnia. The problem for me is that every time I try something new it seems to help for about 2-4 weeks, and then the symptoms gradually creep back. No HRT for me, as my mum had breast cancer. I am also taking Menopace (from the chemist and quite cheap), which has definitely helped lift my mood (I was on the verge of taking anti-depressants - Citilopran, which are still sat in my cupboard). Hope that helps - all we can do is keep trying to be well, though even the effort of searching for help is exhausting!
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Ive racked my brains (not thats theres much there)
To remember the first HRT cream I was put on Ive remebered
Ortho Dienestoral brown box it worked really well
I cant seem to find if ita any different to Ovestin though
I do remember that I was warned aboutr Ovestin by GP side affects etc but nothing with Dien
It worked great for 2 years or so wonder if he may give me that again?
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Hi Sandi. Try to resist the Citalopram is my advice. I was put on it 18 months ago...when I ended up a blubbering mess at my docs....she said it will also help the hot flushes. Well, I have to say it got rid of the depression, not the hot flushes though, and I think I ended up kind of " foggy and cold" emotionally. During that time on Citalopram I lost a very dear friend with cancer, we'd been friends nearly 40 years. I was so sad.....yet I couldn't cry!
I'm now weaning off the Citalopram...thought about my friend yesterday...and burst into tears!
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Hi terri - I reckon the problem may be the dosage of SSRI's for hot sweats. This trial shows how results can differ and that it is really quite a specific programme to follow. I don't think many doctors would know this http://www.womensmentalhealth.org/posts/citalopram-celexa-effective-for-treating-hot-flashes/
Taz x
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Ladies is anyone on Conti patches suffering break through bleeds, have used patches for nearly 9mths...had 2 bleeds in 9wks and 20days later i have another one, i am awaiting appt for Hysteroscopy and D&C.
When i was perimeno, and got a 'period' my sweats would vanish :) and i got 3/4nights sleep, this has not happened with the last 3 bleeds, so not sure if its a period :-\ or something else is wrong..so blooming fed up of worrying about this meno...maybe i will have to stop Hrt and return to sweats 24/7 this thought makes me feel very low, as i have had them for 10yrs now.. :'(
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Hi rosebush - I had continuous bleeding on a conti patch which is why, even at the age of 56, I still have sequi patches which give me a bleed every four weeks. It is not a troublesome bleed - heavy and very crampy on the first day but then it is fine.
Hope you don't have to return to the 24/7 sweats
Taz x
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I don't even have the cramp Taz, had really low back pain all day yesterday, but put that down to exercise until this morning :-\ the Hrt has not helped with night sweats, but just having some daytime relief helps, as i am so worn out from sleepless nights..I am hoping i do not have to stop Hrt before op, as i feel 'that will' bring on a bleed, and my leaflets say, to let the hospital know if you have a period, as they may have to cancel op, due to not getting a clear view of the womb ??? talk about being confused with the whole thing..!!
Taz sorry if this sounds silly but, is your monthly bleed a real period, or due to Hrt?.
x
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It is just the HRT I suppose. I am 56 and I expect mine would have stopped by now. I have been on HRT for over two years now and when I started it my periods were around 6 or 7 months apart. I am sure it is purely HRT induced. Apparently some women do bleed on the non-bleed HRT's. I bled for the whole of the three months I took it and so asked to be put back onto sequi. Actually I have just remembered that my patch came off today in the bathroom and I put it to dry ready to stick it back on and forgot! I had better see if I can still find it ;D
Hope you have a cooler night rosebush.
Taz x
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Taz looks like i may be one of the one's that will have bleeds on 'non bleed hrt' had 1 in Nov 1 in Jan, changed from Femseven to Evorel, had one last Tuesday & started again this morning, not full on, last Tuesdays stopped on Friday, so its been just a wk today and bleed started as soon as i got up..strange thing though this time, Wed & last night my sweats/flushes dropped from every 30-40mins to around only 6 in 8hrs...oh to have regular periods again and no sweating :)
I have to go into Hospital for hysteroscopy & D&C next Sat morning, not looking forward to it, but hope my bleeds are only due to Hrt and nothing else..So scared of GA, but need the Op just to see if all's well.. Bloody Meno, after 10yrs just want it to go away..how many of us have said that ladies.. :-*
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be thinking opf you Rosebush, hope it helps sort you out. Just make sure you rest up and take it easy for a bit! :)
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Thxs Terri i have to be there for 7.30am, but theartre does not start until 10.30am, so why they need us there, so early is a mystery, i did all my pre op assessments (5 pages) during my last visit for the scan.. :-\ mind you my letter does say, i should be discharged between 12noon & 2pm, hopes its noon.. :)
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I found HRT to be brilliant, I was on it for about 15 years in one form or another. The downside is once you stop it, even weaning off it for months as I did, back come the hot flushes ect. As I'm now nearly 60, it was time I felt, to manage without it as one cannot go on forever, though I dearly wish I could. All I want to say really is if you can survive without it do so as all it does really is postpone the effects of the menopause, though I must also say that I don't feel as depressed as I did at the beginning. How it will affect my libido remains to be seen as It's only three months since I stopped it completely. You must weigh up the full facts before you start and it's very difficult when you want to continue as you were for a few more years, I've had a good run anyway. All the best to you all. :)
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Its great to hear some positive things about HRT
I came off the Ovestin in NOvember wasnt agreeing with me anymore
By mid Jan burning pain was so bad
Now Im on Vagifem and it seems to be working still not gone but eased
Thing is Ive noticed in the last week or so since being on Vagifem Im getting HOT FLUSHES
Go figure that one out cos I cant and they are HOT HOT HOT but only for a few mins then gone
Suzi Q
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Me too but then, it seems, are all the doctors!
I'm 49 and started HRT six months ago. Been a life saver for me. When I asked my gp how long I could be on it, she said it would be worth reviewing after 5 years or so - maybe consider cutting it down to see how I got on. But if I felt much better on it than off, she's got ladies on it in their 70's and see's no problem with that. I've got a friend of 82 who's still on it - takes it alternate days, I think.
Bixby x
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Mmmmmm, well to answer the question "why have I come off it?". Last year my doctor recommended that I think about it as I'd been on it for so long. The risk of breast cancer never bothered me as Tibolone is pretty low in that one but the risk of stroke increases as one gets older and with Tibolone the risk of uterine cancer is a factor too. My eldest daughter is a GP and she agrees with her, so that is two doctors I have to take note of. If I wanted to I could re-start it, no money involved as I'm 60 in less than a week so prescriptions are free. Another reason is most of my friends survived without it and are fine now so time will hopefully make me like them. I just don't fancy having to come off it in later life as the hot flushes will probably still come again no matter what age I try, and I feel I can cope better at the age I am now. I take regular exercise, cycling and walking, eat healthily and don't smoke. I do like wine but don't find that brings the flushes on, it's mainly if I get too hot and having counted how many I'm having in a day, around 6/7, maybe a couple at night, it's not really so bad. I just wanted to warn others that it's very rare for women to stop HRT and suffer nothing. I do agree that HRT is really brilliant though and if it helps then go with the flow, it got me through a very rough menopause and has made me feel younger than I am, (don't feel any older yet though early days I guess). Thanks for your responses. :)
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I am 62 and did have a partial hysterectomy 10 years ago and have been on Evorel 0.25 patches ever since, my doctor is happy for me to stay on them for as long as I want to. I do tend to leave the patch on for a week instead of changing it twice and it seems to work. I think some of the worries seem to be be with oral HRT but not so much with trans dermal methods http://www.cbc.ca/health/story/2007/02/26/hormone-safety.html
I think it is so sad when I read about Doctors who give time limits to hormone therapy, even when the woman is doing well, why do doctors have different ideas about prescribing HRT according to their own beliefs? HRT has many benefits for the body and not only for symptom relief. As a woman gets older she could cut
the dose down the minimal , it only needs a tiny amount to keep eg bones and skin healthy.
ladyjane
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I asked my gp why every doctor seems to have a different opinion and she said it's often to do with when they trained i.e. whether the current thinking was pro or anti HRT depending on the research at that time. She's aware of the fact that she's pro and tries very hard to be balanced and not "push it" on patients - I was already on it when I went to her and was just relieved to find someone who wasn't actually anti!
I get quite annoyed when I read about gps "forcing" women to come off it just because of a number i.e. age or no of years they've been on it. Surely we all deserve to be listened to and have gps who will work with us rather than dictate? What's that flying by? Oh yes, it's that pig again!
Bixby x
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I do agree with all that, but this is really my personal choice and if I am not happy a few months down the line then I'll see my GP and discuss the situation. If I feel I want to she will put me back on some form of HRT, perhaps the patches would be the best alternative, I will have to wait and see. It's really helpful being able to read what other people think and their experiences, I'm very glad I rejoined menopause matters at this time. By the way I have now started taking Starflower oil as I read that it helps with metabolism and hormone regulation and on another forum some women were saying how they found it very helpful, so we shall have to see how that goes. As I've only been taking it for less than a week it's early days yet, I will keep you posted. :)
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Dr Currie, I want to thank you for this site, even at my stage in life it has been enlightening and a fantastic space for all those pent up thoughts and feeling! I have been wondering whether to respond to your question, because I am almost a dinosaur compared to your other contributors, I think you might be interested in what happened to me. I will be turning 73 this year and had a total surgical hyst.
when I was 51 years old, prescribed firstly I think, Premarin and then Trisequens and finally Estraderm MX 50, now nothing and I am paying the price. The HRT did wonders for me I don't know how I would have coped without it, the Trisequens especially beneficial, improved mood swings enormously. I am now having flushes day and night which seems odd at my age. Stopped taking Estraderm in 2004.
Judy
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Hi girls thanks for posting your replies tot his thread!!! Theres lots to read and lve only read a few. Ive been giving Kliofem ( endo /hyster) Anyone else on there? Gyny wants me to take them for a year due to my age lm 44 lm sure he said a year..... To cut along story shirt the plan was to save one of my ovaries but they couldnt... he knew l didnt want hrt my mam died breast cancer a few months ago... l am really wary about starting them but with common sense have to think of quality of life now rather than predicting my future. Anyone else on these hrts? I plan to start them next week really anxious about it thanks all xxx
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I have been using Oestrogen Gel which I smear on my arm each day. Up to now I have been using half dose and I seem to be getting some hot flushes. Are the flushes likely to stop altogether or is it necessary to use the full dose, on the Gynaecologists instructions of course, for this to happen? Does anyone out there know the answer to this?
Meggie
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Hi Meggie,
I was on Oestrogen gel for a while but after a few weeks I developed a rash >:(.
Why are you using a half dose if your doctor has prescribed more???
Yes, I think you will still get hot flushes if you don't go with what your doctor suggests.
I think you need to take the full dose prescribed by your doctor before you can decide if it is right for you.
xx
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Hi Meggie,
...............Why are you using a half dose if your doctor has prescribed more???
Dr only prescribed half dose (one pump-action container lasts 3 months) as I have a fibroid in each breast and she wants to see whether the Oestrogen stimulates their growth. I go for my echo-graphie on Thursday so we'll see what the outcome of that is. I would prefer to have NO hot flushes but being down to c.5 a day from sometimes 25+ is a huge difference.
Meggie
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Hi,
I am new to the site, was looking around for information on the new pills I have to take Elleste Duet 1mg and came across this site.
I am 46, think I have been approaching menopause for some time but had the Merina coil which masked some of the symptoms, however I dont have that anymore and got hot flushes with a vengence so doc gave me the HRT. Does anyone else have or had heavy periods and does anyone who is taking HRT know if the breakthrough bleeding gets lighter the longer you take these pills? I have just taken one pack and got the withdrawal bleed which bought back my endometriosis and was not very light as I had hoped it would be ? Any help or advice please?
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Hi Jacquieallen - it seems as if your post has been missed! I am on HRT and the first three bleeds were heavy and painful but after that they settled down to light bleeding lasting around four days.
Would just like to welcome you to the forum - someone else will be along soon. You may like to post under New Members too so that others know you are here with us.
Taz x
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HRT has been incredible. I am not happy taking any drugs as I'm a vegan and haven't done so for years but to be honest I think I would have topped myself if things had gone on as they were.
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I relly wanted to take HRT. A friend told me it was the best thing ever. I read about the potential risks, but decided to go ahead as I have no maternal history of breast cancer. I tried a low dose patch and by day three was feeling my blood pressure skyrocketing. By the end of the day I felt as though I was about to explode. I ripped the patch off. It took about two days for the symptoms to abate. I won't try it again. Am very disappointed because I did have high hopes.
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I think GOOD! - I went back on HRT after stopping it at Christmas ( only because I felt I should try without it - my GP wanted me to stay on it abit longer) and I have tried both patches ( Evorel Conti) and now pills - Climesse. The patches helped with most of the symptoms - hot flushes, mood swings, palpitations and mostly the night sweats ( still had some) but did not have any effect on the terrrible insomnia I started to have once I came off it at Christmas. I suffered for 4 months and tried everything. I felt so ill and my life was very difficult to maintain when I was so sleep deprived - I could not travel or drive very far, everything was a struggle. Then I switched to Climesse on the advice of a consultant gynaecologist who specialises in the menopause. Exactly 2 weeks later I slept through the night for the first time - now all my symptoms have gone completely and I can live life to the full again. My libido has returned to normal and I am really enjoying sex again and feeling much more sensation than I have for ages . I have regular mammos - pay to have one every year and also smear tests and recently had a pelvic scan - all clear. My GP is wonderfully supportive and monitors me well. I have weighed up the risk / benefit equation and I think HRT is great. Sue
Thanks for this suzieQ, I know its from 2007, but it is helping me today
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I had forgotten about the other suzieQ. This could get confusing ;D ;D
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Well Im with Veganbiker and thank goodness for HRT. When I went to see a doctor before the blood test I told her that I could not carry on living like I was, but for a long time had only been treated for depression and because of my history of depression they tried to put the hot flushes down to stress and medication. Ive only been on hrt for a week but I don't even care what the side effects are but am hoping that I don't have problems with the forced periods as quite a few on here seem to have. Eli x
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Well Im with Veganbiker and thank goodness for HRT. When I went to see a doctor before the blood test I told her that I could not carry on living like I was, but for a long time had only been treated for depression and because of my history of depression they tried to put the hot flushes down to stress and medication. Ive only been on hrt for a week but I don't even care what the side effects are but am hoping that I don't have problems with the forced periods as quite a few on here seem to have. Eli x
Umm, I've had an about turn and am just about to stop taking it. It did the job for a bit but I can no longer ignore the unpleasant side effects.
Here's to being nuts again :(
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Veganbiker, how is it going without the HRT and what side effect were you having. Eli x
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Hi girls thanks for posting your replies tot his thread!!! Theres lots to read and lve only read a few. Ive been giving Kliofem ( endo /hyster) Anyone else on there? Gyny wants me to take them for a year due to my age lm 44 lm sure he said a year..... To cut along story shirt the plan was to save one of my ovaries but they couldnt... he knew l didnt want hrt my mam died breast cancer a few months ago... l am really wary about starting them but with common sense have to think of quality of life now rather than predicting my future. Anyone else on these hrts? I plan to start them next week really anxious about it thanks all xxx
I was on Femoston 1/10 for 3 months.....hot flushes and dizziness persisted, so went on Femoston 2/10. The flushes and dizziness are massively better, but still don't feel great. Look and feel exhausted a lot of the time. Apparently I need to give it a bit longer still. Couldn't believe the severity of the menopause symptoms, really knocked me for six! So it's great to have some relief. I haven't had a period since being on hrt either. Still not sleeping well, but I've always been an insomniac anyway. Femoston is the only option here in Dubai for women with a womb. Tried 'natural' creams initially...they were brilliant, but the herbal clinic ran out of estrogen cream! In absolute panic I went on the tablets instead! I don't know how women manage without some help! But apparently I am in the 30% of women who have particularly severe menopause symptoms. Joy! :-\
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Hi Sarahbelly and welcome!
Glad to hear you're finally getting some relief from those dreaded meno-symptoms - I'm not on HRT.....yet, but I think it may only be a matter of time! I used to live in Dubai - Umm Suquiem 2 - hope it's starting to cool down a bit now after the sizzling summer!
Wibbs x
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SB cannot believe you only have 1 option of Hrt >:( but pleased you are getting some relief, i too have the horrible sweats, but trying different Hrts at the moment, hope your relief continues..and welcome to MM. :)
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Hi ladies, I havent been on for a while. Just thought I would give an update re HRT. I went back on Femoston Conti beginning of June, I have almost completed 3 months supply.
I have to say I am feeling loads better. Is it the pills? Well if they told me I had been taking a sugar pill this last while , I'd say "well I'll keep taking them, something is working"!
I have also been taking evening primrose oil, a multi vit, and recently Kalms. I am managing my teen daughter behaviour better,and she seems to have changed attitude a wee bit too. All in all I seem to be almost back on track. I have also reduced hours at work, so less tired now. No longer feel I'm "living to work".
I still have leg stiffness. Some days worse than others, not sure why. I dont excercise, but never have really. Is it old age catching up?
I am 53, at the moment I am going to ask for another 3mnths supply. I did say on here I would try to wean off HRT in time, maybe take menopace alongside, then only menopace. Will wait a wee while yet though.
Also is there some phsycological thing in taking HRT, or is it only me that feels like this? I think I look different, younger??, or wishful thinking???
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estrogen used to be called the 'youth hormone' in US long ago.
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Hi trey,
Thats interesting. I'd be naive to think there are no risks attached to HTR, but when women at work say to me, oh no I'd never take that, I think to myself the pro's, out weigh the cons. At least for now. I cant keep worrying about 5, 10, 15 years down the line.
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Hi trey,
Thats interesting. I'd be naive to think there are no risks attached to HTR, but when women at work say to me, oh no I'd never take that, I think to myself the pro's, out weigh the cons. At least for now. I cant keep worrying about 5, 10, 15 years down the line.
I think that's the best way to look at things. We all need "quality of life" and if popping a pill, slapping on a patch or rubbing a bit of cream on helps...then yeah...I can do with some of that help. Life is short and can often suck big time....I takes my victories where I can find them! :)
Catherine x
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Hi wee rascal,
I agree with you. Here is a quote from Bixby that I've just read too, saying same thing really - its on the newbie thread
"Anyway, I've decided to opt for quality of life now - like you, my anxiety, tearfullness, lack of sleep etc disappeared on HRT and I'm sticking with it!"
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:)
Bixby x
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Here here, live in the now i say. Eddie. x
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Good night ladies, I'm away to take a couple of Kalms, and read a good book. With reduced hours at work, I no longer work Mondays, life feels good again. Bye for now all x
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Night night petal!
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/plur_4_life/Witchy%20Comments/8.gif)
Catherine x
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Tut tut, she might've pulled the curtains over a bit. Eddie. x
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;D
Catherine x
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I'm 71 and have been on HRT since 41 (that or the mental ward at the time), switched from pill (Premarin) to patch at 55 (less boob swelling and felt 'normal') and then added Estrace (estradiol cream) around 61 years old when prolapse occurred. Cream is hardly absorbed at all after the first week of re-establishing the important cells that line the vag when we are younger. Recent study (Medscape.com) had great panel discussion and it was noted that approx 2 or 3 mgs/Year (that's year) were absorbed!!!! So if the cream can restore my vag lining and strengthen it against the d*** prolapse and improved the moisture/dryness and increase the size of labia - well, no way am I stopping the cream. The patch, also estradiol, is absorbed more for sure but does not metabolize through the liver, thus it does not help my HDL cholesterol as much as the pill, but it also has a lower occurrence of clots and such. I take omega 3 faithfully everyday to keep my blood slick to reduce occurrence of clots hopefully and I stay active. There are approx 41 receptors for estrogen in the body and we have simply outlived our ovaries', etc. chance to mutate and keep producing hormones longer. So, in the meantime, I will help my body by supplementing what it is no longer able to do. I had a hyst at 32, which apparently slows the production of hormones, even though my ovaries remained, so I may have hastened the decline of my estrogen.
So, to make this, whatever it is, shorter, I repeat that my mother is 95 in March, still drives and lives independently and has been on Premarin since about 50 following a hyst. She DID get cancer - carcinoma in situ (which they don't even treat anymore at her age of getting it (85 years old) as it doesn't do much at that age. However, this new non-treatment idea came after she got it so she had a double mastectomy AND went back on Premarin with her oncologists' complete ok and encouragement to do so. Of course it depends on what type of cancer - whether it is responsive to estrogen.
Each of us must weight the pros and cons - family history - children - what age children and what age period began - all weigh in to whether it is risky for you. Also history of clots. I have major varicose veins (surgery done) and never had a clot. I smoked in the far, far distant past - yipes 40 years ago - and that is a risk factor if I were still smoking (probably because smoking constricts distal veins and such).
The only time I went off HRT I got a big prolapse of my bladder and my gyn literally said why in the h--- did you go off and I said because of the 2002 study and she said that study was not on estrogen alone, but prempro and then another study was on estrogen and some say they played with the numbers to get the results they wished. My three gyns are all on HRT.
So life is a risk and for me I need my HRT and my synthroid and I take a baby aspirin every other day, plus my omega 3 (which does change the consistency of the blood). I also take other stuff - D3, Magnesium, etc.
Did anyone ask me to write this?? Gosh, I don't think so. Oh well, attribute it to my age and HRT.
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Please keep writing 'stuff' like that, Trey - I _love_ it! I'm not many years behind you at 64 and am hoping to keep using Vagifem indefinitely to prevent my VA and UTI problems, I know my gp is less than sure about this so it makes me feel way better reading your ideas.
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Hi Crescent, re: UTI, do you have a mild prolapse that causes retaining urine? I do and I find if I bend over at the waist and still over the loo (like your terms better than toilet) I can go more (even after I seemed empty), this and taking d-mannose with cranactin has prevent UTIs 100% for me. The cream is supposed to make the urethra healthier as well and I would suppose Vagifem would do the same. Age is only a number, right? Right!
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Hi Trey,
Have recently been to see a physio nurse who specialises in pelvic floor stuff and apparently there's no sign of a prolapse and I have a strong pelvic floor! This latter fact amazed me as I do have stress incontinence problems as well (I'm a joy, aren't I? :)) and assumed it was my pelvic floor at fault but no it's my bladder valve. But anyway, she assured me there was no sign of any prolapse and know what you mean by the bending over, I do that :) Thanks for posting, it's appreciated.
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I think GOOD! - I went back on HRT after stopping it at Christmas ( only because I felt I should try without it - my GP wanted me to stay on it abit longer) and I have tried both patches ( Evorel Conti) and now pills - Climesse. The patches helped with most of the symptoms - hot flushes, mood swings, palpitations and mostly the night sweats ( still had some) but did not have any effect on the terrrible insomnia I started to have once I came off it at Christmas. I suffered for 4 months and tried everything. I felt so ill and my life was very difficult to maintain when I was so sleep deprived - I could not travel or drive very far, everything was a struggle. Then I switched to Climesse on the advice of a consultant gynaecologist who specialises in the menopause. Exactly 2 weeks later I slept through the night for the first time - now all my symptoms have gone completely and I can live life to the full again. My libido has returned to normal and I am really enjoying sex again and feeling much more sensation than I have for ages . I have regular mammos - pay to have one every year and also smear tests and recently had a pelvic scan - all clear. My GP is wonderfully supportive and monitors me well. I have weighed up the risk / benefit equation and I think HRT is great. Sue
Hi Sue i just read your post and wanted to ask you how are your symptoms now. I have been on H R T for about 6 years but i think it may need to be increased i am suffering with depression at the moment i am very tearful and havent slept for 6 weeks unless i take a sleeping tablet, im at my wits end. I have a doctors appointment this thursday so i am hoping she can sort me out. Best wishes to you.
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Hi choirfran
:welcomemm:
I don't think suzieQ has posted for a while so may not get back to you. However, if you start a new thread on "New Members" I'm sure someone will be along with some ideas.
Bixby x
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Hi girls have been back on HRT for a few months and everything great, however this last week symptoms have returned which am dissapointed about, am hoping it will all settle down again, but have felt really unwell. I think amybe stress can affect the balance as under alot of stress at work. what does everyone else think??
cheers Janx
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Stress at work can take over your life and make you feel very ill.I had to finish work because of it.I'm certainly alot better but still have difficulty coping with the unexpected.
Choirfan, are you having anything for your depression? I know alot of people are reluctant to take AD's but increasing your hrt may not help. I hope your GP can give you the support you need. Let us know how you get on.
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Hi there, can someone please tell me why after a few great months of taking HRT i am back to feeling crap with the stomach cramps and night sweats again. I am really disappointed as thought this was going to last. sorry to be negative and moan. Just trying to cope with work as well!!!
:( charliegirlxxxxx
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Same here Charlie girl, this is my 4th type of Hrt. 1st 3 months on this felt great, now having hot flushes during the night, so broken sleep again.
Have my 4 monthly check up appointment on Tuesday at Meno Clinic so will see what they suggest.... :bang:
Sandie x
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Also on my 4th Hrt combo in 16mths, this one seems to help a little with night sweats..it really is trial & error. :hug:
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There's so much conflicting information these days about HRT. Tell us what you think--is it good or bad? My feeling is that for most people it's good when used appropriately and reviewed but here you can have your say!
I am on the 3rd month of Femoston 2/10 and the hot flushes have gone which is a HUGE relief, but I am getting the dizzy spells still. Had what I assume was a migraine in the first month, just before my period came, then felt okay after. Now I seem to have an almost constant kind of tinnitus in my left ear and today I feel slightly sick. I feel and look very tired a lot of the time.
I was going to wait till the end of the third month to see the doctor, but something's not right, so think I'd better see her sooner.
Anyone else get these symptoms on Femoston?
I have an awful feeling they're not suiting me, but here in Dubai we have no other option. What a nightmare. I am so very sick of all things menopause!
:'(
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HRT good or bad? I have to say a big loud GOOD. I simply can't imagine coping with the sort of hot flushes and night sweats I was having without going insane! I get very annoyed with people who suggest women who take it are doing so to try and preserve their youth. What a load of rubbish. If there was any other condition which made people feel as lousy as the meno can, no-one would be questioning a treatment which can help.
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Hi,
I have just started Elleset 1mg after going to the Doctor with the worst pmt I have ever had. I have been on Fluoroxetine for Pmt and it has always worked except for the last 3 months, I had a blood test which showed I could be in the peri menopause but am on day 3 of the HRT and PMT is as bad as ever, shall I just keep on taking the hrt has anyone else had this experience? Doc says to up my Flouroxetine to 40mg as well for a while
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I have no time for people ( and sadly its usually other women) who say you shouldn't use HRT to preserve youth. Whenever I see stooped frail older women (there are a lot of them) my heart goes out to them. and how many older women suffer in silence with the discomfort of vaginal atrophy and bladder problems. sometimes just a mild vaginal estriol cream is all that is needed for some of these women and not being sent a way and told its just your age.
How many women would be saved from a frail old age ending up in nursing homes if women and doctors were properly educated,
I thank god for HRT.
End of rant but I do feel strongly about this.
ladyjane x
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We mustn't forget though that many women do very well without Hrt and have energetic healthy fulfilled lives well into old age. And that some just cannot tolerate or are unable to take it due to familial breast disease. Women in general with, or without Hrt look after themselves much better than in years gone by.
I think some women get a little catty and think that women who take Hrt are trying to preserve their looks rather than their health. I believe the majority of women who take Hrt take it for very sound reasons. And if it preserves some of their youthful looks also... well that's a bonus! ;)
Pam x
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Hi Bernadette :welcomemm:
For the first few weeks and months of HRT pmt symptoms can worsen unfortunately. A lot of it depends on the type of progesterone in the HRT itself. If you are on Elleste Duet, meaning that you have a monthly bleed, then this contains norethisterone http://www.netdoctor.co.uk/medicines/100000909.html. Norethisterone is well tolerated by some women but others (me included unfortunately) do suffer from PMT and low mood for the last two weeks each month. If you are on the continuous HRT (i.e. you take the progesterone for the whole of the month) then even three days of it could cause a worsening of the PMT feelings. There are lots of different HRT's on the market and it does sometimes take a while to get it right.
How old are you if you don't mind me asking? You will find loads of support on here but you may wish to just post in the New Members thread so that you are not "missed". In this way more members will find you and welcome you and add their own advice.
Taz x
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I finally got to see a doctor today in the flesh, i rang for an appointment on monday! I'm using the progesterone cream and taking Menopace but my skin has been very bad with rosacea, my flashes and sweats have got worse, still getting the migraines, no will power so eating loads of the wrong things, haven't been bothered with going to the gym, bloated all over, over weight........ Decided to ask to try out HRT again, for the 3rd time.
I saw a very nice understanding lady doctor who i have not seen before, she took my blood pressure and it is too high so she said HRT was out of the question, may cause a stroke :o She has arranged for me to have some tests next week for thyroid, cholesterol, liver, kidney and an ECG :o She has also given me something stronger for the migraines Maxalt Melt, rizatriptan 10 mg, a wafer that disolves on the tongue and also some metrogel for the rosacea. I feel like i have had an MOT although shocked to find out i have got high blood pressure, pleased that she is investigating thoroughly.
:diablo:
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Have my 4 monthly check up appointment on Tuesday at Meno Clinic so will see what they suggest.... :bang:
Hi Sandie
How did you get on with your appointment at the Meno Clinic? I use HRT and still suffer hot flushes - sometimes I'm over-warm throughout the day
Meggie
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Hi Meggie,
Thanks for asking..... i think i posted my reply on Menopause clinics( I THINK....MENO BRAIN)
I told Dr i was having hot flushes again and was waking me up 4-6 times during the nights. She was a bit reluctant to change my HRT again as she thinks this one suits me. ( i am on my 4th one) FEMOSTON CONTI.
As i was taking my HRT in the mornings, she has suggested i try taking it in the evenings. If this does not work i have to try taking 1 and a half tablets and see how i get on.
Appointment for 4 months time but if i have any problems or questions I can e-mail or call them.
Have been taking tabs in the evening BUT no change at the moment, still keep waking in the night with flushes... no fun when you have to get up for work. If no difference in the next 2 weeks i am going to try 1 and a half tablets.
will keep you posted.
Sandie x x
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Hi Meggie - I got my appointment for the menopause clinic by badgering my doctors. However, it was only when a trainee GP joined that I actually got my referral. Each referral costs the practice a fee apparently but I am not sure whether this happens everywhere?
I would say though that I have been disappointed in the actual outcome from my clinic visit. I had told the menopause clinic doc all about my trials and tribulations each time I have had an HRT with Norethisterone as the progesterone content and felt confident that the HRT she prescribed me would be norethisterone free. However, when I got back here and checked it online it does have norethisterone as the progesterone and it has made me feel just as awful as before! How did this happen? I have an appointment for the 25th October and I have decided to stop the Kliovance until then. This is not ideal - I know that sudden stoppage is not a good idea - but I have got really fed up with the savage irritability (as has everyone else!) and depressed mood. I did have bleeding for the first five weeks but that has now stopped. I will update my Kliovance thread!
Taz x :)
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Well confused is an understatement, have recently been informed I am going through the menopause and I am only 44 I thought the night sweats were a clue but I suppose I was in denial.Although they are worse at night I can flush at any time of the day, and anywhere, which can be a tad embarrassing,,. I am reluctantly on HRT I feel I have not had much time to think it about as I am being told, due to age, I need to take some form of hormone replacement. I am currently popping Femoston1/10 and was horrified to find I would still have a period I thought the one advantage of being "meno" was not having a period however couldn't be far from the truth, heavier period than norm and extra cramps thrown in for the hell of it.........Unfortunateyl I have had a couple of migranes had to hide under the duvet to get away from the bright lights...its like a horror movie I don't know if they are in any way related to HRT visiting GP at end of week,. :o oh what a joy...., Has anyone out there had the same problem with migranes? would love to hear from you
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Hi cutez
:welcomemm:
Had your periods stopped before you started HRT? If not, you're "peri" which is the 10 or so years leading up to meno. That's why you're on the "sequi" HRT which gives you a bleed. How long have you been on it? They suggest trying each type for 3 months to see if the side-effects settle down (which they often do) but it's worth a visit to the gp if you're feeling rough. HRT is a good idea at your age as it's only replacing the hormones which your body should be producing naturally. It's been great for me so hopefully you'll feel better soon too.
It would be a good idea to start a new thread on "New Members" to introduce yourself as that's where most people look. You'll find lots of support here. Many of us have found it challenging coming to terms with this but we can get there together!
There's info in the Green Menu - think migraines are mentioned there under "Menopause" and "A-Z of medical conditions."
Bixby x
And don't forget to check out the "Funnies" ;D
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Hi cutez - welcome from me too.
I agree with Bixby that you are probably in peri-meno. You have to have a sequential HRT to give you a bleed if you have still got your womb and ovaries and are under the age of 54. If you take continuous HRT which doesn't give you a monthly bleed then you run the risk of developing endometrial cancer. Once you reach around 54 it is assumed that your periods would have stopped naturally by then so it is considered safe to use a non-bleed HRT.
Although it is seen as a bonus to not have periods anymore a lot of us on here have discovered that it is only after your periods have stopped that symptoms can step up a pace and we long to have our periods back. Meno symptoms are supposed to worsen for the two years after the last period and then gradually tail off again.
Your doc is right to offer you HRT if you are really going into meno at your age - this will protect our heart and bones and it is thought that up till the normal age for meno of 51 you are only replacing hormones that your body would be producing naturally so the risk is very negligible. As for your painful period - you may find that the first three are painful and heavy but things should settle down after that.
Migraines can sometimes be triggered by HRT. What does it say on the leaflet? Be guided by this as to whether you should report this to your GP
You will find loads of help and friendship on here. As Bixby suggests it would be a good idea to introduce yourself on the new members thread and you will be "found" by more members.
Taz x :)
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Hi Cutez - a friend of mine had migraines on HRT but was okay when she swopped brands (different type of progesterone) - so that may be worth trying if they continue to be a nuisance.
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Well confused is an understatement, have recently been informed I am going through the menopause and I am only 44 I thought the night sweats were a clue but I suppose I was in denial.Although they are worse at night I can flush at any time of the day, and anywhere, which can be a tad embarrassing,,. I am reluctantly on HRT I feel I have not had much time to think it about as I am being told, due to age, I need to take some form of hormone replacement. I am currently popping Femoston1/10 and was horrified to find I would still have a period I thought the one advantage of being "meno" was not having a period however couldn't be far from the truth, heavier period than norm and extra cramps thrown in for the hell of it.........Unfortunateyl I have had a couple of migranes had to hide under the duvet to get away from the bright lights...its like a horror movie I don't know if they are in any way related to HRT visiting GP at end of week,. :o oh what a joy...., Has anyone out there had the same problem with migranes? would love to hear from you
Hi Cutez,
I tried Femoston 1/10 but they didn't work for me, so went on the stronger 2/10. I knew it would give me monthly periods, but here in Dubai it's the only hrt pill we have, so I don't have a choice! (I was getting irregular periods....3 months, 4 months etc.) I had a migraine at the end of my first month of 2/10 but when my period came I was fine. I haven't had one since, although I haven't felt particularly brilliant on them. The good thing is the hot flushes have stopped, although I can feel my body trying sometimes! I still get quite hot at night too. I'm just at the end of the 3rd month of 2/10. It's an absolute pain having monthly periods again and I am tempted to try another pill....it just means having to get it from abroad or something....but you still have to try it for a few months to see if it works. It's all very awkward here in the UAE.
Good luck with it.....it doesn't sound as though it's suiting you though, if you're getting regular headaches.
It seems to be a rather hit and miss thing, hrt. :-\
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I'd have to say my opinion of HRT is very good.
The good. Joint pain has massively improved, feeling cold all the time is much better, foggy brain much clearer, nights sweats gone, day sweats gone, period almost regular and light, confidence is slowly improving.
No difference. Sex drive, motivation or mood (but that may be hindered by other meds)
Bad. Occasional headaches, fluctuating blood pressure.
So overall i'd say pretty damn good result.
Eddie. x
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I would agree - my overall experience of taking HRT has been very good - I'm just having a few symptoms since switching to a no bleed product and am wondering if I would have been better off staying with a monthly bleed,albeit it does seem a bit weird having "periods" still at almost 56!
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Hi
I'm new here. Been on HRT for 5 years now, and it's been fantastic! I decided to stop a couple of months ago. Can't do it! The sweats, the hot flushes, the foul modd - just not worth it, so from today I am back on HRT. Anyone else been on it long term? What are the downsides?
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Hi GST300, I've only been on HRT since April, but wanted to welcome you to the forum, i'm sure someone with a longer history will come along. Eddie .x
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I started HRT when I was 50, but had to come off it due to polyps in the womb which nobody could say whether or not the HRT contributed to their developement. After conflicting advice from specialists and doctors I came off it, only to find my symptoms were ten times worse than before I started it. I think I started it far too early, - with hindsight the problems I had at the time were NOTHING compared to what was to come. HRT doesn't appear to solve menopausal symptoms, - just delay them until you give it up. I'm sure that if I'd never started it I would be over the worst by now! >:(
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Hi cojan - how many years were you taking HRT for and how long did you take to wean yourself off it? It is advisable (though not followed by myself recently!) to take up to six months to gradually reduce your dose. As for starting it too early - I wouldn't have thought that was the case. It has been known for some time that HRT doesn't help everyone "through" the meno but delays it. When you come off then you often have to go through some of the symptoms but if it is carefully phased out then after around three months of being HRT free your symptoms should be more manageable. I visit a meno clinic and their take on it is that, providing the woman is a healthy weight and doesn't have high blood pressure, there is no reason why you can't take it for life. I am not sure that it would be over by now - it is not something that seems to have a definite time span or an ending to be honest.
You sound as if you have the most important thing though - a great senses of humour. I am sure you will fit in well on here!
Taz x
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Hi
I'm new here. Been on HRT for 5 years now, and it's been fantastic! I decided to stop a couple of months ago. Can't do it! The sweats, the hot flushes, the foul modd - just not worth it, so from today I am back on HRT. Anyone else been on it long term? What are the downsides?
Hi I have been on patches for 17 years, tried coming off it but symptoms returned with a vengeance (I am 59)
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Hi Taz
I was on the HRT for about 4 years, but me being me didn't wean myself off it, just stopped (against advice I must admit!) One day I'll learn that I don't always know best. Still, at least I'm keeping the manufactures of supplements in profit as I try everything on the market. I'm sure there must be some threads on supplements on here somewhere, I'll see if there are any I've missed
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Hi all, first post!!
Right - I need advice regarding HRT. My GP recently told me that 'we' ought to start tailing off the pills in around 5 months time. I am on Prempak C 0.625 and have been on for around 18 months. Doc doesnt want to keep me on any longer than two years. But I am still getting the odd flush on the medication, and the flushes were really bad before which is why I decided to go on HRT. When I was younger I always swore I would do the menopause naturally and had loads of books on this. But when the reality came I tried many things before going cap in hand to the docs!!! (Black cohosh, soya, red clover, plenty of soya milk)
I am not at all happy that the doc has suggested it, and especially as I am still getting the odd flush, and I do not want to go back to how it was before. What is the best suggestion, and can I insist I stay on HRT even if the doc disagrees?
Thanks
Brigitte
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Hi Brigitte
Can I ask how old you are and at what stage in this wonderful journey?!
My 1st reaction is to say to see another gp! It depends what reasons he has for his "2 year rule" of course but many of us on here have found that gps have very different views to each other so it's sometimes worth speaking to more than one before you decide. The important thing is to find a sympathetic, well-informed one who you can work with.
I'm 50, peri and started HRT last year. My gp is happy for me to stay on it till I'm 55, then maybe try coming off slowly. If I don't like it, she has said she'd then let me go back on it again.
Bixby x
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Hi Bixby
I'm 48 and my GP is a female at I'd guess agewise 38(ish) Maybe she will be sympathetic, and agree to let me stay on, but I'm just getting myself worried about it. I was peri, getting periods with long gaps in so she started me on HRT. Was expecting 3 years before I needed to stort worrying about coming off, so this news came as a bit of a surprise.. Possibly be worrying unnecessarily, being autistic anxiety and worry is something that comes with the territory!!
Been thinking if I say I'm still getting flushes even though I'm taking the pills she may think it isn't a good option to stop - not going to lie or anything. I know the risks of long term use, but this is something I am prepared to face.
Thanks
Brigitte
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Hi Brigitte
I don't think the sex and age of the gp affects their knowledge/opinion of HRT. Mine told me it was more to do with where/when they trained - they're inclined to stick with what they were told then and it can depend on the "fashion" at the time. Dreadful thought!
I can understand you being anxious - I would be too. Just decide what you want to do and tell her calmly. It's your body and you have the right to decide how you feel about the benefits and risks. If you really want to stay on it and she doesn't want to prescribe it, ask to see another gp.
There's a lot of really useful info in the Green Menu - maybe print some off and take it along?
Let us know how you get on. :foryou:
Bixby x
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Wellllll.... I think I MAY have the answer. For the time being anyway!! This morning I had a really bad hot flush while having breakfast with friends - I had one a couple of days ago while in the library too. When the GP told me about tailing it off I had forgotton to mention about these flushes - I have had several minor ones over the past months, and at the time while on the phone to her it didn't cross my mind to mention this. Only this morning and my friends - all male - were quite shocked, they were all really surprised at how red I went and this made me decide to ring the GP this morning and make an appointment to discuss it. A case of 'that is it'! Maybe this will sway her opinion and rather than take me off it, maybe change it or give a stronger dose!!
Tuesday afternoon is tha appointment, so i'll have a good idea by then - at least I don't have to wait until spring, will save a lot of anxiety. :) Thanks, Bixby, for your help on this - I'll post the outcome when I've seen the doc.
Cheers :)
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You're welcome!
Bixby x
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I can't believe my GP, she is in her late 50's. She told me I needed to come off HRT which I had only been on for a short period of a few months anyway. I went in there after two months off it distraught, crying, exhausted after months of no sleep due to rabid night flushes, an emotional and physical wreck I think the word "bonkers" just about covers it, having had yet more time off work and feeling actively suicidal and she says she doesn't think HRT is a good idea, menopause isn't an illness etc etc whilst not even looking at me.
I went to another female GP in the surgery who put me on a higher dose and I am completely normal, not only normal but now actually enjoying life, my sex drive has returned and I am actually smiling again. I'm sleeping for 9 hours through every night and all my energy and joie de vivre has returned.
In what way is HRT more dangerous than suicide?
I think some medical professionals are so blinkered against HRT that they are just unable to see the bigger picture!
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Larky perhaps you could do a short trial of Hrt, maybe two months, to see if it helps. If it doesn't work out you could come off it again. But don't try it too near the wedding just in case you get unpleasant side effects... December/January might be a good time.
Estrogen raises serotonin which improves mood - so it may very well help with that.
Pam x
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when i first started the hrt Evorel 25 seemed to help somewhat .I also have a mirina coil still fitted and get conflicting information from different doctors ,some say i dont need it others say it protects you from cancer .been on the patches a few months now but keep feeling sick and have a horrible taste in my mouth my appertaite has really increased and craving sweet foods .only just been diagnosed as going threw the menopause they did a blood test and it came back 100 so had to have bone scans because there not sure how long i have been like this .idid ask them to do this test a few years ago and they said i was too young so had to have it done privately . most people have the hot flushes but i didnt get them but i do get dizziness and feel like im gonna pass out a lot had soo many blood test to investergate this but the have all been fine so assume its something to do with the menopause x :o
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Hi rivadan. Just thought id mention that i have been getting periods up until 2 months ago and im 59. Not that weird according to my doc and apparently can go on into the sixties. Im not on HRT by the way.i think this sight is very supportive but there is conflicting advice and the GP knows best, especially about mixing chemicals,especially hormones.Many of us come on here because we dont know whats happenning to us, and not necessarily because we are having a hard time. Go back to the doctor. my doctor of choice was a woman however i found in the end much better support from a male gp, similar age to me,and very sympathetic and helpful. :)
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I have just read this on another forum and I think its worth a read.
Dr John Stevenson, HRT expert at London's Royal Brompton Hospital, said the health scares had been a 'disaster' for women's health.
He warned that the NHS faces a long-term rise in female patients with fractures and heart disease, which are conditions that HRT combats.
'Women now coming into the menopause are too scared to go on to HRT and I think it is a disgrace,' said Dr Stevenson, who is chairman of the charity Women's Health Concern.
'It has been a huge catastrophe for women and women's health and there is no doubt that women have suffered unnecessarily because of this.'
In the UK two million women were taking HRT at its 2001 peak but the number has now plunged to one million.
Dr Stevenson added: 'For most women suffering from menopausal symptoms I would advise them to have HRT without question.
'There is nothing else that is nearly as effective as HRT.
'It is one of the cheapest treatments we use in medicine and I wonder what the cost to the NHS will be of all the future heart attacks and fractures because of women not having HRT.'
The worldwide health scare over HRT began when a U.S. Women's Health Initiative (WHI) study was halted three years early in 2002.
It claimed women using HRT were at higher risk of breast cancer, heart disease and strokes - contrary to previous research suggesting taking the oestrogen protected them against heart problems.
HRT is normally prescribed to menopausal women in their 50s to combat symptoms such as hot flushes and mood changes, although it also protects bones.
But the WHI study also gave HRT to women in their 60s and 70s, who had gone through the menopause years earlier, with the average age of subject in the research being 63.
The WHI conclusions were overturned last year when re-analysis of the data found the extra risks may apply only to these older patients, who do not normally use HRT.
In fact, hormone therapy was shown to cut heart attacks in women in their 50s.
It did not raise their risk of strokes and they had fewer dangerous calcium deposits in their arteries. Such women had a lower risk of death from any cause compared with those not taking HRT.
A recent study published in the British Medical Journal's Online First edition found that even in women well past the menopause, with no hot flushes, the treatment produced a marked improvement in sleep, sex drive and joint pain.
In May the International Menopause Society issued a review showing HRT is safe and effective for women aged 50 to 59 in the early years of the menopause.
Contrary to 'misperceptions' it does not raise the risk of heart disease for these women and its impact on breast cancer is 'minimal', the panel of 40 international experts said.
Dr Stevenson said he hoped the review had changed attitudes to HRT among women who were missing out and among GPs who had become uncertain about its benefits.
He added: 'I hope that we will be able to restore the confidence in GPs about HRT so that they will prescribe it.'
silverlady x
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Hooray! :thankyou:
Taz x
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Brilliant!
We need to remember where this is so we can guide newbies to it if they're having problems getting HRT and need something to show to their gp's.
Bette x
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There's a link to this article (20th September 2008) from our press archive (number 60)
http://www.menopausematters.co.uk/press.php
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Hi Silverlady, Just to say thanks for posting that article on HRT. I posted it on a US forum where I serve as the moderator/professional and this backs up what I feel, yet I have to be careful not to speak from my perspective on serious issues so this helps a lot. Not to speak because I am not an MD, so have to quote others.
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Thanks Emma - I thought it looked familiar!
Taz
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With regard to this, am I the only one who is dubious about sweats, insomnia, anxiety ever being over? I am fifty six and have had the manifold symptoms for six years. I am sure their must be women who carry on with the sweating etc beyond their fifties. Do we take hormone therapy until the end presuming we can find anything to suit. Many women find coming off after ten or more years means the return of sweating etc. It may be that the doctor who wrote the article advocates staying on oestrogen for life which may be easier if you have had a hysterectomy. All of this is a massive dilemma for women as we are supposedly living longer.
Meg
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I am 48. Had my last period 5 years ago. Flushes etc largely gone. However, have read I should have at least 1 year on HRT before I get to 50 to help prevent osteoporosis - but some of my father's sisters had late onset breast cancer - so unsure what to do. Now also hear that menopause pre 45 is considered premature and that I probably should have been offered HRT years ago.
Anyway, its now or never for the one year before age 50 so have to make up my mind and need some info to help me decide.
Do yo have to start HRT within a certain amount of time of your last lperiod. Am I too late to start it?
If I start it now given that I am post menopasal by quite a few years, what effect will this have on my system?
How much does it increase risk of strokes and other nasty possible side effects that I am a smokerr?
Will I have periods again? Will I have menopasal symptoms - flushing etc - again when I stop HRT?
What is HRT made of - animal or plant or or chemically made hormones?
Are biodentical / bioidentical hormones better and are they available on NHS?
How should I decide whether to go for oestrogen only or combined type HRT?
Do intend to read a lot on here - but if anyone here who is more knowlegable would be good enough to reply to any of the above questions I'd really appreciate it. Thanks
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Hi GOW - welcome to the forum.
I am sure that all of your questions will be answered eventually when more members are around - I have jus got back from the pub. ;D It is considered advisable to start HRT if you begin menopause before the normal age of 51. You are right in that you would have been considered to have had a premature menopause if your last period was at age 43. You have been cheated of the protective effects of oestrogen on your system i.e. heart and bones and it may well be that a year of HRT is better than nothing. The risks associated with it at your age are considered to be really minimal as you are merely replacing what your body should have been producing anyway.
It is good that your flushes have just about stopped. Many ladies have them for life. What other meno symptoms to do you have?
Tazx
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Hi GOW
:welcomemm:
Wow, what a lot of questions! ;D
I'd suggest that you start by reading through the info in the Green Menu as a lot of the answers you're looking for are there. Info on bio-identicals is in this article http://www.menopausematters.co.uk/pdf/magArticle4.pdf
After that, ask any questions you have left and we'll all do our best to help out. Maybe start a new thread on "New Members" as most ladies look there first and you can get missed in the middle of an existing thread.
And when you've had enough of facts, have a look at the "Funnies" ;D
Bette x
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Hi Meg - no you are not the only one who thinks that the flushes etc will be around for ever. I have always said that it is called the "change" for a reason. It isn't called the "feel rubbish for a few years and go back to normal" as some women do suffer from the symptoms for the rest of their lives. Things like vaginal dryness wont get better and will always need some degree of oestrogen to maintain vagina health and comfort. Joint aches plagued my mum from the start of meno up till her death at age 83. At the time, not knowing much about menopause, I just put it down to old age but some of it has to be down to the lack of oestrogen.
I attend the menopause clinic in Oxford and they are adamant that, other health problems permitting, a woman can remain on HRT for the rest of her life. Refreshing news.
Taz x
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Trey I am all for sharing knowledge, I am eternally grateful for my mum giving me a book on women's hormones when I was in my early thirties which set me on the path of finding out as much as possible about the changes that women go through, I was determined to prepare mysef for menopause and would have liked other young women to know that it was in their hands to a certain extent the effect hormones had on their health and lives.
Perhaps this generation of women with so much more knowledge to hand and the sharing of it will be better prepared.
silverlady x
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I knew things /changes were going on with my mind and body as far back as 10 to 15 years ago. I was having weekly periods for a while! Got a couple of hormone level tests over the years but was always told they were normal - even the last one I got not long before or after my last ever period! That was pretty much all the help or advice I got from doctors.
As well as the too frequent, then infrequent periods, I was flushing a lot and emotionally very up and down. I think I also had some night sweats and insomnia. Now my boobs are saggier and smaller and emptier, skin drier, I'm fatter and my waist more straight up and down, I have vaginal atrophy symptoms and generally over the last few years have just felt quite tired and old.
The only benefit has been that i feel a bit calmer now PMT has gone and have saved money on pads and tampons!. Although i sepnt some on herbs now and again - but was never sure if I was taking the right ones and didn't take them for long!
yes, I do feel a bit cheated and disspointed that maybe it didn't have to have been that way. However, will try to put the energy from that anger into getting on the RIGHT HRT for me now - before ti is definetly too late - and appreciate any help with that.
Thanks very much for the advice so far, "sisters" - will follow it and get back here again if I still need answers. x
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Hi
was going to ask my question in a new thread but couldn't work out how ::)
Does anyone have any experience of Trisequens?
I'm currently taking Elleste Duet but it doesn't seem to be suiting me so my GP has suggested I try Trisequens. Does anyone know if it comes in different doses like other HRT? I know it's 3 different tablets etc, have looked it up online, but my prescription just says 'Trisequens Calendar Pack' and my GP wasn't sure (admitted he didn't know much about HRT ::)).
Any advice appreciated. I've still got a couple of weeks Elleste left first so hoping to find out other people's experiences of Trisequens before I take the plunge & change
Thanks :)
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Hi Blair. Welcome to the forum. I think this hrt is a new one, looking at the preparations here it is very similar to elleste duet, combining 1mg and 2mg then prog, why does elleste not suit you? Eddie. x
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Hi Blair. Welcome to the forum. I think this hrt is a new one, looking at the preparations here it is very similar to elleste duet, combining 1mg and 2mg then prog, why does elleste not suit you? Eddie. x
Hi Eddie
thanks for the welcome & your reply :)
I'm getting a lot of bloating, tight legs (though not swollen) and headaches. I tolerated the 1mg ok but didn't get symptom relief so it was increased to 2mg nearly 3 months ago.
I'm really not sure about this Trisequens, hadn't heard of it before but my GP says they used to prescribe it a lot before the HRT scare.
I'm prone to headaches, used to get a lot before the meno kicked in so maybe it's something I'll have to put up with?
I would rather not take HRT at all, put up with hot flushes etc for a couple of years but was prescribed it following a shock diagnosis of osteoporosis (probably due to early meno) last year, aged 44yrs!
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Yes, You prob will benefit from it, have a look on the left green menu, HRT preparations, peri-menopause, when you scroll down you will see both types listed there, they have the same ingredients, not much point in changing i'd say, i also get bloating with elleste? But it does help other meno probs. Haven't heard of tight legs, i did get muscle spasms from my knees up years back, long before hrt. Eddie. x
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Thanks Eddie :)
same dosage too. Don't know what to do, might try to get an appt with the female GP as she seems to deal with all things hrt related. I know what suits one person might not suit another. Trial & error I suppose.
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This thread was very helpful when I was deciding whether to HRT or not, so I thought I would add my two-penneth to the debate. I am now on week 6 of Elleste Duet 1mg
Background - 43, hot flushes since I was 38, gave up smoking at 41 and suddenly meno symptoms increased. Depression, anxiety, loss of libido, dryness, inability to think straight...however my periods were every 28 days as they have been since I was 11. I had gained 2 stone as I had give up smoking 16 months previously, however I am a fitness freak and was / am very fit.
Day 2 - I thought I had made the biggest mistake, I seemed to be 'off on one' with major PMT which was very out of character (I still think this was the HRT, but others may say it was too soon to have any effect).
Day 4 - I really started to feel better, I honestly can not explain why and how I felt better I just did. This could be a placebo effect...but who cares.
Week 14 - Huge improvement in my mental health, my well being in general and frankly I found my sense of humour in my sock draw!
The downside though was: a dull headache for the first few weeks but this was not unbearable, very sore heavy breasts, huge water retention making me feel fat and even though I had joined a fat club I was not losing weight, even though I swim a mile every morning and gym / class / spin / run most evenings.
Day 20 - Had bad period pain without the period which was very worrying this continued for another 7 days.
Day 28 - Started period right on schedule, so being on HRT never interfered with my normal cycle. However I had bad period pain for the first 2 days.
Six weeks - Headache gone, no more lower pain, no more sore breasts, no more water retention and I have dropped half a stone in two weeks (with fat club and exercise). Slight improvement in libido but nothing to write home about, however I do live in hope. ;)
HRT is a very personal thing, however at 43 with a career, a social life and a great marriage I was not prepared to live my life with depression, anxiety, mood swings AND become just another grumpy middle aged woman. Each to their own, however I have no problem with the heath scares as I have smoked, I have had too much sun, I have drank and eaten the wrong things and I could get hit by a bus tomorrow. ;D
I will update in a month xx
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Hi, I am new in the forum. I am 45 and after almost 4 years of suffering with palpitations, insomnia, anxiety, lack of energy and many other symptoms I am finally trying HRT (my second week on Femoston 1 10, just started with the progesterone part)
The only improvement I perceive at the moment is I am sleeping better, but I still struggle with palpitations when I go to bed and when I wake up. I can have a very good day and still having them when I go to bed. I can have a good night sleep and still wake up with them. I always thought that anxiety gave me palpitations, but lately I realized it is probably the other way round?
Anyway, I just meant to ask, any other person that tried Femoston 1 10 and can tell me if symptoms improve with time?
Thank you very much for your help
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Hi wiselittleant (great name, btw! ;) )
:welcomemm:
I'd say that the HRT will take a bit longer to kick in completely. I found that some symptoms improved after a month or so, others took longer. Palps are a common symptom and may well be caused by an adrenaline surge - I didn't get palps but did suddenly feel anxious and would wake with a start in the night.
Not on Femoston so can't comment on that one.
Maybe you could start a new thread on "New Members" as more folk will see that - newbies sometimes get missed in the middle of existing threads.
Lots of info in the Green Menu and you'll lots of support here, so browse around and join in. And don't forget to check out the "Funnies." ;D
Bette x
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For Bette and all us on HRT, to make you feel even better :)
I follow this Drs Blog http://andlos.blogspot.com/2010/08/youthful-skin-with-bioidentical-hormone.html
Remember we have the bios in UK just not the compounds.
silverlady xx
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Can I just add one bit of experience I had, especially if Larky looks in. I tried my Estrace cream on my cheeks (on face cheeks), did not use much. I got a visual migraine almost right away or within a few hours.
Whenever I recommend estradiol cream I try to remember to pass on what this leading gyns' study said: that is, one must be consistent in usage in order to form a layer of superficial cells (this was a study on the vag for dryness, etc.) and after the first week of use, very little Estrace, Vagifem is absorbed, because the superficial layer protects against the absorbing.
One must not use it intermittently, but should have a consistent maintenance schedule of twice a week on average, or each time one starts anew, more is absorbed. I've been afraid to try it again as I loathe visual migraines.
Perhaps others will not have this experience. I do not normally get visual aura unless a spike in Estrogen.
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Taylor I only use a tiny amount of estriol ( not estrodiol) mixed in a tub of my face cream and dab on the lower part of my face about a couple of times a week, I have never had a headache from it, other then that I just use a 0.25 estrogen patch. I don't have any vaginal problems.
I find it interesting that estrogen is very useful for scars in elderly people and have read many papers alluding to it.
Estrogen is very good for the skin as well as joint pain also for fibromyalgia, the research is ongoing.
I did think this doctors blog was interesting, but we are all different in how react to all drugs.
silverlady x
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Today, and I can only speak for today as yesterday I felt irritable and low and had an ocular migraine, I feel splendid and am on my 2nd week of oestrogen in Climagest. I feel bloomin marvellous in fact.
I hope this continues as it did last month and longer as I turned into a frightful cow once I started the progesterone. Keep your fingers crossed for me. Pllleeeeeaaaassssssseeeee!!!!!!!
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Hello,
I know you posted your response to Premique in 2009...but I found your comments really helpful. You said that all your symptoms calmed down but you still had mood swings....have these calmed down too....mine are going balistic....
Thanks
xx
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I am now on tridestra as I react to progesterone and my alternative Dr said if you react to it he saw no reason to keep me on it for three months to see if the side affects got better. So far so good. Although I still have no sex drive which is a problem. Especially as the progesterone seems to be the thing that helps. The rest of this is going on in the private section.
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its doing jack for my fibro pain! :( lol x
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Hi Niecsey - Did you expect HRT to help with fibro pain. Sorry to disappoint you but if my experience is anything to go by I am afraid you will be disappointed. It does help with joint pain though which is different to the aches and pains of fibro. At least you will be able to sort out which pain is which.
Taz x :hug:
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Is this [youthful-skin-with-bioidentical-hormone] already in our HRT silverlady, or is it something else, and most important, where can we get it from?? :D
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Coffeemate, taking HRT is good for the skin bones ect.
If you wanted a little extra boost for you skin, adding a tiny amount of estriol cream or estrogel gel even natural progesterone cream to a pot of moisturisor and applying a few times a week is helpful. http://www.antiaging.com/cyberhealth/CyberHealth_9.htm
If you google you will find lots of info and also where you can buy weaker versions of estriol cream for facial use.
Another tip for plumped up lips is to mix some Petroleum jelly with a tiny amount of cinnamon essentiall oil ( make sure you are not allergic to it) and a tiny amount of estriol cream, mix it up well and add some Rose vaseline jelly for a bit of colour.
silverlady x
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Thanks silverlady,
can I buy the estrogel gel over the counter? or does it have to be on prescription.
Id love to try it to see if it makes a difference, any improvment would be welcomed ::)
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You can only get estrodiol gel on prescription and I don't think your doctor would precribe it just for facial use unless you went privately and they might make you up a much weaker solution for skin care. If of cause you are using estrodiol for HRT, you could always use a very tiny bit in some cream to dilute it.
If you go to Biovea UK and search for estriol-care you will find info and prices. They are a very reliable and trusted site, they also sell natural progeaterone cream too. Originally natural progesterone cream was sold as a face cream in smaller doses, years ago in America.
I get my hormones creams as well as supplements from Bioeva, hormone creams last a very a long time as I only use a very small amount.
Silverlady x
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Thanks silverlady Ill take a look at the Biovea site, I am taking HRT, but just thought a little extra help wont hurt. ;)
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I will PM you some sites where the ladies are interested in skin care and share info.
I don't like to post too much about antiaging treatments on MM as there can be mixed reactions.
silverlady x
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Thanks, I'll look forward to it.
cm xx
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Will look them up, don't commit yourself to buying anything untill you have read all you can.
silverlady x
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Dont worry I wont, just want to have look for now.
Thanks again
cm xx
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I've been using a bit of the Biovea natural estriol cream on my face for a couple of months now and can honestly say I've noticed no good effects at all - damn shame! :'(
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Is anyone taking Elleste Duet Conti? I'm just at the end of the first month of a 3 month pack and so far so good, at last the sweats/flushes have gone and I'm sleeping again. Not expecting to have a bleed on this one as I did before but wonder if the northisterone is responsible for my feeling tired and depressed, as generally everything is so much better. I do have reservations about taking HRT but have weighed up the pros and cons as my quality of life is so awful without it, just don't want to feel "down" a lot of the time. Can northisterone do this?
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Thanks Susan. I will stick with this one as the benefits have been so good. I will see the doc at the end of the 3 months pack but hope by then everything has settled down.
XX
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I had really awful pmt symptoms with Elleste duet conti, if I had'nt changed to Femoston then I'm sure my poor hubby would have left me...he admitted to me a few weeks later that I had become "unbearable" on them!!
cm xx
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After more than 5 years of drenching sweats and having tried just about every non-hormonal remedy going I (again) begged my doctor for HRT.
At last he has relented, I am now on day 2 of Kliogest (Kliofem) which is 2mg estrodiol and 1mg norethisterone (not got it to hand so not sure of spellings).
He has only given me 1 months worth and I have to see him again at the end of the month.
Anyone else any experience of this one? ???
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how do i ask dr heather currie a question anyone no ,thanks or do i write it on here for a answer, :( :( :(
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From the contact page:
PLEASE NOTE: Dr.Currie cannot respond to personal questions about medical matters.
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Great for me tho its taken 3 different types and quite a while to get it right.My problem was it was causing bleeds when I shouldnt have had them as my periods had been stopped for a couple of years when I started it.Has improved my life 1000%!Hot flushes gone,night sweats all but gone,mood swings vastly improved...normal life resumed!
Well here I am quite a few years later and I am still taking premique but cut down to 4 a week and from this week trying 3 a week.Luckily my GP has been great. She thought I would retire at 60 haha and I had to tell her that I would still be working at 66 and probably longer.My life would have fallen apart without HRT.If I cant wean off it I'll stay on it as long as they'll prescribe it. :)
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3 weeks on it now and the initial side effects are easing off. I don't feel so nauseous and my boobs aren't quite so sore and tender. I'm sleeping much better and the flushes are actually easing off a bit............sshhhhhhh........ :o :-X
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I know this sounds really dramatic, but without a doubt HRT has saved my life, i was at the lowest point ever, really worried that i was going to do something to end my life, I kept a diary at my lowest point and reading it now it sounds like a completely different person I am reading about.
On my 2nd month on HRT and I really dont know what i would do without it. :)
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Shan, I'm really pleased for you and that's so encouraging to hear.
I have had a hellish 5 years of meno symptoms and nothing was giving me any relief. I too on many occasions thought there was only one way out.
My doc has always been dead against HRT. When I saw him a month ago I think he must have realised just how desperate I now was although I hadn't actually put into words just how serious it was getting.....fingers crossed.... :)
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Hi annifanny
So hope that your HRT carries on making u feel better, how the hell did u put up with 5 years? mine probably started a couple of years ago but not really kicked in big time until begining of this year, I am on femoston, started on prempak C which was evil (well for me it was)
I finally feel like i am getting back to the old me, and everybody around me has noticed a difference, even a friend when i tried to explain about the menopause, who never understood it, said to me the other day, "We are getting the old you back" it made me feel so good
xx
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I don't know how I put up with it for 5 years either. I was so determined that I'd "ride it through" without needing HRT but as time's gone on I realised I just couldn't do it. Always at the back of my mind was the fact that my poor Mum suffered hellish hot flushes for 40 years!
I see the doc today as he only gave me 1 months worth. Hoping he'll give a prescription for loads more now. I will mention my swollen ankles and calves though that ache like hell......
ooh....I'm so looking forward to feeling NORMAL again...!! >:( ::)
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Its a GOOD from me although I have just been changed to Femoston 1/10 previously I was on Elleste Duet 1mg and although all started off well after a few months the heavy periods and bloating came back and I gained around 7lbs in weight no no no not what we want!. However all the other symptoms night sweats disturbed sleeping and mood swings stayed away so fingers crossed that Femoston will sort out the 'period' issue and all will be well again ;)
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So far it's been good for me. I managed my first whole nights sleep last night, totally undisturbed, not hot flushes whatsoever and woke up as dry as when I went to bed with a nice fresh bed and no need to change the sheets. I'm still having an issue with VA but as I've only been on the Elleste Duet for 6 days that's no surprise but after some good advice from some lovely ladies on the forum I am going to request Vagifem from my GP to take care of that. The headaches have finally gone too which is another plus!
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Is there any HRT that is not derived from the urine of pregnant mares?
I am an animal lover and a horse owner and would not use it purely from this point of view.
I am currently investigating bio-identical hormone therapy and would appreciate it if anyone had any experience of it.
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Hello :)
I'm new to this forum. First time today. I have been having problems with sleeping, mood swings, loss of libido, irregular periods, itchy skin and recently sudden sweating for no reason. Im just turned 49.
I went to the doctor last week, had some blood taken and the results showed that my hormones were at out of normal range levels. After a visit this morning to discuss my options I left armed with a three month prescription for Elleste Duet 1mg hrt pills. I haven't taken one yet but do plan to give it a go. I forgot to ask the doctor this but wondered if there was a better time of the month to start e.g before, during or after period(although not sure when I'll get my next one). Do you think it matters because the effects of the pills will surely interfere with my normal cycles?
Any comments, experiences with this pill would be great. I'm a bit nervous but want to feel better than I have been. Nice to have people to share this new period of life with. Wendy.
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Hi Wendy
:welcomemm:
I started HRT 2 years ago at 49 and for me it's been brilliant. I haven't taken Elleste but was told that I could start the HRT I was given straight away. There might be something about it in the leaflet but don't scare yourself silly by reading through all the possible side-effects - they just list everything to protect themselves! ::) The HRT will over-ride your cycle and should give you bleeds at a set time each month. Occasionally ladies report the feeling of their own cycle "breaking through" but that's not common.
It would be best to introduce yourself with a new post on "New Members" as newbies often get missed in the middle of existing threads and more will want to welcome you and give you advice.
Bette x
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Thanks Susan and Bette,
I'll check out the newbies area and keep you posted x
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I am a newbie, please be kind to me... i am 56 and have come off HRT on the advice of my GP. I tapered off as suggested, he prescribed prozac. did not get on well with that, my question to anyone is what can I do to get my HRT back, I feel so lousy, really bad sleep now and the dreaded sweats plus more bad symptoms..I work full time in a demanding job and am feeling dreadful.
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Hi Tina
:welcomemm:
Well, I'd say go back and tell him you want to go back on it, unless there was a particular medical reason for him suggesting that you should come off? If he's not helpful, try a different gp!
I started it 2 years ago at 49. My gp's plan is that I should stay on it till at least 55, then try coming off. If I feel bad, she's more than happy for me to go back on it again. Says she has ladies on it in their 70s. :)
Why not introduce yourself on "New Members?" Newbies can get missed in the middle of old threads and others will want to welcome you and offer advice and support.
Bette x
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She does say that she "tapered off", Susan. :-\
Bette x
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yes i did taper but now I have nothing in its place, think i will return to GP and try and get it reinstated. It was Prempak c and i never had a days problem with it. The big problem I am having is the lack of sleep which would not be so bad if i did not work full time in a a demanding job. I feel the GP has treated me quite cruelly.
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I've replied on your other thread, Tina :)
You may find he's ok about starting again seeing you've tried without it.
Bette x
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Thought many of you would find this interesting, if you haven't already seen it:
http://www.rosemaryconley.tv/Health/Medical/Dr-Hilary-on-Menopause-and-HRT.aspx
Wish our surgeries had a few more Dr. Hilarys in them! :sigh:
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Excellent Skylark.
Silverlady x
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Isn't it nice to know that Rosemary Conley is an HRT enthusiast, Silverlady? No wonder she's got so much bloody energy! :cancan:
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Must be something else she is doing though, I have had a partial hyst like her and on an estrogen patch, but have not her energy, perhaps its her interesting career and lots of exercise that does it :D But she looks great and is so slim so she is doing all the right things.
silverlady x
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I wish HRT had made me feel like I was 25 again - I haven't found that it gives me more energy to be honest. I reckon a lot of women watching this, going to their GP's for HRT will be disappointed if they are not turned back into who they used to be 20 years ago. Thinking back, though, at 53 I was still feeling pretty good and HRT was working well. It was only around the age of 55/56 that I began to feel older. http://www.dailymail.co.uk/health/article-28435/Me-My-Health-Rosemary-Conley.html
Taz x
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I found my energy levels shot up, Taz - but I suspect that was because I finally started to get a good night of quality sleep after nearly a year! That made such a difference.
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My energy levels also shot up but maybe it's because, at 51, I'm still a mere babe! Sorry, Taz. ;D Maybe I'd better make the most of it........ ::)
Bette x
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Yep - 51 was my :veil: :spin: :jiggy: :bed: :parti: :cheer: :cancan: :party09: :drunk: :safe: :bounce: year!
Taz x :meltdown:
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It's not over till the fat lady sings...and as I can't sing for toffy........ ;)
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51 sounds good Taz, but I'm about 13 months off that. In the meantime, I am determined that I am going to be a new, stronger 'me' at 50, increasing self confidence, more assertive - hopefully this will help my natural anxious state. Well, it's a plan ..... ::) In the meantime I have a new mantra which goes "I'm not so small, I'm 10 FEET TALL", which is to be (mentally) recited when I'm not feeling so sure about something. Onwards and upwards :D
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You have got thirteen months to practice then to reach your peak of 51!
Taz x
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And I've got 6 months left! :parti:
Bette x
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I am 52 and have just taken my first Premique tablet. My doctor didn't want to prescribe it as he says I am too old for it, he wanted to give me anti depressants instead even though I told him I'm not depressed. I think he only gave in to get me out of the surgery. I always vowed I would do without HRT but after struggling on for nearly a year have finally given in. I can put up with the hot flushes but cannot tolerate the sleepless nights and random feelings of overwhelming sadness at the most inappropriate times -is this normal? Some days I feel just like my old self and think, hey, this menopause thing isn't so bad but then the next I'm a jibbering wreck again for no apparent reason. I used to be confident but now question everything I do, I'm not old but feel like a pathetic old woman at times.
Someone please tell me that HRT will work and that one day I will feel something like normal again.
Help!
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It's taken me a year or so but yep, HRT has worked for me and I feel something like normal again Marnie, so hang in there. I was encouraged in turn by Bette who I am sure will be along soon to comment as well. :D
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I've replied on your other thread, Marnie. ;)
Bette x
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have just posted my saga and had one reply which meant a lot. I can't find any other people of my age group on the forums. Am I an oddball case or are there others out there? I feel that in spite of trying often and hard, I keep failing.
I also would feel it a bit difficult to ask my gp whom I like a lot, for a referral to a specialist, as one lady mentioned she had done. I think I am too old school!
The above saga was posted on the menopause matters forum this evening and I am seeing her tomorrow----any ideas of what how to put it to her that I would really like to go back on to my tiny dose and live with the consequences??
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Have just replied on your other thread, Portese. :)
Bette x
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My main problem was waking up every hour during the night, boiling hot and not always being able to get back to sleep.Foggy brain. . I am recently 50years and last period was 5 months ago. I was put on premique low dose and felt I had more energy by the next day! However, my GP said it would take 2-3 months to work. I was surprised that my GP had prescribed me this form of HRT because I am not post menopausal. However, I have now stopped taking it after 28 days, because I started to sleep a bit better once the weather changed. Also my mother had breast cancer. :) It had not really had much time to work, but I came to the conclusion I would let nature take its cause. The menopause comes as a shock and takes time to adjust. I am now taking ymea and have had no return to my symptoms 4 days later.
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Hi Pixie - welcome to the forum.
You are right to think you were prescribed the wrong type of HRT. You should have been given a sequential one which would give you a monthly bleed. I am glad that you are finding your symptoms easier to manage at the minute. You know that should you need HRT in the future then it should be able to help you. Some of us find that hot sweats disappear when a period is due so you may find that your next period is about to arrive.
Have a good look around the forum - you will find lots of support and friendship on here.
Taz x
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Hi Taz,
Thanks for your reply. I will keep you posted. I'm finding it helps to adjust to the changes by keeping informed.
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its a question of balancing out what I know I feel like now against what any future risks are.
I'm currently reading through all the pros and cons, so as to be forearmed and prepared when HRT is offered to me. A lot of people just think oh it's menopause, therefore you must take HRT, but it's not that simple is it?
for example, on osteoporosis:
Hormone therapy (HT) is believed to be useful in preventing or alleviating osteoporosis*. It is generally recommended for postmenopausal women who:
- Undergo an early menopause
- Have a low bone mass, as measured by a bone-density test and menopausal symptoms
- Have several other risk factors for osteoporosis, such as: a petite, thin frame; family history of osteoporosis, or a medical problem associated with osteoporosis
* osteoporosis can also be prevented by exercising, not smoking, drinking only moderately, eating enough calcium, avoiding fizzy drinks, getting enough sunshine (vit D). Myself, I'll always prefer to get my goodness from food & a healthy lifestyle rather than pills, but maybe that's just me
While all of the risks associated with HT are not yet known, studies have shown that some types of HT may increase your risk of developing:
Breast cancer
Gallbladder disease
Blood clots
High blood pressure
http://my.clevelandclinic.org/disorders/menopause/hic_menopause_and_osteoporosis.aspx
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
plus, 80% of cardiovascular (heart) disease can be prevented by good diet and lifestyle (stopping smoking, drinking moderately, taking enough exercise)
There's no real history of osteoporosis in my family & I've always been healthy & athletic. There is a history of heart disease, but that's been down almost exclusively to smoking, and I don't. Therefore I don't feel that HRT is for me ... I'm going to do my best to have a 'natural' change, as much as possible. Of course, if things change or symptoms worsen, then my attitude may have to change too
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I think it is an individual choice TSF. If your symptoms get so bad that you can't function properly, either at work or at home, then HRT can really make such a difference that the side effects and risks no longer seem quite as scary. I was anti-HRT before I got to meno and I really couldn't work out why all these women "gave in" and used it. Surely, I thought, they can manage by living a healthy lifestyle and being positive and how bad is feeling a bit hot now and again? I failed to realise that the withdrawal of oestrogen from the body can lead to other horrible symptoms which will never go away again. It is not something that you go through and come out the other side to carry on your life as you did before. Some women, I admit, do seem to sail through it and cope with the changes but for others the vaginal dryness, constant joint aches, lack of sleep, depression and just sheer exhaustion really do make life very uncomfortable.
I started HRT four years ago and wished that I had started it sooner to be honest. I had got really low and my work suffered tremendously which meant that I was also letting down the small team I work with. In an ideal world maybe I would have been able to stop work and at least get through the more physically difficult part but it's not an ideal world.
HRT is not prescribed purely for oesteoporosis anymore. If this is your only worry then you would not be offered HRT. HRT is known to protect against bowel cancer so I agree that it is a balancing act. Drinking alcohol also increases the risk of breast cancer - my doc said that really I should stop the alcohol if I am on HRT as this is a double whammy but so far I still do have my evening glass of wine. Good luck in your decision making.
Taz x
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I can only echo everything said by Taz and Susan. Only those of us who have suffered truly awful meno symptoms that have interferred with and disrupted our lives hugely can appreciate the amazing difference in how we feel -physically and mentally (once of course you have found the script that suits). Each to their own, none of us know what is around the corner but I prefer to feel well along the journey than struggle through each day exhausted only to get to bed and stay awake sweating all night + + + all the other stuff !!
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hi, thought i had the menopause all sorted but sadly after 6 years i am back to the beggining,,i mamaged for 3 years with herbal products, i then went on hrt as my body got too used to the herbal products,,after 3 different types of hrt i found Angelique which was fantastic, after a year i decided to go herbal again, sadly it hasn't worked,,,,today i have gave in,,back on Angelique,,,feel very disappointed but can not see any other way to stop the nervous feeling hot sweats and lack of sleep.i would be interested to hear from anybody who has been down the same route i am going on..just hope it has the great results it had a while ago,,,am i mad,,,could i have tried anything else.. carolyn aged 53 years,,,,any positive comments welcome..
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A glass of wine a day gives a higher risk of breast cancer than HRT, but because wine is a 'sexy product' that is not mentioned & certainly doesn't have warnings on the bottle labels - 'drink this and you have an increased risk of breast cancer'.
Well, I never knew that Susan! I have a glass of wine most evenings and here was I worried about taking HRT!! My decision in the end was taken by weighing up the pros and cons with all the pain killers I was taking to get through the day & night. I agree with the other ladies - better to have quality of life than drag yourself through it for longer.
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Yep - it was me. Wine mimics oestrogen in the body which is why it is a risk factor for breast cancer. If you are on HRT and drink alcohol (wine in particular I believe) then you are giving yourself a double dose of oestrogen as far as the body is concerned. I try not to think about it as I do love my glass of wine. I never have more than two though so I reckon that it's not too bad. My GP advised that I should give up alcohol when on HRT. Here are the risk factors from Breakthrough http://www.breakthrough.org.uk/breast_cancer/breast_cancer_facts/risk_factors_general_information/index.html
Taz x
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Yep - it was me. Wine mimics oestrogen in the body which is why it is a risk factor for breast cancer. If you are on HRT and drink alcohol (wine in particular I believe) then you are giving yourself a double dose of oestrogen as far as the body is concerned. I try not to think about it as I do love my glass of wine. I never have more than two though so I reckon that it's not too bad. My GP advised that I should give up alcohol when on HRT. Here are the risk factors from Breakthrough http://www.breakthrough.org.uk/breast_cancer/breast_cancer_facts/risk_factors_general_information/index.html
Taz x
Oh I was kinda hoping it would not be confirmed!! I also like my glass of wine each evening. Maybe I will have to go to the Bacardi & coke then!? ;) You are lucky to have gone off it Susan - saving money also! x x
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I hate wine whites shite reds like shoes polish
BUT gimme and bottle of Crystal YESSSSSSSS
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Does anyone think 60 is too old to go on hrt ? I think my gp may so . I was hoping to go on livial but im not sure if I will get it ,
Lindy
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A good friend once told me "you don't ask enough ... if you don't ask you don't get" . Its often proved true for me - so go for it!
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Thanks I will ask she can only refuse ,
Lindy x
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Well I asked and she said I could have hrt into my 80s but Ihave to go back and have a double appointment and discuss everything , so im going next week will let you know how I get on
Lindy x
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Yay - sounds good! :congrats: She sounds just like my gp. :)
Bette x
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Hi, I was put on Prempak C about 7 months ago and it was great to get rid of my hot flushes and vaginal dryness, but I'm going back to see my GP tomorrow because I believe it has been responsible for bringing on IBS (since I've only had it since taking HRT) and I have been bleeding non stop for about 4 months now. I was hoping it would settle down but I really don't think it will. I hope my GP can find another HRT that suits me :(
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I think that if tablet HRT brings on IBS, it's probably worth trying patches, dizzielizzy. Also, you really shouldn't be bleeding non-stop on HRT. :-\
Let us know how you get on.
Bette x
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I've just been to the doctors and they are fast tracking me to the gynae because of the bleeding and told me to stop taking the HRT. I've had VIN3 and CIN3, polyps and fibroids so they're not taking any chances. So my menopause symptoms are going to come flooding back, I'm fed up now, I'm coming back as a man next time :(
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Best to get everything checked out though. Once that's done you can think again about HRT.
Bette x
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Has anyone ever changed from Elleste duet to Elleste Conti? At the moment I am have a slight show of blood every day but I went on the Conti to avoid having a monthly bleed. I started HRT before I actually went through my menopause although I was having symptoms. I am now 57 and am sure I must have finished my periods (I think), does HRT keept them going? Very confusing. I am told that eventually it will settle down and the bleeding will stop on the Conti, here's hoping?
Does anyone know what happens when you assume you have gone through the menopause, your periods have stopped and then you come off the HRT, do you still get the menopausal symptoms etc Sue :-\
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Hi Sue
:welcomemm:
This is from the Green Menu:-
"Period free" or continuous combined therapy can be used by women who are 54 + yrs, or more than 1 yr post menopausal at any age. The criteria should be fulfilled in order to offer such treatment to women who no longer have a continuing ovarian cycle, so that steady levels of both estrogen and progestogen can be achieved. When there are steady levels of estrogen and progestogen from daily administration of both, the womb lining stays thin. Although some bleeding in the first 6 months of therapy is common, there should not be bleeding after that and the lining does not go through the stages of stimulation and then shedding as it does during a normal cycle and with sequential therapy.
Hopefully the spotting will settle down.
Some think that you go through meno once off HRT, some that you don't. I think, as with all things meno, we're all different and it's impossible to predict. ::)
Newbies sometimes get missed in the middle of existing threads so why not introduce yourself on "New Members" so that more can welcome you? ;)
Bette x
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hi mrs purple its nice to hear from someone else who is sensitive to meds iam an absolute nightmare cant even take vitamin supplements been strugglig for around 6 years to get my blood pressure level i take the lowest dose of olmesarten for blood pressure it doesnt keep it quite low enough but the min i introduce a water pill it crashes too low :( i have friends that take all sorts of pills and dont even know they are taking them god i wish iwasnt soo sensitive lol
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My doctor started me on femoston conti 1/5, I feel ok on it , started to take them on friday, felt slightly nauseous over the weekend , but not too bad today . The doctor who said "women can take hrt till their in their 80s" has gone on to another practice now (sadly),but the doc I saw said I could take them for approx 5 yrs . Im 60 now .
Has anyone else been on this one ? how did you find it ?
Lindy x
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Thanks Susan , interestingly the first doc was a lot younger than the second one I saw , she says she had trained as a gynecologist , but had decided to become a gp . She was very thorough , she sent me away with lots of leaflets on hrt , for me to read up on before I started on it . I told her I was subscribed to Menopause matters , and she was pleasantly surprised , as she said she was just going to recommend this to me , and said I seemed to be quite well informed on the hrt .
Lindy x
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My gp is the same as your previous one, Lindy, although I don't think that she trained as a gynae. She said that gps' opinions are usually based on the current thinking when they were training - she's in her 40s so maybe it was "in" 20 years ago!
Bette x
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Your GP really shouldn't have said that, I find it very worrying!!
I'd say that she shouldn't have needed to say it, Morwenna, as in if shouldn't be true. Sadly, I think that it probably is. :(
Bette x
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Hi Pixie, I am interested in ymea - can it be taken with hrt do you know?
Purplenanny x
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Hi Purplenanny,
Sorry very late replying to your message. I don't think ymea is normally necessary to take if you are already taking HRT. However, you could try it instead? I think it only works, because my symptoms weren't too bad. I take 2 caps a day. The hot flushes were bad during the night in the summer. I was on HRT for a month, then went on to the ymea, without bothering my GP. The hot flushes may have stopped once the weather cooled off! I wonder if our bodies just get used to lower levels of hormones. I have only had 4 periods this year, and very relieved to get rid of the awful PMT I used to have. I wake a lot in the night, but I think that is normal as we get older. x
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I have been happily replacing my oestrogen since my ovaries were removed 21 years ago. It took a while to settle on the best method but eventually I was stabilised on implants which I received twice a year. For me it makes life worth living. I am a completely different person when my levels are low. Now the only manufacturer licensed to supply them in the UK has stopped making them. In the private sector doctors seem to be able to get supplies (unlicensed) from abroad but despite a howl of protest when the manufacturers made it official that they were no longer producing the product I can't find out what progress is being made to source an alternative manufacturer. Can anyone enlighten me?
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There's so much conflicting information these days about HRT. Tell us what you think--is it good or bad? My feeling is that for most people it's good when used appropriately and reviewed but here you can have your say!
Hi I was prescribed Dixarit 50mg twic daily recently, I have not started them yet as when I read the leaflet it states that they should not be taken with anti dep, I have been taking Fluoxetine, so I am rather scared. Also I was told 6 months ago after a brain scan for dreadful headaches that I was high risk of a stroke or heart attach :( Yes I am rather confused. I am 53 and waited 10 days for a doctors appointment as I was at my wits end and felt it was a waste of time, he could not wait to get me out of the door. Please help, I want to feel better but also worry about taking this drug.
Maxine (Newby and having trouble getting used to this site, I can never find any replies >:(
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Newby and having trouble getting used to this site, I can never find any replies
Hi Maxine
Try clicking on "Show new repiles to your posts" at the top left under your user name. I click on "Show unread posts since last visit" as I'm nosy and like to read all the posts! ;D
Why not start a new thread about the Dixarit? Questions can sometimes get missed in the middle of long threads like this. ;)
Bette x
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Hi Maxine - a friend of mine is on Dixarit for flushes and it has turned her life around! Although it does say that it should not be taken with anti depressants I believe that this doesn't include SSRI's of which Fluoxetine is one? http://www.netdoctor.co.uk/brain-and-nervous-system/medicines/dixarit.html. If you are worried why not phone your local pharmacist for advice - I have always found them to be really helpful when I've needed advice about what goes with what!
Taz x
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Hi everyone,
Is it true I cannot take HRT due to my mum and grandma passing away in their 40's?
Family history.
Thanks Irene x
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I have just started on HRT gel after the worst month of night sweats hot flushes and no sleep and so far so good but I have to have the marina fitted within the next two months and this is not what I want really, would having an implant in my arm be just as good as the coil or am I being really stupid
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Hi debbie
:welcomemm:
I've replied on the other thread but will copy it here in case you don't find it!
The gel you're using will be estrogen, which is what usually helps those symptoms - it should kick in within a few weeks. ;) You also need progesterone to protect your womb, as estrogen can cause the lining to build up. You can either take progesterone tablets or use the Mirena. As I said on the other thread, a testosterone implant will not do the same job.
Why not introduce yourself on "New Members" as newbies sometimes get missed in the middle of existing threads and others will want to welcome you. :)
Bette x
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Almost finished first packet of Femoston Conti and I feel MARVELLOUS!
I have energy, my mood is lifted and what is kind of weird is that I suddenly feel so alert! My hair is looking better and a few people have commented on how good I look.
I pray it lasts !
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Yay! :veil: :veil: :veil: :veil: :veil: :veil: :veil: :veil: :veil: :veil: :veil:
That is brilliant news! :congrats:
Bette x
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Great news :-)
I had siked myself up to start HRT,had an appointment this aft with dr, even took the printout about HRT and peri....
Told her I was fine on mini pill, no issues but black cohosh is now not controlling night sweats and adrenalin so feel ready to start HRT.
There was me ready to nip to chemist on way home and get my prescription....BUT
Dr said she didnt know enough about mini pill and HRT so she will do some asking around and ring me next week....Jeeeessseee....dont know whether to laugh or cry :'(
I dont know why but its been a bit of a downer day TBH...Ive felt a bit weepy but havent yet, but I might...
NO NO NO! I am going out tonight to see an ace soul band and I WILL enjoy myself !
xx
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Sorry to hear that, jax. As I think I've told you, my (very HRT-knowledgeable) gp suggested that I go on the mini-pill after I'd been on HRT for a while, so I'm sure that yours will agree once she's done some research. Hope that you manage to forget it for now and have a great evening. :parti:
Bette x
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Bette...where did you get that video of me dancing??? lol
have a good day x
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Sorry to hear that, jax. As I think I've told you, my (very HRT-knowledgeable) gp suggested that I go on the mini-pill after I'd been on HRT for a while, so I'm sure that yours will agree once she's done some research. Hope that you manage to forget it for now and have a great evening. :parti:
Bette x
Hi Bette, can you tell me which HRT your dr gave you with the mini pill(i AM 48)....spoke to mine again today after she sent me home last fri while she did research, she is no wiser yet and said I will be in touch..AAAAHHHHHH my palps, mood etc are going from bad to worse .(stopped taking black cohosh last fri as It wasnt as effective but if you needed proof it did anything I sure as hell feel worse 5 days without it..lol)
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I'm on Femoston 2/10. (I was on Nuvelle sequi before that but it was discontinued.) I really don't think that it matters which HRT it is; you're only adding a bit of prog. by being on the mini-pill too.
Bette x
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I tried to go without it but after almost 2 years of suffering hot flashes after my periods stopped, plus not being able to sleep and crying all the time I asked for it and the doc prescribed a combination patch called Climara Pro (I live in Canada presently) it helped very quickly and I sleep like a baby again, for the first time in several years I can sleep through the night without waking. HOWEVER, it has not addressed the other awful menopause symptoms of severe dry eyes, vaginal dryness and atrophy, sore joints and extreme fatigue. I am also taking a vaginal tablet called vagifem10 for the vaginal dryness and it is working very well, but I am wondering if adding this to the patch is what is creating my joint and fatigue symptoms, I did have some of that before HRT but worse now. I am having tests to discover whether I have vitamin deficiencies or thyroid issues but it seems some of these symptoms have worsened since taking the HRT. this patch is bio-identical in part therefore I am not worried in the least about it. I think those studies were flawed and only took a group of unhealthy women and gave them artificial horse estrogens and did not consider bio identical or low doses and health status of younger menopausal women. I am age 51. I will say that any of my friends that are on patches or other types of HRT look much younger and are more active than the women I know that never took it or stopped taking it. while I dont think it stops the aging clock, it can give you better quality of life. its a choice you have to think about carefully. I feel much better on it, but I am still having other problems and I have to find out what is causing them. I can't accept that menopause is causing all of my symptoms but I had none before I stopped my periods. sure wish SOMEBODY would have warned me that once your periods STOP, your aging STARTS!
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Hi neeters
:welcomemm:
What are the ingredients in Climara Pro? It would be interesting to see if we have an equivalent here in the UK.
You might like to introduce yourself by starting a thread on "New Members" as newbies often get missed in the middle of existing posts and others will want to welcome you. ;)
Bette x
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speaking of dry eyes, at 5am this morning I was woken up by what felt like acid in my left eye.
I had vague memorys of turning into my pillow and my eyelid grated my eyeball.
It was agony for over an hour till it calmed down. Of course, by now it was watering like hell.
I have noticed dryish eyes on and off but this was bad. Will HRT help with tat too eventually?
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I used to have a very negative attitude about HRT. Before I actually entered menopause I was pretty cocky about things, assuming that because I'd never had any problems in that area before, I would go through menopause without batting an eyelid. My attitude was “HRT? Hell no!!!â€. How things have changed.
When my (very severe) symptoms first started almost 2 years ago I still didn't want to do HRT, so I first tried bio-identical hormones because I thought it would be better (it really isn't, but that's another story). Anyway that worked really well for 2 months and then stopped working. The doctor I was going to at the time actually blamed me for my symptoms :o, so that was the end of that.
So, I went to a new doctor and very reluctantly started on HRT. I felt great for 9 months, until it also stopped working. In hindsight I should have just continued with it, using a higher dosed one, but because I still had this mental block about using HRT I tried a naturopath, thinking I wanted to do it as naturally as possible. That was the start of my near mental breakdown over the last 4 months or so.
Basically, IMO naturopathy treatment for menopause is a crock and a con, but it cost me a lot of time, money, and mental and physical trauma before I had to finally admit that to myself. So now I'm back on a higher dosed HRT and I'm improving every day.
So, at the end of the day, my attitude towards HRT has changed completely. If you can get away without using it, that would be the ideal situation, but there are many women who simply have to use it. I am one of them. I am also well aware that my needs will ebb and flow over time, and what I'm using now may not work eventually and I will need to change it again, but I'm over trying other methods. HRT is what works for me, and it's what I'm staying with, but everyone has to make their own decision. All I know is that without HRT I simply can not cope with anything in life.
Sure, the possible long term problems are in the back of my mind, but I can't be worried about things that MIGHT happen in 10, 20 or even 40 years time. I have to have a good quality of life now, and let the future take care of itself.
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:congrats: Morwenna.
Bette x
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It was me who used the word "cocky", but I only said it about myself. I was very cocky (and naive) about what I thought I would personally experience in menopause, because in my entire life I had never had any problems with periods, PMS or anything. I never even got any symptoms during peri, except for irregular periods. I actually looked forward to the day when my periods would stop eventually, but I shouldn't have been so keen for that to happen because it was 3 months after my periods stopped that everything went wrong for me.
I would never assume anything about what other women suffer or make fun of them. A dear friend of mine used to suffer severe hot flushes brought on after breast cancer treatment, so I knew how bad they could be. I just never knew that there were so many other severe symptoms associated with menopause, because either no one I knew ever got other symptoms or they just didn't talk about it. However, I managed to get just about every symptom known to woman. So, I guess if you believe in karma, I paid for all those years of having it easy...lol.....
I totally agree with you Susan about the naturopathic treatments. I learned that lesson the hard way, because I wanted to believe there was an alternative to HRT. It cost me a lot of money, anxiety, stress and suicidal thoughts before I had to admit that naturopathy/homeopathy is a crock of s**t.
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Question.... got 4 days left on green elleste duet.
I realised today that I have been confusing tired, exhausted with feeling weak.
I went for what is an easy cycle today and felt like I never cycled for months.
is this a reaction to the prog green tabs?
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For Suzie Q
You say you are on Climesse, does this cause you to have a bleed?
Cheers,
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Well just to update you all. I have just started my third pack, month 3 and am feeling fantastic!
I have had a few occasions where, in my opinion, I have had a relapse but on the whole am feeling 100% better.
All hot flushes and night sweats have gone. Also, the nausea I had been experiencing for over a year has gone to the point I don't even bother with my meds for stomach acid!
I am sleeping so much better, virtually all night and the best thing also is that if I need to rush now I don't come over feeling all sicky and hot like I used to!
I now realise how bad I have been feeling these past 3 years. Someone said to me the other day, Don't you wish you had taken the HRT before and saved yourself all those years of feeling bad? Well, in hindsight, no I don't regret suffering for so long because I gave it every shot (herbal, vitamins, diet etc) and if I had taken the HRT before then I would never have known if I did the right thing or not.
I know now that HRT is the right choice for me.
Incidentally, I have started a small bleed today. Spotting I guess.
I actually don't mind to be honest because I am sure it won't continue throughout and is just temporary. Am I correct?
Hope all are well
Londongirl
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Hi londongirl
Thats great news!!!!
I am considering trying again.....
Stumpy xx
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Hey Stumpy
Go for it!
I did see your other post about trying again. Why not? Give it a go. What have you got to lose after all ?
Best of luck
I did have a few relapses but so far so good. Fingers crossed.
I do hope things go well for you.
Londongirl
x
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I have been prescribed Gynest cream for post menopausal UTI/Vaginitis symptoms, and have been using it for 6 nights now. The 'burning', which has plagued me for weeks now, stopped almost straight away, but after a day or so I developed low abdominal discomfort, behind the pubic bone and in the groin, which comes and goes during the day. I don't seem to notice it at night or when lying down.
I read somewhere that this can happen in the early stages of treatment. Does anyone have experience of this or know how long this will go on for? I've been post menopausal for about 12 years now.
I was supposed to use it every night for two weeks, then twice a week for two months and then stop for a month. As the burning has diminished, I'm wondering whether to reduce the frequency for the second week.
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:welcomemm: Minx
Taz x
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How lovely to get a warm welcome and some quick responses that have reassured me already. The last few months have been a lonely business, wondering what on earth is happening, plugging away at the Trimethoprim, trying to work out just which part of my anatomy actually is on fire! I feel optimistic now that something can be done, and I'll put up with the side effects and stick at it. Thanks once again.
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I have just had my hormones checked and result it is the menopause (i am 46) I started at the age of 42 had 3 years no periods then last June had a period for a week! although none since, The nurse doing the blood test had a chat with a doctor who wanted to see me. I went to see the doctor (who is clued up on the menopause), swabbed my womb, and said she was going to have a chat with the gyno (her words) she suggested HRT, and anti depressants, which help with hot flushes and mood swings and gave me some information on HRT pros and cons for me to read and think about. She also suggested I may need an ultrasound? From everything I've read on this forum I might give it a try for mine and my husbands sanity! Thank you all very much. I'll keep you updated.
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Hi joanne louise
:welcomemm:
You may want to try HRT first and see how you get on. Many of us have found that it helps with the mood swings. There's nothing wrong with starting ADs at the same time but if you do, you might not know which is helping what!
She probably wants to do an ultrasound just to check things out and to try to work out if your period last June was a "one-off." They usually do one whenever you have a period after a year or more period-free.
Have you shown your husband this thread?:-
http://www.menopausematters.co.uk/forum/index.php/topic,2458.0.html
Bette x
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I think this deserves to be aired, I am sure it wil be in other newspapers besides the Daily Mail.
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/health/article-2151238/Ive-studied-HRT-years--Im-convinced-raises-womens-risk-cancer.html?ito=feeds-newsxml
I will be honest and say this has shaken me somewhat in what to believe and I am not being a scaremonger or sensationalist.
I do think this man is sincere in what he says.
I can understand Doctor's dilemmas and to do what is best for their patients, now.
silverlady x
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I wish the DM would go out of business I really do!
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I have asked Emma to move my thread to "HRT good or bad"
I should have posted it there in the first place. I wasn't thinking.
silverlady x
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Topics merged.
Emma
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Perhaps Dr Currie could comment on this if she see it.
As always its worrying, but as many of us have said quality over quantity.......but.... :-\
Honeyb
x
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This is indeed very confusing. Last week's report did not in fact say that there is NO association with HRT and breast cancer, but explained that HRT, like any medicine has risks, but for most women, when it is used correctly, especially for women under the age of 60, there are far more benefits than risks. To pick up on a few of the points raised--
The drop in rates of breast cancer in fact started before the WHI trial was reported and before the drop in HRT use.
The known association in breast cancer risk with HRT used for more than 5 years after the age of 50, is not as great as the known association with being overweight or taking 2 or more units of alcohol per day.
The difference in response to HRT of the older women in the trial, compared to women in their 50s, is in relation to the cardiovascular effect--we know that estrogen is very likely to be beneficial to the cardiovascular system if used in the early menopausal years, when blood vessels are healthy. However, if we wait until later years when the vesselas are already diseased, HRT is unlikely to be beneficial and may cause further harm in a very small numbe rof women.
Finally, the Million Women referred to has since been shown to be extremely flawed and no firm conclusions can be drawn from that study.
We have a full report of this ongoing controversy in our next magazine, due out soon.
Also, in the hRT section of this website there is a useful table summarising benefits and risks.
Best wishes
Heather
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Thank you Dr Currie, I will keep using my low dose patch. It does keep being taken off and put on again with all this confusion.
silverlady x
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Thank you, Dr Currie, so reassuring. :thankyou:
Bette x
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Dr Currie you must know the Meno consultant I saw a few weeks ago up here, she said much the same thing. So it's reassuring to hear your viewpoint.
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Well, I have just started my 3rd month on Femoston 1/10 (tried it a yr ago and had an awful time so stopped after 6 weeks, wonder why its different now)....had a week off 2wks ago due to a problem which turned out to be nothing to so with HRT which now sorted.
all i can say at the moment is FABULOUS!!
Am sleeping through for the last month or so, no sweats, anxiety is still there in background, but not all consuming like it used to be. Energy levels are increasing daily, and OH says i am looking well again....he says i have looked unhappy for a long long time.
I hope it continues... ::) Me is coming back & it feels great.
Thanks to all of you ladies who have supported me with my silly worries over it. :)
Stumpy xx
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Great news Stumpy - long may it last and that you feel better and better...!
Hurdity x
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:)
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Stumpy, what a great post. You sound happy, really glad it's kicking in and you feeling better .
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Everything is crossed JJ... ;)
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So pleased Stumpy, I have my fingers crossed for you too :-*
This is encouraging too
http://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanonc/article/PIIS1470-2045%2812%2970075-X/abstract
silverlady x
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thanks Silverlady :)
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It certainly seems indicates that but I am not good at interpreting scientific data, I usually just go to result and conclusion. I wish I could remember how I arrived at that site this morning, I started off by reading this in the Telegraph
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/health/women_shealth/9292495/HRT-shows-why-health-scares-cant-be-trusted.html which is reassuring.
In the last few days I have come to look at it all like this, there are thousands of women on HRT, thousands that are on the combination you are on, they are most defiantly not dropping like flies.
Livial is a synthetic steroid that mimics the female sex hormones, it does contain testosterone and is said to increase sex drive. I am wondering if it is like the SERMs that do not stimulate the breast or sex organs. Have not researched it and wonder if it has the potential to increase weight more then conventional HRT.
Please don't get paranoid, I wonder if we discuss things too much, there must be thousands of women who slap on the patch, forget about it and just get on with their lives.
silverlady x
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Came off HRT and am now taking Starflower oil to try to balance the hormones naturally, not as effective but helping a little.
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Just started 4th month of Femeston 1/10...feel like I have gone backwards since starting this months estrogen.....had period last week on prog part, 1st since december.
Got no energy, dizzy, nausea, sad.
Why has this happened when things were going so well :'( :'( :'(
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:hug: Stumpy
It's probably just a blip, I had those initially but found that they lessened as time went one. It could also be that your own hormones have dropped; if thing don't improve, maybe you should consider trying a higher dose? I'm on Femoston 2/10 and was saying to my gp only yesterday that I feel like it's "just" enough, that the symptoms are just beneath the surface, somehow.
Bette x
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Thanks Bette xx
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:'(
Thanks Susan
Morning is worst...takes me hours to get motivated even though i have to work etc. So hard today...no energy at all.
Stumpy xx
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Can anyone advise, I came off HRT in Dec 2010, recently been having the night sweats and daytime flushes with joint aches plus the miseries and all for no reason, I have a great life!
I thought that I would be fine now I´m 60, I was on it from 52 - 58. Doctors don´t want me to go back on it, I was on Tibolone to start then Femoston conti. I am thinking of asking to go back on it especially after finding this brilliant website where most people are so positive about the benefits.
Any advice would be most welcome. Look forward to hearing from you!
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If something works why come of it.
I think if you get the right hrt then it can turn your life around. I am yet to discover that. I am on my 4th different hrt and still waiting for something to happen. I have been on premique, oestrogel, premarin, elleste solo and I am now on progynova. Well I suppose I am onto my next one now which Dr Currie recommended, which is estardot. (I must say that I wish Dr Currie was my gynae as she was really good. Def recommend anyone getting in touch with her much better than my own gynae or gp put together) Hoping for a miracle
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Deffo GOOD.
within a few weeks of starting HRT (elleste duet 1mg) all my meno probs were gone 95% of the time....6 months in and all was still well but then a few weeks ago I started with adrenalin rushes,palps and mood swings again...
upped hrt to 2mg 5 days ago and today feel great again....feel cheerful ...yay
only thing that i dont like is I went 7 months between bleeds and its now been another 4 months with nothing. This along with water retention is a bummer (gained 10lbs in 1st 3 months which wont shift) but still better than i was before...
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when I first went on hrt it didn't do too much to help symptoms and caused weight gain (though now I realize I probably didn't give it enough time to kick in), anyway, so I went off it and all hell broke lose - symptoms were 10 times worse, so then I went back on it and have stayed on it for several years (56-59 - meno came late for me - period did not stop for good until 58 - before that was erratic)
I am generally in favor of hrt as I see that I am doing much better than women my age who do not use hrt, however I wonder if the fact that the symptoms return usually much worse when ppl go off hrt is due to 1) that the body needs hrt or 2) that withdrawal from hrt is hell
if it is #2 I would be inclined to go off it now but wean off slowly
if it is #1 I would be inclined to stay on hrt for the rest of my life (I have heard doctors who are experts on hrt say "hormones are forever" i.e. you stay on it as long as yr body needs it which could be the rest of your life.
but I am not sure if the withdrawal hell is due to #1 or #2
much appreciate yr thoughts!
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I've tried both ways and both outcomes were the same! At the moment the menopause clinic would like me to start withdrawal so that when I am 60 in 18 months time I will be off it altogether. However, after a few months on half a patch my symptoms were just as bad as when I first started HRT four years ago so, under guidance from my GP, I have returned to full patches. I also came off it cold turkey a couple of years ago and for around two months I was fine but by the end of the third month all symptoms were back and after six months I opted to go back onto it.
My GP advocates HRT for life but the menopause clinic (who have now signed me back over to my GP) are definitely of the opinion that after 60 women should not take HRT due to increasing risks.
Taz
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Taz which patch are you on? at what dosage?
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I'm on Femseven Conti at the minute which is 50 microgrammes I think.
Taz
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I decreased my HRT slowly over 5-6 months (had been on it for 5 years) and had no return of any symptoms. Now been 6 months since I stopped completely. Different for different folks I expect.
Bramble
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I think that supports my theory, Bramble - that the withdrawal from HRT isn't a problem in itself if done slowly but if you need it longterm, you just do. I agree with you stay on it as long as yr body needs it which could be the rest of your life Some of us need it forever, some of us don't. Eventually I plan to try weaning off but if I don't feel well I shall go back on it and probably stay on it forever. My HRT-savvy gp agrees with that plan.
Bette x
P.S. Great to hear that you're doing well without it, Bramble. :congrats:
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My GP will also allow me to stay on HRT for as long as I need it which is great.
Actually I think I have made a few mistakes along the way with my HRT. I went onto a conti patch after the sequi was not working as well. I checked with Dr Currie and she said this was fine. To start with I had cramping and spotting so I started cutting my patches in half and this solved the spotting problem. I floated along not feeling too bad for a few months and then out of the blue (along with some family stress) my meno symptoms have returned. I have been having flushes and panic attacks, terrible anxiety. I went back to the full patch with no great difference.
I think I was in actual fact not as far into meno as I thought. I suspect my hormone levels are very low at the moment.
Now I wonder whether I should return to the GP for either a change of patch to see if that works better. or a stronger patch than I have at the moment.
I suppose I was a bit over optimistic thinking I could cut down so much and it is going to take while to get this under control again. My own stupid fault I know.....but I really need to get all this under better control again because at the moment I am struggling a bit.
Honeyb
x
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When I casually mentioned to my gp that at some stage I'd need to try changing from Femoston sequi 2mg to 1mg in order to prepare for changing to the conti version (which is only available in 1mg) she said "Oh you don't need to think about that for ages yet." I'm 52. I feel great on 2mg and certainly wouldn't consider trying a lower dose for now. I still get the occasional night sweat and sometimes feel as if symptoms are "hovering" if you know what I mean. ???
How long have you been on the full patch again, Honeyb? When I changed HRT (because of my old one being discontinued) it was nearly 6 months before I felt that I was back to where I had been before.
Bette x
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I have only just managed the full patch for about three weeks now Bette....so its very early days and I do know I need to give it a chance.
Its the anxiety that bothers me the most. I hate the racing feeling in my tummy and the "get me out of here feeling". I did not have this pre HRT so I dont know whether the proper full patch of a stronger one will help.
I will be patient and wait and see before I rush into a change.
I am supposed to be university clothes shopping with my daughter this week and I am dreading it in case I get panicky. This is SO not me and I dont know where these feelings have come from. I hope to choose a quiet day because if things are quiet then I should be not too bad.
I have always been a "controlled" person so these feelings are out of my comfort zone and I dont know how to deal with them,
Honeyb
x
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I was going to post a question about HRT then I saw this thread. I'm a youthful and active 62 yr old who went through the menopause at 59. I have been having the most horrendous hot flushes and night sweats for about 9 years. I have no libido, a dry whatsit and the most awful mood swings which have been getting a lot worse recently. I have nothing in my life to complain about but feel permanently on edge, so much so that it is visible to other people.
I tried HRT patches a few years ago and while they helped considerably with other symptoms, I was spotting and bleeding all the time after the first few weeks. I then was prescribed tablets but they brought back my periods with a vengeance, such bad flooding I couldn't leave the house for 3 days. But when I had had periods before the menopause they had been trouble free so this was very unwelcome.
Does all HRT bring back periods as I certainly don't want them to start again?
Our doctor's surgery has been going through an upheaval and the current GP is a young Frenchman who I don't feel comfortable talking to so that's why I'm coming here for help and advice.
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Hi KS
I've replied on your other thread. ;)
Bette x
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Hi Ade here, New to MM a few days ago.Im having all the meno symptoms for the last 5 years i think not sure how long seems forever. Was trying to get through it the natural way, didnt want to take hrt. I smoke and have other prob so didnt want more pills. The thing is i feel i couldnt go on like this the tiredness, depression,anxiety has got so bad.I started CLIMAGEST 1mg 3 days ago and its making me feel really ill. I feel really sick, headache even more tired (if thats possible) pains in tummy i dont know what to do. :'( Anyone else feel like this when they first started hrt? Will it pass?Any advice would be great!!! :-*
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I have been taking HRT on and off for 8 years. My GP hates me taking it even though there is no medical reason why I should not and without it my life is absolutely awful. 2 years ago I met my partner after being alone for 12 years and more so now I need to feel human and womanly. My GP is now saying I can only have HRT for another few months and the prospect of all those dreadful symptoms is making me ill.I was recently changed to a different HRT and since then I have had intermittent spotting (more nagging from my GP)As far as I am concerned my quality of life is vital and if there was a health reason for stopping HRT I would accept that but as it is I am being ruled by a young female doctor.
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Why does she want you to stop HRT -what are her reasons? Ask her for the source of her information.
Or, are there any other GPs available? It might be worth speaking to somebody else, just to get a second opinion. If nothing else, there might be someone who is easier to communicate with.
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Macky, I would definitely find another GP, or gyn, or whatever dr. can help you. It sounds like your GP is way off base and not tuned into your needs. You don't need a dr. like that. You need someone who understands and supports you. I wouldn't wait. She said all you have is a few months? find another dr. asap. You said your life was awful without hrt. you already know this. Best of luck to you.
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Hi macky
:welcomemm:
I'm with the others - find a new gp! I tried several and eventually changed surgery and am now with a sympathetic, HRT-savvy gp who is quite happy for me to stay on it as long as I need it to keep feeling good.
Which HRT are you on now? I had some spotting issues so my gp sent me for a scan for check things out but has never suggested that I need to come off it, only that my regime might need "tweaking."
Bette x
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Thank you for your replies...the pills I am on now are Premique which are not great as I still get night sweats and mild flushes and my hair is thinning again and my libido is flat. I was on Kliovance and was fine on that. I have checked out other surgeries in the area and am ready to change. My GP said that if I have more bleeding I am to stop taking the HRT so I am basically ignoring the spotting.I am happy to sign a disclaimer if that is what it takes. There is no history in my family of heart problems and only one incident of cancer..my dad got a form of cancer from working with chemicals...I am a fit 59 year old who put on weight when I gave up smoking 5 years ago. Before that I was dreadfully underweight and now I am comfortable with how I am.My partner is an older dad so I have 2 stepsons aged 11 and 6 and really need to be able to cope better.
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Why have you changed from Kliovance, macky? If it was suiting you and you had no spotting problems, I'd say that you might as well go back to it. I hate to say it but Premique is the cheapest HRT by far..... I hope that your gp wasn't just thinking about her budget. ??? :(
There's lots of great info in the menu on the left - here's one quote:- Although some bleeding in the first 6 months of therapy is common, there should not be bleeding after that and the lining does not go through the stages of stimulation and then shedding as it does during a normal cycle and with sequential therapy. Personally, I wouldn't ignore the spotting if it goes on for too long. Hopefully you'll find a better gp who knows more about HRT who can help you sort out the best one for you.
If you feel like introducing yourself on "New Members", I'm sure that more will be along to welcome you. Newbies often get missed in the middle of existing threads. :)
Bette x
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Yes I will do that thank you. It was my GP who changed my HRT without giving me any explanation why..I supposed it was financial.
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I'm sorry but she sounds awful, macky. :( To change medication which is suiting a patient with no explanation or good reason - awful. :'( The sooner you find a new gp the better, I'd say.
Bette x
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Talking about whether HRT is good or bad, this snippet seems to be encouraging
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/3987021
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Well I have changed GP and I am going for an internal scan next week to find out why I am bleeding. My new GP has said I am to stay off HRT for 6 months during which time he has prescribed pills to combat the hot flushes but he is happy to px the HRT after that. I have been off the HRT for 2 weeks now and I do not know whether it is coincidental but I have felt like I have flu since but I feel more at ease knowing I now have a GP who cares. Thank you for putting me right folks XX
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Sounds like progress, macky. A good gp makes such a difference. :)
I had a scan to check some unusual spotting but my gp was happy for me to stay on HRT while we found out what was going on. Scan was normal and spotting has since settled down; she always thought that it was probably just hormonal fluctuations and was obviously right. Hopefully your scan will be clear too and then you'll be able to discuss things with your gp; he may be happy for you to restart HRT straight away if that's what you want.
Let us know how things go,
Bette x
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Hi,
This is a positive update fot those just started HRT, I started HRT on wed and already feel so much better!
Joint and muscle aches are much improved also have much more energy, i feel as though i am being recharged? so this making me feel so much happier as i can get on with things.
I did not expect this to be so quick, i felt am improvement about 24hrs after putting on my 1st patch. I have also lost 4lb without changing my diet as well?
I am a bit wary about the pergesterone part when i come to it but hope that goes well too.
Had a bit of nausea on 1st day but other than that no side effects.
I hope it lasts and i am not being too hopefull?
I had a lovely wekend with my family and i cant remember the last time i felt this well. x
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:congrats: crazydaisy
Bette x
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I am really pleased to have found this site having been looking for advice from those who "know" what its like. I haven't had a period for over 2 years and tried all the alternatives for hot sweats and sleepless nights - menopace, sage tablets, isoflavines, etc etc changing the diet by eating soya, flax seeds, etc. Didn't have a lot of support from my doctor, so went to see another one at the same practice and she has been great and so I started HRT about two and half months ago after a lot a deliberation. It has been great within 3 weeks no sweats and sleep, however in the last couple of weeks I have had painful breasts a bit like before a period or when you are pregnant, they either feel tender and quite full and very firm. I am presuming this is because of adding hormones back into your system?? I have got an appointment with the doctor but would like to know has anyone else suffered with this, does it get better or continue?
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Hi Charmian
Glad you've had success with your HRT. I have been using it since February but just over 2 weeks ago increased my dose. My boobs are a bit larger and slightly tender so presume its due to more oestrogen. Hoping this settles down along with the flushing and chills!
Maybe some of the other ladies have some experience of this and can be more help than me.
Xx
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Hi charmian
:welcomemm:
Breast tenderness is quite common and may well settle. :boobs: I ratehr like the firm, full feeling! ::) Evening Primrose Oil and/or Starflower Oil can help - apparently it needs to contain at least 230GLA to be effective.
What HRT are you on? If it's a real problem, you might like to try a lower dose but obviously symptom control is the main thing!
You might like to introduce yourself on "New Members" as Newbies can get missed in the middle of existing threads and others will want to welcome you. :)
Bette x
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Hi Bette and Anne,
Thanks for your feedback. I am on Kliovance (lowest dose I think). Know why my breasts got so bad yesterday, I appear to have started a period this morning which is definitely not wanted!! It does say in the leaflet that bleeding may occur in the early months, and I will check when I see my doctor on Friday.
How do you get into "New Members" was looking yesterday and couldn't work it out.
The other problem I have had, and also experienced it when I was starting the menopause and my hormones were everywhere, is erratic effects of alcohol. One evening you can drink and are fine, the next you are emotional, angry and behave abnormally. The obvious answer is no alcohol or limit to 2 glasses, but very frightening what happens - has anyone else experienced this or am I just mental?
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Hi Carmian
Well the sore boobs explained!
There has been discussion before about the effects of alcohol and I think the general consensus was that many of us can't tolerate it the same as before.
I certainly can't. Don't touch it at all now but I'm sure by trial and error you will find a tolerable amount to have.
To get onto New Members if you click on the forum option on the left hand menu and there is a section General Discussions and within that an option for New Members.
Xx
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Hi there Charmain ;D
i just had to say i totally agree about th alcohhol!!! i just cant tolerate my usuaul levels which obviously impacts on my entire soial life and stress management techniques - not only can i not drink my bottle of wine (red) but even my gin has startd to tast a bit rubbish too. im losing th drink feelig completly. My womn friends tell me this is normal and that gives me some consolance (?) but its like saying goodby to a whole way of life...sniff... ive just started Femoston (7weeks) and about to put up another post about it as i go to see my hrt friendly very helpful gp (fifth one i tried mind :o) latr this week. Hope things continue to improve for you!! its all fizzy water from now on !!! ;D
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Hi.. I have just been put on Premique, tho my last period was only 10 months ago.. I have suffered so much with hot flushes and night sweats.. every twenty mins or so at times and night sweats have lasted for 2and half hours on one or two occasions.. I have been on clonodine hydrochloride for about 3 months and they havent done a thing.. so as a final resort the doc has prescribed Premique.. I would really like to know other ladies experience of this and I am a little anxious about having been put on it less than a year after my last period.. the reason for this is I suffered from Endometriosis and hrt with a bleed aggravated this conditon. Thank you for your views in advance. :)
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I tried so hard to get through the menopause 'naturally' but some of my symptoms, particularly anxiety, got unbearable a few months ago, and I finally went on HRT two months ago. So far, for me, I'm finding HRT very good! I'm on Kliovance, and haven't noticed any side effects other than some odd aches and pains in the early days while my body adjusted, but within a couple of weeks I felt much calmer, and much more back to my old self.
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Hi Everyone. This is my first time on the Forum and wow. I just want to say a very big thank you to everyone for all your advice. I have been suffering meno symptoms now for 2 years. I have tried all sorts of remedies including magnets. I have been thinking for a while re starting HRT as I just can't cope with the hot flushes, night sweats that leave me and my sheets soaked, mood swings, loss of concentration to name just a few symptoms. My hisband bless him who is so supportive is frozen as I just can't cope with heat. I have finally had enough. After reading all your comments, good and bad, I have finally decided to give it a go. Ive booked my appointment to see my GP on Wednesday and just hope she agrees to it. So wish me luck everyone and thanks again. :)
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Hi santessa and welcome to the forum - I'm not on hrt yet, but would like to know how you get on. Keep us posted please.
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Best of luck, santessa!
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Hi everyone
My name is Karen I'm 46.. Nearly 47.... I've been on hrt for 17 days now prempak low dose, so far it's be good headache yesterday and today not sure if its related.... I went on these cause for the last 3-4 years I've felt so so low and this last year well I really felt like I was not even worth anything to anyone felt totally useless, no energy, no motivation for anything, sex drive was zero....really had the force myself to go to work,,,,,wanted to just sit on my own for hours..... Went to dr a few times ...their we're to busy to listen... I knew it was not normal to fell like it and was getting worse....went and saw my own dr had to wait as he was booked way down the line but wanted to see him as he has known me for 20 odd years... Went as I was no makeup wanted him to see me and how I felt... That was 17 days ago ...I feel so much better my mood lifted almost at once like my body had craved this hormone....I don't feel like doom and gloom everyday I feel happy not like a magic pill just normal in my head again lol... I will keep updating to see how to goes but at the mo I'm so happy to not have brain fog..x
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Hi Kinney :welcomemm:
You will find lots of help and support on here. You might like to also post under the New Members thread as this post may get missed and we do like to welcome new members.
It's so good to read that you are feeling better.
Taz x
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Conflicting information is good it means there is a debate, but it is only helpful to the end user if we can access this information which is why i have joined this forum as this is definitely a topic that has only just being openly discussed.
A answer i am seeking is if you take HRT we are informed it puts your hormones back to a pre- menopause level, but does that indicate it restores them to a peri-menopause state?
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Hi Susza
:welcomemm:
Everything is discussed openly on here and has been for some time - and you will find lots of old threads talking about HRT and hormones.
To try to answer a bit of your question:
I presume you are referring to oestrogen? If you take HRT it does not usually put your hormones (oestrogen) back to a pre-menopause level - because the natural cycle of oestrogen varies between lowish to very high around ovulation and most HRT gives a constant amount of oestrogen all the time.
Some women who have early menopause do take much higher doses but it is difficult to re-create the cycle of what happens naturally - constant very high levels can also cause problems and is not what our bodies are used to.
The aim through HRT is to give you more oestrogen to a level which alleviates negative symptoms and sometimes do more than that - depending on your circumstances.
During the peri-menopause there is no steady state and oestrogen fluctuates widely within and between individual women - you would not want to recreate this as it is the fluctuations (in oestrogen and progesterone) which give rise to some of the unpleasant symptoms.
There is a huge amount of information on this site if you look down the menu on the left which can help you understand what is happening to you and what HRT can do.
Why not introduce yourself in the New Members Section, tell us something about yourself and hopefully we can help you with any decisions you are trying to make - at least discuss with you.
Hurdity x
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Conflicting information is good it means there is a debate, but it is only helpful to the end user if we can access this information which is why i have joined this forum as this is definitely a topic that has only just being openly discussed.
A answer i am seeking is if you take HRT we are informed it puts your hormones back to a pre- menopause level, but does that indicate it restores them to a peri-menopause state?
Hi Susza - Welcome
As Hurdity says, there's lots of information in the menu on the left hand side.
You ask, very sensibly to my mind, does HRT restore hormones to peri / pre menopause state.
I don't know whether anybody has fully measured or established hormone levels at these times.
If this is the case, it's going to be difficult to state definitely what HRT needs to do.
If it's not measured, what are we aiming at?
However, having said that I feel much better on HRT than off!
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Hi Limpy
I did try to answer that!
Do you mean whether they are measured in an individual? In which case probably not - mine weren't - but there is a reference range of oestradiol levels for women at each stage of the menstrual cycle that is well documented.
There has also been a huge amount of research to determine serum estradiol levels post-menopausally as well as after various types of HRT - the levels of the latter are all given in the leaflets which accompany each product or can be found on the web under the SPC ( Summary of Product Characteristics).
Many women get their oestrogen (estradiol) levels tested after menopause too, before and after taking HRT, although one reading along doesn't tell you much.
I have explained in my post what HRT is aimed at and why it does not aim to restore levels to pre-menopause. Maybe I didn't explain clearly enough - but it was meant to be a short answer explaining the essence of it...
Hurdity x
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Hi Hurdity
Thanks for that.
I did mean as measured in an individual, mine wasn't measured at all until meno was suspected.
Definitely nothing before.
I think I was getting at the fact in this country blood tests only seem to be taken when something is wrong.
Not just for menopause, in medicine generally. We don't seem to measure things to establish what is the normal base state for an individual in good health. How can faults be identified if we don't know what normal is for a person
Sorry it's a bit muddled
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:-\
Hi, my own experience of HRT. I started on hrt aged 51 when a blood test confirmed I was menopausal. I was not getting any untoward symptoms but had always suffered low mood and low libido and had heard so many good things about HRT making you feel great and livening up your sex life so I thought I could do with some of that! To be honest, I felt no different on hrt and two years into taking it I was advised to come off due to benign breast cysts. I cut down slowly and then the trouble started. Just hot flushes, very bad and frequent. I could not stick it so went back on hrt - there was no history of breast cancer in my family so I thought I would be ok. I tried a few times to come off hrt but each time the hot flushes came back after a few weeks worse than ever.
Then last Christmas I was diagnosed with breast cancer picked up on a mammogram. Thankfully it was caught early and I had surgery end January and am now awaiting 20 sessions of radiotherapy and 5 years of hormone treatment. As my tumour was hormone receptive (feeds off oestrogen in the body) I had to come off hrt cold turkey. I had my last tablet on 10th January and waited with baited breath for the dreaded flushes.
It has now been two months since I stopped hrt and yes, I am getting hot flushes and night sweats but no worse than when I tried to come off hrt gradually. I can cope with them. I think that we will always go through these symptoms and hrt only delays them which is ok if you are working and want to delay til retirement.
My GP and the Breast Surgeon both say that there is no evidence that taking hrt caused my breast cancer but that is something I will never know for sure. I have told my daughter she must never take it even if offered it (she works abroad where the guidelines may differ from UK).
Sorry for the essay.
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:-\I forgot to mention that I am now 61 so was on hrt for nearly ten years. I started on patches and didn't like them as left marks on my skin which was difficult to clean off so I took femoston conti tablets for many years. I think they come in two strengths and I took the lower strength.
Pearlriver
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Hello all, I have been on low dose HRT for about 8 weeks now and haven't had any bothersome side effects yet. It has been a life saver for me as I felt so terrible before taking it. I feel so much calmer and happier now. :) :)
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pearl- just picked up your post- and do hope you feel better and get better soon. It's a dilemma we all face- to take or not take.
I've been on HRT for 4.5 years now and feel I am playing with fire once I get to 5 years- but no one really knows the risks.
I had other conditions when I started taking it- low bone density and a very irritable bladder ( chronic health issue for me) . So far I have felt the benefits of HRT and don't want to stop. It's very hard to know what to do and I do feel for you.
x
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Hi
I've been on Hrt (zumenon 2mg) for about 15 years now and am now going on 53. I had a total hysterectomy incl removal of the ovaries and cervix in 1998 and I have been absolutely fine with the hrt. I don't smoke or drink alcohol and have maintained a steady weight of around 9 and a half stone and try to look after myself in general. I do get vaginal dryness, have noticed changes down there and am prone to thrush. I guess the zumenon doesn't fix everything! My sex drive went out the window with the rest lol and to be honest I regret that so much.
Each time I go into the doctors they pressure me about coming of the HRT and as you can imagine I'm absolutely terrified! I remember what it was like just before the op when they gave me implants to shut down all the hormones and shrink the womb....I was a total nutcase for about 3 months! I had all the classic menopausal symptoms, couldn't concentrate at work, flushes the lot. At 53 I just don't want to have to go through that right now. I care for my elderly mum at home now and it just doesn't bear thinking about.
Menopause in my case would be instant as I have no backup to these hormones and it's a scary prospect. I'm wondering if I reduce down to 1mg will they let me keep taking it until I'm 60?
I'm trying to do all the right things already. I've started eating foods and drinks reccomended in a really great book about the menopause....soya milk and fruit smoothies with linseeds, more foods like chickpeas and cooking with healthy oils etc. They say keeping well in the menopause has a lot to do with your diet but I don't know if that will be enough hence the reason I would rather keep taking the HRT.
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Hi jeannie - welcome to the forum.
You may like to read the latest news (taken from the front page of this website) which I hope you will find encouraging! http://www.menopausematters.co.uk/newsitem.php?recordID=143
I hope there is continuing research on the effects on women over 60 though as I reach that age next year and as I have already tried to come off twice with the same old symptoms returning I am really not looking forward to it!
Taz x
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Thanks Taz :) I find it so frustrating that there's so many conflicting reports and I wish that a bunch of clever woman could nail it all down for the rest of us lol
Can the doctor refuse to prescribe HRT at the age of 60? Oddly enough I've never came across anyone who like myself have been on it 15 years. They keep telling me that I should have stopped at 50 as that was the natural time for menopause ???
Anyway it's great to have somebody to share all the worry with ....sometimes I think I'm going crazy trying to make hubby understand!
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A close friend of mine started HRT at age 33 after a total hyster. If you take it before the age of 50 then you are not thought to be at risk so the "counting" doesn't start until you reach 50. It's because up till then you are merely replacing what should have been yours naturally. Anyway, she stopped it at 50 for a while to see what her symptoms were and then restarted it and is still taking it now at the age of 55.
Funnily enough my GP is ok with prescribing after the age of 60 but it was the Menopause Clinic who said that I should wean myself off slowly so that I can be HRT-free by the time I am 60! So muddling!
As regards your hubby - have you found the Advice for Husbands link?
Taz x
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Will have a look at that thread thanks Taz x
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I saw my Gynaecologist yesterday and she mentioned that I should consider having a break from HRT next year as the recommendation is to have a break after 5 years.
I started with the symptoms of meno 12 years ago and struggled without assistance until 4 years ago - I was going mental ! However I will be 62 next year and although I rely on Estrogen Gel HRT, I suppose I'll have to give it a try .... cold turkey :hotflash: again. can't say I am looking forward to it.
Don't like this getting old lark - it's over-rated.
Meggie
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I just turned 63 last month. Started HRT ten years ago..........have tried to come off completely on a few occasions but just cannot tolerate the symptoms. Now down to the lowest dose that alleviates the symptoms and have no intention of coming off it. My GP is absolutely fine with it and I couldn't bear to go back to that "pre-HRT" person who I didn't recognise. Yes, sometimes I worry when something hits the headlines but......you know.......we don't know what lies ahead and we could be struck by all number of things. Try to be positive and worry less...........its quality of life that's important at this age !!
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Do you mind if I ask which one you take skkb? and have you ever had any bleeding with it?
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I have just turned 59 but have only been on HRT for about eighteen months - having tried lots of natural remedies before this.
I use Oestrogel - two pumps per day - which I think is a very low dose. When I saw GP recently, he said they like women to come off it at 60 :o which did shock me somewhat. If it makes you feel better and it keeps the osteoporosis at bay, why do they want to take it away from you?
Also I am more risk of osteo due to taking thyroxine :(
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Mine says 60 too. I think it's because no long term testing has been carried out on the effects of HRT on women over 60. It is thought to put you at greater risk of stroke. Patches or gel are better than pills with regard to this I think.
Taz x
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This is encouraging http://www.bcmj.org/article/hrt-older-women-it-ever-too-late
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Thanks SL but it seems to be saying that you should use HRT for a maximum of five years as by then the symptoms should be much better (not true in my case) and then restart it some years later for other benefits. What about the years in between though i.e. between 60 to 70 or have I read it wrongly?
Taz x
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More reasons to keep taking estrogen, I did think it was interesting about HRT toothpaste (British Dental)
http://www.dentalgentlecare.com/menopause_and_dental_health.htm
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just started to use a patch---Fem Conti--- as the vagifem pessaries are being discontinued in the larger dose, but I only really require it for vaginal atrophy---does anyone else have any experience of taking a transdermal patch for this condition?
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I use Evorel Conti to help with hot flushes mainly, but also vaginal dryness. The flushes are sorted YAY,
but I do need a little extra help. I use Sylk for dryness and gynest cream externally when I remember, again for dryness
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This is very true, In have very good skin and though it might be part genetic I think being on estrogen has helped enormously.
http://pharmaxchange.info/press/2011/03/the-ageing-skin-part-4h-estrogen-and-hormonal-treatments/
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:)Hi All
So is hrt the think to do , i had my mum who had breast cancer and 2 aunts
and that is what has put me off plus i never could take the pill when i was bleeding
but i would like to try it just nervous any comments much appreciated ;D
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The thought of getting breast cancer also puts me off HRT. It is a difficult decision to make.
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I am sorry to but in, but cannot see how I should create a new thread, and this seemed to relate to my question. ::) I want to know how many months a gp is permitted to presribe in one go. It is just that I used to get 6 months presribed by other doctors in the same surgery, and now a new doctor only gives me 3 months at a time. Nothing has changed with my health, and the two previous other doctors have moved to another practise. My new doctor doesn't seem to know and I have to go to pick up a new prescription every three months, plus pay two prescription charges as there are two different pill. One of the previous doctors specialised in menopausal matters, and she gave me 6 months each time. I have been on hrt for nearly 2 years now. Any help would be greatly appreciated. :)
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Hi La Contessa - my doctor has only ever issued three months at a time but it is on repeat prescription so I just have to phone up and order the next three months. I am checked out for weight, blood pressure etc. every six months.
To start a new thread you just go to the section you want to post in and at the top right of the page there is a "new topic" button. Just click on this and it will start a new thread.
Taz x
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GP surgeries can now do what they want regarding the amount of medicines they give per prescription charge, so it will differ from one surgery to the next. Now they all have their own budgets to look after they are becoming more "business" like
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Unfortunately that is the case.
I used to get 3 months worth and then a new doctor gave me 6 months worth. However last time I went I saw a stand-in doctor and I agreed to reduce my dose of patches a little but when I went to collect my prescription there was only in packet in there ie one month's worth and when I got home there was no repeat prescription.
I queried with the dispensary at the practice and they said the policy had changed - that you only get one month at a time. I can't quite believe this because for under 60's this would be incredibly expensive not to mention inconvenient to have to travel every few weeks to get some more. I have made an appointment with a different doc to see what the score is.
You could try to ask for 6 months again but I expect financial reasons are at the root as ann123 says.
Hurdity x
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I do get monthly repeat prescriptions so don't need to go back to the GP.
You can look at the costs of pre paying for a 12month time, look on NHS website, depending on the amount you are spending this may be cheaper, my hubby did this for his blood pressure meds, before he turned 60, now he gets them all free!!!
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Thank you everyone, cost is at the root of my issue to, at over £15 a time. I will look into it more, but what is interesting to me is that the doctors do not seem to know the facts, as I asked him and he didnt know and the receptionist said 6 months was the highest dose, and she said that 3 months ago! All confusing when we have enough to deal with re menopausal symptoms.
:-\
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You should have a surgery practise manager, they will know what the policy is for your surgery, sorry, we are discussing this on 2 threads!
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that is my fault ann being a green horn when it comes to posting :)
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Good to know for ladies who have been advised to come off HRT at 60, I think they should be able to change to a 0.14 patch to maintain therapeutic benefits.
http://journals.lww.com/greenjournal/Abstract/2004/09000/Effects_of_Ultralow_Dose_Transdermal_Estradiol_on.4.aspx
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Thanks SL. I wonder if that would be strong enough to combat hot sweats though and by unopposed does it mean no progesterone added? It;s a bit technical for me!
Taz x
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No Taz its not strong enough for some to combat symptoms, but to my mind if doctors continue to say that women should come off HRT at sixty, then they should at least be allowed to use an ultra low dose patch and in theory not have to use progestin- it clearly states that it does not build up endometrial hyperplasia. It will at least protect bones combined with calcium and Vit D3.
Menostar is nor available in UK as far as I know, but I have not asked my GP about it for a few years so don't know for sure. I keep my patch on for a week, or have one week on and one week off, purely for the benefits. If I had not had a hysterectomy I would probably do the same. No doubt the purist would not agree with this, but it would be my choice.
I use natural ways to keep healthy so that might be contributing to be having no symptoms or it could be that the tiny amount of estrogen I am absorbing is enough for me. Even a minute amount of estrogen is better then none and it takes very little to protect bones etc. and you can take up the slack with supplements and good diet.
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Interesting article on Post Menopause HRT
http://www.glowm.com/section_view/heading/Postmenopausal%20Hormone%20Therapy/item/83
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Im not a fan , even my doctor doesnt even mention it. The thing is i have known friends take it and after years when they have come off they get there periods again or worse , it just supresses what needs to happen to your body. We all have different symptons and i do suffer believe me but im trying to do it naturally .
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watergypsy you might be interested in our "Tell us how you cope with HRT" forum
http://www.menopausematters.co.uk/forum/index.php/topic,15181.0.html
HRT does so much more then treat menopause symptoms, it maintains bones, skin etc. and for those ladies who can stay on HRT hopefully indefinitely or until they decide to come off themselves, it will be keeping their bodies strong healthy and in better working order.
I must add that it is a personal choice.
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I want to throw something into the mix - I'm on a roll here ;)
I happen to have a 'Personal liquor License' because of the work I do. When I went on the course for this license we didn't just learn about the dangers of alcohol but also the benefits!!! Something that is rarely advertised!
Of course drinking alcohol depends on various health issues but after a certain age e.g. 50 a small amount has been shown to help prevent heart disease, stroke, some cancers and dementia - to name but a few. When you are suffering from hot flushes etc we are advised to avoid alcohol, so HRT can enable us to enjoy just 'a little of what we fancy' which may do us good.
In my workplace so many mature women I speak to tell me that they can't drink alcohol anymore because they get headaches etc. - I'm convinced it's the lack of oestrogen.
I certainly don't drink very much - probably only 1-2 units per week at most - but I do so in the knowledge it will do me more good than harm.
Now 57, I am coming off HRT soon and am dreading the headaches, flushes etc. but hope that at least I may have delayed the onset of osteoporosis,( my mother has lost 3' in height) and reduced my risk of heart disease and some cancers while I was taking the HRT. The HRT has also enabled me to drink that little bit of alcohol that may also benefit my health in future and I doubt I'll be able to drink when I'm off the HRT.
HRT has helped me to cope with some really tough times over the last 18 years - yes,I've been on it most of this time - and I will certainly go back on if things get bad again.
DG x
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Hi interesting point of view - but my experience is quite different. I haven't been able to tolerate much alcohol at all probably since being peri-menopausal - and began to develop migraines after alcohol especially wine and if I drank it late at night. So I would develop what seemed like a horrendous hangover after just 1 glass and sometimes these migraine type headaches would last for 3 days. I have been on HRT for over 6 years and this hasn't changed. The progesterone in the HRT makes it a lot worse but even on the oestrogen only section I have to be very very careful - and I do enjoy a little alcohol.
Just shows we are all different. Latest evidence of course is that too much may well be more of a risk factor than for example HRT in causing certain cancers, but 1-2 units a week is minimal!! I try to limit it to weekends but do consume a bit more than that!
Hurdity x
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I haven't found any difference whether on or off HRT but I have never drunk very much. Is that half a glass of wine then Dancinggirl? ;D I have around 5 glasses a week which is ten units so under the recommended level. I hadn't considered any benefits as I thought that only applied to red wine and I only drink white. :-\
Taz
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Hi Taz2
5 glasses is probably fine and I think any alcohol works, although red wine is considered particularly good. At one time stout was sold as a tonic - I certainly drank a little stout each evening when I was feeding my babies - this would be really frowned upon now but beer is quite a good source of B vitamins!!!
With all the drink related problems we have in this country the press and medical profession have to stress the negatives - and I wanted to just put the other side to all you responsible ladies.
Cheers ! : ;)
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I was surprised that a small glass is two units - I always thought it was one until the doc put me right. Do you know how it benefits us? It's interesting to see both sides especially as when you are on HRT having any alcohol ups your breast cancer risk. It's good to know there are benefits too!
Taz
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When I was in hospital after having my first baby the drinks trolley would be in the dining room at dinner time. It had the usual stuff like tea coffee water and juice. Also stout and Guinness. Can you imagine what the PC crowd would say today ::)
I have a small glass of wine three or four times a week and I don't find any difference now to years ago. I have never been a big drinker because it would just make me sick. I hate spirits after a run in with brandy when I was old enough to know better ::)
Honeyb
X
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Re - Red Wine being better than white.
I had a procedure similar to angioplasty a few years ago .
This, whilst it wasn't on my heart, did go through it.
Spoke to the Surgeon and supporting doctors re alcohol good or bad.
The prevailing point of view?
Red wine in moderation is helpful.
When asked, it turns out white wine isn't that much different.
It must be true, it was a heart surgeon.
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It's swings and roundabouts. Wine good for the heart but bad for some cancers. It's a case of everything in moderation I reckon!
Taz x
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Like all things - moderation is the key word.
Beer used to be sold as a tonic - it is actually a fairly good source of b Vitamins although brewers are not allowed to state this anymore!
I drank stout every evening when I was feeding my babies - very non PC!!!
Red wine has tannins and other elements that are deemed particularly good but I believe any alcohol (in small doses) can be beneficial to improve circulation etc. hence reducing stroke and vascular dementia. Please don't quote me on this as I am not an expert.
When I lived in Austria 35 years ago I did a blood donation once and i was given a class of red wine and a bar of chocolate afterwards - not the tea and biscuits you got in Britain. I was told it was more beneficial!!!
By the way, I used to teach dance classes to lady beginners about 4 years ago and I had 2 GPs in my class who advised us all to take good doses of Vit D through the winter. I think this is widely accepted now as beneficial for immune system, energy and prevention of various cancers. Go for it girls.
DG x
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Hi
O my life got an appointment with dr a week on sat to talk about help with meno symptoms, and just watched,"trust me I'm a Dr" on TV with the for sand against hrt, now completely confused , help,
Linda
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ducky,ducky. There is a thread on this site commenting on this programme and I think the general consensus was that it was too extremes with no real conclusion.
Far better to do research on this site - soak up all the info from the list to the left of this screen and go prepared with questions.
If you suffering with bad meno symptoms and you have no conflicting health issues, then the benefits of HRT outweigh the negatives - at least until 60 and now they are starting to extend this age limit. I think one of the plusses of HRT is that you have to have regular checks at the doctor which you might not otherwise do.
Live for today, if your meno symptoms are getting in the way, HRT may be your answer. Making an informed choice is the way forward.
Good luck Dg x
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Thanks dancing girl, it's all abit confusing isn't t it, just got back fron the dr and she was really good checked blood pressure, asked lots of questions, family history etc, has suggested I take kliovance. 3 months supply got to go back befor then to see how I ve got on, I don't know if I'm doing the right thing in taking them, I ve sort of built up a barrier really about " doing the menopause "without help, I know it's silly really, but I feel as if I ve let myself down, common sense tells me that if it's not right then just stop taking them, but feel abit disappointed with myself, o well we all know life's not black and white. Will let you know how it goes.
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Oh ducky,ducky - There is no such thing as a natural menopause - everyone is different. A hundred years ago you were lucky to get to 50 years old so menopause wasn't really a problem. I feel you have fallen down the hole that many new mothers also fall into. When I was pregnant for the first time and attended NCT classes etc. everyone was so determined to have a natural birth and fully breast feed for months. The expectation and pressures are so great that somehow you feel a failure if you have had pain relief through labour, end up having a caesarian or are unable to breastfeed for whatever reason. This is soooo bonkers - as long as the mother and baby come through ok and the baby is thriving nothing else matters. It's the same with the menopause. If you are one of the 25-30% of women who get bad meno symptoms why on earth should you restrict your life. Feeling hot all the time, sleepless nights, atrophy etc. often result in depression, anxiety & general ill health. Just because many women get few, if any, bad symptoms and often boast about it, this doesn't make you in any way a failure. I believe you are failing your family and yourself if you don't address the problem.
I'm am little concerned you have been given kliovance as the progesterone sometimes gives PMT. I think this is a continuous HRT which means you should get little or no breakthrough bleeding once you have been on it a few months. Give it a go but if you do find it doesn't suit you do try either Femiston (which has a kinder progesterone) or go for the bio-identicals like Oestrogel or patch with Utrogestan. There are lots of threads about various HRTs so do some research. Keep us posted about your progress and stop beating yourself up. DG x
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O thanks, dancing girl, I see what you mean about having baby's and breast feeding, I'm gonna give it a go and stop beating myself up about it, had lovely talk with my other half, and like they say life's too short, I'll let you know how things go, thanks again, keep you posted ,thanks
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This is interesting information about progesterone, Dr John Lee in his books talks about it.
http://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2009/12/26/This-Natural-Hormone-Can-Help-Heal-Your-Brain-Injury.aspx
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22635678
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Fascinating reading your personal experiences, soup dragon - Libby......I'm just 8 weeks into this new phase of life, probably peri.. For two or three yrs but now no libido, that one dropped in two three weeks before I married on Dec 28th last yr! Weirdest feeling having no arousal, with a gorgeous hubby in the romantic setting of St.Ives. last cycle December, sticky glows, not hot flushes yet, wrecked sleep. I'm going to keep reading this section on hrt whilst I attempt the natural route. Must try it first whilst symptons bearable, I've slowly shared it with my husband, was weepy. I'm never weepy, a great sense of humour from him made me end up laughing. But if my symptoms become as wretched as some I'm reading, this section is going to be so valuable. Your right, lady who said after suffering for a long time, day in day out you have chosen quality of life now. Thankyou menochicks. Libbylou
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I am into my 2nd week of evorel conti but am still suffering with terrible night sweats, I am wondering how long it takes to kick in? I have noticed that my mood has lifted slightly and the bouts of tears are less frequent, I have suffered for over a year with awful symptoms as am sure many of you can relate to and succumbed to HRT kicking and screaming as was worried about side effects etc but I had reached the point where I could no longer cope with anything, am just hoping these awful sweats stop soon. :-\
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I was told then starting Evorel Conti that it can take 3 months to start fully working.
Meanwhile enjoy the improved mood, the sweats may take a bit longer to reduce.
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I took HRT for about 15 years on and off but had to stop when I reached 60....thats when my life took a backward step. The palpitations, memory loss and the hot flushes all returned with avengance. 18 months later there was a defining moment when I decided the doctor needed to take me seriously, and this is a young woman doctor. I was in the bank at the counter and I had a serious hot flush, the sweat just ran off me, and I thought to myself it might look dodgy, as though I was up to no good. I had put up with night sweats and very embarrassing daytime ones. So I made an appointment to see the doc again and was determined I wasnt going to be pushed off with 'have you tried black coash, red clover etc' which I had previously tried. She prescribed me Gabapentin with a start of dose of 1 x 300mg daily and was told to gradually increase to 3 x 300 mg daily. She told me to go back and see her in two weeks, which I did and when I told her how they had worked she actually jumped up and punched the air shouting YES YES. Needless to say the drug had worked and I cant believe what a difference they made to me wiithin a couple of days. She has added them to my repeat prescrption. I am about 4 weeks into taking the max dose 3 x 300mg and although I have small flushes they fail into comparision to the drenching sweats I used to have. :)
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Hi Cashewitt
Welcome to the forum.
It's good that Gabapentin has helped with your sweats and flushes.
It isn't HRT but it can help a lot to reduce hot flushes, as you have found. :)
You say the max dose is 3 x 300mg - I have heard of people on much higher doses but this might be for epilepsy or pain control. If you decide you want to reduce the dose for whatever reason, make sure you do it gradually, like when you started taking it
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HRT changed my life. Now my GP wants me to come off it( I've been on it 6 years) and I can't bear the thought. Without it I was a sleep deprived, sweating, snarling harpy with nil interest in sex ( it definitely contributed to the breakdown of my 22 year marriage) I now have a new partner who is ten years younger than I am and without the HRT I am frightened I'll return to how I was before. Comments, anyone? Who has come off HRT successfully?
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Hi Pandora57
:welcomemm:
There have been lots of discussions recently about coming off HRT. If you go to the homepage of the forum and then put in appropriate search terms eg "coming off HRT" or "Stopping HRT", this should bring up some recent threads.
Unless there is a good medical reason why you should stop, and you are happy to continue - there is no reason not to carry on. There are several of us over 60 on here still taking it! I have been on it for over 7 years and I'm almost 61. Some have been on it for much longer.
Hurdity x
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Thanks for that - I'll go back to the GP when I need renewal and insist. I don't have any significant risk factors and as many people here have said, there are times when quality of life has to be the guiding force.
Pandora 57 xx
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Hi Pandora - I was asked to come off it last August after six years due to almost being 60 so agreed to give it a go. I lasted eight months but have restarted three weeks ago (only because I had one packet left in the cupboard) and now have to go back to my GP and confess. If you are aware of any risks etc. then it is up to you whether you decide to stay on it. I felt that I gave coming off it a good try but the symptoms were too much for me to cope with.
Let us know how you get on at the docs.
Taz x
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Can anyone shed any light on my symptoms of extreme wheezing and chest tightness. I started Elleste Duet approx 28 days ago - over last 2 weeks been wheezing like an old man -spirometry/peak flow normal - oxygen stats fine they sent me for chest xray today. I don't suffer from asthma or hay fever so this is really new for me.
my daughter made a passing comment about allergic reaction and I wondered if anyone else has heard of this.
getting a wee bit worried
kpnuts
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Interesting read
http://www.geocities.ws/menobeyond/goingoffhrt.html
No matter what the date!
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Was interested to read this
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24045394
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I started femeston conti low dose a week ago and felt better almost right away but suddenly I have blurry vision so felt I better stop incase its migraine related Seeing doc tomorrow to discuss. I was having extreme anxiety as well so could it have been that ? Having a week off Hrt to see if sight improves .
Any advice welcome
Kelly
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I'm not sure about hrt been on various types and had problems with progesterone side effects and also reaction to sticky stuff on patches and am now in gel and 100mg of utrogestan which I have been on for 3 weeks. Since I've started hrt I've put on 1 1/2 stone and now have headaches and itchy skin (I have idiopathic urticaria triggered usually by NSAIDs) haven't got a clue what to do whether or not to carry on or give up the ghost and go back to horrible sleeping patterns or bash on regardless :(
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I do not take HRT and was very committed to getting through this thing without it.
Then it got worse.
It's been an enormous relief just to let go of the self-flagellation and open myself up to the possibility that I may need it. By need I mean that I would much rather have my kid lose me to cancer in a few years than remember me like this or, worse, be taken away from me and wind up in the foster care system because I was unable to take care of him.
I had no idea than meno was like this. The decision is less like homebirth vs hospital birth than it is like chemo vs hospice care.
I am interested in hearing everybody's story and have no desire or right to judge anyone's choices.
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Hi Dippie and Welcome to MM
There is still so much controversy around the menopause and using HRT, I think it can be very difficult to know what is the right thing to do. On this site we are very fond of saying - "every women is different" & "Quality of life is very important". Many of us have experienced self righteous and patronising comments from friends, family and often our doctors simply declaring HRT as too dangerous or going against nature etc. which leave us feeling guilty and somehow a failure for using HRT. It isn't known exactly how many women experience moderate to severe menopause symptoms but I think a good estimate would be around 60% and the stress of coping with meno symptoms can cause serious mental and physical health issues. Many, many women are given antidepresants for the rest of their lives because GPs consider this the best option. That is not to say that ADs are bad, as many women find they do need ADs alongside HRT to regain control of their lives.
Menopause symptoms can last many years - we had a couple of ladies posting on this site who are still experiencing meno symptoms 20 years beyond their period stopping.
The so called 'Natural Way' is a nonsense as far as I'm concerned. 100 years ago you were lucky to get to 50 so the menopause wasn't an issue.
The risks of HRT up to 60 (and possibly beyond) are extremely small so if you don't take HRT I frankly think it is foolish not try to give it a try if it gives you quality of life.
It's a personal choice and GPs should be better trained to help us find the best way forward.
I had no choice as I had a premature menopause so had to take HRT fro 20 years. I'm off it now and not doing too badly but I still miss a good nights sleep. DG x
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i am on climagest 1 mg and it has been really helpful. I do sleep better, i don't have so many palpitations and i don't get any hot flushes. also feel generally less anxious. it took 1 month to really work, so be patient, though i know its difficult. It worked well for me.
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Thank you, dancinggirl. I'm on the other side of the pond, so actually getting a prescription is going to be its own challenge, but probably nowhere near as bad as forgiving myself and accepting the fact that I just can't do this own my own--even after four unmedicated home births. I seem to be having more problems than the average duck and would be FURIOUS if anyone told my father that he didn't deserve his insulin and that he should just pull himself together and visualize whirrled peas.
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Oh Dippie - please don't feel you have to forgive yourself for using HRT - you may have to ask others to forgive you for not using it earlier if you have been challenging to live with because of the meno symptoms.
Print out stuff from this site to show the doctor if you think there are gong to be problems - I'm afraid many doctors are still in the dark ages when it comes to treating the meno so it pays to be clued up and assertive.
Do check out the different HRT options - they will probably be under different names where you live but the various oestrogens and progesterones will be the same. As a first try I'd go for The Femoston combo as the progesterone in it is well tolerated by many women.
Good luck. Do start a separate thread so we can follow your progress and support you if need be. DG x
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I started feeling pretty awful around my 50th Birthday and went down with depression, following a long stint of not being able to think straight, sleep or feel cheerful. I went to the doctor in tears and she perscribed anti-depressants. I now wish I hadn't taken them as they only masked the symptoms I had and made me put on weight. With no female members of my family or close female friends to talk to I had no idea that it was probably the perimenopause as I was still having regular periods. I could no longer work, which was devastating as I was a succesful teacher. When i came off the anti-depressants I had weird flushes. Still having periods so didn't associate it with menopause. The my periods stopped for a couple of months and then came back regular again.
A couple of years later and another bout of depression and anti-depressants. The when I came off these I started to have really bad tiredness and dizziness and had a couple of seriously heavy periods before finally the doctor took blood tests. I cannot tell you how ill I was feeling, especially at night!!!
I tried patches and my depression got worse. I was signed off work again and this time refused anti-depressants, opting for talking therapy, which did help as I had had several bereavements. Then I went on Elleste Duet 1mg and after a few months on sequential HRT low dose I felt normal again, for the whole of the following summer I felt much, much better. Started regular exercise again and was sleeping and coping well. Vitamin B Complex also helped with this.
No 55 I have just been to docs as symptoms of brain fog, serious joint problems and extreme exhaustion were returning and I have now been put on Continuous Combined Therapy. At first Elleste Duet Conti 2mg and 1mg. I felt uncomfortable with the higher risks and went back and now I am on Kliovance 1mg and 0.5mg. I have had constant 'spotting' but hope this will pass in a few months. I am still exhausted but blood tests show nothing unusual, so hoping this will pass. Having slight issues with night sweats but this may be the weather.
All in all I think HRT has helped me a lot and I really wish the first doctor has thought of perimenopause instead of putting me on anti-depressants as they really took the joy out of my life. :)
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Hi and welcome to MM nissa11
Thank you for sharing your story - so helpful to hear peoples experiences.
I personally think HRT will always be a bit of a compromise as I think many women find there are side effects that have to tolerated and it often only reduces symptoms - still thats better than nothing.
Many women feel absolutely wonderful on HRt while others find the side effects and only partial relief of symptoms frustrating.
The fatigue you feel may be because progesterone taken continuously can bring this side effect - many women choose to stay on sequential HRT for this reason. It could be worth trying one or two of the other HRt preparations to see if other progesterone types suit you better - possibly Femoston(sequi or conti) which has a kinder progesterone?. Look under HRT preparations to the left of this screen for info.
It is extremely hot and humid at the moment so it's really difficult to gage whether it's the weather to our hormones giving us problems!!!!
Keep posting. DG x
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Hi dippie,
I was very much ike you, determined to get through things on my own with only herbal remedies. But when you realise how bad things get, every aspect of mylife & me not really feeling like me! I actually feel like i'm a different person. I am confused about everthing, not satisfied with anything & very angry about most things!! I;ve even been thinking abut just leaving my husband & son (who is nearly 18) & just being on my own. I have paranoia, thinking everyone is constantly judging me & criticising me too. So my doctor has put me on Prempak-C which will give me a monthly bleed too. I'm on day 6 at the moment & can't say I've noticed anything changing so far.
Does anyone now approx when you start to notice improvement?
Mine may very well be down to depression as I've got a hell of a lot of stress in my life at the moment so don't know if I should've just had anti-depressents?? There's my indecision & confusion again!!
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Hi julie53 and welcome to MM
You have been given one of the old fashioned type of HRTs - it happens to be the cheapest!!!! Having said this, it does suit some women. It is very low dose so depending on where you are in your menopause (peri or post) it could take a bit longer to kick in and you may need a higher dose preparation if you are not getting a reduction in your flushes etc.
If you find the progesterone part of this HRT gives you PMT type symptoms then you could try Femoston which has a kinder progesterone and suits lots of women very well. It can be a bit of trial and error with HRTs as we are all different.
Do read up all the info under the headings to the left of this screen - it's great to be clued up. Keep us posted about your progress. DG x
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Hi dancinggirl,
Thanks for your info I will bear all that in mind. When I go back to my doc in 3 months I will mention Femoston if my flushes haven't reduced. I haven't had a period for 5 months so i suppose I am just at the start of the 'proper' menopause?? Don't like the idea of having to have a bleed every month again tho, but i suppose that's part & parcel of having HRT at this stage.
I was on a fine line of accepting Fluxotine anti-depressants instead of HRT but didn't have a very good experience of Citalopram a few years back so went with the latter. Anyway will keep you posted & thanks for your support.
x
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If you are willing to plough through this, it really says everything you need to know about HRT, I think its excellent
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hormone_replacement_therapy_(menopause)
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Hi I have had weird feelings roof of my mouth and sore throat funny tongue etc wondered if these were hormone related ( I do have a hiatus hernia though -and I am on ppi) when I asked the doc for Hrt she said as I was 56 and hadn't had a period for 4 years it wouldn't do me any good at all and that I had had my menopause. Is this true?. I thought the menopause went on for years and years. Has one else had these symtoms or problems? Kelly
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Hi Keely
You are right and your doctor is wrong - menopausal symptoms, as a result of oestrogen deficiency, can last for the rest of our lives. Many women find symptoms settle over a period of a few months to 3 years once their periods stop but some get symptoms for 10 years or more.
I expect the feelings in your mouth may be due to the hernia - a visits to the dentist to check there is nothing going on with oral and teeth issues. It could be a mild virus. Some ladies do find their sense of taste etc changes.
If you are still getting flushes and night sweats and other meno symptoms then HRT should still be an option for you. Do read up all the info under the headings to the left of this screen to get clued up. DG x
Do start your own thread so more ladies can respond to your queries and thoughts. DG x
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Thanks dancing girl
Kellyx
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Hi all, this is my first post on this site and this topic couldn't have come at a better time as I literally picked up a prescription for HRT this morning. The day and night sweats, palpitations, anxiety and trouble sleeping are just ruining my life. But now I have the patches I'm sat here looking at them deciding wether to take them or not!
Any thoughts from other ladies taking it would be most gratful. Regards H
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Hi and welcome to MM Welshangel
The decision to use HRT or not is very personal. I think you have answered your own question; the meno symptoms are "ruining your life" and we always say on here it is about 'quality of life'. You don't know how long the meno symptoms will last - it could be just for 2-3 years or it could be for the rest of your life!!! Why put your life on hold in the hope you will feel better 'sometime' in the future. Our 40s and 50s are often the busiest and most stressful times in our lives and having a agree of control over how we feel is really helpful. The thing is you can give it a go and see how you feel. If you stop you will simply be back where you are now probably anyway.
Do read up all the info under the headings to the left of this screen - all very helpful.
Don't listed to all the horror stories or those women who tell you they went the 'natural route'. Women who don't use HRT either can't because they have a close family relation with breast cancer so HRT isn't an option OR they are one of the lucky 20-30% who get few if any meno symptoms.
If the patches don't agree with you then after 3 months I'd try something like Femoston - it's often the progesterone that can cause some side effects so it's about finding the regime that suits you. Many women do very well with the patches - so good luck and enjoy getting some proper sleep. DG xxx
PS Do start your own thread if you have questions or worries.
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Thank you DG for your reply. The patches I have are oestrogen only as I had a hysterectomy 15 years ago. I'm going to read a bit more about it before going ahead but as you said it's worth giving it a try. I'll be taking tips from this forum. Many thanks WA :)
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Hi Welshangel :welcomemm: from me too
As you have had a hysterectomy there really is no contest. Put the patches on! As Dancinggirl says it is the progestogen which usually causes the side effects and makes some women think twice or stop taking it!
You will definitely feel better once your body has got used to the extra oestrogen.
You haven't said how old you are but if you look at this page http://www.menopausematters.co.uk/balance.php you will see that the risks of taking HRT are not thought to exceed the benefits until you are over 70, and under 60 the benefits exceed the risks. The natural age of menopause is 50-52 so if you are less than this you should take it anyway to help protect your bones and heart.
Also even the flawed long term study into HRT showed that women on oestrogen only HRT had a slightly reduced risk of breast cancer than those not on HRT (If I remember correctly). Also other factors are equally risk factors for all sorts of cancers - smoking, being overweight and excess alcohol for a start.
I presume you have been given 50 mcg patch? You may feel some initial side effects ( depending on how low your own oestrogen is) but once it settles you will say goodbye to your sweats and begin to live again!
Hurdity x
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Thank you Hurdity that makes things a lot clearer, I am 50, have had menopause symptoms for quite a few years but the last 8 months they have become unbearable. Thanks for your advice WA
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:welcomemm:
Taz x
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Hi, I'm Donna Walters, author of Estrogen Revisited, a book that was mentioned in Menopause Matters a few years ago. I am on a mission to bring women's health standards to a higher level of importance, and your help is needed.
IMPORTANT HEALTH FACTORS
Heart disease: one in eight women aged 45 to 64 has heart disease. One in every four women will die from heart disease, the leading cause of death for US women. Currently 7.2 million women have heart disease.
Breast cancer: one in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer and the strongest risk factor is getting older. At age 30, 1 in 227 women will get breast cancer; at age 40, the statistic is 1 in 68; at age 50, it's 1 in 42; at age 60, it's 1 in 28; and by age 70, it's 1 in 26. Interesting note: the longer the time period is without estrogen, the higher the risk for breast cancer.
Cervical cancer: the median age is 49 and more than 20% of new cases are diagnosed in women over 65.
Endometrial cancer: most cases occur between 60 and 70.
Ovarian cancer: risk gets higher with age; most cases develop after menopause. Half of all ovarian cases are found in women 63 and older. Women who took birth control have lower risk after 3 to 6 months of using the pill and the risk is lower the longer the pills are taken.
MAXIMUM HEALTH
If women are at their maximum health with estrogen (ages 12 to 45), how can they be healthy without it (46 and beyond)? In addition to these serious health issues, there are 35 negative symptoms that women may experience due to menopause. Is estrogen a key factor in overall health? It's time to find out.
My association plans to determine what the health and quality of life are like for women who have taken estrogen long-term by conducting a worldwide observational study. There are millions of women who have taken estrogen long-term, including birth control users, and we need to collect that important data. Please visit our website, www.EstrogenInternationalAssociation.com, to see how you can help and make a difference.
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Hi donnawalters
Your post is very interesting.
World Menopause Day is happening on the 18th October as I'm sure you are aware.
Here is the link to a thread on this site: http://www.menopausematters.co.uk/forum/index.php/topic,25545.0.html
There is information all about the new campaign on the Prevention of diseases after menopause to be done by the International Menopause Society.
I think you should start your own thread to attract the maximum response. You may need to check with Emma (the Menopause Matters co-ordinator) as to whether you can request support on this site.
DG
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http://archive.bcaction.org/index.php?page=newsletter-20b
Estrogen Revisited: Breast Cancer and Estrogen by Carol Rinzler
Who is wrong and who is right! I have given up trying to work out it all out ???
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Your statement is absolutely correct of "trying to figure it out." It further illustrates the great importance of having an observational study conducted on all long-term estrogen users. Which would you be more likely to believe 1) a clinical study that could be misinterpreted like the WHI study of 2002, or 2) women who have LIVED the estrogen life? That is the ONLY way women will ever have a realistic result as to what harm or benefit estrogen plays in their lifelong health. I am a woman who has taken estrogen for almost 40 years, have had 7 different doctors exam me and diagnose me with the health (inside & out) for a 48 year old woman and I am a few years from 70. In addition, my paternal grandmother had breast cancer. The real truth regarding estrogen and breast cancer is -- if two women both get breast cancer, one has been taking estrogen and the other has not, the woman who has been taking estrogen will have a less severe case with a greater chance for survival than the one who has not taken estrogen. But again, what's most important, is women MUST know the answer and without a study involving the millions of long-term estrogen users, that answer will not be forthcoming.
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I think we all agree with you about more studies - particularly on the long term use and benefits versus risks.
I was told to take a break from HRT last autumn and a year on I've really noticed I've aged in terms of health problems. I'm seriously considering going back on. I know a lady in her 80s still on HRT and she is amazing.
DG x
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Will a long term study benefit women in this life time, I was under the opinion that estrogen has been the most studied drug of any dating back from at least the thirties.
Each woman reacts to hormones differently, what can be wonderful for one woman can be catastrophic for another, this forum alone shows how many women can find it difficult to comply with hormone use.
If you are lucky you can find a hormone preparation that suits, if not you either stick with the miserable side effects or come off HRT or what is worse find that HRT does not work to stop hot flushes etc. we have women on this forum who had these problems.
Remember Donna you are in America where you have compounded HRT that that can be made to measure so to speak. I don't see how a study can help unless all the women are on the same preparation, also you have to take into account each individual woman's health status and history.
It has come to it that women worry about taking HRT/ERT and worry if they don't.
I think it would be better to study women who are healthy and well and why when they are post menopause, and who don't take HRT, and try and find out the differences.
Of cause women fall into different categories e.g. full hysterectomies etc. the more variants you consider the more difficult it seems to me for millions of women to be studied.
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Estrogen has been studied for a very long time. In fact, it was first placed in the US market in 1942, which was Premarin. Basically it was taken successfully without any medical alarms or concerns until the Women's Health Initiative in 2002 and nothing has been the same since. It has been reported that the results of that infamous study have caused the deaths of 50,000 to 100,000 women who had hysterectomies because they were too scared to continue taking it. You are also correct that each women has a different medical health status and history which is why the WHI study reported inaccurate results, the participants had the average age of 63, were overweight and had heart disease.
The observational study we are conducting will collect important data as to women's ages, what estrogen they are taking (including birth control & bio-identical), how long, and the result is has, if any, on heart disease, all cancers, osteoporosis, diabetes, blood clots and strokes. The bio-identical estrogen compounds that are available through compounding pharmacies in the US are not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration and do not have their endorsement.
A new theory has recently been discussed in that the timing of when women start estrogen may well be a very important factor so the observational data that will be collected will also serve to provide important information on this new theory.
Lastly, what I personally am interested in knowing and hope this study will provide an answer to is this simple logical question: if women are at their maximum health with estrogen, ages 12 to 45, and estrogen is needed by many important receptors in their body, including the heart, the bones, and blood vessels, just to name a few, HOW CAN WOMEN BE HEALTHY WITHOUT IT? All the doctors that I have been to and know about this study have all preliminarily stated that they believe that this study will indicate that women who maintain estrogen will be the healthy ones. If by any slim chance, this study provides this indication then it could open new doors where new drugs could be created to give women the choice of whether they want to endure menopause. Now I know that sounds far out there, any it may well be, but the last health improvement women were given a choice to was the birth control pills in 1960 which also created mass chaos at that time as everyone had differ opinions of what that choice could mean.
So, there are too many questions that haven't been answered concerning estrogen so this study, hopefully, will only serve to be a new beginning.
I have many interests in women's health issues because, medically speaking, at least in the US, women's are secondary to men's. As an example, more women die of heart disease than men yet if both are in an emergency room with the same diagnosis, men are treated first. If a man has a heart attack, his chances of survival are great, if a woman has a heart attack, the chances are great that she will die within the first year. It's a medical fact that estrogen prevents heart disease in women and that when their estrogen is gone, their risks increase enormously yet there is NO preventive measures in place for women to find out exactly how much, if any, plaque is in their arteries. This doesn't even touch on the subject how women loose their sex drive after estrogen is depleted. It's simple: women aren't interested in boys until their estrogen kicks in -- what puberty giveth, menopause taketh away. These are only a few topics that I believe women's health issues are lacking in which needs to be brought to a much higher standard.
Have a great day UK -- from me in the USA!!
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Very interesting post.
My gynaecologist told me that the infamous 2002 WHI study was based on both oestrogen and progesterone HRT being given to women who were predominantly 60+ - I don't know whether that is true or not.
He was of the opinion that oestrogen only HRT used by women who had undergone a hysterectomy was in fact very beneficial and, as in your post, can actually lower the risk of breast cancer and of course help bone density. He said that it is the progesterone that is the baddy in the equation.
I personally don't know enough about the subject to say either way, however, I do know that in the few years I have been using Oestrogel, I have felt better, so I certainly don't want it taken away from me just because some doctor says I have been on it long enough.
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Your doctor was correct. The study results announced were for women taking estrogen plus progestin, and the participants were over the age 60. This means they were already predisposed to any diseases before they entered the study.
This is the WHI statement posted regarding the results of that study, "Estrogen plus progestin does not confer cardiac protection and may increase the risk of CHD among generally healthy postmenopausal women, especially during the first year after the initiation of hormone use. This treatment should not be prescribed for the prevention of cardiovascular disease."
Concerning breast cancer, the WHI posted statement states -- "Relatively short-term combined estrogen plus progestin use increases incident breast cancers, which are diagnosed at a more advanced stage compared with placebo use, and also substantially increases the percentage of women with abnormal mammograms. These results suggest estrogen plus progestin may stimulate breast cancer growth and hinder breast cancer diagnosis."
However, later statements have re-assessed these interpretations by advising that the risk is very small in both cases.
Again, what is NOT known is what is the health of the long-term estrogen users, including birth control pills. Until the data is received by the observational study we will be conducting, no one will know what helps to make women healthy in their later years. The life expectancy of women today has now reached 81 years. Many statements are now advising that the women of today will spend almost HALF of their lives in a post-menopausal state of health.
Our study has two important goals: 1) to acknowledge that special group of long-term estrogen users, many of whom probably have never experienced menopause (like me--I couldn't even tell you what a hot flash is & I am a few years from 70), and 2) to see what their health and quality of life have been like. The topic has surfaced many times that women have been given the wrong information about estrogen for years. Everyone must realize there are two types of doctors relative to estrogen use: 1) doctors who support estrogen use, and 2) doctors who oppose estrogen use. The problem lies with HOW DOES ANYONE KNOW WHICH DOCTOR'S MEDICAL OPINION IS CORRECT?
Someone, somehow, must find an answer to provide women with the correct medical information, not just an individual doctor's opinion, or incorrect study results, in order to bring women's health issues to a higher level of priority. That's what we are going to try to do. For more info, please visit my website, EstrogenInternationalAssociation.com.
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I am a bit tired at the moment, but just really to say - we cannot simply talk about "oestrogen" as a whole without differentiating between synthetic oestrogens (as in the contraceptive pill), "natural" but "foreign" oestrogens as in conjugated equine oestrogens, and oestrogen as in those native to the human body of which I understand there are many, chief of which are oestradiol, estriol and estrone.
Quite often writings about this subject lump them altogether, which in my opinion is like treating the effct of painkillers altogether ie saying what is known about the effect of aspirin is the same as that of paracetamol!
The observational study you mention donnawalters will be interesting but of course only randomised placebo controlled trials (such as carried out in the Womenn's Health Initiative Study - but properly!) will give us the answers we need.
I absolutely agree, that especially due to our increased life-span now, we desperately need information about the long term effects on women of taking oestrogen (in the form of oestradiol) with or without progesterone for long periods of time and especially beyond 60! Also long term effects of vaginal oestrogens. This means there need to be large-scale trials of women taking these. There are some long-ish term studies - the Danish KEEPS study for one but this was intended to investigate heart disease I understand.
Re the doctor's medical opinion. In UK of course, we have the NHS but even so there is huge variation amongst individual doctors. This is mainly due to the fact that some have not read the scientific literature regarding current recommendations of the international menopause societies.
On this site we point women to these recommendations and the latest review papers - and the recommnedation from this website, but hard research data are still lacking.
Hurdity x
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I am a bit tired at the moment, but just really to say - we cannot simply talk about "oestrogen" as a whole without differentiating between synthetic oestrogens (as in the contraceptive pill), "natural" but "foreign" oestrogens as in conjugated equine oestrogens, and oestrogen as in those native to the human body of which I understand there are many, chief of which are oestradiol, estriol and estrone.
Quite often writings about this subject lump them altogether, which in my opinion is like treating the effct of painkillers altogether ie saying what is known about the effect of aspirin is the same as that of paracetamol!
The observational study you mention donnawalters will be interesting but of course only randomised placebo controlled trials (such as carried out in the Womenn's Health Initiative Study - but properly!) will give us the answers we need.
I absolutely agree, that especially due to our increased life-span now, we desperately need information about the long term effects on women of taking oestrogen (in the form of oestradiol) with or without progesterone for long periods of time and especially beyond 60! Also long term effects of vaginal oestrogens. This means there need to be large-scale trials of women taking these. There are some long-ish term studies - the Danish KEEPS study for one but this was intended to investigate heart disease I understand.
Re the doctor's medical opinion. In UK of course, we have the NHS but even so there is huge variation amongst individual doctors. This is mainly due to the fact that some have not read the scientific literature regarding current recommendations of the international menopause societies.
On this site we point women to these recommendations and the latest review papers - and the recommnedation from this website, but hard research data are still lacking.
Hurdity x
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Different forms of hormones are recognized differently by cells, so it makes sense that their effects might also be different.
As stated in a Harvard Health Publication, "Technically, the body can't distinguish bioidentical hormones from the ones your ovaries produce. On a blood test, your total estradiol reflects the bioidentical estradiol you've taken as well as the estradiol your body makes. On the other hand, Premarin is metabolized into various forms of estrogen that aren't measured by standard laboratory tests. Proponents of bioidentical hormones say that one advantage of bioidentical estrogen over Premarin is that estrogen levels can be monitored more precisely and treatment individualized accordingly. Skeptics counter that it hardly matters, because no one knows exactly what hormone levels to aim for, and symptoms, not levels, should be treated and monitored."
There have been many studies on estrogen with the primary goal of researching whether it is safe or harmful relative to heart disease and breast cancer. The observational study we are conducting is novel in that the goal is to collect important data of women who have taken any form of estrogen long-term to find out the results of their state of health and quality of life after taking it long-term. No study of this kind as ever been conducted so it is not the usual estrogen observational study. Let me explain further. The number one cause of death among women is heart disease, more women die from heart disease than men. It is a known medical fact that estrogen protects a woman's coronary arteries and once the estrogen is depleted, the risk of heart disease increases significantly. One in four women over the age of 65 has heart disease. Equally important are the statistics of all female-related cancers. It is a known medical fact that breast cancer increases with age. As an example, at age 40, 1 in 68 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer, at age 50, it's 1 in 42, at age 60, it's 1 in 28, and at age 70, it's 1 in 26. More than half of all endometrial cancer cases are diagnosed between the age groups of 50 to 69. More than 20% of cervical cancer cases are found in women over 65. Half of the women who are diagnosed with ovarian cancer are 60 years or older. This brings up the important comparison of women's health with and without estrogen. Again, that's the focus of our observational study, not the different types of estrogen.
A study was conducted in January 2000 by National Institutes of Health to find out what the qualify of life is after the menopause process. The results state, "Menopause causes a decrease in quality of life, which is dependent from age and other socio demographic variables."
The results of a study released in October 2012, reported, "A Danish study reported in the British Medical Journal has concluded that after 10 years of follow-up, women receiving HRT early after menopause had a significantly reduced risk of mortality, heart failure, or myocardial infarction, with no apparent increase risk of cancer, stroke or blood clot. . . . Re-analysis of these and other randomized trials have now shown that heart disease and total mortality are reduced when HRT is initiated in women aged less than 60 years, or within 10 years of menopause."
Our observational study should provide important data concerning all issues of a woman's health and quality of life. Many women do not know that there are hundreds of thousands or maybe millions of women who have never endured menopause because they maintained their estrogen lifelong. This type of data, which has never been collected, could be very important in knowing what will help keep women healthy after the menopausal years especially since the life expectancy age for women is now 81. Keep in mind there can be 35 negative medical consequences of menopause.
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Long long read but very interesting!
http://www.thedoctorwithin.com/women/every-woman-needs-to-read-this-chapter-now/
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:'( I have also tried 3 types of hrt with no joy, I am applying a everol patch 100mg and testosterone gel at the moment, only been on it 2 weeks and feel absolutely rubbish, the mood swings and sweating are a 100 times worse than the last batch of hrt, crying I could fill a bucket daily, I don't even look like me, >:( period pains like I have never had before, migraine, rash and itching, tingling breasts, miserable so low.
I take thyroxine 75mg daily and I think it's interferring with each other, I also have fibroids.
Is it going to get better or am I going to murder someone, feeling very desperate at the moment.
I can't believe how something so natural can do so much harm to a person.
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Hi and Welcome Scampi18
Do tell us a bit more about yourself. Your age, where your are in your menopause etc.?
I assume you are seeing a prevaite gyane as testosterone isn't prescribed on the NHS.
Are you on Everol sequi or conti? Why such a high dose? If you have fibroids a high dose of oestrogen would makes these worse!!!
Do tell us which HRT types you have tried?
DG x
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I have often wondered why the cut off point for estrogen (HRT) was 60, it doesn't make sense that 59 you were OK but 60 the slippery slope!
I squirreled this away in my "Favourites" years ago and have just come across it today, it seems they were discussing this way back in 2005
http://www.futurepundit.com/archives/002631.html, it makes sense of the "window of opportunity" that experts talk about now.
The comments below the article are interesting too.
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I've found that 60 is also the "beware" age for other medications - especially those that you can get over the counter! This is the warning on my Canesten instructions
"Warning!
If this is the first time you have experienced symptoms of vaginal thrush, if you have had more than two infections in the last six months, if you are or could be pregnant, or if you are under 16 or over 60 years of age, you should make sure you consult your doctor before using this medicine."
Taz x
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Just to say again in this central post.
There should be no cut off point for HRT if you dont want to stop taking it.
The recent BMS guidelines are also saying "no arbitrary limit" to how long we take HRT.
I've added this post which summarizes the details in there.
http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/181726.php
Scroll down to the "New HRT Guidelines released" part on that link.
:-*
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Sorry for non reply, been a bit unwell again, I am 51 started with peri at about the age of 45, always had problems with monthlys ever since I can remember, every two weeks I would get nervous and frightend of going out could never explain why, I had nothing to be frightend of I was only a little girl when it all began, hundreds of antidepressants later and therapy stillno better, found it difficult to conceive, just carried on best I could no one seemed to be able to help me, my 3 children were all born with problems hate lip and cleft palate, blindness in one eye, one kidney, then I was diagnosed with thyroid problems the same time as menopause, so hrt started and thyroxine still no better changed hrt one doctor wanted to have me sectioned I was a mess didn't know what the matter was, slept on and off back in 2009 lost my voice for 16 weeks had to stop working as could not function, I have been on climagest, climesse, oestrogen patches would not stay on, now on oestrogel and again don't think its for me I have been on it 3 days I am sweating more my extremities are so cold but I am flushed, shaking anxious, headache, but my head seems reved up, I have heard and read so much that eastrogen can cancel out thyroxine or I could be eastrogen sensitive, think I might call it a day with hrt, I have Merina coil fitted as well for the progesterone, and testogel for libido, not working so far, very disheartend with my gp who I have only been with for a year, won't listen to what I try and tell her I have such an extensive list of problems.
Ostioporosis arthritus I have had pernicious anaemia, bursitis, chicken pox lots of times, warts courtesy of x husband, just had laser treatment on eye for a tear in the back, don't know what's going to happen next, and unfortunately my daughter has all the same symptoms as I did, she also has a terrible gp.
Sorry for the moan and negativity.
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Moan away Scampi - sometimes we need to get things off our chests.
I noticed your post about thyroxin and HRT - you got some good replies.
It sounds to me as though you need a thorough review of your situation.
Good luck Dg x
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What a terrible time you are hving Scampi. Change your doc right away at least it might help I find hypnotherapy helps especially the relaxation part.
Keep us all posted.
Lots of love
Kelly xxxx
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Saw a new gp today, fantastic very sympathetic, going for scan on my throat she could also feel the swelling, but the opposite side to what I could feel, lots of blood test again, also being refered to endo and ent for the meneries disease.
She is the first gp not to say do you think your depressed, I am very low but not depressed, it's just everything happening one after the other, thinks I maybe sensitive to eastrogen and having to much thyroxine, only on 75 which I take at night.
Think I will come off hrt and lower thyroxine see what happens.
My mind races and goes over and over things in my head, but it's not all the time just every now and again.
Thanks Kelly for the response. :)
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Sounds good Scampi - a fresh approach to your problems may well be what you need.
Good luck DG x
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So. Pleased you got a new GP Scampi. I had anxiety due to some health problems not being solved and all the focus went on that. Now when I go to the docs ( as I am still having problems) they often say its anxiety related. Well not everything can be! There is one doc in our practise who regularly offers people something for their mood as she puts it. I now feel they think everything is in my head and I have no confidence in GPs anymore .
glad you have found a nice one !
KELLY XX
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Thank,you,for reply everyone, 💐
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I took HRT for 5 years (Elleste solo or Evorel I think, can't remember) stopped it in 2010, never did anything for me really.
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In my experience, HRT made my joints feel easier, emotionally I felt better but after a few months I became sore around the vulva and vagina and despite trying different HRT and steroid and emulsifying ointment (not cream!) I came off and then the flushes came in abundance! They have tailed off but any stress triggers one. Sleep - rarely get through the night. I've taken femosten and prempak and ovestin vaginal cream prior to these. The bleeding is a nuisance.
I have now found that being without a partner for a few years, I have VA (had a PF repair 9 years ago) and underwent process of managing vulval soreness (done), recommencing HRT (patches - v low dose) to combat VA and thinning and to start using dilators, under the watchful management of a fabulous female gynaecologist, not GP. I am definitely v sensitive to HRT so need a v low dose - preferably one without monthlies!
Who knows? Whatever makes me feel good, is worth taking! In moderation of course. :)
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Hi and welcome wornoutmum
It's good to hear you experiences - I think many of us find it is a matter of trial and error with HRT.
I doubt it was the HRT that caused the vaginal discomfort - I discovered too late that systematic HRT doesn't always prevent VA and I should have been using both systemic HRT and local oestrogen far sooner to help this. Like you, I am on a low dose of systemic HRT with Vagifem twice a week to help keep things healthy down below. I also use a vaginal gel call Multi Gyn Actigel(there are others on the market, so again, it is trial and error) that helps to keep the acidity balance right.
There are so many nasty meno symptoms that we are simply not told about and they a advice about how to treat most meno symptoms is very poor. We keep calling for more Well Women Centres with properly trained staff - we all need help through this challenging time in our lives. Keep posting DG x
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Hi All,
Don't know if i'm posting this correctly as i'm finding the site quite hard to navigate around! I was put on Prempak-C to start with but the bleeding monthly was so heavy i couldn't cope with it & my sleep didn't improve at all. So now i'm on Femoston 1/10mg & the bleeding is very slight & only lasts about 3 days (that i can cope with). My sleep still hasn't improved that much & still get an occasional hot flush (worse when stressed.......which is very often unfortunately!) It's my moods that desperately need improving as everything makes me sad & i'm still crying & getting down at the slightest thing. I do have a lot of family problems, so my doctor thinks it could be depression as well. Has anybody had a really good uplifting experience with an HRT tablet or patch that i could ask to try next? I really don't want to have anti-depressants, as i was worse with those when i tried them a few years ago. I just want to wake up one day feeling happy about SOMETHING!! Please help. Thanks ladies. :)
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julie53
If most of your menop symptoms are being controlled with Femoston then you may be one of those ladies who needs a SRRI alongside to help with mood and sleep. My gynae was keen for me to try Citalopram if HRT didn't help. From what you are telling us I personally think you might benefit from some CBT and the SRRI might help you get throughout the family problems which are probably the cause of your low mood and poor sleep. I would also make sure you take some Vitamin D3 if you don't get enough sunshine every day. In winter none of us gets enough sunshine and this is the only good source of vitamin D so by the end of the winter most of us will be deficient. Low mood, fatigue, aching joints etc are all typical symptoms of Vitamin D deficiency. Some extra B Vitamins could also be a good idea.
Femoston is a good HRT as the progesterone is kinder so I wouldn't be in a hurry to change from this.
I'm afraid HRT doesn't cure everything. DG x
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Yes I too think you would benefit from a low dose AD alongside your hrt at the moment with your stressful situations,they are not just for depression as I have learned,and many women take both successfully. New ADs arent like the ones of a few years ago.As DG says unfortunately hrt doesnt stop all symptoms all the time if only! Maybe you would be better posting a new post in the section new members introducing yourself and a bit of background age etc. then you will get more responses as you wont be lost on the tale end of an old post !
:welcomemm:
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Thanks for the comments & yes will mention the advice to my doctor next week. I will also try posting on the new members section.
Cheers all :)x
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Now that I am on the right HRT evorel 100mcg and utrogestan, I say HRT is good :D
I started on femoston which didnt work, as my menopause induced IBS stopped absorption.
I then went on the patches, and as I gradually upped the dose with the help of a lovely GP, I am now happy on these wonderful lilttle patches.
At first I was wondering if HRT just didn't work, as I was quite ill really, rotten guts on a morning, mood problems, flushing and feeling really hot, which was debilitating.
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I've been on HRT for about five years now, Novofem first and then Livial. Absolutely fine on Livial but then started to experience bleeding. Dr told me to come off HRT to see if it made any difference - it hasn't. Have had a colposcopy and an ultrasound scan, everything normal, just a couple of fibroids but I feel a wreck! I'm right back to square one with the flushes every half hour, night sweats, insomnia, panic attacks and awful aches and pains in my joints.
I'm going back to see my GP tomorrow but don't hold out much hope. My surgery operates on a first come first served system so you can't book to see a senior Dr and I'm usually fobbed off with a junior Dr who hasn't really got a clue. Last time I went to see him he'd lost my test results.
I've never been offered patches or anything else, but I'm willing to give anything a go! HRT helped me enormously and I want to take it again!
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Hi Astolat - As you have fibroid obviously causing a bit of a problem a Mirena may be a good option fro you at this will usually shrink them. You can then have oestrogen in patch or gel form alongside to reduce flushes etc. The Mirena often sorts out any bleeding and stops it completely after a few weeks. I would ask about this as it is often offered by Gynaes those days. DG x
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I haven't read all the posts on this (now very long) thread but to answer the question, I'd say GREAT ! (Is that an option?)
I'm on Estrogel (one pump) and Utrogestan 100mg and it's working well. I did lower the dose of Estrogel as the initial 2-4 pumps prescribed was too high for me, I seem to have found a good balance now. Memory better, sleeping is fabulous, no aches or pains and generally back to normal.
Thank God for the internet though because without this forum and a wide host of other online info about the menopause, my GPs would have me rattling with a number of pills to treat symptoms separately (or just convince me it was all in my head).
GG x
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I am 54. Endometrium fine as is cervix and so is Uterus. I had one bleed in 12 months. Doc put me on Elleste Duet 2mg
not knowing my periods were a nightmare and still are. I take Amitriptyline and hooked on Diazepam. HRT was great at first and after three months I have restless leg syndrome, Insomnia, Constipation so bad that I bleed from the rectum and depression. He has given me Conti to go on to but the side effects read the same. I want my life back. I don't go out of the house, I don't talk to anybody my friends and relatives have all abandoned me. My husband is ill and I am supposed to be taking care of him when I can't take care of me. I have stopped the HRT dead. I had not slept through the night for weeks.
where do i go from here. I was prepared to take the risks of HRT to get back to being me. I am so depressed I can barely breathe. Help someone please
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oh my goodness. First off DiHarp, you need to repost on intro's so more will see your plea.
I am not one of the experts here, I am new and not yet sought medical help (though appointment is made). But from what I read you need more help, if you feel your GP is not listening or enough help .. might I suggest you change GP?
I really feel for you, I have lost many 'so-called' friends due to the anxiety peri has caused me.
Take some deep breathes, go find the new members bit and post there and all these lovely ladies who are also suffering will be more than happy to chat to you and help were they can.
dont worry, you have found the right place now x
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I'm not sure at the moment as I am having joint pain as a side effect. My dose has been reduced evoral 25 so I will wait and see. I have been on hrt for a month and the side effects kicked in one week in
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Hi diharp
the symptoms you mention are due to AD's your on. Sorry.
:-*
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I was prescribed Elleste 1 mg the first packet I was depressed,moody,angry,but I stuck with them I have now finished my second packet and I must say I feel great skin hair and even my fibromyaglia symptons have eased I don't want to wish because Fibro can give false hope for a while then flare up again Elleste has been my saviour so far I now bake have more energy and want to enjoy life again the only blip is a terrible discharge I get it has a foul smell is yellow well no it is actually green if I am being honest what is causing this I have not had a bleed since starting Elleste just a small spotting the first packet other than this discharge HRT is wonderful and given me my life back I hope I don't have to stop it because of this discharge it is very thick not nice at all 😊😒😒😒😒😒
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kimberley666 - Are you taking Elleste duet or conti? Some spotting is normal when first starting HRT and the discharge will probably be your lady parts waking up and producing some natural secretions - this will often be yellowish. Having said this, you might have a bit of BV or thrush - if the discharge is smelly or like cottage cheese?
I'd nip the the GP and get this checked out as some simple over the counter treatments could sort this out.
Dg x
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Hi am taking Elleste Duet am going to the doctor ASAP as the discharge is green am worried sick 😒
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I've been on HRT patches for just over a year now, they have controlled the night sweats but I've gained 2st in weight which I wasn't expecting . Has anyone experienced the same problem
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Hi and welcome to MM Bunker84
Do start your own thread so more ladies can respond to you. Slight weight gain or bloating is common with HRT but it is usually more to do with our age, middle age spread and everything slowing down generally. I'm afraid we have to reduce our calorie intake as we move through our 50s or the weight will pile on.
I do feel slightly more 'plumped up' on HRT but my muscle structure is better and I have more energy so find my figure is a better shape than when I was off HRT. Have a good look at your diet, cut out as much sugar as possible and reduce the amount of what you eat by about a third - that's what I have had to do, concentrating on small meals often - never have more than 2 courses. Keep posting. Dg x
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Hello all
Hrt is just wonderful - total life saver!
I'm still finding my way through peri menopause - what a total body and mind shocker it is!
All of the symptoms and a crazy meno head to boot! I didn't believe the doctor when he advised me to use HRT - I had trouble believing in anything before the HRT - myself most of all!
I felt like I had totally lost myself - that I couldn't regain my equilibrium- that I was totally nuts and anxious beyond all control with the most scary hot flushes sleeplessness and tiredness
I went into this thinking nothing would help but you know what - within days I was beginning to see that he had a point! Oh the bliss of being able to think clearly again and to rely on my once abundant energy!
If you feel anything like I did ladies give it a try - it's taken a few goes to get the stuff right and I've just had to up my dose (a little more tricky than I thought as I'm very sensitive) but if you persevere and don't become disheartened, then I am sure you will feel the benefits too
Just remember it takes time and don't give up!
Keep your peckers up girls and thank you for all the comments posted on the amazing forum - you have all kept me sane
Janey :)
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From my point of view, late Peri to full Menopausal (don't know where I am but an increasing range of symptoms, all hormone-related) on transdermal Oestradiol and Medroxyprogesterone Acetate (cyclical) it's been a wonderful Godsend in terms of banishing severe muscle and headache probelms, magically banishing stress, depression, snappy moods and anxiety, stopping VA and cystitis, stopping vasomotor problems and generally keeping me feeling a lot better. Adapted really easily to the above after coming off the combined pll at 50. Mirena coil and progesterone-only pills were, however, a really bad thing for me: obviously I react badly to te Progesterones/Progestins in those.
Stopped the HRT a month plus ago for various reasons (including fear of BC risk), and though initially felt OK I'm now spiralling quickly downhill again and not knowing whether to try and brave it out or take the risk and do what I want to do, which is to embrace it back with both arms.
If there wasn't the BC risk (and it seems that's the progesterone element as far as I can understand it) then it's the most wonderful thing yet invented. However... :-\
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I was really worried about taking HRT but the hot flushes had just become too frequent and disruptive. I've been taking Elleste Duet 1mg for just over a month. The flushes have gone and I feel lots better. I take it at night as I thought it might be better to remember it then. I've not noticed any side effects.
The best thing is that it has helped with an issue I didn't even realise was caused by the menopause. When I went to bed at night my bones ached and if my husband turned before I went to sleep it was even worse. I bought a new mattress but felt no better. Within 2 weeks of taking HRT my bones have stopped aching. Yippee. :)
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Julie - Glad you have had some relief!
DiHarp - did you browse round? Open a new thread ……..
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Hi all. New here.
I was on Estalis Sequi 50/140 from the start of August until 2 weeks ago when I become nauseous with it and dizzy. I also had these itchy red welts under the transdermal patches. Before that I was on Qlaira for nearly 3 years, but due to me being over 50 my Gyno took me off it and said the patches would be better. NOT.
I am now on a low dose of Eleva (Zoloft) to stop the anxiety and depression that set in after I went off the hrt.
I go back to the Drs after Christmas for review of how I am on the AD tablets. I don't want to be on them any longer than I have to.
-Linda
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I was on HRT for 5 years as that was all my doc was advised to prescribe patients due to the associaton with breast cancer. It was to me the best thing since sliced bread as it gave me a new lease of life & took away all the horrible symptoms. When I came off it everything returned with a vengeance...& a lot of extras to boot. I'm now 10 years on and it's eased off a but I still sweat, get down quite easy, hair is thinning, just generally fed up. Now it seems there is a change of heart regarding the connection with BC & they can extend the time you're on HRT. Well, what I'm trying to say is that I think I will be paying my doctor another visit soon to see if she will put me back on it after all these years, but it must be indefinitely. So yes, if no time limit go for it, otherwise I'd try to get through it without it. Good luck!
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Hi miagran - I know exactly what you have experienced - sadly after such a long time without HRT and well into post meno they are unlikely to allow you back on HRT. Generally speaking the cut off for starting HRT is 60 and having been without HRT for 10 years you would be starting from scratch again. There is no harm is asking though. Good luck DG x
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Really? Never thought of that Dancinggirl, just thought I could plead my case and get back on HRT. Thanks for letting me know though. I turned 60 this year so I think you may be right it's doubtful that I'll be prescribed it again, might ask anyway, nothing ventured nothing gained cheers DG! X
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Definitely GOOD, it took me a few years to take the plunge but now I never want to come off it, no hot flushes, restful sleep, more concentration, better memory and able to exercise more..........what not to like?
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I have been on Hrt patches for almost four months Evorel Conti. I went on these after three years of hot flushes erratic moods, foggy head etc etc even after my doctor originally said no point going on these as as soon as u come off them you still have to go through everything. Three years later had a meltdown saw a lady doctor and decided this was the route to go. Still very reluctantly I started using them....... Hot flushes disappeared almost instantly, sleeping patterns improved dramatically, moods are on the up, staring to feel normal. The only downside, periods started, have had maybe four, three light one heavy, terrible cramps had never really suffered with periods before, not sure I want them back tho..... Breasts very tender almost all of the time...... In fact my skin generally feels quite tender, not sure whether there is any relevance to patches or whether I am worrying unnecessarily, wondered whether anyone else has the same symptoms. Other than that I am feeling good. Did debate coming off patches just to see if they were what was affecting tenderness. Spoke to Gp before I noticed this and she said give it a year at least to see how things settle down. Any advice ladies 😊
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Hi DebraD
Welcome to MM :welcomemm:
Breakthrough bleeding can take about six months to settle down with Evorel Conti, hopefully it and the cramps and breast tenderness will settle down soon. I've been on them for about four years and found the breakthrough bleeds stopped after about four months, haven't had breast tenderness.
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That's interesting. On my first month & I have a period. So hopefully things will settle. I am not post menopausal so it is supposed to override my cycle
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Breakthrough bleeding (like a period) is quite normal with any conti HRT regime - This is supposed to settle in around 3-6 months - I got awful cramps as well. Hopefully all will settle in due cause. Tender breast is a very normal side effect that should also settle - my gynae describes this as "the body waking up and welcoming the hormones". Dg x
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Hi all
Am new to this site and not sure how to start a new post so I hope you don't mind if I tag a question onto this one.
I'm 53 this year and still having periods, heavy ones at that. I'm having the usual menopausal symptoms, hot flushes, night sweats, spots, vaginal dryness, psoriasis which started in my forties during perimenopause, tiredness, headaches. I've so far been managing these symptoms by eating healthily and exercising but some months I'm finding the symptoms a real nuisance which may or may not get worse when my periods stop.
My question is, if I do decide to try HRT and my GP agrees, will I have to have a smear test. I ask this because I haven't had one for at least 10 years as my previous test was so painful, and now that I have vaginal dryness I don't think I could handle it.
Many thanks
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Hi and welcome to MM pamb
I would start your own thread - click on FORUM at the top of this page and then go into NEW MEMBERS and you should then find a tab which says NEW TOPIC.
You are still young and HRT would be a good option if you don't have health issues or life style choices e.g. smoking, that prevent you using it.
It is advisable to have a smear test but you may not necessarily need one before using HRT. If they were unable to do a smear test due to vaginal discomfort then they really should have prescribed some local oestrogen like Vagifem which one can use regularly to improve the vaginal area and would help with the dryness, irritation and possible bladder problems. I would get to your GP and ask for this anyway if you having discomfort around the 'lady bits' - vaginal atrophy can case many long term problems and Vagifem can work wonders.
Full systemic HRT would help with flushes, night sweats etc. and could restore quality of life. It's often trial and error till you find the HRT type that suits you but it's worth giving it a try.
Do browse around this site to get clued up and keep asking questions. DG x
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Hi Dancinggirl
Many thanks for replying to my post. You've given me some sound advice which gives me a good starting point.
As I can see from this forum, menopause seems to be a minefield of contradictory information, especially from the medical profession, that it's great to find somewhere where you can get advice from women who are actually going through this time in their lives.
Thanks again Dancingirl.
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Been on HRT patches and cream for a month now and would definitely say it is 'good'.
Vaginal dryness used to mean I got quite stressed about the prospect of sex, in anticipation of the inevitable discomfort, but no more!
I also used to be in a constant foul mood and most days I woke up with a 'thick head' as if I'd hit the bottle the night before, without having had anything stronger than decaf coffee!
Again, both these symptoms have disappeared and I feel so much better for it.
The nightly panic attacks haven't completely stopped yet but they've definitely reduced and I'm hopeful that with a little more time I will see the end of them.
My GP told me that it could take up to 3 months for the patches to take full effect so having seen positive benefits after just a month I'm definitely a fan!!
Says she as she sits here having a hot flush!!! 😐
Give it a go... What've you got to lose?
H
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Hello,
Sorry if I'm in the wrong part of the forum, but I couldn't work out how to post a new subject. I'm new to the forum, and I have a question about hair loss. I'm post-menopausal (haven't had a period for 3 1/2 years). I've been having a lot of problems with hot flushes, and so I looked into trying natural hormones. I didn't want to use conventional HRT as my mum has had breast cancer (and a mastectomy). I started using ProGest in 2013, only a very tiny dose of the cream. My hair, which was very thick, immediately started coming out, but as I also had it coloured for the first time the week after this, I thought it was the colour. I carried on using ProGest for some months and my hair kept coming out. Finally I stopped using it because it caused me nausea and gave me spots. But my hair didn't stop coming out. I stopped having it coloured, but that didn't make any difference. It was really upsetting - I hated washing my hair (still do) as when I finger-combed it so much came out. Last year I tried natural hormones again via a clinic in London - I was given a prescription made up for me, of oestrogen (Biest) and progesterone. I was told that this would help with my hair loss, as well as other symptoms. I tried it very gradually, as advised, but my hair seemed to come out more. it also gave me spots. After 4 weeks I stopped, but my hair loss continues - it's now so thin and keeps coming out. I don't know what to do, and no-one seems to understand. I saw my GP about and she suggested HRT, but I know you can only take that for so long. I asked her what would happen when I stopped, and she said the symptoms would come back. I have no idea where to turn, and wondered if anyone has any ideas? I don't want to use hormones, but is there anything else that can help to stop it? Also, if you've experienced hair loss during menopause, did your hair grow back again?
I'm sorry about the length of the post, and I'm just glad I've found this website.
Freya.
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Hi and welcome to MM freya
It would probably be a good idea if you started your own thread under New Members - simply click on FORUM at the top of the page and then click on NEW MEMBERS and there is a tab which says NEW TOPIC.
Hair loss is a difficult one and I have to say I am baffled as to why you had such dramatic hair loss when using the progesterone cream!! This cream is such a low dose it is unlikely to do very much so I doubt it is to blame!!! I'm afraid many of us get more spots and hair loss when we go into post menopause - it's the lack of oestrogen. The hormone that will make a difference for you is oestrogen and this will only be available on prescription and has to be balanced with some progesterone to protect the womb lining. Do read up all the info on this site to get clued up about what happens during the meno and treatments like HRT etc.
Many of the HRTs available now are actually bio identical, so are therefore natural. There is also a bio identical progesterone called Utrogestan but everything has be prescribed and monitored by a doctor.
You don't say how old you are? If you are early 50s then a few years of HRT could be good. The fact that your mother had breast cancer could be an issue but it would depend on the type of cancer she had. The risks of BC don't actually kick in till we are over 60 if still using HRT.
One common reason for hair loss is a problem with thyroid function and it is common for the thyroid to start playing up at the time of the menopause. I would ask to have your thyroid function tested - I'm actually surprised your GP didn't do this!!!? Some blood tests to look at your hormone levels might also be a good idea. Keep us posted. DG x
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Hi Dancing Girl,
Thanks very much for this, I really appreciate it, and thanks too for explaining how to start a new thread. (I replied to another of your posts separately, before I saw this one.) Yes, I don't know why this happened - the doctor said that it's never happened before with anyone on the natural Biest/progesterone creams. I've had a thyroid function test, thanks for suggesting it, and it was normal. I also have ME and Fibromyalgia, which have both been made worse by the menopause. I did have some blood test to check hormone levels, but my then-GP only did testosterone and FSH, and my current GP said GPs don't test oestrogen levels. I do have very high ferritin levels, but this was treated as normal. I do feel as if I'm trying to find my way in the dark with this - I've found GPs, while not exactly unsympathetic, a little dismissive about it. Btw, I'm 52. I'll certainly think about what you say about HRT.
I've put this in a new thread, too, with my first posting, so apologies if it's read twice.
best,
Freya
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Hi I'm a newby to this I don't know if I am menopausal as I have been on nacrez pill for 16 years and never had a period in the last 3 months I have struggled to sleep dr put me on sleeping pills don't know wether to come off nacrez and see if my tsh levels are high I think I have va as well tried vagifem but it gave me thrush I am constantly in a low mood stressed to the eyeballs it's taken over my life help
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Hi valsmart and welcome to MM
do read up all the info on this site. You don't say how old you are but armed with info from this site I'd definitely discuss your options with the GP. Vagifem shouldn't give you thrush - used over a few weeks it should actually help restore the natural flora balance which could prevent thrush and other infections taking hold. It can be good to use a vaginal lubricant like Multi Gyn Actigel which is designed to keep things healthy in the vaginal area - this together with Vagifem should really help.
I'm not sure what the nacrez pill is? A type of BCP? It does sound as though your hormones are starting to play up. Dg x
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Thanks dancing girl the 2 times I tried vagifem it gave me thrush it's one of the side effects not sure if all vaginal eostrogen will do it I'm 47 and never had any issues until last year it's affecting my work as I can't sleep and the anxiety is through the roof I can't sleep without pills
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The vagifem shouldn't have actually given you the thrush and certainly not on one or two doses - did you have a cottage cheese type discharge and felt itchy, burning and sore? If you just had a bit of soreness or burning then this is normal when first starting Vagifem or any local oestrogen treatment. As I mentioned, some lubricants are a good idea alongside.
It could be worth coming off the nacrez (if it is a BCP) to see what is happening with your cycle, get some blood tests done for oestrogen and FSH levels once you have been off the BCP fro a month and if there are indications that you are peri menopausal then HRT would be the appropriate treatment. At your age it is not good to be oestrogen deficient so HRT is the the way forward to not only treat the meno symptoms but also to protect your heart and bones for the long term. Dg x
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I tried the 2 week treatment that went ok it was when I went down to the 2x week the thrush started it is one of the side effects on the box I use yes yes as a moisturiser not on anything at the moment for vag dryness what do the ladies recommend
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Valsmart - I think you have posted on the wrong thread??? You need to do this post not eh 'Vaginal Dryness and atrophy' thread to get the responses you need. You could simply start your own thread under 'All things Menopause'.
The possibility of getting thrush, BV and UTIs increases with meno as the flora balance in the vagina changes and this can result in some bacteria and thrush taking hold - using some vaginal products to prevent this is the often best way forward I find. There are various that are good but Sylk can be excellent. I also use Multi Gyn Actigel every day to prevent any BV or thrush actually starting.
It is weill worth continuing with Vagifem as it will help the whole vaginal and bladder area to stay healthy - just use some Multi Gyn as well to keep things comfortable. Oh goodness, isn't the menopause a challenge!!! :-\DG x
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Sorry dancing girl thanks for the advice having trouble understanding all this lol
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I watched my mother struggle without hrt and the strain it put on our mother/daughter relationship was intense. We have spent periods of time with no contact and I do not remember my childhood fondly. She was very irrational, angry, spiteful, depressed, agoraphobic etc and it is only now that I am at this stage of life I realise why she was that way.
My children are still young and just coming to be tweens. I explain that just as they are reaching puberty and at the mercy of their hormones I too am going through reverse puberty. I hate the shouty mum I am becoming and hrt seems to be a blessing. If it works for me it will improve not only my quality of life but be life changing for two children as their future development and opportunities for happiness depends on me. I embrace hrt wholeheartedly
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I watched my mother struggle without hrt and the strain it put on our mother/daughter relationship was intense.
Me too - I remember coming home one day & my mum was in a right tearful state, she said that no one would miss her if she put her head in the gas oven.... I thought she was bonkers at the time, but now I totally understand how she must have felt. :(
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I had a sub total hysterectomy when I was 53 and two years later the menopause hit me. I was going through a stressful period at the time, my husband had just been made redundant we were moving house and my boss decided to start bullying me!! I have struggled on for 3 years as I said I would never take hrt. After some nasty urine infections, impossible to have sex and drenching sweats I have started on Evoril patches. I feel so guilty for taking it but I sleep through the night, and feel like me again. I decided that the insomnia and sweating also cannot be doing my body any good at all
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Hi caroldanby and welcome to MM
Please, please don't feel guilty about taking HRT. The anti HRT lobby is very strong and is led by those lucky women who don't really suffer with meno symptoms. As you only need oestrogen the risks for you are virtually nil so there may well be no reason why you can't use oestrogen fro the rest of your life. The quality of your life and the life of those around you is very important - lack of sleep, low mood and generally feeling rubbish most of the time is no way to live. Do remember that the oestrogen will be protecting your bones from osteoporosis, it will also protect your heart and very importantly HRT will improve energy and health generally. It's a 'no brainer' really.
BTW - if sex is still be a bit uncomfortable then do ask for some Vagifem local oestrogen to use alongside the systemic oestrogen as this will really help. Vaginal moisturiser e.g. Sylk is also great to use. DG x
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I am 54, after having heavy periods for years, have had all the various treatments, and refusing to have a hysterectomy, I was given decapeptyl injections monthly, which worked fine, no problems at all. Then my doctor said i needed to see the gynae as I had been on it a long time, decision was made to stop the injections and start on elleste duet hrt, after a while, more heavy periods, another visit to gynae, this time she recommended tridestra, here we are day 25 and the pain is sooooo bad, I have had enough. The gynae did say if tridestra doesnt work she will allow me back on decapeptyl.
Im in so much pain, its 4am cant go on.... Will get hold of doctor tomorrow and get referred back to gynae.
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Hi and welcome to MM emblake
Heavy bleeds can be such a nuisance - have they identified the cause? Fibroids, polyps? Do you have endometriosis?
I am also wondering why they haven't suggested you have a Mirena fitted? The Mirena can often reduce and even stop all bleeding, control endo and shrink fibroids if they are a nuisance.
Giving you HRT could have stimulated the womb lining which would result in cramps and bleeding.
You do need to hot foot back to the GP - get a referral to the gynae to have your womb checked out - identify why you have cramps and such heavy bleeding and do ask about the Mirena. I have to say if I had your problems and a hysterectomy was offered, then I would jump at it. A hyster can bring other problems but at least it stops the problems with bleeding and makes life easier - one tends to only need oestrogen after the uterus is removed - although if you suffer with endometriosis then they often prescribed combined HRT.
Keep us posted. Dg x
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Just started, don't even consider if it is good or bad I just know I NEED IT!
When I settle in post will definitely try alternatives right now just can't cope without.
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I can it has been an absolute life saver for me. I had severe bladder symptoms - felt like I was sitting on razor blades and going to the loo 6 times a night. I also had ferocious hot flushes during the night so either way wasn't getting any sleep. I was on my knees. It has resolved those symptoms with the odd top up of Estradiol cream needed and I have gone back to being "me". Taking HRT is a balancing act of risk versus quality of life and for me it has been a very positive decision. The question now is when is the right time to come off it ....
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Today is my first day on Elleste Duet 1mg, I was unsure if I wanted to go down the HRT route, but I am struggling to cope with my mood swings, lack of sex drive and lethargy. I have three months worth to try. I have read the leaflet and my Doctor talked me through the possible side effects,so I will monitor my progress.
I would also like to say, I am so thankful for this forum, it has helped me no end with my feelings. Just being able to get things off my chest has been a real help. Thank you to all you lovely ladies for your support.
LostLady
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LostLady - not so lost now that you have us! :foryou:
Taz x ::)
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Menopausal symptoms started at around 39 - hot flushes and night sweats, days of crying, and extreme mood swings which swung from suicidal to road rage angry type stuff. GP told me too young to be going through the menopause but after about 2 years was prescribed birth control Loestrin 20. Still didn't believe I was menopausal (they said Bipolar which I am not diagnosed with nor have been since the hormones kicked in). Sanity was restored, all symptoms gone, and feeling more laid back and calm than I think I have ever been.
Now 49 and had some issues with high blood pressure so have had to come off the Loestrin. The first couple of weeks were fine but then the flushes started and my mood started to drop. Blood tests showed I am now post menopausal and no periods now for 7 years (I took pill back to back due to mood problems). So the GP put me onto Femostan-conti 0.5 mg/2.5. Been on it about 4 weeks now and it has been the month from hell. I seem to be stuck in a permanent hot flush, I feel exhausted, and nauseous with no appetite, night sweats worse than the hot flushes and have been crying for just about all of the 4 weeks. At the weekend started to feel suicidal (and it's fine, I know it's hormones and not acting on it). The rest of the time I just sort of sit there and cry. My blood pressure is also higher which may just be stress I guess because boy is this stressful!!
I really want my Loestrin back because the thought of months of this is pretty unbearable. And that's if the HRT actually starts to do it's job. Without hormones I turn into a basket case, with them, well we shall see but right now it's just made it 10 times worse. I have to say I really do feel like giving up. I know I need hormones, I just need more of them I think.
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I have been taking Estelle Duet for one month. Within 2 days my moods improved, my hot flushes stopped and I felt so much happier in myself. After starting the second packet my period started ( I hadn't had one for 4 months) and my stomach cramps were really painful and my period very heavy for the first day. However I am now on day three and things are much improved and I am feeling ok again.
I am looking forward to seeing how I am through this second month of being on the HRT.
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Hi Lost lady - have you introduced yourself on the NEW MEMBERS section? More ladies will respond if you do.
I'm afraid period cramps can be bad when on HRT but it's a small price to pay for feeling good for the rest of the month. The bleeds should be predictably so you can take some ibuprofen to relieve the cramps. Pleased you are feeling good on this HRT. DG x
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Hi Lost lady - have you introduced yourself on the NEW MEMBERS section? More ladies will respond if you do.
I'm afraid period cramps can be bad when on HRT but it's a small price to pay for feeling good for the rest of the month. The bleeds should be predictably so you can take some ibuprofen to relieve the cramps. Pleased you are feeling good on this HRT. DG x
Does anyone have any advice for me about Evorel 50 patches. I have been using them for 2 months and am not sure if I can detect if they are improving my mood. I have VA and am on topical hrt but hoped that the patches would improve my mood. Am I expecting things to improve too soon? Felt very tearful today, most of the day. How will I know what to try etc. and what's likely to work?
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Linfit - oestrogen can help with low mood but if the low mood isn't to do with hormones then it won't. HRT is fro helping with flushes and nights sweats - it can improve depression and anxiety if this has started with the meno symptoms but it can take longer fro the oestrogen to work it's magic. Someitmes women need an AD/SRRI alongside eth HRt to really deal with all meno symptoms.
I suspect it is early days for you yet and you possibly need to concentrate on eating well, doing relaxation techniques and getting some exercise to help lift the mood - Vitamin D with magnesium in winter is terribly important, as low mood is a symptom of Vit D deficiency. DG x
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hi there
i am on elleste duet 1mg but i am having terrible mood swings so i have been given a prescription for femoston. does anyone know if i can change straight away? :)
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Hi and welcome to MM josie44.
It would probably be best to finish a whole month of the Elleste before starting the Femoston. Are you using sequential or continuous versions?
The progesterone in Femoston is kinder so brings fewer side effects, so suing any of the Femoston HRT range can be good. However taking any progesterone every day (Continuously) can bring problems. Hopefully you are doing the sequential type of HRT which gives 2 weeks of oestrogen only, followed by combined oestrogen with progesterone for 12-14 days, but this will mean a withdrawal bleed each month - many women choose to stick with a sequi HRT well into post meno and put up with the monthly bleed, as there will be fewer progesterone effects.
Hope the Femoston works well for you. DG x
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Hello everyone
I wanted to give any passing demented, hormonal, menopausal woman an overview of my experience on HRT.
I'm 49, career girl, married, slim, fit and generally a happy bunny. Looking back I have been peri for a number of years, periods regular but the odd flush, brain fog and a few aches. My periods stopped suddenly and I was having a random hot flush but nothing too severe. I read this forum and decided most of you were deluded and needed to get a grip, as this menopause thing was a doddle (you will have your revenge shortly)!!!
6 months on...I swear I woke up on a Monday morning and I was hit hard by the menopause train! I had; acid reflux which I had never had before, so bad I could not eat or drink (alcohol made me vomit), I have violent sinusitis, constant headache, I ached like an old woman and was gaining weight. However the worst was; insomnia (12 weeks of 3 hours sleep per night) anxiety/anger...I turned into a real charmer! And hot flushes were just every 10 minutes...they are just so bloody intense.
My mum and friends all said, you will get through it, we did!!! I gave it a go...12 weeks and then I went to the doctors (young amazing female GP). I ended up with Novofem and I love it...and it loves me!
Wow...3 days in and things started to improve, hot flushes were the first thing to ease...1 month I started to feel so much better, 6 weeks I had my first full night sleep in months! I've now been on HRT for 5 months and it was the best thing for me.
Ironically I was prescribed HRT by an idiot 5 years previously and I had such a bad experience with it, which put me off taking it again. However, at that time it turned out I was not menopausal, but my thyroid had left the building...so girls remember to have a look at your thyroid before you jump on the HRT. I think the menopause changes us and I would rather it didn't happen, however I'm 49 and I'm not going down without a bloody fight. :cupcake: :cupcake: :hapij: xxxxxxxxx
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Hello Pinkfizz and welcome to the forum.
Like you I had no idea of the joys that menopause had to offer, even at 49 I thought HRT was for wimps! Fast forward to 54 my periods suddenly stopped and the menopause arrived with a bang. I am 60 now and continue to experiment with HRT in various forms plus diet and supplements.
I hope your regime goes on working for you.
Take care and keep posting.
K.
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Hello Pinkfizz and welcome to the forum.
Like you I had no idea of the joys that menopause had to offer, even at 49 I thought HRT was for wimps! Fast forward to 54 my periods suddenly stopped and the menopause arrived with a bang. I am 60 now and continue to experiment with HRT in various forms plus diet and supplements.
I hope your regime goes on working for you.
Take care and keep posting.
Thank you xx
K.
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Hi all
I'm a newby here and like most, I guess, looking for some advice.
I apologise if my questions have been answered before in this topic - I didn't read through 56 pages ;)
I'm 44 and blood tests confirmed my oestrogen levels were low, with accompanying hot flushes and vaginal dryness. The doc put me on Elleste Duo 1mg and I'm nearing the end of month 2. The dryness and flushes have stopped but I have a couple of questions. I've just come out of a week or two of possibly the lowest mood I have ever had - horrible depression and anxiety, feeling constantly tearful and just wanting to hide under a duvet all day, alternating with snapping at everyone around me and an inability to tolerate crowds and noise (with hindsight, Ikea at half term was probably a bad idea!). I've suffered from PMT in the past but never as long or as bad. Will it lessen off if I persist with the Elleste? What surprised me was that it happened during the oestrogen part of the packet but I thought low mood was associated with progestogen.
My second question is about my period. I have been used to some pain and a bit of bloating for a couple of days but the bloating and discomfort were off the scale during my first bleed at the end of month one and I had pain for 4 days. Will this get better with time? I'm a teaching assistant and it was really hard to do my job while feeling so bad.
Any advice will be gratefully received.
Thanks in advance :D
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Hi and welcome to MM SarahLiz
I'm afraid the side effects you are getting are quite common with many HRT types - the PMT type symptoms are often to do with the type of progesterone or often as a result of the withdrawal of progesterone, as you are getting. You could try Femoston 1/10 as this has a kinder progesterone.
Many women find they get bad period cramps as well - this can be a real nuisance.
If Femoston isn't better then there are plenty of other options.
Some women do better with a Mirena coil and then use oestrogen alongside as gel or patch. This will usually result in no bleeding after the first few weeks - also less cramps etc which is great. DG x
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new to the forum, but I though I would say that for me HRT has been positively life changing. - took courage and a few tries to find the right one for me, but I am now taking Femoston 2/10. It has removed most of the symptoms and I feel like my old self - I have been on it for 18 months now and it's great - quality of life outweighs risk for me. Tried all the natural options, and after spendings £100s in boots and health food shops, and still feeling terrible I tried HRT and glad I did. I have a really demanding full time job and can't afford not to be at work so could not 'live through it' - but everyone is different. However, it has brought my periods back (not so good).
Does anyone have any suggestions for contraception for someone who is exceptionally sensitive to prostergone ? The coil is not suitable for me and most POP pills cause other problems on top on the HRT
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Hi everyone
New to this site . I've just hit the menopause and wanted to know the best combination HRT . And what people recommend . Got DRS in the morning thanks
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That's a really difficult question to answer because there is a lot to choose from and there are numerous regimes. You can get estrogen in patches, pills and gel and there is also whether or not you need a progestogen as well (only needed if you have a uterus). My personal opinion is that the first type tried should be patches, but some women prefer tablets or gel. Everyone is different and will have their individual preferences. Quite often there will be a bit of trial and error before you settle on something.
If you live in the UK there is a list of available HRTs in the menu above that might help you a bit.
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I am so glad I came across this posting because I have had such a strange experience relating to HRT. I had been going through the menopause and had no periods for nearly 7 months but the flushes, lack of sleep, irritability, crying for no reason and general exhaustion were debilitating. I decided after reading a bit more to try HRT and went onto Elleste Duet for about four months, but each month I had a bleed, which really p**ed me off, because I'd just got used to being without them. I also felt worried as they were very heavy, and lasted for 7 days when they came, with quite big clots in them, which I hardly ever had before. My previous periods had barely lasted for four days tops and were not heavy or painful - these seemed to be all of the things I never had before which was really rotten. I had thrown away my Moon Cup prior to this and it was getting pretty expensive for sanitary towels!! I phoned my doctor who said hey, let's try you on some non-bleeding HRT and I went onto Premique Low Dose and after only one or two days, I began to come out in a hot facial rash, having stabbing stomach pains and feeling really low.....I persisted for five days but my husband told me enough is enough, you are really ill. I also had the weirdest feeling of complete numbness in my breasts - no feeling at all, it was so strange! I stopped taking them on my birthday on 3rd March and now I am cold turkey which they say you shouldn't do....I was hoping someone could give me some advice about Premique because all I can find on the net is that these tablets were discontinued on November 2016 - so why was I prescribed them?! :( Does anyone have any further info on these? I am gonna get back in touch with my doctor tomorrow and discuss this because it's pretty weird.
I have decided that if the female body was meant to go through the menopause then there's gotta be an easier way to cope with it than HRT - what about diet and phyto-oestrogens? Has anyone tried any of this with any luck? I do not want periods as I was glad to get rid of them. Vaginal dryness is easily solved by lubes, and as for sex life........I never have had any problems there, so that's not an issue. I don't want hot flushes but I do tai chi daily and that really helps with regulating them. Thanks in advance for any help you could give me.
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At this stage of HRT, (28 days in) it's awful.
I've had a flooding after being period-free for 19 months. My boobs are huge. I feel like I'm carrying cannonballs around in my abdomen and I want to cry. .
On the upside, I'll stick at it until the 3-month GP appointment.
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Hi this sounds daft but will I have good days and bad not on hrt had my tubes left thought I had been through the change Lol only to find out after blood test no your going through the cahange now joy had a few days aching headache feeling so like pooh feeling sick and not me on sertrline as I call them happy pills and advice oh don't use full stops etc dyslexic joy 🐞
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Hi Lizzieann
HRT is trial and error. 9 months without a period is not long and you may well be still in Peri menopause and this will mean your hormones will be fluctuating and giving peeks and troughs. Continuous HRT can give bleeding problems if still peri meno. Sadly gps are Rearely 'up to speed' about HRT and treating meno so you need to read up all the info on this site to get clued up and go back with stuff printed off to discuss with the doctor.
If you want a simple HRT non bleed option then having a Mirena fitted, to stop the womb lining building up, can be a good and you then use oestrogen as either pills, patch or gel alongside everyday to control the memo symptoms. Look under progesterone in the TREATMENT section at the top of his page for more info on this.
The advantage of the Mirena is that less progesterone is circulated around the body and this usually means fewer side effects. Bleeding and spotting will occur initially but will subside within the first few weeks.
TraceyMC and Dee saw - do look at the various HRT options. - you do need to give each HRT type time to settle but you may need to try different types before finding somwthing that suits you. The
Femoston group of hers are often a good to try - they have a kinder progesterone.
Sertraline and other ad/srri treatment should not be the first line of treatment for flushes and night sweats.
DGX
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Hi Lifeofa50yearold, welcome to the forums.
Glad your meds are starting to work, sounds like you're at the point of being able to tackle your weight issues too which is great. Your doctor might've been being a bit harsh but I don't think she was being cheeky - you might indeed see a reduction if you get your weight down as I think a healthy weight for your height is closer to 11 and a half stone. A lot of women do need to look at their eating patters at this stage and you'll get a lot of support on here too. Good luck!
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No one tells when you go onto HRT how hard it is to come off of HRT or how you have to come off of it very gradually to try stave off the intensified symptoms of menopause. I am, after over 18 months, back to where I was prior to starting on HRT 7 years ago, having about about 16 - 18 hot seats per day! HRT worked well for the 7 years. No hot sweats or menopausal symptoms. Have I simply delayed the inevitable by going on HRT? Would the hot sweats have finished by now if I hadn't taken HRT? I am not at all overweight and very active. My doctor just can't give me an answer?
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HRT doesn't delay the meno. Whether you use HRT or not, nobody can tell you how long meno symptoms will last - symptoms can last from one to severn years or even the rest of your life. At least HRT will protect your bones and heart for the long term.
I have used HRT on and off for over 25 years. I am now 61 and 8 months without HRT and not doing too badly. My joints have deteriorated quite quickly - if I hadn't used HRT my joints would be much worse. I took a break from HRT for 3years in my early 50s and the flushes etc never subsided - I am now in a calmer phase of my life so the flushes don't bother me so much - I am not expecting these flushes to subside in the near future - my mother is in her late 80s and still complains about feeling too hot or too old.
At least the years with HRT can make life more pleasant. There isn't any good or right way to stop HRT - you just have to be prepared to adjust your life to cope without HRT. DG x
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Hi all, im looking for advice really. Ive been off work for 6months due to groin/hip, and feet pain and only on the right side of my body. It was originally thought by my gp i had MS but MRI proved otherwise. It now seems it could be lack of oestrogen thats causing this. As you can imagine the pain is very intense and ive been pretty much housebound. Im due to start HRT after my next period but im really worried about starting it but i cant continue to be so debilitated so have no option. :'(
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No one tells when you go onto HRT how hard it is to come off of HRT or how you have to come off of it very gradually to try stave off the intensified symptoms of menopause. I am, after over 18 months, back to where I was prior to starting on HRT 7 years ago, having about about 16 - 18 hot seats per day! HRT worked well for the 7 years. No hot sweats or menopausal symptoms. Have I simply delayed the inevitable by going on HRT? Would the hot sweats have finished by now if I hadn't taken HRT? I am not at all overweight and very active. My doctor just can't give me an answer?
When I asked her whether she had been on HRT my GP told me that this is the reason she didn't go on it. Because when you stop you go into a sort of shock instant menopause. I think it's worth it though because I'd rather put that off for a few years and deal with it when I am older and have enjoyed life while my body is younger than to go through it now and not feel like doing anything with my life because I was feeling so rotten. I've been on elleste duet for about 3 weeks now and I feel better every day. I had a period after two weeks as I started after the other period ended (on my Gp's advice) and the bleed was heavier than it was naturally, but it lasted the usual 5 days, no more. The only change was the heavyness and I had no pain or pms. Other than that I have been feeling fabulous compared to before. The first week or so was hardest in terms of symptoms. I hope I can carry on as I have not felt like this in about a decade.
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Hello (Im relatively new so please bare with me while i try to find my way around)
I have been prescribed 4 different types of HRT to date.
1st was when i was in late peri some 5 years ago when i "Assumed" things were really bad.
Complaints of sweats in the day after a shower and bieng drenched in sweat after drying my hair. It did not help at all. Can not recall what it was called.
I hit 50 this year and my gosh it was like the meno train had hit me .
Since feb ive had 3 more different types of HRT.
Elleste conti- mild improvement on night sweats. Male gp - had changed surgeries in feb this year too so no medical history .
Changed after 8 days to femoston2/10 as my mood was rock bottom and deeper and darker than i could ever imagine possible. The night sweats were horrific waking drenched upto 4 times a night . :P :-\
Doctor put me on femoston 2/10 as she said i might need a little more? Cant recall what that little more was or what it was for night sweats or depression. ( Id read every review going till my eyes were on stalks -(I was going to have a forced withdraw bleed & I did on the 4th day of the 2nd pack.not a happy bunny as had not bled for 5 years.
Back to gp - changed HRT again to femoston conti - After she had consulted "The book" of meds.
4 days in im kinda scared to speak to soon.
I had 2 bad night sweats out of the 4 on the conti - had a very restless night on the 3rd day & 4th day -today woken up dry. Moods still good -ish.
I have piled on the weight in 5 years to obese- 5ft 7 and weighing 19 stone :'( :'(
Whether its due to hrt or just meno im not sure . I dont have the get up n go to even think for too long about exercising -id rather just crawl back into bed and hybernate. So
In answer to your question for me
Yes finally it does work and long may it continue ..
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Mamatulton - I am very new to MM. Sorry to hear that you have been feeling so rotten. I too have problems on one side of body. Numbness spasms and pins and needles. Started 6 weeks or so ago - at same time anxiety went through the roof lots of other nasty symptoms and everything seemed overwhelming. I visited private GP and gynae and was told def peri menopause and that likely was cause of my problems over last 3 years. Got to the stage now where my thyroid is just in underactive range and iron levels low as well as hormones fluctuating- I'm all about alternative and health shops. But gynae cautioned that I could be in serious trouble if I didn't take action now to address with HRT. Got Mirena fitted under anaesthetic and waiting for estrogen. This site has been amazing given the wealth of experience and advice from other women. I am hoping this is the beginning of a better way forward. Looking back I can honestly say that I wish I had recognised much sooner what was going on. My NHS gp had fobbed me off so many times that i felt like a hypochondriac- now I've accepted that HRT may just save my sanity- I'm giving it 12 months and after that I will explore the bio identical again if I'm not getting results. Hopefully things start to improve for you soon - I know that the responses from much more learned women on this site will def reassure you and hopefully provide you with the info you need to make informed choices for your body. Take care DaisyB
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Hi and welcome to MM daisyB
The Mirena can be a really good option as part of HRT as it usual gives fewer progesterone side effects and, after the first few weeks of bleeding and spotting, can result in no bleeding after that.
As for bioindenticals -- well, the oestrogen you will be given will be bio identical as the horse urine derived oestrogens are now phased out.
Utrogestan, which is the bio identical progesterone doesn't suit everyone as it can bring problematic bleeding and has a strong seductive effect.
Once you get going on the oestrogen things should really improve over the next few weeks. Do try the oestrogen as either Oestrogel or estrodot patches as either of these work really well. DG x
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Dancinggirl
Thank you so much for words of wisdom. Anxiety is riding high again tonight - doing everything I can to keep it down. Waiting on word from private gynae to get estrogen started - hanging in there and taking great comfort from all of you on this forum. Sincerely appreciated DaisyB :thankyou:
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I take femoston 1/10, I have over the past month been trying to reduce it. My aim is to continue with my monthly blister pack of one every other day, then the next monthly pack one every 2 days, so on and so forth. I'm already starting to feel knackered and achy... I don't want to be on it forever so I will gave to give it up at some point. I think I may have been on it for at least 2 years. I'm tempted to go back to one everyday; however my sister was on HRT and she suffered breast cancer so I'm a little cautious about continuing it long term (I haven't told my doctor about this as I was desperate to be medicated).
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Hi I've recently started on 3 days ago actually on indivina 1mg/2.5 mg and I'm having some side effects, more hot flushes difficulty in sleeping, dull headache low mood , irritability, does this wear off or should I stop taking them ,,, thanks xx
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Hi Welsh
It can take a few weeks for the body to adjust to the hormones. Be patient.
If side effects don't settle then it's worth trying a different type of HRT. Look under TREATMENTS to see your options. DG x
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It has been very good for me. Was peri-menopausal at 47 in 2013 and prescribed Prempack C - I was so lucky, I had no problems at all. Disaster has struck this week however - I went to collect my HRT from chemists - and opened at home to find Indivina 1mg/2.5mg. Never heard of it. A call to the GP today has informed me that Prempack C is no longer available. This I understand, but that no one contacted me to discuss making changes has infuriated me! I have been given an 'emergency' appointment this afternoon to discuss. I will make a complaint - the prescription was written by a GP I have never met, no questions asked about my current state - how dare a GP minimise and make such assumptions about MY menopause! He's on holiday - or so I have been told. I am angry about this, and also so concerned that if I were less assertive, I would probably just go along with it, which leaves other women vulnerable to the whims of poor GP practice. I don't know if Indivina is appropriate, any idea? I also have MS so I really don't need my hormones messing with!
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Hi and welcome to MM jhh
Indivina is a continuous HRT and Prempak is a sequential HRT so the Gp has given you the wrong type of HRT.
Have a look under TREATMENTS on this site to find your options. the trend is to move women away from the old fashioned types of HRT like Prempak. The newer hrts are more natural and probably safer. I would consider trying Femoston 1/10 but expect a few side effects at first as the body adjusts. The progesterone in Femoston is kinder so you are less likely to get pmt.
Keep us posted. DG x
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Hi
I found this forum the other day while trying to find information about the HRT I am currently on, to make sense of what's going on with my body at the moment!! Any thoughts or shared experiences would be appreciated!
I started peri-menopause at 40 with irregular periods and stopped getting my periods when I was 42. I moved on to awful hot flushes, mood swings, disrupted sleep etc (hot flushes are not fun when you're in front of a class of 32 kids....) and waited a year before my doctor put me onto Kliovance. I have been on it now for 5 months and up until this past week have been extremely happy with more levelled moods, no hot flushes and sleeping like a baby!!! What changed? I now have my first period in a year and a half with heavy bleeding and awful cramps. I've also had incredibly sore and swollen breasts which changed the density of my breast tissue, resulting in an urgent mammogram and ultrasound. As my maternal grandmother died of breast cancer at 64, I have been having mammograms since I was 40. Small cysts were found but nothing to indicate any bigger problems.
My research on Kliovance tells me that spotting in the first 3-6 months is normal but I'm unsure about a period! Thank goodness my daughter has supplies in the house!!
Anyone else had any similar experiences?
Kirsty
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Hi KirstyM
Do start a fresh thread so more ladies can respond and support you.
I think Kliovance is a conti HRT so some breakthrough bleeding is common but if it is heavy and continues for more than a week or so, then this should be investigated as the womb lining may have built up too much.
As you are still young and therefore need HRT to protect your bones and heart, I suggest you consider having a Mirena fitted and then use oestrogen as pills, patch or gel daily alongside. The Mirena is the best way to protect the womb lining from building up and often results in fewer progesterone side effects e.g. sore breasts.
There are many HRT options to try as we are all different.
Many women choose to stick to a sequential HRT and put up with a monthly bleed to reduce progesterone side effects.
We're here to support so keep posting. DG x
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I am afraid I have to say for me HRT has been bad. I have tried virtually every type & not one has done any good, in fact I have probably felt worse. Sorry to be negative but at least it works for a lot of women which is good
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Paisley - I came off HRT a year ago having been on and off HRT for 25 years due to early meno. I firmly believe that HRT is about the benefits versus the side effects and there does need to be more innovation in treatment options for meno symptoms. HRT is still far from ideal for many women. Many struggle with side effects - particularly regarding the progesterone.
I am 61 now and the lack oestrogen really started to effect me about 3 months ago. Lack of sleep, awful headaches, hip and back pain plus digestive problems have resulted in more tests and expense to try and get my life back - I was so exhausted I couldn't function. After a good session with the GP he persuaded me to try a very low dose of Amitriptyline - at higher doses this is used for depression but at lower doses it is a front line treatment for pain, headaches and insomnia. After just 7 days I am starting to feel normal again.
There are other options out there. DG x
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Hi Dancinggirl, that is why I like this site because there is always someone who has been in the same situation & tried something else. I will look into that. Before my hysterectomy I could not take progesterone of any sort either, It made me crazy & so can really sympathize with you. I really hope you continue to do well.
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Hi dancing girl- that's good to know. I'm in the same boat as Paisley- been off it for 6 days though and terrible muscle/ joint pains. Might be related to an old back injury but it seems worse than I remember.
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Michelmabelle
I was so anti ADs/SSRIs and scared of side effects from these drugs.
HRT is still advisable if under 50 as it brings protective benefits for the bones and heart and should be offered first to anyone struggling with meno symptoms. However, in my case the flushes weren't the main issue - lack of sleep and the bad hip and back pain were making life so hard - some days the pain radiated into my knees, ankles and all the muscles in my legs - I felt exhausted. Amitriptyline is not supposed to reduce flushes, however I'm am finding that my flushes are less!!!!! It will be interesting to see how things progress over the next few weeks. I am taking the very lowest dose (10mg) and the GP said I could up the dose gradually if pain returns but still keep it well below the amount used for depression. Apparently children who wet the bed are given 25mg for a few weeks or even months and this is often very successful in stopping the bed wetting even after it is stopped!
This site is about sharing experiences and we all should keep an open mind. DG x
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Thanks dancing girl- I'm not against ADs - just that I've had very bad reactions ( uncontrollable shaking and hallucinations) from them in the past. I would be willing to give a very low dose a go though- I'll see how I get on and hopefully we can all share our experiences- glad you're doing better x
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I've reduced the oestrogel due to terrible bloating and fluid retention. It's not helped much and I too can feel the joint pains and heaviness in my legs returning. I'd be ok with HRT if it wasn't for the fluid retention. I just changed from the pill and think I did better on that. Having more side effects on HRT has surprised me.
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HRT= good. I was petrified before taking but it has got rid of the awful sweats and I slept for the first time in 4 months+. While quality of life is better, I still have mood symptoms 😭.
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Hello ladies I'm
Looking for help. I had a bad kidney infection in march 2017 with lots of antibiotics i also had mirena coil removed my bloods show i am not making much oestrogen and i am menopausal. Suddenly after having no dryness symptoms shortly after my infection I started with vulval pain all on the outside a tingling and burning and I needed to take regular pain killers. I found the vulval pain society website and tried a low oxalate diet and started Chinese medicine which helped immensely and I was using less strong painkillers and going longer btwern doses. It was suggested that some Ovestin on the outside would be the final piece in the jigsaw to get me off painkillers. I stated Ovestin and one dose put me back about a month in terms of severe pain and burning I'm gutted i have stopped using it as I presume there is something in it that has screwed up my PhD balance which I had been slowly healing. Should I try and get referral to vulvsl pain specialist? Feeling sad and wish I'd never touched Ovestin
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Hi I am new to this site.
Came on as getting mixed messages and advice.
A year past December after having a few symptoms and getting bloods taken I was told I was starting down the menopause cycle bloods again checked last January confirmed this. In October last year had a a one off bleed after two years of none but was due to get mirena coil out in November so put it down to that being the end and needing it replaced. GP said could b a problem so no coil replaced until gynae checked me over. After coil removed I had a small bleed everyday, which really brought me down.
Waiting on gynae appt and tests resulted this going on till April when I got another mirena fitted. Biopsy came back with no significant problems but still have estrogen in womb. I don't have any symptoms these days. GP gave me Elleste Solo which is estrogen only a month ago as I was still bleeding which I did not take as wanted the gynea consultation. I did eventually stop bleeding so thought the mirena had settled and started to work. Gynae appt 23rd June said they are ok for me to take the HRT but I was thinking if I have estrogen already why give me estrogen only HRT?
Last week I started bleeding every day again and it has gone to a full blown period yesterday, (think it waited till I told the gynae const that bleeding had stopped) I started to take the HRT last Thursday as bleeding getting me down.
Sorry for the long winded explanation but now feeling really confused as to whether to keep going with HRT let the bleeding go on or just get hysterectomy as I have had problems since my teens with heavy and sometimes constant bleeding? HELP!! Oh am only 43 at mo? Xx
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Hi Jak03
:welcomemm:
If you have had a Mirena then you won;t know exactly where you are in menopause and you didn;t have long enough without it to see what your natural cycle was doing.
The Mirena should eventually stop your periods but in peri-menopause periods can get heavier so perhaps the bleeding comes back. Also if the Mirenas was running low on progestogen then your lining may have thickened - I presume that's what was meant by "oestrogen in the womb". The oestrogen is taken to alleviate symptoms of oestrogen deficiency - flushes, sweats, joint pains, tiredness etc but needs a progestogen ot protect t he lining from thickening.
The bleeding could be the rest of the lining coming away as the Mirena settles (the advice is that sporadic bleeding can occur for up to 6 months after Mirena - although you did have one previously so not sure if that still holds?). Alternatively it could be your own cycle coming into play?
If you have had a biopsy recently and all is well then you will just have to go with it - which I know is annoying. However ongoing bleeding problems after 6 months should be reported - although I think maybe if you are peri-menopausal you cold still get some bleeding ie slight periods?
Sorry this probably sounds confusing - I hope not - I was thinking aloud!
At your young age you do need to mantain oestrogen levels to protect heart and bones so finding a way to do this without too much bleeding is obviously important.
I hope it settles for you.
Hurdity x
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Thank you for the info Hurdity. Some makes sense I will take the estrogen for now but consultant reckons I don't need progesterone??
Before my 1st mirena I didn't know my cycle very well at all as I bled for most of the month with sometimes only a week/ few days off. Then for two years nothing. Now back not knowing when it will start/stop again. It stopped for the week b4 seeing my consultant again then started a week after think someone playing games. Really brings me down although I know this all needs time to settle. Just started dating again last year after Hubbie passed so it's no fun.
Thanks for your reply. I love reading everyone's views and stories on this site. Jackie. X
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Wow that took some reading...
I'm new to this forum and decided to read this whole thread.
Will pluck up the courage soon and introduce myself on new members x
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We look forward to meeting you cms x
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:welcomemm: Chocolatemilkshake - don't be shy we don't bite. :)
We are all here to help you through your menopause problems whatever they are.
Look forward to seeing more of you on the message boards.
Cazi x
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Hi all. I would be very grateful for your advice please. I am 54 and I started HRT in the form of Estradot Patches in 2005 following a Hysterectomy. I had no problems with the patches but last year my Doctor told me that as i was 53 I should start coming off them as I had been on them for a long time. I stopped them early last year. I had flushes but they aren't too bad now. Since last December I have been suffering with recurrent UTI's and vaginal dryness. My sex drive is none existent! My mood is low and i am tired and suffering with joint aches. Since moving house and changing doctors i have been asked by several G.P's why i stopped HRT? I told them that I was advised to. I saw my doctor on Friday due to needing antibiotics for another UTI. He said that it would be advisable to think about replacing oestrogen again. I am so confused!! I have just watched Doctor Heather's Video's and am now thinking that I should restart HRT. Has anyone restarted it and is it O.K to do so? i know it's possible to have oestrogen in the form of a vaginal cream but given the other symptoms that I'm having I'm thinking of returning to the patches. Would be so grateful for your help please. :)
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Hi HelenM- sounds as if you're needing to go back on the patches- your old doctor was out of date. You can continue to take them. Read the NICE guidelines.
Also sounds as if you would benefit from topical estrogen cream - no reason why you can't take this either! Add in some lubricant like Sylk or Yes, and things should improve down there. Hopefully the HRT will help with your other symptoms x
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Helen I had a total hysterectomy in 1998 and have been on Zumenon (first 2mg now 1mg) since. Like you I experienced a lot of problems with UTI's, foul smelling and dryness down below. Sexual intercourse was agony. I sought help and was prescribed Ovestin 1mg cream and I use it twice a week since. When I went to the HRT nurse every 3 months she kept making noises about taking a break from it. I eventually had to go in to the doctor and request that I get 2 tubes every 6 months with my oral hrt and that I never ever come off the Ovestin. I quoted Dr Heather's research and I even printed it all out for the doctor. People who have had a total hysterectomy (with both ovaries removed) don't have any hormones to kick in and Ovestin can't just be a temporary fix. We need it (or something like it) long term as when you stop taking it for this so called rest period the old problems surface with a vengeance.
I'm a little more confused with the issue of taking my Zumenon 1mg long term and wonder if I should reduce it to one tablet every 2 days. I'm going on 57 and have been on it since I was 38 so that's 19 years. You get so fed up with the lack of clarity an the scare stories surrounding HRT and it's so difficult to make the right decisions.
Anyway I hope you resolve your problems.
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Hi jeannie960
I can't think why the nurse suggested you needed to take a break from local HRT - the only reason this is ever suggested (and is unnecessary) is because there are concerns about endometrial thickening and you've had a hysterectomy so it's not an issue - even if this were likely ( and it is very rare!).
It is not the length of time you have been on HRT that is an issue anyway (or that used to be) - it is the time since natural average age of menopause of 51/52. The years before this do not count in terms of risk because it is what your body would have been producing anyway had you not had the hysterectomy.
There is no need to reduce your Zumenon - 1 mg is a low dose. As you approach 60 you might want to think about replacing tablet hRT with transdermal ( eg patch or gel) but as you started HRT years ago this is less of an issue I understand ( than those who start HRT over 60 for the first time).
The scare stories have now been discredited and most gynaes accept that provided women understand and accept the risks (from the major studies which were carried out on a very specific type of HRT and in older women) - it is possible to stay on HRT for ever provided you are not contra-indicated medically.
Do not fret if you are otherwise well and looking after yourself - re diet, weight, and exercise especially.:)
Hurdity x
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Tried Evorel Sequi Conti and 50 and felt great on the oestrogen only patches but just awful on the oestrogen/progesterone ones. I was taken off them a couple of weeks ago and put on Femoston. I feel horrendous. My mood is so low, I can't sleep and feel unable to cope with anything. :-( Beginning to think HRT doesn't agree with me.
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Hi, I have just joined this site and wondered if hrt is still working for you? I have just started taking it 3weeks ago, with no change at first, now I have raging pmt. Since this is the main reason I started taking it I am really upset. Has it helped your mood yet?
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Hi jacquilaura and welcome to MM
Low mood is very difficult to control when it is menopause related and usually requires a range of strategies. HRT is just one strategy but CBT and sometimes an AD is needed alongside HRT to really control low mood etc - so basically it's trial and error.
Do start a fresh thread under All Things Menopause and tell us your age, where you are in your menopause and what HRT you have been given - we can then advice and help you better.
3 weeks is still too early to tell if HRT will help and you may need to try different types HRT to find something that suits you. I'm afraid the progesterone of any HRT can cause pmt and sometimes it's about finding the right type of progesterone for you. What you mustn't do is chop and change HRT types without trying each one for at least 3 months to allow your body to adjust and welcome the hormones.
A good diet and plenty of exercise like brisk walking is essential when meno hits - HRT can't solve everything.
Keep posting - we are here to help. DG x
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Hi:
5 years into the menopause now .
I always said that if I needed it I would take hrt, after all, I'd been on the pill for most of my life.
About two years ago, with the insomnia, night flushes,depression, urinary problems and inability to want or have sex making me feel at my wits end, my GP put me on tibolone.
My menopause symptoms got better very quickly but then I had an "episode" which is difficult to explain but I couldn't walk properly and my balance went, my memory went really bad, forgetting the end of a sentence and slurring words.I became absolutely exhausted and the smallest chore left me catching my breath.
I became pretty much housebound and my husband had to hold my arm into the doctors surgery.
Blood tests and hospital appointments ruled out an thing wrong, but I had two more episodes and came to the conclusion that it was the tibolone, the timing was too coincidental.....no indication from GP,or manufacturers info warned that this could happen.
GP put me on ostrogel/utrogestan: no attacks but similar, milder symptoms.Eventually stopped when got spotting between increasingly heavy periods.
Now feel much better, can walk properly, fewer headaches etcetera but the menopause symptoms have come back.
Feel I'm in a complete catch22 situation.
Was referred to gynocologist 're interim bleeds and she didn't seem surprised at my bad reaction to hrt, she suggested that changing to another form might have similar effects and suggested using oestrogen pessaries instead.
I am going back to my GP to get vaginal pessaries and try citalapram for the night sweats :ironically the treatment he first suggested but I was scared of taking antidepressants.
I don't want to put anyone off hrt and if I could, I would:just be aware of what your body tells you.
It may be that hrt depletes your supply of vitamin b12 and that could explain a lot of my symptoms.
Good luck to all my sister's in menopause :-*
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Liauq, what a terrible experience. the oestrogel was the first hrt for me after being on the pill for years with no problems. I had a terrible experience with it too. It was so frightening as I didn't know what was happening to my body and all everyone kept saying, including my consultant, was how great this gel was and how lucky we were to have it!!!! I have changed to premarin. I know it's an older one, but it's realeased into the body as it needs it and it's a totally different experience. On the flip side, I'm struggling to find a pregestin to go with it. There are so many more choices of progestin with the pill. It's so tempting to go back to the pill, or to take one every other day, which is about the same dose as hrt.
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Cheers, Katia.
I think that the really frustrating thing is the medical professionals urge to write everything off to depression and that they can give you so little time to get to the bottom of your problems.
A few years ago I went to my GP with exhaustion,insomnia,sweats and racing heart and the "d" word came straight out of his mouth! I said not and when he checked further, I had an overactive thyroid:six months of the right medicine verses a lifetime on antidepressants getting worse and worse?
Basically fear that the autoimmune systems in my family are messed up....and it's a nightmare to diagnose.Horrible history of strokes, diabetes,thyroid and my niece has so many autoimmune problems! I also have skin allergies,Reynolds,vitality,haha.
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Liauq, the menopause can bring up auto immune problems too. My Mum was diagnosed with one going though the menopause, so I'm trying to be super careful. I do feel worse without the hrt ... I think ::) I seem to have two good weeks and two not so good weeks, but I did feel better on the pill
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Hi, Katia: in retrospect, things did go a bit weird when my GP changed me to the mini-pill when I turned 40.
My periods stopped completely....which meant a couple of trips to the chemist for pregnancy tests until I got used to it!
I also had periods of "not flu or migraine" when I would have to do nothing for a couple of days...usually at the weekend!
Being female is just one delightful surprise after another,huh.
We could all write a book called "all the things they didn't tell you about".
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I have been suffering for months & reluctantly went to see my gp today as it's showing in my blood that I'm deffo in the early stages of the menopause....I'm 50 & I'm in the happiest time of my life...kids grown up...smashing fella, new job, doing courses at college & volunteering at my local safe house, but now I've become withdrawn, anxious & a totally different woman....so bad I couldn't cope as it's affecting my quality of life....anyhow getting to the point she has prescribed Elleste Duet 1mg tablets & would really appreciate any feedback from you lovely women...it's only day 1 & I'm sat here waiting for things to improve, bit presumptuous but I am that desperate 😂😂 Thankyou look forward to hearing from you all...have a lovely day 💋
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Hi and welcome to MM suehill67
It may take time for the HRT to do its magic. Elleste suits many women fine but it can be trial and error till you find the right HRT. You may read some horror stories from women who struggle with many types of HRT but we are all different - the key is not to look for problems and just get on with life - you may find in a couple of weeks or maybe a couple of months, your life is starting to get back on track.
Keep us posted. DG x
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When I wasn't on combined HRT I noticed that the 10 days of progesterone tablets made me feel unwell too. I felt much better once I was put on combined HRT. It was more stable somehow.
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Hi Dr Currie/ Ladies. I have still not decided on HRT mainly because I am scared that it won't agree with me. In the past various forms of contraceptives seem to make me bleed more, ie injection, Norplant, mirena, so I finally decided that maybe i should give hormones of any short a miss, however at 48 years old and probably around 4-5 years peri, the fratige, anxiety, low mood and flushes are hard to bear with trying to work full-time and bring up an 8 year old. Truth be told, I don't know where to start with which HRT is best? should I have blood tests done prior to see where I am at with the various levels of progesterone etc. It just seems a minefield and our GP's don't have time to discuss options. I have been offered AD's but I am not depressed, just sometimes anxious and have occasional low mood. Any suggestions would be appreciated. Thanks.
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Hi Lady Daviot
You haven't told us what's happening with you periods? Are they still regular or have there been changes in the length of time and type of bleed you get each month.
You are still young and if you low oestrogen then it would be wise to consider HRT.
The progesterone is only important to protect your womb lining from building up and the issues you had before may not apply with HRT.
Are Norplant and the injection just progesterone? The Mirena usually controls and often reduces bleeding after the first few months so I am surprised you found these things caused excessive bleeding??!!
We are all different so respond to the various HRT types in different ways - it's trial and error I'm afraid. If you look under TREATMENTS on this site you will see your options but it's best to start with sequential HRT.
Blood tests for oestrogen and FSH can be helpful but tend to be unreliable in the peri meno stage as the hormones are fluctuating - diagnosis should be based on symptoms.
Are you getting flushes and/or night sweats?
Anxiety and low mood in meno is challlenging to control but many find HRT can reduce these symptoms if they are hormone related - so started appearing when entering meno. Many find flushes reduce quite quickly with HRT but low mood and anxiety can take a good deal longer to reduce - oestrogen tends to be the mood lifter while progesterone can bring pmt type side effects.
Browse around all the factual info on your this site to get clued up and get back to us with questions. DGx
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Thanks DG for the useful info. I am still having periods but can range from nothing for 4 months to recently 3 in nearly 7 weeks. The Mirena was given to reduce fortnightly bleeds but after 7-8 weeks, I was still bleeding every day and did not feel right. Anxiety and low moods got worse with peri. Hot flushes day and night most days. I have had a lot of the other peri symptoms as well and the extreme tiredness is a hard one. I could go back to my bed by 10am after a nights sleep ( although wakening most nights ). Going to get my Thyroid and Iron checked again as both have been low before and I will discuss HRT and see how that goes.
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Anyone else new to tibolone taking with prozac took one month. Had lower mood snappy not myself feeling lost in myself anyone else feeling same,? Does this work? Also no change to libido. Sick of feeling miserable not my old self.
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HRT Great its transformed my life. I can function normally again. I am 40 and found out that I was peri-menopausal thank you to Mr Nick Morris, Wellington St Johns Wood, London. My GP took blood tests and told me to make an appointment for one month later! I could not wait one month not even a week I was utterly exhausted. I was flushing all through the night my bed was wet through I could not live a normal life. Until I was prescribed HRT By Mr Nick Morris, such a caring, kind and understanding Doctor (a god in my eyes). Thumbs up for HRT keep taking the hormones.
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Hi Natsli,i am taking Tibolone, for about 6 weeks now, the only thing I have found different is that I have already put a bit of weight on,they do help me sleep better, but I also feel tired during the day too, and often drop off
How long have you been taking it for, I still feel a bit anxious, but that could also be down to a stressful situation at home
I think we are supposed to try them for 3 months to see if they suit,
Iwas on these during menopause I am pot now, they suited me then, so will see how I am after 3 months
Also on vagifem
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I have been taking HRT for about 10 years - Prempak -C which is a 'bleed' HRT. All was fine until this June when it was discontinued and replaced with Premique low dose - a no bleed HRT. Nothing else in my life changed so I can only think the sudden change in my bowel habits was down to this. On eating/drinking breakfast I get sudden cramping and then have to rush to the Loo where I have explosive diarrhoea. For the rest of the day I am fine.
I eventually had a colonoscopy - all fine.
I ended up wearing pads in the morning but still had accidents. All very unbearable.
Forr the last four days I have been taking a quick acting Imodium about 5/6 o'clock in the morning - and hey presto, all fixed. Obviously I get a build up of wind overnight and this sets off the diarrhoea. I don't have to take Imodium at all after the early morning one.
Has anyone else had this reaction to Premique Low Dose?
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I don't think there's a miracle cure all out there. In my experience it helps alleviate some of the symptoms but definitely not a cure all - esp. anxiety and mood swings
:)
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I was put on Livial[Tibolone] 2 months ago, was told it would help with sleeping,[or not sleeping to be more accurate] but I feel really tired all the time now and could easily nod off in my chair,[and sometimes do] I was also hoping it would help with libido, which seems worse now than before,
Anyone know how long it takes to kick in,? I was taking livial years ago, and it suited me at the time
I believe you are supposed to give it 3 months, but its the tiredness that's the worst,
I am hoping I get some energy back soon,
Have to go to Drs for yearly review soon, so will ask more about it then Just wondered what experiences anyone else had with livial, do things improve
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Anyone,had experience of this
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Hi Jaycee
I was prescribed tibolone/livia after I had my ovaries out a few years ago, wasnt ideal for surgical meno symptoms. Im on oestrogel now but still am tired sometimes but i think thats a meno symptom anyway bouts of fatigue.
I can relate to tiredness on it but put it down to being post op. Also I thought i had more hair loss with it. From what I remember i had op, then after 3wks started tibolone, by which time my body was in desparate need of something and was grateful for it. I started tibolone end April and by Sep I was on oestrogel.
Perhaps tilbolone was ok before as you maybe had more of your own oestrogen? It may depend on how far into meno you are.
Sorry I cant be of more help
Linsey x
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Thank you Linsey,i am well post meno, I will ask my Dr when I go for my review
Cant go just yet as I have damaged ligaments in my knee and painful walking too far don't drive and buses are not regular
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Whilst I felt better on the HRT, which was Estradot patches 75mcg and 100mg of Utrogestan x 7 days at the beginning of each which I started in January 2016, via a private gynaecologist, I have sadly just been diagnosed with Grade 1 endometrial cancer, which is probably estrogen receptive. I have had an MRI this afternoon to see what stage it is at, 1a or 1b. Obviously I am terrified, but have been told it is considered low grade and treatable. I would say though, that my NHS Consultant said it could be due to not being given enough progesterone to oppose the estrogen. I would therefore say, please be cautious about what regime you follow. I welcome healing thoughts.
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jackie ,i am so sorry you are going through this, do you think it really could be due to the HRT? as really the time you have been on it isnt really that long is it?
Were you checked over well before you went on it?
I will send you healing thoughts and hope it does turn out to be low grade and treatable
I was recommended the HRT by a gynocologist at the hospital after having a womb scan,she thought it would be fine for me,
I saw her because of vaginal atrophy, and was also prescribed vagifem
Have you any idea when you will get the results?
Will be thinking of you and fingers x you get a good result
Plesse keep us updated x
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Jaycee,. Thanks for your good wishes.
My endometrial thickness before starting HRT was normal for post menopause at 3.4mm. I can only think that the estrogen, was not opposed by enough progesterone, which has led to this situation. I should get my results next Tuesday and I am praying it will be very low grade. I will update when I know more.
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Hi Jackie,that is very worrying, mine was only the same thickness when I had the womb scan in September
I believe Livial,is safer for this reason, I hope so, but I will be having regular scans I thinm
I really hope it wont be as bad as you fear, if it only grade 1 that isn't as bad as it could be is it, but it shouldn't have happened ,
At least you have been told its treatable, which is no comfort at all when the C word is mentioned
Thinking of you and will keep checking back
Will also ask my Dr,when I get to see him
Healing thoughts sent to you
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Jackie75
I am so sorry to hear your diagnosis - I am sure this is scary but it sounds as though this has been caught early so will be highly treatable with a positive outcome - my thoughts are with you.
I believe the chance of Endometrial cancer, as a result of HRT, is still very small. You have been very unlucky and, as jaysea has said, I would question whether HRT is entirely responsible. The HRT regime you were prescribed by the private gynae was very high in oestrogen with a very low dose of opposing progesterone,so the risks for you were greater, however, your gynae should have carried out regular scans to ensure the thickness of your lining did not build up and therefore put you at risk of developing this cancer. I do hope this private gynae is fully informed about what has happened.
Your experience is exactly why I always advice that anyone posting on this site who wants to experiment with HRT dosage do this under proper advice and supervision by a specialist. Regular scans are not available on the nhs and paying for scans privately is very costly. Progesterone is a vital part of HRT for good reason and levels of progesterone in standard HRT preparations are set to ensure the risks are minimal.
Jackie75 - thank you for sharing your problems with us - HRT can be wonderful but we must always keep in mind that there risks, however small. Do keep us posted - we are here to support you if we can.
DG xxxxxxxxxx
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Thanks Jaycee and Dancing URL for your support, it means a lot to me. I will let you know how things go.
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Good luck xx
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Hi Jackie,just a short message to ask if you have had any results yet,
Hope you are ok, thinking of you x
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Hi Jaycee, Thanks for your message. My local hospital MDT met yesterday and to review the MRI scans. It seems that it is Grade1A endometrial cancer, which is low grade and treatable thank goodness. The scans also go to the bigger teaching hospital Bart's today, for their view also, which is good, as it's two pairs of eyes looking at them. I will then see the consultant on the 6th December, to sign the consent forms and discuss what type of hysterectomy e.g. keyhole or abdominal. Take care. x
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Good news ,so pleased for you, at least that its treatable, would have been better if it was nothing, but a hysterectomy should get rid of altogether shouldnt it,?
Hopefully you will get done very quickly
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Thanks Jaycee. Bart's also think it is Grade 1A, with no muscle or lymph node involvement. Obviously they would know more after the operation, which is on the 19th December, my 60th birthday. I see this as a good sign though, onwards and upwards to 90+ years old.
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Jackie75
I'm so relieved to hear things aren't too bad - you have been unlucky but things have been caught early and this is the key. Thus cancer might have been developing for some time anyway, most cancers start very small over several Years before becoming an issue and if you hadn't been on HRT, and therefore monitored, it may not have been picked up on so quickly. What a wonderfully positive attitude you have and you are clearly getting excellent treatment and support.
Do keep us posted. DG x
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Thanks so much Dancinggirl for the wonderful support. I will let you know how things go. Xx
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I have been peri-meno for quite a few years and resisting HRT for about 14 months, having tried every natural product going, including a magnet in my knickers (kept getting attached to inanimate objects). By the time actual menopause hit this October (at 56), the night heats became even more intense and the sleep deprivation left me with no quality of life. I also have CFS/ME and it came to a point that I was unable to cope with trying to recover and go through the menopause at the same time. I wondered why I was putting myself through the misery and made my decision to take HRT, much to the relief of those around me. Made the appointment with the Dr and was not going to leave without a prescription, the thought of the upside of HRT by this time outweighed the bad. Having been adamant for years that I was never going to take HRT, I have been so pleased with the results so far, that even though I have a side effect of burning, dry mouth, I am going to continue and hoping that my Dr finds an HRT that suits me better. I look back over the last 14 months and wish fervently that I had gone on HRT sooner. Its a very hard decision to make, but I think at some point, your body will make that decision for you. Your Dr will help you weigh up the pros and the cons after looking at your medical history. Good luck.
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knorman - I do hope things settle for you. I'm afraid like most things HRT is about finding the regime that gives the most benefits with the least side effects. Dry mouth is a very unusual side effect and I would question whether that it is because of the HRT - are you using oral or transdermal HRT? You may be better on an HRT patch regime or Oesgrogel with separate progesterone - do look under TREATMENTS to find out more.
So many women struggle with the decision to use HRT, often believing it is a natural process and we should simply cope. Many perceive using HRt as a sign of failure - I believe you are failing yourself and those around you, if you don't try anything that will improve your life. A hundred years ago, you were lucky to get to 50(menopause is a relatively modern problem) and, if you were ‘well to do', you may have become an 'invalid', lying on the couch with the ‘vapours', or rushing around in an anxious state much like Mrs Bennet in Pride and Prejudice.
I think it is very important to keep an open mind about most things in life - never rule out anything - do research and make informed decisions - don't let myths, scaremongering or negative opinions ruin finding your quality of life. DG x
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Hello All,
Am over the moon to find this forum, I have so many questions and concerns. I'm 46 and only diagnosed with early onset but full menopause this past week after a couple months of horrendous symptoms and no periods for a few months. Am I alone in suddenly feeling very old and useless?? I've been researching the last few days too as I didn't really want to go on HRT but my Dr (who was lovely and really understanding of my shock and fears to be fair) said that I really should given my age and the osteoporosis risk. I'm sure he's right but the only 'positive' has been getting rid of periods which were always heavy and painful - and I'm on the HRT that causes them again. I think it's something to do with my age? & the fact that I was bleeding til a few months ago? but does anyone know why/what the difference between other types are? And are the periods I get likely to be as bad as before? I've only started the HRT a couple of days ago so I'm still wandering around in a tee shirt in the middle of winter (so embarrassing!) and waiting/hoping things will improve. Any advice gratefully received. Thanks Judy
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Hi Judy
This is a great forum, full of support and knowledgeable women, there are lots of existing topics to read and easy to post a new topic if yiu have a specific question. It will take time to navigate your way around.
I was in peri meno since late 30's and had a surgical meno at 44. As i also had a hysterectomy at 43 HRT was quite straightforward for me as i only need oestrogen and use oestrogel.
It can defo be a shock for early meno as I felt none of my friends were at that stage and i associated menopause with much older women. I can understand that you have reservations about using hrt but your gp is correct re the osteo risk and it also protects your heart. My breast surgeon /gyna surgeon told me i need hrt despite having a faulty gene that gives me a high risk of certain cancers.
It might be an idea if you copied this post into new members or as a separate topic under meno discussion and more people will see it.
Im unsure as to how your periods will be on hrt as i think it will be a withdrawal bleed there will be others who have experienced it.
Good luck
Linseyx
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Hi and welcome Judy M
I'm afraid you do need a sequential HRT that gives a monthly bleed because you are still technically peri menopausal - once you are post meno then you can use a continuous HRt which should give a bleed free regime. However many choose to stick with a sequi HRT as progesterone taken all the time ( this is conti HRT) can cause more side effects. Post menopause is at least one year without a natural period or bleeding OR if you are over 53-54.
If you want a non bleed HRT regime now, then you could have a Mirena fitted and use oestrogen alongside separately as pills, patch or gel and this will usually result in no bleeding at all after the first few weeks. I found the Mirena with Oestrogel very good - a no hassle HRT regime.
Your periods with the HRT you have been given may not be too bad and may settle over time as the HRT takes control. I found these withdrawal bleeds quite painful but not heavy - again we are all different. Do look under TREATMENTS at the top of this page to get clued up not the various options.
What HRt have you been given?
Don't look for problems - we are all different so will respond differently to the various HRT types.
My meno started in my mid 30s, so I used HRT for 25 years and tried just about everything - early menopause is far more common than people think and at least these days we do have HRT to help protect our heart and bones for the long term. Keep us posted. DG x
BTW do start your own post to get more feedback.
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Thanks so much for the positive and helpful replies ladies - a week down the line and I'm beginning to get my head around everything and settle on the HRT (Elleste Duet) save for an itchy rash on my legs that I'll have to mention to my GP. The flushes haven't subsided yet but I think I'm having less during the day and my head does feel a little clearer.
I'll take some time to navigate my way round as you suggest Linsey and attempt to start my own post too - thanks for the tips! Judy xx
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Hello Kpnuts I know you posted a long time ago and you may not be on the forum anymore. As it is so long ago, I very much hope you are now through the other end.
I started HRT with Elleste Solo Duet conti. Brilliant, but after three weeks and half weeks, I developed a burning, tingling tongue and lips and extremely dry mouth. Have tried two other combinations since with the same result. It seems to me that I am having an allergic reaction also. Apparently it is possible that oestrogen sets off histamine, which would explain the allergic reactions. Did your problem ever get resolved? I really want to take the HRT as I need it desperately, but I am beginning to give up hope of being able to take it.
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Morning All
Dancing Girl, will now be trying the Oestrgel with the bio-identical progesterone. Waiting for the current dry, burning mouth and lips to subside and then will start the new course. Here's fervently hoping! Good luck everyone else with your HRT, when you find what is right for you it is amazing. x
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Hi! I think that HRT is a necessity for primary ovarian failure and early menopause.
I diagnosed with early meno 6 months ago and I'm on hrt.
I'm 42 years old and I had too severe symptoms. I'm grateful for hrt, I'm on cyclo progynova and I'm not in UK.
I'm afraid for breast cancer risks but I feel that my health will be better on hrt than without. I follow my instinct and I do my check ups. I will stay on hrt the longer I can! 🌹
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I have read (and recommend) the following two very helpful books: “Hysterectomy and HRT†(a medical pocketbook aimed at medical practitioners- but easy to follow) and “Screaming to be Heard - hormone connections women suspect and doctors ignore†by Elizabeth Vliet M.D. I was only put on HRT 2 weeks after my surgery- and I wish it had been sooner as I'm still struggling to get my Oestrogen levels up. Struggling with anxiety (and blocked ears/post nasal issues) which comes and goes - but I hope and pray it will go soon!
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After struggling with irritability, moodiness, tearfulness etc for several years I started oestrogel, 2 pumps daily, a fortnight ago. I had a mirena iud fitted a year ago for flooding and heavy periods which is very effective.
On Thursday I had to attend a family funeral. Apart from for the obvious reasons, I was dreading this event as I just knew that I would not be able to control the tears and would be sobbing by the end (and I wasn't that close to the deceased). Well, I'm so pleased to say that the oestrogel is doing its stuff, even after only 2 weeks of treatment. Yes, it was very sad and there were a couple of times that I welled up but I was able to control it all. So so different from my life over the last 10 years. I cried uncontrollably throughout my whole wedding 10 years ago, maybe I should have been taking hrt then!
So, for me, HRT IS WONDERFUL!
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Hi Everyone, Sorry I haven't posted for a while, but my dad has been in and out of hospital since my hysterectomy on the 19th December 2017. The surgery went very well and was keyhole, with only four 5mm incisions. I had no real discomfort post op and physically have recovered very well. Although the histology came back endometrial endometrioid cancer Grade 1, 1A, well differentiated, which is low grade, the fear of recurrence is very disabling. Also, I had an ultrasound of my neck yesterday, as I have been worried that I have post nasal drip and feel that my glands are up. The sonographer said that the glands were ok, but he found some nodules on my thyroid, which require further investigation. I understand these are quite common, particularly in women, but of course, I am beside myself with worry again, given the previous cancer diagnosis.
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Thanks for update Jackie - oh boy! Are you going through it right now. Do start your own own thread, so more ladies can offer support.
I hope you get all the right treatment and support from your doctors?
Keep us posted. DG x
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Within two months my crippling arthritis had vanished and within 6 months I've been able to exercise and diet losing 2 1/2 stone
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That is great Binks. A real success story. DG x
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Thanks dancing girl
No thanks to any gp though, I spent 6 years complaining of joint pain , was incorrectly diagnosed by osteo specialist as having osteo arthritis ... then I noticed that whenever my periods ‘re started ‘ my joints got temp better ... I noted this pattern , did my own research and asked for oestrogen from gp .
Progesterone has been a different matter . Without any suitable advice from gp as I can barely stay awake when taking prog and tried all forms , have put myself on 12 days every three months (200mg utrogestan ) with one pump oestrogen gel. Am 5 days into first 12 days in utrogestan and fining if very hard , can barely cope at work , am now I'll with sore throat .
I really wish I could get medical advice but no dr seems to know . I just hope I don't get cancer due to their lack of knowledge
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Hi Binks have you looked into the mirena coil for progesterone and you could use the oestrogel pump system along with it tailoring your dose to suit.that seems to have a good success rate and I'm sure someone else will add some advice on it as I have limited knowledge I'm oestrogel only.are you also making sure you use v.a treatments so it doesn't creep up on you.vagifem has been excellent for me and next week I'm going to try the estring with rather than putting pessaries or cream in nightly this estring stays active in the vag for 3 months slowly releasing the product as the body requires it.x
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Daisydot is right, the Mirena May be wirth trying. You do get a hit of progesterone initially after it is fitted but after a few weeks less is absorbed systemically and it usually results in little or no bleeding at all which can be a big plus. You simply use the gel alongside and you can increase the amount if you need to without risk to your womb.
The other thing worth trying is to use Utrogestan vaginally. DG x
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Hi all,
This is my first posting here. Finding all the info fabulous and very helpfull. Been on my hrt journey for 2 years and have now finally found a hrt combination that is working for me.
I am currently taking estradot 50mcg patch bi weekly plus utrogestan 100mgs vaginally every day.
I finally feel great :) :)
Just want to encourage others to persivere I have also found some very interesting research article ( but dont know how to embed them on my post).
If i can work out how to send pms will gladly give up the info.
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Did anyone have like flu /sore throat when first taking hrt patches?
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Hi Kerrie - you have a virus - HRT won't give you a sore throat. DG x
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I am currently taking estradot 50mcg patch bi weekly plus utrogestan 100mgs vaginally every day.
I finally feel great :) :)
Am I understanding this right, you are using just 1 50 patch every fortnight? You must have many days with no patch at all then?
I'm glad you feel great, but puzzled as to what you are doing.
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I think she means she uses 2 a week.
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>wave< Kerrie, hope that you are still reading?!? - when I began tamoxifen in June 1995 after breast surgery within 36 hours I felt as though I had the 'flu. Aches. Hot. Cold. Shivery. The drug made me really ill, after 4 months I stopped taking it.
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Thanks dancing girl
No thanks to any gp though, I spent 6 years complaining of joint pain , was incorrectly diagnosed by osteo specialist as having osteo arthritis ... then I noticed that whenever my periods ‘re started ‘ my joints got temp better ... I noted this pattern , did my own research and asked for oestrogen from gp .
Progesterone has been a different matter . Without any suitable advice from gp as I can barely stay awake when taking prog and tried all forms , have put myself on 12 days every three months (200mg utrogestan ) with one pump oestrogen gel. Am 5 days into first 12 days in utrogestan and fining if very hard , can barely cope at work , am now I'll with sore throat .
I really wish I could get medical advice but no dr seems to know . I just hope I don't get cancer due to their lack of knowledge
Funny that. You'd think meno has been around since the dawn of time and dr don't seems to know the symptoms?
I've experienced the same. Do you know the reason why? Meno isn't profitable. Cancer is. Another common thing, if you mention pain, they are so quick to prescribe anti-depressant. In the past I refused because deep down I knew anti-depressant wasn't the answer and I self-diagnosed myself a couple of times. Go with your hunch.
You talk about pain easing temporarily when you have your period.... same thing is happening to me with wound healing and digestive problems. It is definitely the fluctuation of hormones. If I ever have cancer, I would not go on chemo. I'd go for CBD oil or Corey's vaccines.
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Hi SueLW
I use estradot 50mcgs continually . I change the patch twice a week wed/sun. Apologolgies if my post was confusing and this late reply. Been on hols .
I had some intial bleeding when i changed from (daily) oral to vaginal utro but all appears to have settled now.
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Hi - I have just 'found' Menopause Matters and am so glad as I am struggling! I have all of the symptoms of the menopause, hot flushes, no confidence - I doubt myself all of the time, anxiety, no energy, I have instantly developed a 'spare tyre' after never having one, frequent UTIs and no libido - everything is dry and now my hair is coming out in droves !! My GP is NO HELP whatsoever - I can't find any menopause clinics and have no-one that I can talk to about this. I haven't had a period for around 14 months and prior to this was on the progesterone only pill - I couldn't have the combined pill as I have really bad migraines. I feel apprehensive about taking HRT as am concerned about filling my system with oestrogen - I am 53 - and have read about the negative effects that oestrogen can have on your body so ideally would love to address some of the symptoms naturally or with alternative methods. I am taking Menopause, Ginseng and cod liver oil but not much has changed. I would really love my 'old self' back and would love to feel human again. Has anyone any advice ??? xxx
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*Menopace
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Hi and welcome to mm
What negative effects have you heard about in connection to oestrogen?
Oestrogen reduces hot flushes, protects the heart and bones for the long term, treats and prevents urogenital atrophy and has even has a small preventative effect against bowel cancer.
Progesterone can be more problematic for some women but there are many hrt options so most women can find an HRT that suits them.
Supplements and alternative remedies rarely help with flushes and many other meno symptoms but HRT is the natural way to supplement your hormones to help give you quality of life.
Most hrts have bio identical oestrogen, so this is the same as your body would produce.
I would suggest you read up all the factual info on this site, print off stuff to show the GP and perhaps ask to try Femoston 1/10 or the combined patches to see if things improve. You have everything to gain and nothing to loose.
Do bare in mind that 5 years of hrt in your 50s will protect your heart and bones for the long term.
Look under TREATMENTS to see your options and also ask for Vagifem local oestrogen to treat your atrophy. The repeated UTIs will be because of urogenital atrophy and your GP should have known this and offered you appropriate treatment.
Keep posting - we're here to support you. DG x
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......thank you so much - that's really helpful. I have read quite a bit about oestrogen causing cell mutations by a couple of different pathways and as a result increasing the risk of a number of cancers, especially if it's present in higher quantities. I know my natural oestrogen is lower than it was but I don't appear to be able to find out what my actual oestrogen level is to know if any of the HRT treatments will raise it too high. I do tend to 'overthink' things massively and I think with my increased anxiety I don't want to opt for HRT only then to spend my time worrying about the side effects !! it doesn't help that my GP doesn't seem to be overly willing to chat to me about my concerns and is really difficult to see. From what I have read the combined patch does seem the 'safest' option but again I have concerns if I was refused the combined pill would I be able to have the combined patch? I haven't discussed this with my GP yet as I have been fighting against the thought of HRT in the past, although am so fed up of all the symptoms but now have to wait another two weeks before I can get an appointment !! I will have a read through the site to see whether there is anything that may help me with this. Thank you.
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Hi - I have just 'found' Menopause Matters and am so glad as I am struggling! I have all of the symptoms of the menopause, hot flushes, no confidence - I doubt myself all of the time, anxiety, no energy, I have instantly developed a 'spare tyre' after never having one, frequent UTIs and no libido - everything is dry and now my hair is coming out in droves !! My GP is NO HELP whatsoever - I can't find any menopause clinics and have no-one that I can talk to about this. I haven't had a period for around 14 months and prior to this was on the progesterone only pill - I couldn't have the combined pill as I have really bad migraines. I feel apprehensive about taking HRT as am concerned about filling my system with oestrogen - I am 53 - and have read about the negative effects that oestrogen can have on your body so ideally would love to address some of the symptoms naturally or with alternative methods. I am taking Menopause, Ginseng and cod liver oil but not much has changed. I would really love my 'old self' back and would love to feel human again. Has anyone any advice ??? xxx
You and me in the same boat.
janetw,
I've written something about hair. It might not be too late.
Caffeine shampoo will save your hair to fall out. the oil will promote new growth.
https://www.menopausematters.co.uk/forum/index.php/topic,36339.msg638412.html#msg638412
May be I should source pills online and treat myself that way.
I think this website doesn't require prescription.
https://www.doctorfox.co.uk/contraceptive-pill/
I'll do a yearly uterus scan and that will be it. Keep my fingers crossed.
PS, I don't understand the whole thing and imo, it's much easier to ask for contraceptive pill as I have been on one years ago.
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JaneW - If you have been without a period for 14 months then your oestrogen levels will probably be bottoming out soon - so you level will be low. A low dose HRT will be prescribed at first anyway - until you reach 60 the risks of cancer while taking HRt are extremely low but without HRT your risk of heart disease and osteoporosis go up! Go to the next appointment with everything written out - your symptoms, questions and the treatment you want. You should be allowed the patches as these are standard treatment especially if you suffer with headaches.
Many women overthink things when it comes to HRT. There are many drugs like anti depressants that are prescribed freely by GPs which have some very nasty side effects and give bad withdrawal symptoms but nobody seems to worry about these??!!
Do try to look at the positives - HRT might just give you your life back.
Sofasurfer - I really wouldn't self prescribe - really not a good idea. The contraceptive pill isn't the same as HRT and might not relieve meno symptoms.
DG x
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Here is a link re HRT and heart disease. I don't think you have to worry about that at 53 but only if you have an early meno.
https://www.bhf.org.uk/heart-health/living-with-a-heart-condition/women-with-a-heart-condition/menopause-and-heart-disease
and this from this website:-
https://www.menopausematters.co.uk/cvdhrt.php
Shadyglade
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......thank you so much - obviously the cancer risks have been the thing that have been making me the most anxious about the thought of HRT but as you rightly point out without HRT there are concerns about heart health and I am at the stage where quality of life is getting me down. I am so disappointed though that I am not able to discuss such a 'major' decision in my opinion, with a 'menopause specialist' ! I have had appointments with both female GPs at my practice, both mid thirties, and when I asked at the reception who I could speak to for advice on the menopause was just told , "one of the female GPs". One of the GPs was actually looking things up on the internet whilst I was there so my confidence isn't high. Considering this is something that 50% of the population experience I really thought that there would be more places that I could turn to for advice.
I really appreciate your feedback, it does make me feel as though there is someone out there that I can discuss concerns with and be listened to.x
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Sofasurfer - I really wouldn't self prescribe - really not a good idea. The contraceptive pill isn't the same as HRT and might not relieve meno symptoms.
DG x
Really? The content is the same except it's much higher.
We needed oestrogen and progesterone for our immune system as well as many things to maintain our body. Sex hormones aren't just for fertility. When that is no longer there, of course we are going to fall ill. I think doctors are wrong by giving you guys much much smaller dosage because you guys are still suffering even when on HRT. Who decided that 1mcg of oestrogen is the right amount when you had 600-800 when you had your period? Something isn't right Dancinggirl.
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Just to echo who Jane W was saying. I have had 6 different GP opinions on peri menopause treatment from 6 different local GPs. (All under 40 I would say). Non of them asked me about any symptoms (or lack of them) other than the main two I have had (sporadic anxiety surges, mid cycle gunk). I have been told I need ADs for sure to beat the health anxiety, given two HRT types that was looked up in a book and was a major disaster anxiety wise. I also have hypertension but this was never discussed or checked. I was given propranonol daily for anxiety then told 4 months later I should not be taking it daily at all. I have been told my estragen may be too high rather than low (which is why the HRT made things worse) but with no blood tests to back this up. Three years on with a pretty low quality of life at times and I am no further forward what / if /I need to improve things. I live 3 hours from the nearest city so a private clinic is out. We don't even get sent so much as a leaflet on these things on our 40th birthdays. My hubbie seems to get loads on testicles and bowels!
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I tried elleste continue duet which got rid of all the nasty symptoms of the menapause but made me bleed...and it was very heavy. I went back to the doc who has changed me to tibilone...after a week the bleeding had almost stopped, I have just had the odd old blood discharge which I can cope with.
I'm hoping that tibilone will suit me better.
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Lots of positive stuff on hrt but can I just say the whole experience has been a negative one for me.Started elleste duet and felt fab for 3 weeks then ended up severely depressed and suicidal.Went on everol patches and uterogestan,just stopped taking it after 9 months as I was suffering debilitating anxiety.I was not anxious before I started hrt . It's been 2 weeks since I stopped and the anxiety miraculously disappeared on day 10 almost like someone had turned a switch off but after 2 days where I felt like my old self I am now feeling extremely low and tearful. Worried now I'm going to be like this forever 😢
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Do start a fresh thread Fruit loop so more ladies can respond.
It sounds as though you don't get on with progesterone that well and a Mirena might be worth considering.
The peri meno stage can be tough because your own hormones are fluctuating in the back ground.
Finding an HRT combo that work for you can be difficult.
Why not try 50mcg Estrodot patch with Provera progesterone for 12 days each month.
I suspect your mood is to do with hormonal fluctuations. DG x
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Sofasurfer - I really wouldn't self prescribe - really not a good idea. The contraceptive pill isn't the same as HRT and might not relieve meno symptoms.
DG x
So eventually I got a pack of contraceptive but my gp prescirbed very low dose contraceptive (loestrin 1mg Norethisterone/20 micrograms Ethinylestradiol) to the point that it's much lower than HRT like Estelle Duo. :-\
Someone recommended Qlaira but I was denied since it's expensive because it's new.
It seems to be around for a number of years though.
I'm considering buying what I want from an online shop.
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Hello,
Just wanting a little bit of advice before venturing to see GP for a review of HRT.
I started on Elleste Duo over a year ago. Fine on the oestrogen, homicidal on the green tablets and flooded every hour during my period. So I requested a change to Femoston 1mg sequential which has worked really well until a few months ago. Now having more hot flushes, problems sleeping (not just due to hot flushes), increase in mood swings, fatigue and PMT. My perception is that things are worse in second half of the month.
Questions are:
1.How long does oral oestrogen stay in the blood stream? I take it in the morning - would the effects the following night be a lot less?
2.For a perimenopausal woman, like myself, on sequential, how would you know when/if to move onto combined?
I am thinking, would I be better on a medium dose transdermal oestrogen plus Utrogestan? I am quite wary of the type of progesterone I take, as a long time ago I tried a mirena and bled continually for 5 months, then there was the Elleste homicidal problems! Could the progesterone be taken every 3 months if I was on transdermal oestrogen? (I am 50 and was having irregular periods, sometimes 4 months apart prior to HRT, sometimes very heavy).
I would like to be armed with knowledge as although my GP is lovely, she is young and didn't agree with me that anxiety was a menopausal problem and didn't seem to know there is sequential transdermal treatment either. Which I don't dis, as GPs can't all be expert on menopausal matters!
Many thanks for any help. :)
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Hi Troomp
:welcomemm:
You could try an increase in Femoston as it comes in a 2 mg dose (2/10).
When taken orally there would be a surge in estradiol each day but it is supposed to reach a steady state. The breakdown products from digestion/metabolism are excreted so these may also cause side effects. Transdermal HRT is supposed to be most consistent but because each women reacts indvidually to the different types and modes of delivery of HRT, you can't predict what will happen to you!
If you are peri-menopausal when you start HRT and depending how far into it - some docs will try the woman on continuous combined HRT after a year and see what happens. If bleeding continues to be erratic then better to go back to sequential. Otherwise at 54 women are assumed to be post-menopausal because 80% of women are - so can trasfer to conti if they wish (although I was a couple of months off 54 when I started HRT so I stayed on sequential until 58 when the doc suggested conti - but didn't suit me so still on sequential in mid 60's!).
By all means try the transdermal oestrogen if you would prefer but as you are still young, if the Femoston suits you (the prog part) then I would try the higher dose before giving up on it and trying something different?
Heavens your GP is ignorant! All the HRT types are listed under the Treatment tab on the menu - for peri they are sequential ( including combi patches which deliver both hormones like the pills), and for post they are conti, and you can also do sequi or conti with separate oestrogen and progesterone!
Let us know what you decide and how you get on.
Hurdity x
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Hi Hurdity
I am new to the site but have posted recently. I am interested in your last post replying to Troomp.
I am taking femoston conti 1/5. I have been taking it for about a year after taking the progesterone only pill for many years (tried to have the mirena coil fitted but due to tilted pelvis was unable to have it) I can't remember how many years i was on the pill for but had no periods for the whole time so can't gauge when i actually started my menopause. The pill hid many symptoms but when i was told i had to stop taking it at 55 the symptoms really kicked in so started my hrt. The last year has been ok with mild anxiety & low mood every now & again, which i could handle, but recently have felt really unwell. The doctor has prescribed anti-depressants which i took for 4 days but have decided i don't want to take them. I am now going to see another doctor for a 2nd opinion.
You suggested to Troomp about increasing the Femoston to 2/10. When i mentioned to my doctor about changing my hrt a few months ago when i had a bad episode she was reluctant to do so (tbh i dont think she actually likes prescribing hrt anyway) I am a bit confused about all the different types and if my doctor doesnt know then how am i supposed to?? so confused.
Your posts are really helpful x
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Hi and welcome to MM Charlie62
Femoston conti is a lowish dose and doesn't come in a higher dose.
I think increasing to a higher dose HRT might be worth trying - maybe ask for oestrogen only patch(Estrodot 50mcg) with Utrogestan? I'm afraid conti HRTs can sometimes bring lower mood as progesterone used all the time can give PMT and fatigue. Low mood and anxiety seems to creep in as we age anyway for many of us and we simply have to learnt to live with it. Good exercise and some mediation can really help to lift mood. DG x
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Hi and welcome jaypo - it is awful that there are so many ill informed scares about HRT. A strong family history of breast cancer does make HRT something that is not a good idea and for some women HRT can often increase anxiety. If anxiety is your main menopause symptom, then you could try the non HRT prescribed drugs that often help: https://www.menopausematters.co.uk/prescribed.php
Some women seem to do well on Citalopram or sister drugs to this.
There definitely needs to be more alternative treatments available for menopause symptoms. DG x
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I'm so desperate to go on hrt if only for my extreme anxiety but I have a history of breast cancer in my family so too scared to go on it. I think it's dreadful that in this day & age women are basically told,it's hrt which may or may not give you terrible side effects or even cancer,that's your choice
Also have a history of breast cancer in my family with my mum and her mum too but I have a fantastic GP who has prescribed me HRT and all I can say is thank the Lord Jesus Christ!!! I am monitored on a 3 month basis and am due to have the boobs squashed within an inch of their lives in the cold vice but I am slowly getting back to feeling more me again.
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I'm so desperate to go on hrt if only for my extreme anxiety but I have a history of breast cancer in my family so too scared to go on it. I think it's dreadful that in this day & age women are basically told,it's hrt which may or may not give you terrible side effects or even cancer,that's your choice
Jaypo Have you seen the following new book (published Sept 2018) by a medical oncologist? https://www.amazon.co.uk/Estrogen-Matters-Hormones-Menopause-Well-Being/dp/0316481203/ref=pd_lpo_sbs_14_img_0?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=REKC66XGWJ4ANAS3NANP
It seriously disputes the connection between risk of breast cancer and use of HRT. I have only read 2 chapters so far but will read more today. It is definitely worth looking at. If you are on FB, you might also like to look at the following page (which is where I first read about it) https://www.facebook.com/DrHannahShort/posts/275635106413447?comment_id=275772923066332&reply_comment_id=276006203043004¬if_id=1540639469824623¬if_t=feed_comment_reply
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For osteropotisis, there is a UK Charity for suppert and brisk walking 10 mins. every day will help too.
I do wish that someone would do proper Research with regards the risk of HRT and breast disease. This seriously should be done over the next 25+ years to see if there is a correlation. How long would it take from starting HRT to when the cancer pops up for example! Overall, it has to be good if it eases symptoms.
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I have been prescribed fem seven patches been on these for 4 months but still getting night sweats body heat and mood & sleep not improved was wondering if anyone has had to trial different types to alleviate all symptoms
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Hi Tiny
Have you had your thyroid function checked?
If you are still in peri meno then fluctuations in symptoms are to be expected. If you were post menopausal when you started HRT then it can take time for the body to adjust and settle.
The progesterone type can have an effect and it's sometimes worth trying a different type and possibly trying a sequential hrt regime.
Do tell us more about yourself eg age, what your periods were doing before you started HRT and what symptoms you are trying to control.
What other strategies are you using to help with symptoms eg Dietery changes, exercise regime and relaxation techniques? DG x
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Hi all new poster here
I have been taking Elleste Duet Conti for just over 3 weeks now and for the last 9 days I've had a period like bleed, after no periods for over 18 months this isn't something I want, anyone had experience of this? Thanks in advance x
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Hi Bluenose & welcome to the forum.
Starting any new type of HRT can take up to 3 months to settle down & getting spotting / bleeding can happen.
There are several topics/threads on here that may help you.
https://www.menopausematters.co.uk/forum/index.php/topic,40380.msg640167.html#msg640167
https://www.menopausematters.co.uk/forum/index.php/topic,36345.msg585407.html#msg585407
I haven't read through all of them but hoping they may help you.
Introduce yourself on the new members section so that other members can welcome you.
Cazikins
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Whenever we are given HRT we should also be told about the myriad of symptoms and potentially scary things that might happen as a side effect.
I agree but isn't that what the enclosed leaflet should say?
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Hi Bluenose & welcome to the forum.
Starting any new type of HRT can take up to 3 months to settle down & getting spotting / bleeding can happen.
There are several topics/threads on here that may help you.
https://www.menopausematters.co.uk/forum/index.php/topic,40380.msg640167.html#msg640167
https://www.menopausematters.co.uk/forum/index.php/topic,36345.msg585407.html#msg585407
I haven't read through all of them but hoping they may help you.
Introduce yourself on the new members section so that other members can welcome you.
Thank you so much for your help.
Cazikins
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I'm 45 and possibly peri menopausal the gp went by my symptoms hate the anxiety sleepless nights possibly fem seven patch is not for me I have asked gp they are now thinking of possibly changing it ,thyroid function was ok last time taken I'm waiting on further blood results taken last week periods were erratic I just can't seem to relax, thinking of joining a Pilates class it's like someone flicked a switch and changed me for the worst thanks for reply DG
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Tried magnesium citrate iv tried so many things I also have a micro adenoma on my pituitary which endocrinologist is not concerned about just now but that regulates stress hormone I'm totally confused nothing seems to be working for me
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Hi All, I'm new on here :) i'm 51 next week and my periods have been scarce for a couple of years and have stopped since September last.. For years I have been suffering from depression, anxiety etc.. plus I have a severe case of Inflammatory Bowel Disease (Ulcerative Colitis) so have not been able to work for over 5 years.. I'm on a ridiculous amount of medication including 100mg Sertraline, amitriptyline, lorazepam plus IBD medication and suffer from
Asthma (otherwise I'm all good 8) ) I'm having the most horrendous day and night flushes and mood, anxiety real bad so my doctor put me on Evoril Sequi to try this Thursday to try for 3 months.. Strangely enough I had the best nights sleep on Thursday night with minimal sweats, but last night was awful ??? Is this normal and does anyone think I'm risking my body taking HRT with my health problems? Feel so nervous about it all :-\ I've been reading through this forum for a few days now, how brilliantly set up it is.. thank you in anticipation- Ninaduff
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Thanks for that Jaypo :) its great to chat to people that understand :) take care too
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Ninaduff - Doubt very much that HRT will have a negative effect on your health issues - it may well help reduce them. Finding the right HRT can be trial and error though so let us know how you get on with this HRT type.
It will take a few weeks or even months for the HRT to fully work it's magic but improvement in sleep can often kick in quite quickly.
I have IBD in my family - older sister has Crohns and younger sister has Ulcerative colitis ( younger sister is actually married to eminent gastroenterologist!). I didn't have digestive problems until I stopped HRT - I now have to be very careful with my diet. I had a premature menopause so used HRT for nearly 25 years and I think it helped to prevent many of the problems I am experiencing now. I do a lot of walking and Mindfulness which helps to keep anxiety and fatigue under control quite a bit. I do believe that yoga/Pilates and sensible exercise, like brisk walking, are really crucial to help cope with the menopause.
I hope things improve for you soon. DG x
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Thanks so much for that Dancinggirl :) my diet is very limited and I try to exercise as much as I can when not in too much pain.. I'm now on my third day and I have found I'm extremely tired and not slept that good the last 2 nights, still have horrendous sweats and serious gas which in turn effects the UC.. like you say it takes time for it to come into effect.. I'll be patient ::) thanks again 👍🏻 So good to chat :)
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Hello
can you advise how you get to the new members page to introduce yourself please
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Go to the main menu of the forum and scroll down to General Discussion and you will see the item New Members.
JP x
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Sorry about posting on the wrong page, I've now posted on new members page - thanks for advice
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Hi everyone
It's been a while since I posted on here, and I was never a 'pro' anyway. So.. apologies if this is on the wrong thread or whatever you call them. As I say, I'm not that au fait with forums.
I've been unwell recently... convinced it's hormonal (again). I'm 58, had a TVH ten years ago and since then, I've been on Estradot and more recently oestrogel. A year or so ago, after speaking to someone at the Oxford John Radcliffe menopause clinic, I was trialled on T Gel and prior to that, Tibolone. Obviously we are all different and for me, Tibolone and T gel seemed to benefit in some ways, but what I found intolerable, was an increase in neck pain and insomnia that nothing seemed to be able to help. Believe me, I was on a tiny amount.
I gave up on the T gel and carried on just using my oestrogel, and it's been over a year since any contact with the menopause clinic. Recently I've had the most awful crash in energy and generally very unwell. I've had all kinds of tests done by my GP and yes, thyroid is fine and everything else is 'normal'. I feel convinced it's hormonal again. Grrrr. The specialist nurse at the clinic has left and I am due to have a telephone appointment with a Dr Barber, next week. She asked me to have my bloods done, so she can see the results prior to our consultation.
I've just had the blood test results and my oestradiol seems very low again, at 114. Like all of you ladies on here, who are on HRT, I do my research too. Obviously only invested in clinical facts. It would appear that Dr Studd advises that post menopausal women do best if they are up to 800. That seems very high (to me), but obviously I'm not the expert. If ever I had tried to increase my oestrogen, by gel or patch, I get so much fluid retention and cellulite. I'm usually very slim (always been) and so being unable to do up my clothes is unusual.
Some doctors say that 'too much' oestrogen causes fluid retention, and some say 'not enough' does this. Argh!!!! It really does drive you mad, doesn't it?
I"m also getting achy legs again, and it's mainly at night and when I wake up, that they hurt.
Just wondered, those ladies who are using oestrogen only, and are post menopausal.... what do you find is your ideal dose? I know, of course we are all different. I wondering if i've been using too little for too long.
Hope this is clear. I'm usually very articulate, but I've got the old brain fog, badly today.
H xx
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Hoffgrad - In my experience, HRT can only do os much. Having said that, you are on a low dose and you oestrogen levels do seem very low. The private gynaecologist I saw 2-3 years ago said he liked ladies to have a level between 400-600.
Sadly, whatever you do, fat seems to gather around the hips and tummy and I think this is just ageing - all very annoying.
I've been off HRT for nearly 3 years (I'm 63 now, had a premature meno, so had HRT for roughly 25 years) and my legs often ache horribly at night, especially after I've had a bathroom trip to pee.
I personally don't think HRT can fix everything - it's a range of strategies that will help to tackle the horrible aging process.
I doubt think I will ever get a good nights sleep again, so I just have to pace myself - all rather depressing. I do Pilates, teach a community dance class, walk briskly with my dog for at least an hour a day and try to eat sensibly.
I can really emphasise with you.
Have you had your Vitamin D level checked? DG x
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Hi Dancinggirl
Yes, absolutely every blood test you can imagine. Honestly... I'm completely replete I it's vitamin/minerals. I've a background in nutrition and counselling, amongst other things, so I'm fine with all of that kind of thing.
I was just interested to know who else had found they need more transdermal oestrogen (only), the longer they were in it.
I've taken to keeping a spreadsheet (yep!), so I can keep a track of blood test results. Three years ago, my estrogen was as low as 98! I'd been using only 25mcg Estradot patches for 6 years. I was fine on that level, after my hysterectomy, but my needs had increased. No wonder I was so unwell. I'd been diagnosed with CFS/ME after I collapsed. I used to do a lot of exercise and I'd returned from a bike race. I normally would have been fine, but if I look back now, my GP had me tested for everything, including seeing a neurologist.... but there was never talk about hormone levels. Not in GP in the practice had any clue about menopausal problems. I hadn't been assessed since I left my amazing practice in Bristol, some years prior to moving. They had a wellwoman clinic there.
It's very frustrating when you live in a rural community and there's no support if you're over 50. It was only by chance that I discovered the John Radcliffe menopause clinic. It wasn't suggested to me by my surgery, and I had to jump hoops to get to see someone there a year and a half ago.
There was an amazing doctor called Annie Evans, in Bristol. I met her years ago before she became involved as a menopause specialist. Sadly, she's retired now.
I'm rambling ladies.... apologies. Insomnia causes foggy brain.
It's just nice to hear others experiences.
Xx
I understand the biology, and what we ‘should' need, but as we all know, we are all different. That's why I'm careful not to ask for advice on forums.
Just wanting to gain others experiences.
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There's so much conflicting information these days about HRT. Tell us what you think--is it good or bad? My feeling is that for most people it's good when used appropriately and reviewed but here you can have your say!
This is my first day cold turkey, ive been on HRT since February and had terrible acid reflux ever since, the everol patches were semi ok but kept coming off then I changed to sandrina gel. Ive been on this 2 half week and having awful heartburn and indigestion so ive decided nomore, The menopause is a natural process that we all go through so im going to treat whatever symptom comes along naturally. Wish me luck...…. no symptoms yet but im only - 2 hours lol. would love to hear from anyone going through the same so we can compare and share.
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Hi Everyone.
Im new on here and reaching out for help before I flip :-\
I was diagnosed menopausal just over a year ago.
I have tried various natural remedies including the lady magnet, that all worked for a short time which really isn't helpful.
I have had a hysterectomy, but still have my ovaries so my GP suggested HRT Zumenon 2mg as my night sweats are unbelievable.
I have been on this for 8 days now and the sweats are not only hindering my quality of sleep, almost zero, and now they have started during the day too. About a dozen during the day!
I feel like a complete zombie and disappointed that the sweats have increased instead of decreased.
How long should they take to settle this down? Is it normal for symptoms to get worse before getting better?
Im really struggling with this so any advice is welcome ladies ::)
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Hi and welcome to mm
It can take 2-3 weeks for flushes to reduce but I am surprised that you are not seeing some imprint by now. You might do better with transdermal oestrogen and this can be via gel (Oestrogel applied daily) or patches ( Estrodot are the most popular as they stick better).
Have you had your thyroid checked? Thyroid function can become a problem at this time in our lives and can give similar symptoms as the menopause.
Look under TREATMENTS in the oestrogen section to see your options. DG x
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Hi I'm new on here but wanted to share my experience and hope for some welcome advice.
I had adenoymeosis which is same as edemetriosis but contained in the womb and chronic pelvic pain underwent a total hysterectomy in 2014 and ovaries removal too as they couldn't guarantee the pain would go without taking ovaries out. Biggest mistake of my life if I'd of known then what I have researched now I would of insisted my ovaries were kept regardless. After the operation and for a further 4 years I guess I was lucky as never experienced any effects of menopause other then a couple of hot flashes I till summer of 2018 everything changed and developed dampness in my knickers I thought prolapse but after investigations no prolapse and a year later still experiencing dampness but doesn't smell of urine and I don't feel urine coming out this is my first point I'd like advice ?
Secondly is hairloss due to the above happening I thought maybe I should go on HrT I had tried it at the very start elleste solo 1mg but had bad side effects and worse hot flashes so stopped and went natural for 4 yrs but due to dampness I thought I'd try again the same patch as before I was on it for 7 weeks and couldn't take no more same side effects as before so my GP told me to stop it , a week later I had my appointment with gynecologist ref dampness and suspected vaginal athropy so prescribed Vagifem however 7 weeks after stopping the HRT patch and starting Vagifem I lost half my hair volume where as the last 4 years had hair loss but normal amount I would say as my hair grew really quick and really thick so I thought initially it was the Vagifem and swapped that to ovestin which seem to calm the hair loss down a bit I guess. This all happened sept oct nov of 2018 on 25th December I started Estrogel 1 pump initially for 2 weeks then increased to 2 pumps - still loosing hair and would say even thinner and has lost it all behind my ears the hair line receded and nape of neck and back of the head from half way down it has gone really thin and I am sure it is the estrogen gel because I never had hair loss prior to messing about with HRT it is also red in the scalp in placed itchy and irritable I have been to dermatologist and he thinks telegen effluim but it is getting worse and worse I thought estrogen had a protective role on the hair but I don't know if the hair loss is happening because the estrogen is unopposed so therefore estrogen dominance as I don't take progesterone with having no uterus although they did say I could try Utrogestan 100mg every night if I wanted but it gives me stomach cramps which I could bear if it would help hair loss but then everyone says progesterone cause the hair loss but I believe estrogens do to especially after hysterectomy and ovary removal as your hormones are all at the same level when u have ovaries removed there is no fluctuation of hormones as in natural menopause they are all low so I'm wondering could estrogen be causing my hair loss but I'm scared now to stop it as it may make hairloss worse it is having a massive effect on my wellbeing as I don't know what's caused it has anyone else experienced hair loss on estrogen only HRT ? I was 35 when ovaries removed am now 40 still very young to be going through this and for you ladies out there please get 2nd opinions and 3rd before removing ovaries as this has destroyed my life. Sam x
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I was put off taking HRT by my GP, who said that I didn't need it unless my day to day life was affected! I was given a website to look at and left to it! I was also under the impression HRT wasn't good but now I 4 years later aged 50 I am wondering if it might be worth trying it?????
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Sammiejane - I am appalled that you were not advised to persist with the oestrogen after your operation - the doctors were very negligent. There is always an adjustment phase with any hormone treatment and if you had been given either Oestrogel or oestrogen patches you may have done better from the outset. The wetness you experience could well be to do with urogenital atrophy and it would be wise to continue with local oestrogen as well as some systemic oestrogen(gel or patch) alongside. I am baffled as to why you are experiencing the hair loss but I suspect it is nothing to do with the oestrogen - lack of oestrogen can certainly effect hair negatively but there are many reasons for hair loss e.g. stress, anxiety, thyroid function, auto immune problems etc - these are all things that could cause this problem.
After a hysterectomy, even if the ovaries are left they often stop functioning quite quickly so I wouldn't necessarily blame the lack of ovaries on your problems but I would be questioning the treatment you were given regarding hormone replacement following your operation. Being oestrogen deficient so young can have many negative long term effects - I would definitely get your bone density checked - HRT is supplementing what teh body would produce naturally and until you reach the natural age fo menopause you shod be on oestrogen unless you have health issues that prevent this. I had a premature menopause and was post menopause by my early 40s and used HRT for about 25 years. Now 63 I've been off HRT for 3 years now but still use Vagifem to help reduce my urogenital problems. Since stopping HRT I developed far more health issues - oestrogen is vital part of the female body so you really, really need some good advice about the way forward.
Your hair loss needs to be investigated so ask for a referral to a specialist to be tested for the various causes.
Eyre - definitely try some HRT - even at this late stage it could do some good. Start with a low dose and gradually build. Your body may react a bit at first but the benefits could well outweigh any side effects.
Good luck to you both. DG xxxxxx
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Dancing girl- many thanks for advice
Re the hair loss I had none for 4 years in fact since having ovaries removed my hair was mega thick and grew really quick maybe this was slight increase in testosterone not sure , my problems started when I tried hrt patch and it didn't suit so stopped 7 weeks later then about a week after this was taking Vagifem vaginally for athrophy , and then 6/7 weeks later my hair all fell out I've lost half the volume and it's receded behind my ears temples and sides and nap of neck,
I'm currently taking Ovestin cream now and have been for 5 months atrophy has now gone according to gyni however dampness still ongoing and also my urethra feels lower and pressure behind clitoris and wee opening my mons pubis now stick out and has dropped ?
I take oestrogel 2 pumps now been on 5 months but am suffering bad again headaches flu symptoms aniexty depression weight gain bloating constipation u name it I'm getting it and hair seems to be getting thinner and thinner , I'm wondering whether to try progesterone too to offset some of Estrogens effects , did you have hair loss in the time you took hrt ? What hrt were u on ?
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Hi Sammiejane
I really think there must be something else going on that is causing the hair loss.
Your bladder and bowel problems could be to do with a prolapse due to the hysterectomy, not the removal of you ovaries. Progesterone could cause some hair loss and I believe testosterone can result in hair some hair o loss but hair growth on the body where you don't want it.
I suspect stress following the parathion could have triggered the hair loss issues.
Weight gain is common with menopause whether on HRT or not. It is vital to have a good diet and plenty of appropriate exercise when menopause hits.
You haven't said whether your thyroid function has been checked? You may have an under active thyroid and this could explain a lot.
Oestrogen usually reduces all the symptoms you are getting - you might benefit from a bit of testosterone but I think you need to lol at your diet, get out in some brisk walks, perhaps do some Pilates or Yoga and to do Mindfulness to see if that helps.
Ask your GP to refer you to a specialist regarding your hair to get some professional advice - it could be alopecia( I know this is the wrong spelling ) which could have been triggered by a form of PDST from your operation. You haven't told us why you had your hysterectomy- there must have been quite a serious reason to have this ? DG x
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Hello,
A bit of advice on the pros and cons of changing from sequential to conti HRT please.
I am 51 and have been on sequential 1 mg oestrogen for almost 2 years. (Femoston) Was peri before with longest irregular cycle 3 months. I've been undecided whether I need to go up with dose due to hot flushes, emotional rubbish, some insomnia (but not as bad as it was pre HRT!). I do get PMT near the end of progesterone phase.
Obvious pro is no bleed, but I place that low importance compared to other symptoms and health risks.
Other pro, I've read is less risk of endometrial cancer compared to sequential.
Are there cons? I don't know if I'm now post-menopausal as I haven't had FSH tested. Would it be bad to take it if I'm naturally still perimenopausal?
I'm asking cos GP has changed the prescription without seeing me, discussing options, pros and cons, but I don't want to make a fuss as I know they are all busy, and thought, should I just try it!
Many thanks if anyone can advise :)
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Troomp - welcome to MM
At 51, I don't think you can presume you are post menopause as the peri phase can last some years. Conti HRT is usually prescribed when you have been 12 months without a natural period or over 54. Conti HRT won't necessarily mean you will be bleed free as some bleeding and spotting in the first 6 months is normal but if bleeding continues beyond 6 months then you will need a scan to check the lining. If you are still peri meno, and possibly producing some oestrogen yourself, then there is a good chance the womb lining will build up and cause erratic bleeding.
If you want to see if you are post menopause then you could stop all HRT for 2-3 months and have a blood test to check your hormone levels. If you really want to be bleed free, then you could have a Mirena fitted and use oestrogen as gel to patch alongside this and even if you are peri meno this is more likely to result in little or no bleeding.
The down side of any conti HRT regime is the daily use of progesterone which for some women is a problem as it can cause more side effects e.g. PMT, headaches etc. The Mirena will often bring fewer side effects as less is absorbed systemically whilst it protects the womb lining very effectively. It is often the progesterone that gives problems and many women choose to stick with a sequi HRt regime to minimise the progesterone side effects. If you have been OK on the Femoston sequi with only a day or two of PMT each month then I would personally stick with this and put up with a monthly bleed. The tiny risk of endometrial cancer is not something I would take into account.
Hope that helps. DG x
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Thank you, Dancing Girl, that is really helpful.
I couldn't really work out my GP's clinical reasoning for putting me on conti at this point when my issues have been with progesterone.
I'm a bit funny with progesterone - I had a mirena coil in my 30s and bled for 5 months - so I am wary of it.
I think I need to chat with the GP...
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Hi dancing girl
So I had suffered pelvic pain for years about 11 yrs , had abnormal smears to and tissue removed although benign. Went on to have 3 children my youngest being 7. After I had my 3rd child I had a copper coil fitted as I never really got on with the pill piled on weight and had nausea bad used to take at night and I used microgynon 30 so decided I would try copper coil instead as non hormonal. In 2014 at 35 and really since my son was born my pelvic pain had gotten worse effecting walking ability be doubled over in pain and end up a and e although it wasn't constant. They decided to do an MRI scan and on this they found adenymiosis (can't spell it) but it like endometriosis but contained in the womb so although this was mild form they said the only sure was hysterectomy removal of the womb so as I had completed my family we decided this was best option which I was happy with. When I went for my pre op the consultant then said they had been talking and feel it would be better to remove the ovaries to as they could not guarantee the pain would go. They said I would go into menopause and could give me estrogen hrt . The pain did go . However have recently found out from gynecologist that the coil could also cause same pain pelvic pain pain with intercourse but this was never mentioned so I don't now and will never know if it was the coil or the are pumps is that caused the pain. I wish I had been told more in-depth the effect of menopause and the fact that although you go into surgical menopause you may not get symptoms straight away it can appear years later nothing was told to me and at that time I didn't research ovary removal and the impact which I wish I did have as I were of insisted to keep them as they continue to make hormones and testosterone for up to 20 years after I feel cheated and blame my self too but never gave it a second thought after my operation as recovered quickly no sign of menopause just couple of hot flushes 2 day 2 night I got on with it but summer last year everything changed I started getting dampness in knickers followed by uti , UTI went and dampness remains,Gynecologist though vaginal atrophy prescribes Vagifem but due to the hair loss I though this was causing it as side effect was hair loss so I swapped to Ovestin and hair loss still continues when I lightly brush 5-15 hairs come out hairs on floor too when I brush then shower blow dry and lightly brush again I shed 55-110 hairs varies each wash but scalp hair is thinner wider part receding behind each nape of neck forehead and sides worse now then before starting estrogen ! Recent gynecologist said athropy is no more vagina well Estronised but still have dampness I thought prolapse originally but 3 gynecologist have said no prolapse but it feels as though there is pressure behind wee opening and clitoris and I feel as though the urethra has dropped my mons pubis where public hair is sticks out and has dropped down and at my age of 40 this shouldn't of and hadn't until the dampness started the minute I sit down my knickers damp but I don't feel like urine has come out I can't wear jeans as every thing touches the vagina which I didn't have that before and then my knickers wet. I'm due to have urodynamics test done in couple weeks to see if urine leaking and then an MRI something is going on I feel it . And when I have intercourse just inside my vagina at the top where urethra sits this gets kind of in the way and gets sore when having sex as it feel lower dropped into the vagina more and I have to pull my mons pubis up and then it doesn't rub so something to me has dropped.
What hRT did you take and did you have hair loss ? Did you hair loss on Vagifem ? Would you say Estrogel can cause hair loss ? I know like men transitioning to women take estrogen hrt to grow hair so one would presume it has same effect in women ? Then I think am I getting all my symptoms because I don't have progesterone to balance estrogen so would I have estrogen dominance I'm so confused in some ways was easier not Taking HRT . U mention weight gain in menopause again I had the opposite I lost a stone and Infact it looked like I had 6 pac instead of a small tire I dropped from a size 8/10 to 6/8 and have now gained 10lb in 5 1/2 months since Taking HRT so to me it does make you gain weight. Your thoughts would be great dancing girl
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Dancing girl - sorry I forget to say before I woffled on lol , I saw dermotolgist regarding my hair loss and they said that the density is good even though I've lost half my hair volume I do hair mega thick hair whereby I have to get it thinned because overgrows I always have intill now and they reckon telegen effluvium, he checked the hair follicles and said they are alive still but my hair getting thinner and thinner ? If I don't see an improvement then they will do a biopsy .
I have an autoimmune disease lichen planus whereby my body attacks mucus membrane u can get it on the scalp but dermatologist said I don't have it on the scalp ? You can also get it on genitals but again I don't have it there it's quite common in post menopausal women . Thyroid is fine and iron vitamin d etc fine we'll all bloods fine . Thanks sam
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Sammiejane- I'm not sure whether I can add any thoughts. You have had some good advice from the professionals and I'm afraid the menopause does bring about a lot of changes whether on hrt or not. It is worth persevering with the oestrogen to protect your heart and bones and, over time, it could improve your skin and hair.
The problems with the entrance of your vagina could well be a small bladder prolapse ( very common). Soreness could be helped with local oestrogen(Vagifem) and daily use of vaginal moisturisers - SYLK or the YES products are the best. The dampness could also be some slight stress incontinence and doing pelvic floor exercises would be good. If you can get to some Pilates classes or Yoga, this can really help everything.
Do read up all the info on this site as it can be so helpful to fully understand what is happening with your hormones.
Keep posting. DG x
If you already suffer with auto immune issues then this can mess with a lot in the body. Doctors tend to be very dismissive but often our instincts are correct.
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Dancing girl - many thanks
I'm unsure what to do for the best change it stop it add progesterone ?
The other thing I have noticed since taking estrogen I am having more hot sweats and the more estrogen I take the worse they get , and I have started sweating between my legs which again never had and I am 5 years past hysterectomy so unsure why I'm getting symtoms now 5 years later ?
What HRT did you take have u suffered hairloss ? Has your hair grown back if you lost any ?
I'm already doing pelvic floor exercises and have been doing the last year but no difference I don't feel urine come out though like if I sneeze or cough laugh although don't laugh then sometimes if I need a wee or bladder full I might leak but after the gynecologist did examination because he was feeling the urethra when I stood up and moved my knickers were wet very strange hopefully I shall get answers with the test coming up , this has consumed my life though I have had to give up work because my mood all over the place I'm so tired , I have read that estrogen can cause the glands to over produce fluids and progesterone has the opposite effect but the times I have tried progesterone I feel it makes dampness worse although I sleep better and mood is calmer .
Thanks for your help
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Sammiejane - I doubt very much that progesterone would help you - in fact if you were on progesterone I would be blaming this for all your problems.
I am now 63 and only use Vagifem these days: I stopped full HRT 3 years ago because I was finding progesterone too difficult to cope with. Progesterone can have a sedative effect but will often bring other more difficult side effects like depression, irritability etc. I often wish i could have had a hysterectomy as I would then still be using Oestrogel now to help maintain my sleep, energy, skin and my whole wellbeing.
Menopause is not something that you ‘get over'. Oestrogen deficiency continues to cause problems well beyond menopause and many women don't understand this. Those women who thought they had an easy menopause with few sweats and other issues often find they start to get problems several years later.
If I were you I would keep using oestrogen both systemically and vaginally but alongside this I would have a good look at your lifestyle to see what small things you could do to improve everything.
Reading your posts I get the impression you are totally overwhelmed and stressed - also angry and upset because you feel the loss of your ovaries has triggered all these problems.
Many alternative therapy practitioners talk about oestrogen dominance and claim that oestrogen will cause problems but this is usually part of peri menopause when the ovaries are failing, oestrogen is fluctuating and there is a lack of progesterone to prevent erratic bleeding. In your case this cannot happen as you are not producing oestrogen from ovaries - in fact you can be grateful you were spared the often problematic peri stage of menopause. If anything, you might be needing more oestrogen??!!
Hair loss, sweating etc are often caused by stress. Learning relaxation techniques are very important when menopause hits as anxiety and stress can be the worst symptom of menopause. I think you have been traumatised by all the gynaecological issues and pain you experienced before the hysterectomy and you are now having to cope with oestrogen deficiency with a partner and children needing you to be on top form. You are naturally trying to find answers and solutions and I totally understand this as I do the same thing all the time. I desperately want FIX everything.
I rarely suggest this but I do wonder if some anti anxiety medication for a short time might help you.
I had a friend who went through an awful time with a great deal of stress and her GP suggested she have a mild anti depressant for a few months to give her body and mind a break. She now looks back and realises that the GP had saved her as she was at a tipping point with her health. She too had skin problems etc all due to the stress.
Write down all your problems and questions and make a GP appointment to see what they suggest at this stage.
If in the meantime you can try some Yoga, learn to do Mindfulness, get out for good brisk walks every day, eat small highly nutritious meals that are low in sugar and saturated fats and engage in activities that lift your mood, I think this might improve things.
This is a reputable website but be careful of looking at any website that is selling remedies or cures for menopause as they tend to make very spurious claims which desperate people are willing to believe.
I think you need to be kind to yourself. DG x
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hi soupdragon -
with regard to your HRT regime to you now take estrogen and testosterone.
When you took estradot only did you experience hair loss ?
are you experiencing hairloss since adding testosterone ?
What dosage are you on.
I had Total hysterectomy and oopherectomy at 35 so surgical induced menopause but had no symtoms of meno till 39 so didnt use hrt and my only symtom was Vagianal dampness, after trying one HRT didnt suit i now take estrogel and ovestin vaginally but am suffering hairloss since starting and a host of other things weightgain , mood irratic, depression, aniexty bowel problems, bloating headaches back pain since starting it i am on 2 pumps estrogel each day estrogen only HRT my meno wont give me testosterone yet as my estrogen levels in march 2019 were 195 and testosterone 0.08 what are your levels ?
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Great for me tho its taken 3 different types and quite a while to get it right.My problem was it was causing bleeds when I shouldnt have had them as my periods had been stopped for a couple of years when I started it.Has improved my life 1000%!Hot flushes gone,night sweats all but gone,mood swings vastly improved...normal life resumed!
Juju have you managed to get the balance right! I have been having the same issues with bleeding when I shouldn't be. Am now on my third type of progesterone. Bleeding seems to have stopped (although a little spotting) but am still getting bad period like cramps. Interested to hear what worked for you.
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Suemumof2teens
Hi sue
Can I ask you how old you were with total hysterectomy? Did you have ovaries removed ?
When u stopped the HRT did you notice hair shedding or are you now having hair loss.
I had hysterectomy and opherectomy at 35 yrs so both ovaries removed had no menopause for 4 yrs then started with bladder irritation and weakness dampness but started estrogen HrT first one didn't suit so stopped it and 7 weeks later she'd lots of hair I'm now on estrogel 17b but again not suiting me my mood headaches nausea and hot flashes worse, insommnia aniexty weight gain bloated constipated and am still getting hair loss but as I'm only 40 I'm worried to stop it Incase I shed loads hair again but I feel awful.
Thanks sam
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Hi
I'm 53 and began the menopause in October 2017 with almost every symptom you can imagine. Working in an executive office with Directors, the hot flushes and anxiety were not something I could have and I was determined to find something that would get me back to normal. ;)
So I asked the doctor for HRT and went onto Elleste Duet, assuming it would magically stop all these symptoms. But then I had to manage the very heavy monthly bleeds for 6 months (I didn't use to have very much of a bleed previous to menopause (barely a day of very light spotting) so to sit in the office or boardroom feeling blood pouring out of me was not a good option. So then I asked the Dr for a different option, but was told to wait until 1 year of taking it and then review everything. I spent a fortune on sanitary products and had supplies everywhere - the bleed would happen anytime day or night with no warning - it was such a nuisance. :-\
After some thorough investigation on Google (!) I decided at my 1 year review to ask for Elleste Duet Conti and reluctantly the Dr agreed. Then I couldn't get the prescription and was told by various pharmacies that I wouldn't be able to get it because it is in short supply worldwide!! More investigation on Google and found that Kliofem was a good alternative. So I went back to the Dr and asked for this, telling her that Elleste Duet Conti was unobtainable! ;)
Kliofem gave me daily bleeding for 3 months, some serious painful cramps, upset tummy, broken sleep, anxiety (again) and then I started to thoroughly investigate why. I can't tell you how much I read online about the drugs - estradiol 2 mg (an oestrogen identical to the one made in the ovaries) and norethisterone acetate 1 mg (a progestagen that acts in a similar way to the body's own hormone progesterone). The norethisterone was the part that was supposed to STOP the bleeding! :o
Holiday of a lifetime looming, I decided that I would either go "cold turkey" and give up taking the HRT altogether or find a solution to stop the bleeding.
My husband, by the way, has been extremely supportive, loving, patient and kind - although he did say I was 'different' because of menopause which made me sad. I did feel that I'd lost my carefree attitude and my joy for life; that uninhibited zest for life ... I'd feel guilty because the menopause isn't an illness or disease, but I definitely wasn't ready for the disruption and bleeding, most embarrassing and inconvenient (poor car seat) :(
So more reading and I discovered that I would need 'oestrogen blockers' and so began the supplements.
I got better and better and this week after making sure I take my Kliofem at exactly the same time every day and after taking Red Clover, Menopace, Wellwoman 50, Sage, vitamin d, vitamin e, oil of evening primrose, starflower, zinc, calcium and an A-Z multivitamin and mineral supplement, I have stopped bleeding, no pain, happy, energetic, tummy going down, calm, relaxed and I do believe I have found the right balance for me. I thought I would share this so that anyone else who takes Kliofem and is thinking of giving up because of the bleeding, this could be the answer for them! ;D
Good luck to you all. Read as much as possible. Stay calm and carry on!!
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Hello Dixie from Devon and welcome to the forum.
Can I ask are you still using Kliofem and now only take supplements to treat your meno symptoms?
Wishing you well.
K.
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Hi can I ask has anyone experienced hair loss on estrogel only HRT 2 pumps
I've tried increasing to 3 pumps as estrogen levels were only 195 and testosterone 0.8 however side effects worse and hair loss gets worse.
I had hysterectomy and ovary removed at 35 no HRT for 4 yrs till sept 2018 whereby tried patches first for 7 weeks and didn't suit so stopped then given vagifem 2 weeks later then 5 weeks into taking this I lost half my hair but it's thinned all over and receded behind ears and lost at nape of neck something is causing it either estrogen or stopping it I then started estrogel in dec 2018 but my hair still thinning and every strand is coming out full length of the hair and with white bulbs . I had mega thick hair to the point of too much and used to get it thinner but not now. When I took contraceptive pill I lost no hair and was on it 5 yrs yet estrogen only HRT bio identical seems to be causing it along with a host of other side effects GI issues weight gain irritability insommnia aniexty fatigue emotional wreck lots discharge ! I'm thinking of stopping HRT and going on the pill as I'm only 40. Do u think my hair loss is an imbalance between progesterone and testosterone as these are low compared to estrogen ?
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Hi birdy
Have you experienced hair loss on HRT ?
I don't know if my level of T (testosterone) was higher then estrogen before starting HRT but if it was caused me to loose no hair in term of thinning intact the opposite it was mega thick the only thing was my hairline receded a tiny bit at temples but that was it.
Since being on estrogen my hair has thinned to half volume but have also lost two clumps my tassels I called them that used to hang down from ponytail and is dramatically thinning on nape of neck it's like estrogen hrt has caused alopecia of some kind ?
I'm unsure to continue HRT I only have to take estrogen as hysterectomy and ovary removed but feel rubbish on it or do I try a different one ?
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Hi birdy
I'm not on Facebook !
It's bezaire cause I had no thinning prior to starting HRT my hair was thick long strong now it's fine weak and thin !
Estrogel has hairloss as side effect I'm wondering whether it's due to estrogen excess and the ratio of estrogen to progesterone and to testosterone or if the estrogel I'm on is actually causing my hair loss . The progesterone I can take is utrogestan 100mg every night but again does this cause hair loss ?
I used to take the pill when I was in my 20s microgynon 30 which has synthetic hormones but had no problems with hair loss weight gain so am considering maybe trying this ?
Have you had hairloss ?
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I have posted several times on here about my hair loss, i was taking livial,[tibilone] from about 18 months ago, and also given vagifem, and my hair loss now is terrible,i
I always had thick hair, and with the menopause it did thin a bit but all over, but now i have actual bald patches, i have seen a few comments about people on vagifem losing hair, but then told it is too small an amount to cause hair loss,
I have now gone off livial, and just started on Evoral Conte, but one of the side effects it says is or could be hair loss, i really dont want to lose any more
The comments about vagifem are worrying though, and i have seen a few comments about it,
I thought my hair loss might be because livial has a kind of testosterone in it,
The noretheristerone kind of progesterone is what is named as what causes hair lossi Evoral conte
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Hi Jaycee
Well I noticed my hairloss after being on vagifem for 6 weeks it was shedding loads like 250/300 hairs and a got 20/30 just brushing I swapped to ovestin but it is still thinning now I also take oestrogel 2 pumps estrogen level 195 in March 2019 and testosterone 0.8 I am having retested next week but my hair is thinning dramatically I think to be honest that mine is estrogen ! I never had hair loss on the pill but then it was combined with progesterone so I'm thinking it's an imbalance of hormones plus my weight is going up and up and I lost weight through menopause ! I'm right fed up and not sure whether to stop it or change to a patch because also I feel rubbish mood so up and down sucidal one minute then I'm ok then badly depressed. I went cold turkey for 4 years and only started for suspected VA and think a little incontinence but something has upset my hair cycle and is still shedding now 80-120 hairs when washing and 5-15 when brushing but it's almost bald nape of neck and receded behind my ears thinning sides temple on top
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Hi Jaycee
I'm on tibalone and have taken Vagifem in the past. When taking vagifem for 6 months, I never noticed any shedding, but I'm now on Tibalone, (stopped vagifem) I am shedding quite bad, and my hair is quite fine to begin with so Im not keen in loosing more!
I'm thinking of asking for a change in HRT, I'm post meno, and just don't think this one is hitting the spot for me. I still have really bad musculokeletal issues, painful thumbs, and knee joint. Aching muscles and tendons that feel too tight at times, along with other symptoms.
The sleeping and the vaginal issues are much better.....but my quality of life is still very hit and miss. Hoping another type can help....any advice welcome ladies
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I am thinking now then it must be the Tibilone that has caused the hair shedding, but i was on Tibilone years ago, and didn't have any then, as far as i know except for a bit of thinning, but i expected some because of menopause anyway, but this now is ridiculous, i have had to get some topik hair fibres as it is very noticeable, and does look actually bald :'(
I hate these fibres as they make my hair look very dry and sticky, and feels dirty
I can't see it is the vagifem, but did start with them at the same time as Tibilone
I have started the Evoral now, but had constant runs to the toilet, have seen others comments about this too with Evoral, so will just watch how it goes with it
The strange thing though is i didn't see the plughole covered in hair or combs with any hair in them
I really like the Tibilone, but wouldn't have it again now
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*Sammiejane* i dont think it will be the vagifem, rather the testosterone, could you try without the testosterone? at least for a while to see if you are still shedding,
The tibilone has a kind of testosterone in it, and i am now thinking that is what is causing my hair loss, took it years ago but didn't really notice any great hair loss,only some thinning that wasn't too bad and i did expect some thinning as i got older anyway
I am hoping the steroid lotion the Dr gave me will help, as i have spoken to others with the same problem who have had success with it
Hope you can get it sorted,as i know it is very distressing and depressing
I would just talk to your Dr, and see what he/she thinks
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*Sammiejane* i dont think it will be the vagifem, rather the testosterone, could you try without the testosterone? at least for a while to see if you are still shedding,
The tibilone has a kind of testosterone in it, and i am now thinking that is what is causing my hair loss, took it years ago but didn't really notice any great hair loss,only some thinning that wasn't too bad and i did expect some thinning as i got older anyway
I am hoping the steroid lotion the Dr gave me will help, as i have spoken to others with the same problem who have had success with it
Hope you can get it sorted,as i know it is very distressing and depressing
I would just talk to your Dr, and see what he/she thinks
Hair loss is actually listed as a possible side effect of Vagifem.
“What are the possible side effects of Vagifem®?
Vagifem® is only used in the vagina; however, the risks associated with oral estrogens should be taken into account. The most commonly reported side effects of Vagifem® include: headache, breast pain, irregular vaginal bleeding or spotting, stomach/abdominal cramps, bloating, nausea and vomiting, hair loss, fluid retention, and vaginal yeast infection.â€
https://www.vagifem.com/
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Someone else posted about this on mumsnet, but it was strongly denied by some as not being enough oestrogen in a pellet to cause it. but i looked on my info leaflet and couldn't find anything about it, but i know their website does,i wondered if after update it was found to be wrong
I will check my info leaflet again
Where did you see this please *Jenna*
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Jenna- I don't take testosterone only Estrogel 2 pumps and now Ovestin but my hair is still thinning rapidly I think it's the Estrogel so think I'm going to change to everol patch and see if stops if not then I might add progesterone see if that help maybe it's an imbalance going on I can't have testosterone till my Estrogen levels are higher then 195 so again could be an imbalance here I just don't know all I know it was a lot thicker before I started Estrogen hrt
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Sorry it was me who mentioned testosterone, Sammiejane, got mixed up, but evoral patch is oestrogen and progesterone isn't it? unless there is another evoral without progesterone, mine has both
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Hi all,
I have been going through the menopause for a couple of years now. To be honest I am unsure about HRT, although I have just got my first lot of Evorel Conti patches. They are still sitting in the box looking at me. The hot flushes, night sweats, lack of libido and generally feeling completely miserable has led me to get them, but still not sure. These patches are a 2 a week, is there anything wrong with me trying just 1 a week to begin with?
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I think its a bit pointless trying 1 to begin with to be honest as you wont be able to tell what affect hrt will have if you are only taking half a dose
I have started on Evoral Conti too this week, and on my 3rd patch tomorrow, all i have noticed up to now in the last few days is i have more energy, which is a good thing for me
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I would imagine the patches will be formulated to last three and a half days, so by the end of seven days you'd be runnig on empty. I would just try them at two a week as intended. You might be pleasantly surprised :)
JP x
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Hi all,
I have been going through the menopause for a couple of years now. To be honest I am unsure about HRT, although I have just got my first lot of Evorel Conti patches. They are still sitting in the box looking at me. The hot flushes, night sweats, lack of libido and generally feeling completely miserable has led me to get them, but still not sure. These patches are a 2 a week, is there anything wrong with me trying just 1 a week to begin with?
I have been using them for just over 2 months but was told by the meno clinic to apply half patches not full. Have just started to notice benefits (reduction in VA symptoms).
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I'm not sure about whether HRT is good or bad. I was prescribed Ellest duet low dose to help with night sweats that were leaving me knackered during the day. The sweats almost disappeared before I starting taking HRT. However, what I noticed was that in first week I started to ache really badly like I had flu and had a period that was heavy and very painful. I hadn't experienced that level of period pain since I was a teenager.
I started HRT in October 2018 and went on Femoston 1/10mg in February this year. I have had different symptoms every month since October - now I'm up at 3.20am 'cause I can't sleep. I'm hoping I'll just run out of side affects.
To be honest though, I think if I don't feel any better by September I may as well come off it. I didn't think I'd feel worse on HRT!
Oh, and the sweats are coming back too - great!
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NJB, i know the flushes etc are a right pain, but in my opinion, I wouldn't take hormones to compensate for your bodies natural hormone decline, unless you want to take them for the rest of your life, because if and when you stop taking them, your body's hormone level will then decrease and you'll be back at square one.
Lifestyle changes if you need to, definitely ease the symptoms. X
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Hello Jaypo - Thanks for your response. It's interesting about the sweats because if that's the case it does make me wonder what the point of HRT is :-\
If all the symptoms I've had are just my own hormones coming through and not a result of the HRT then I feel a bit flummoxed why I'm taking it. Most women are taking some form in order to feel better and I haven't had that experience. That's not necessarily the HRT but it does suggest that my prescription was just doled out. I wanted to feel better particularly in my moods and I just don't :'(
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Hi Wobbles, I have never taken HRT and although I had a long and unpleasant peri I genuinely feel pretty well now. Once my periods stopped everything seemed to settle except for a short spell two years post.
I think the meno has left me more temperature sensitive, both hot and cold, but no more flushes. Touch wood. ::)
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Hello Wobbles and welcome to the forum.
I often wonder why I'm bothering to use HRT. I've had a range of symptoms over the last six years but by far the worst has been the anxiety and mood swings which have persisted now matter what regime I'm on. I wonder if HRT only really works if you take a high dose that matches the oestrogen we had when we were menstruating? I can see how that would be an attractive option for younger women but I tried to tough it out until I was 57 and was advised to always keep my HRT as low as possible.
No one takes HRT expecting to. feel worse or just horrible in a different way but for some of us that is the reality.
Wishing you well.
K.
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Hi Kathleen,
Yes, it's a bit strange really. I do wonder sometimes if I should have gone on HRT at all. Apparently it can take up to three months or more to be out of your system. If my own hormones are coming through I shouldn't notice it going anyway. I'm not sure I want to be on such a high dose that my moods are altered because it's not a guarantee that they'll be altered in a good way!
x
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Hi Jaypo - thanks for the heads up about the sweats. I can cope with them returning if they only occur in the early hours. They were originally happening at 2am, then, 3am then on the hour but I managed to mitigate the next day tiredness by going to bed really early. The weather last year didn't help either.
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Hello again Wobbles.
I also wonder if I did the right thing in starting HRT but at the time I was desperate for some relief.
My periods suddenly stopped at age 54 never to return and although I had many symptoms I thought I'd be able to tough it out. At age 57 my jitters became intense and lasted all day but weirdly always stopping at about 9pm every night when I would feel really good until bedtime. After six months of this scenario I had had enough so I approached my GP and began taking HRT. The thing is one of my earlier symptoms was constant headaches and this followed a similar pattern in that I woke up with a headache that lasted all day but would always resolve about 9pm and begin again the next day. I wasn't using HRT at the time and after six months the headaches stopped and have not returned. I sometimes wonder if six months is the natural duration for some symptoms and perhaps if I'd waited a little longer my jitters would also have resolved. Who knows?
I wish we had more science to inform us about the menopause so we could make better decisions about how to navigate this time in our lives. We live in hope!
Take care.
K.
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Hi
Have posted a couple of times on here but I need advice
I currently take estrogel 2 pumps no progesterone as no uterus and no ovaries.
Since taking estrogen hrt I am experiencing hair loss receding hairline all the way around my head worse behind ears and nape of neck.
My menopause believe this is due to low estrogen levels however as I had my total hysterectomy 5 yr ago and have only been taking Hrt 6 months I never had hair loss before when I would of been at my worst it's only since taking Hrt it's sheds on the floor in shower when I brush etc although has slowed a bit but still happening.
If I change to a patch will it have same effect as it's still estrogen or do you think it could be caused by estrogen dominance and the ratio to progesterone ?
Please help it's driving me crazy blood work all normal so I know it's hormonal ?
Thank u
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Sammiejane - I doubt your hair loss has anything to do with the oestrogen. Changing from gel to patch won't make any difference. Have you had your thyroid function checked recently?
There are many reasons for hair loss e.g. stress, chemotherapy and sometimes hormone imbalance. Have you had your oestrogen levels tested to see if you are achieving the right level of oestrogen? Anxiety can certainly have a big effect on hair and skin. I knew someone who had terrible hair loss whenever she was stressed.
The oestrogen dominance theory is used by alternative therapists as a reason to give progesterone creams (really not a good idea). When in the peri menopause, hormone levels can fluctuate greatly so this can mean too little progesterone is being produced to ensure the womb lining sheds properly and the lack of progesterone will often result in erratic and/or heavy problematic bleeding.
Blood tests won't necessarily show the underlining cause of your hair loss and unless your oestrogen levels are very low then hormones are unlikely to be the cause. Has your doctor told you the problem is to do with your hormones or given you any indication what the cause might be? You probably need to see a specialist dermatologist. DG x
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Hi dancing girl
Yes blood work all normal and thyroid normal according to blood results
My Estrogen and testosterone were back in March 2019 - Estrogen 195 and testosterone 0.8
I had my hormones retested in June 2019 - Estrogen has gone to 104 and testosterone 0.6 so even lower .
Although I think the bonus of the levels going lower is that I no longer have huge mood swings or aniexty attacks but this could just be my body being used to it .
When I read the leaflet of side effects all the Estrogen sure either state hair loss or unwanted hair growth but I wondered if I swapped the gel to a patch maybe hair loss would stop I don't think judging by my levels that the gel is obsorbing as they have gone lower. And I struggled to increase to 3 pumps as hair loss worse and mood fluctuations were impossible to function day to day . Vaginal symtoms have improved hence my reason in the first place corn starting hrt however this could also Be down to the Ovestin that I take .
I just don't know what to do as with having no ovaries ? My meno clinic said I could take progesterone it wont cause me any Harm but is not necessary.
Your advice is welcome on what patch and if you have had hair loss ?
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Hi. This is my first time posting on here. I've just booked up a blood test to measure hormone levels.(I'm 51). I have been taken Zumenon 1mg for quite a while now. I'm thinking I am somewhere in the menopause as mentally I'm a mess at the moment! :'(
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Hello Alison and Welcome!
Have your periods stopped yet? If so, how long ago?
What is zumenon? X
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Hi. Im new to this and just joined. First of all i would like to say hi. I have just been put on kliovance.. ive been taking for 22 days and feel ok in myself less anxious and less tearful. But i have been bleeding for last 10 days. First five were large dark clots last five been normal blood.. is this normal?? Has anyone else suffered with this ????
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Hi and welcome Shrirrell
How old are you? When did you have your last natural period. It is quite normal to have some bleeding and spotting in the first 6 months on any continuous HRT. Many women choose to stick with a sequential HRT, even in post menopause, and put up with regular monthly bleeds to avoid progesterone side effects and erratic bleeding. If you are feeling good so far, then I'd continue and hopefully the bleeding will subside. If it doesn't then you may need to get this checked ( sometimes polyps or fibroids are present but these are rarely serious). If bleeding doesn't confiture to be a problems adn you want a non bleed HRt regime , then having a Mirena fitted is often the best alternative. I had a Mirena in post menopause and used Oestrogel alongside and this was the best HRT regime I ever had. Keep us posted. DG x
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I haven't posted on here for nearly 10 years because I have been an HRT success story. In 2009 I started getting menopause symptoms, night sweats, hot flushes, painful joints, hair loss, depression, the works. My gynaecologist put me on HRT (oestrogen patches and progesterone pills) and I started to feel better in a week, had no side effects and haven't looked back. My gynaecologist said I could stay on it as long as I wanted and so did my GP. Ten years on and I have a new GP who will not continue to prescribe HRT for me.I can't afford to get it privately from the consultant so I agreed to trying to get off it but only if I was weaned off it slowly. So far I've gone from 75 micrograms to 50 and then I was supposed to go to 40 but due to the national shortage of HRT my pharmacist couldn't get it so I had to go onto 37.5 instead. For the last 2 weeks I've started to get occasional night sweats and today I've had hot flushes. I suppose as the HRT dose gets lower and finally finishes I'll be chucked back into menopausal symptoms and my life will be miserable again. I'm really worried. Anyway I just wanted to post to say that HRT can be brilliant, it's just the coming off it bit that can be rubbish.
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Hi Ziggy the new guidelines are that you can stay on hrt for as long as you need it. There is no need to stop taking it x
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Ziggy - change your GP? or tell the new one that this treatment has kept you sane and well for 10+ years and why would he/she want to stop it? Is he/she reading outdated information, maybe suggest that he contacts Dr Currie ;-)
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Hi Ziggy the new guidelines are that you can stay on hrt for as long as you need it. There is no need to stop taking it x
Hi Dotty, do you have a reference or something saying that so I can wave it at the GP?
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CKLD, I've argued till I'm blue in the face. She told me it would increase my risk of DVT, I told her I was on patches so the oestrogen doesn't get metabolised in the liver so it wouldn't increase my risk of DVT. She told me it would increase my risk of breast cancer, I told her that my risk from HRT was less than if I was overweight or drank much alcohol. I told her that I've had a life for the last 10 years whereas I was depressed, tearful and exhausted before. I've told her that I figure skate and sometimes fall and I need my bones to be protected, she says take calcium. She says she has a duty of care to me as her patient. I've told her I'm an intelligent woman with a background in science and clinical research, I know the risk-benefit of staying on HRT. So far she isn't budging. I don't know if any of the other doctors in the practice would prescribe it for me. I need some scientific evidence that says it's ok to stay on it. I'm hoping I can persuade her to let me stay on it at the lower dose I'm on now. I can cope with the odd night sweat or hot flush but I can't face going back to full on menopause symptoms again.
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These professionals are a nightmare for us patients, it just adds to the overwhelming feeling we can get with meno symptoms and anxiety. Is there another GP in the practice who is more clued up or more likely to listen to your perspective on things? My GP (now) admits menopause is not his area of expertise however he always listens to me & runs my thoughts past a local meno specialist by email & phone's me back within a few hours with a plan. Albeit for me it took over 3yrs for a diagnosis, numerous investigations, trials of meds, specialists etc so I totally get how frustrating it all is for you. My advice would be stick to your guns, the alternative to be bullied into stopping is unthinkable for you based on how you were previously. I can't give you any references off the top of my head but there is likely to be info on the forum or website in relation to this. If you try some different terms in the search box you might get some other ladies experiences with this & how they persuaded the GP to listen. As for duty of care, it is you that is taking all the risk (if there is/were any risk) and duty of care extends to empathy & keeping oneself up to date with current thinking to provide the best care for patients!!! x
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Try this Ziggy:
https://thebms.org.uk/publications/consensus-statements/hormone-replacement-therapy/
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Ziggy this is from Dr Louise Newson's website
https://www.menopausedoctor.co.uk/menopause/myths-about-hrt
You have to stop HRT after 5 years
FALSE
Many doctors try and encourage women to stop taking HRT after five years. However, there is actually no good scientific reason for this. Each woman needs to be assessed individually for the time they need to take HRT for. The length of time you take HRT for is an individual choice and depends on your individual risks and benefits. If you are under 51 years of age then you need to take HRT until you are at least 51 years, regardless of the age you are when you start taking it. There is no specific age at which you need to stop taking HRT. I have some patients in their 80s who still take HRT.
The link that Jenna has given you is also a good one. Thanks Jenna x
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https://thebms.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/WHC-UnderstandingRisksofBreastCancer-MARCH2017.pdf
This link to a diagram puts the risks of hrt into perspective. x
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Just looked at dr Louise Newson's very nice website. It seems she is not NHS, but a private specialist. The first appointment is £250 and then she likes to see you again for follow up appointments but they are only £195. Her prescription charge is £30 and at the lovely clinic she also sells her books and supplements. X
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Hi Dotty, I've heard of dr Louise newson. I've seen her book advertised. Do you know how much she charges per appointment or is she NHS? X
The nice thing about Louise Newsons clinic is you pay for your initial consultation and follow up but she believes that women shouldn't have to pay for private help for HRT,so after the initial consultation and follow up she will then contact your nhs gp and let them know what regime you need to be on so you don't have to go back to see her again unless you want to
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Just looked at dr Louise Newson's very nice website. It seems she is not NHS, but a private specialist. The first appointment is £250 and then she likes to see you again for follow up appointments but they are only £195. Her prescription charge is £30 and at the lovely clinic she also sells her books and supplements. X
The prices you are quoting are correct, but Louise Newson believes that women shouldn't have to pay for advice for menopause and should be able to get help from their GPs, after the initial consultation and follow up she will contact your gp and give them the details of your regime so you don't have to go back and see her,of course a lot of GPs are not that helpful and many prefer to dish out anti depressants instead but she said in a recent interview that in an ideal world there would be no need for her clinic to exist and if she could get a job as an NHS menopause consultant she would,but she can't because there are no funds
If you want to hear her views on treating women you should listen to her podcast
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CKLD, I've argued till I'm blue in the face. She told me it would increase my risk of DVT, I told her I was on patches so the oestrogen doesn't get metabolised in the liver so it wouldn't increase my risk of DVT. She told me it would increase my risk of breast cancer, I told her that my risk from HRT was less than if I was overweight or drank much alcohol. I told her that I've had a life for the last 10 years whereas I was depressed, tearful and exhausted before. I've told her that I figure skate and sometimes fall and I need my bones to be protected, she says take calcium. She says she has a duty of care to me as her patient. I've told her I'm an intelligent woman with a background in science and clinical research, I know the risk-benefit of staying on HRT. So far she isn't budging. I don't know if any of the other doctors in the practice would prescribe it for me. I need some scientific evidence that says it's ok to stay on it. I'm hoping I can persuade her to let me stay on it at the lower dose I'm on now. I can cope with the odd night sweat or hot flush but I can't face going back to full on menopause symptoms again.
Print off the NICE guidelines and show her them,also visit Louise Newsons website, there is loads of info on there about HRT,your doctor is out of date with her knowledge,if she won't prescribe tell her you want to be refferecd to a menopause clinic
My gp wouldn't give me HRT so I went back with current guidelines and she agreed to give it to me
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I am curious to know if the NHS gp's prescribe the oestrogel and ustrogestan? The private menopause specialist that I paid to see prescribed me this. I told this to my gp and, firstly she completely refused to prescribe any hrt, due to family history, but she also said she couldn't prescribe that anyway. She said she prescribes patches. I'm wondering if that an area thing or if the gel etc is only privately? If that's the case, then even if the private specialists say they are happy to let you get from your gp, if they know that's not possible, then it might sound nice, but that doesn't help much. ?! I know my gp does not prescribe it, but maybe others do? X
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Jari... yes Oestrogel and Utrogestan are available on nhs. You don't have to see a private specialist to get them.
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That's good to know for the ladies that want it Dotty!
It seems that all the private specialists, seem to, generally prescribe the gel and ustrogestan. For the ladies with the general non complex symptoms, they can go to their gp and just ask to start on lowest dose etc and avoid the expensive specialist appointments. Most gp's will have had specialists writing to them by now I'm guessing, so they'll know about the doses. 👍
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Hi
I wanted to ask any ladies that take estrogen only HRT whether patches or the gel is best ?
I found the gel was better for sleep and VA symptoms for me but my hair has got incredibly thin the 6 months on this , however have now swapped to a estradot patch 50 after being on 2 pumps of gel and have been on the patch 5 weeks but VA dampness come back but discharge less and don't feel as bloated as I was on the gel but hair no change. As I've had hysterectomy there is no need for progesterone but I'm wondering if the imbalance of having low progesterone is what is causing my hairloss ?
Advice on the best patch would be great I've tried elleste solo but had side effects although don't think hairloss was one of them and the everol patch I couldn't get to stick.
Blood test normal and thyroid normal
Estrogen level 104
Testosterone 0.6
when I started HRT pAtch elleste solo then stopped after 6 weeks started vagifem week later and then hair shed 5 weeks later so roughly 11/12 weeks after starting hrt but not sure if it's starting or stopping HRT which has triggered hairloss but has thinned dramatically since November last year and then started estrogel dec 25th so hair was thinning before this but not sure of the gel has made it worse hence my changing to patch but yet no improvement
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A serum estradiol level of 104 pmol/l is rather low. Perhaps you weren't absorbing very well from the gel. I never did and now use Estradot which has been much better. Sounds as though the hairloss might be down to low oestrogen?
It's not so much which product is best but how well you, personally, absorb from it. I only got to 89 pmol on 3 pumps of gel and I was aiming for about 250 to help avoid osteoporosis. I didn't do much better on Sandrena. On 125 mcg Estradot I got up to about 460, so did much better on the patches and was able to drop down to 100 mcg. Maybe give it a bit of time on the Estradot and get tested again.
My own hair didn't thin dramatically when my oestrogen was low, but I do shed less these days.
Hope this helps.
JP x
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Hi J P
Thanks for your reply
Do you only take estrogen ?
I had hysterectomy 5 yrs ago 2014 and ovaries removed and didn't take HRT until sept 2018 and up intill taking HRT I had no hairloss infact the opposite it grew quick and really thick and since starting the hrt I have lost 50 percent thickness and scalp hair really thin.
It's such a catch 22 and trying to find a balance because I can't tolerate high doses of hrt whether this is because it's unopposed and when I took the pill I never had hairloss but this was combined with progesterone x
I really don't know what to do I can't cope with VA symtoms and the gel has been great for this and sleep is better but I do t want to loose my hair anymore I'm only 40
Would you say your hair has improved on the estradot patch ?
Have you had weight gain on it ?
When I google side effects of the gel some sites list thinning scalp hair as side effect and then post marketing results as alopecia or hairloss as frequency unknown , where as the estradot patch
list hairloss as rare so would you say this is less likely then the gel ?
Thank you
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Hi, just a quick response re De Newson. She is my meno doc and is amazing. Yes it is all expensive (especially the Androfemme) but very worth it. I travel 2-3 hours to see her! Just to echo above, she will write a very detailed letter to you and your gp with a diagnosis and prescription. After this I went back to my gp, who finally conceded to perimenopause after 2 years of multiple frustrating appointments with loads of horrific symptoms. I now get my estrogel on Nhs prescription. I'm going to try and get my bloods done on Nhs too and take results with me next time. I'm definately prepared to stay with Louise for the foreseeable.
There are 12 meno specialists at her centre.
I recommend the podcasts and there is a fantastic video of her in the help bit where she discusses everything you need to know about peri/meno.
I'm a total fan girl!!!! I love that she is all for educating Nhs health professionals, medical students etc and changing the whole way women's health care is handled.
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Forgot to say she has a book coming out in September too, available for preorder on Amazon. I'm not on commission I promise :)
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Thanks Bobidy, that's good to know. x
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Thanks to everyone who replied to my earlier post about my GP insisting I come off HRT after 10 years. I have now printed off lots of info from the links I was given here and I'm going to show my GP. The first time I saw her she told me I was going to get a DVT or stroke, I was risking breast cancer and shouldn't even be on HRT as I get the very occasional migraine - all rubbish it seems. I can live with being on the lower dose I'm now on but I don't want to go any lower so now I feel better armed to deal with her.
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Hi joaniepat
Do you only take estradot patch ? Or do u take a progesterone aswell n if so which one ?
U mention your hairloss is less is that since being on the patch or did you shed less when on the gel too ?
Thank you
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Bobidy, did you get Dr L Newson's book? I got it Friday, read it by Sat, think its great. x
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Does estrogel cause thinning scalp hair ?
Has any suffered this when taking estrogen only hrt
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Hi, just a quick response re De Newson. She is my meno doc and is amazing. Yes it is all expensive (especially the Androfemme) but very worth it. I travel 2-3 hours to see her! Just to echo above, she will write a very detailed letter to you and your gp with a diagnosis and prescription. After this I went back to my gp, who finally conceded to perimenopause after 2 years of multiple frustrating appointments with loads of horrific symptoms. I now get my estrogel on Nhs prescription. I'm going to try and get my bloods done on Nhs too and take results with me next time. I'm definately prepared to stay with Louise for the foreseeable.
There are 12 meno specialists at her centre.
I recommend the podcasts and there is a fantastic video of her in the help bit where she discusses everything you need to know about peri/meno.
I'm a total fan girl!!!! I love that she is all for educating Nhs health professionals, medical students etc and changing the whole way women's health care is handled.
This place looks amazing. How I wish there was something like that near me. Unfortunately I live in Worthing, work full time and have no holiday left to take.
I've been on 50mcg Evoril Conti the past 18 months and I feel awful, migraines getting worse, vertigo, hot flushes, no libido, hardly any improvement at all being on HRT, I thought going on HRT was supposed to help you get your life back. I've seen every GP at my practice and not one of them suggests me trying something else. Just to come off it completely, which I tried for the previous year but don't want to try that again. I've found out way more info on this board than any GP visit. I am going to ask for a referral but I'm not holding out much hope of them agreeing.
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Hi joaniepat
Do you only take estradot patch ? Or do u take a progesterone aswell n if so which one ?
U mention your hairloss is less is that since being on the patch or did you shed less when on the gel too ?
Thank you
Hi SJ
Browsing through some old posts - did you receive a reply to this one ?
Jay
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Hi Joanie pat
Jay jay
No didn't receive a response to this one
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Hi joaniepat
Do you only take estradot patch ? Or do u take a progesterone aswell n if so which one ?
U mention your hairloss is less is that since being on the patch or did you shed less when on the gel too ?
Thank you
Hi SJ
Browsing through some old posts - did you receive a reply to this one ?
Jay
I'm getting muddled now. I replied to SJ's posts on the Oestrogel Utrogestan Support thread about exactly the same issues, so at first couldn't understand why you guys thought I hadn't replied! Just for the record:
Estradot only, no progesterone.
No shedding on patch. I am actually absorbing well from the patch. Did not absorb well from Oestrogel.
Hope this answers the question.
JP x
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Hi joaniepat
Yes you did reply to me thank you.
When you changed from the gel to patch how long did it take before you noticed your hair stopped shedding.
I changed to estradot 4 days ago but spent 2 days on 50 mg but wasn't cutting it Va worse hair worse and flushes sleep worse I've upped to 75mg and feel better but hair shedding more it's only been 4 days so wondered how long it took plus VA still worse
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Hi joaniepat
Do you only take estradot patch ? Or do u take a progesterone aswell n if so which one ?
U mention your hairloss is less is that since being on the patch or did you shed less when on the gel too ?
Thank you
Hi SJ
Browsing through some old posts - did you receive a reply to this one ?
Jay
I'm getting muddled now. I replied to SJ's posts on the Oestrogel Utrogestan Support thread about exactly the same issues, so at first couldn't understand why you guys thought I hadn't replied! Just for the record:
Estradot only, no progesterone.
No shedding on patch. I am actually absorbing well from the patch. Did not absorb well from Oestrogel.
Hope this answers the question.
JP x
Hi joaniepat
Do you only take estradot patch ? Or do u take a progesterone aswell n if so which one ?
U mention your hairloss is less is that since being on the patch or did you shed less when on the gel too ?
Thank you
Hi SJ
Browsing through some old posts - did you receive a reply to this one ?
Jay
I'm getting muddled now. I replied to SJ's posts on the Oestrogel Utrogestan Support thread about exactly the same issues, so at first couldn't understand why you guys thought I hadn't replied! Just for the record:
Estradot only, no progesterone.
No shedding on patch. I am actually absorbing well from the patch. Did not absorb well from Oestrogel.
Hope this answers the question.
JP x
Hi
Glad I found your response!
It would appear the gel is not as easily absorbed as the patch, so maybe this is the key.
I personally often find the gel takes ages to dry, then sticks to my clothes when I get dressed.
Mullin' all the info now, so thank you.
Jay Jay
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Hi joaniepat
How long did it take when u swapped from the gel to the patch for your hair to improve and stop shedding. ?
Mine since going on the patch is shedding more u see ? Only been 4 days so wondered how long it took
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Hi joaniepat
How long did it take when u swapped from the gel to the patch for your hair to improve and stop shedding. ?
Mine since going on the patch is shedding more u see ? Only been 4 days so wondered how long it took
Hi Sammiejane,
I think it was about 8 weeks, when I realised I was not shedding. Hard to remember exactly now. I used to notice it when I was blowdrying my hair and styling it with a brush, I seemed to end up with a lot of hair over my lap. Suddenly realised it was no longer happening.
After about 3 or 4 weeks on the patches my sleep and mood improved, so something must have got through to my scalp eventually.
JP x
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Hi Joanie
Thank you for that info re the hair situation , well on estradot 75 so far so good but guess time will tell I'm hopeful hair shedding will stop
I find mine on the floor when I brush it comes out about 10-15 hairs as opposed to 4-7 hairs on the gel when I brushed I'm just concerned that it has increased ! I hope it settles
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Hi SJ
Are you off the gel totally with just Estratot patch?
How are you feeling in terms of side effects?
Hope it works out for you
JJ
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Hi jay jay
Yes off the gel completely I swapped to the patch 50 at first on the estradot but after 2 days increased to 75 and feel ok to be honest no side effects really at the moment hair is still shedding but I'm hoping it will stop and the only thing I'm monitoring is eyesight I've had slight glaze over my eyes but have been run down to but I'm less bloated but nippled are a little sore but I think I'm obsorbing more estrogen . I have noticed chills again to which I had when first starting the gel but again hopefully it will pass so so far so good
Hi joanie
Your mentioned it took about 8 weeks to notice the shedding stopped had you incorporated the testosteroneat this point to or was it just the estradot patch ?
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Hi jay jay
Yes off the gel completely I swapped to the patch 50 at first on the estradot but after 2 days increased to 75 and feel ok to be honest no side effects really at the moment hair is still shedding but I'm hoping it will stop and the only thing I'm monitoring is eyesight I've had slight glaze over my eyes but have been run down to but I'm less bloated but nippled are a little sore but I think I'm obsorbing more estrogen . I have noticed chills again to which I had when first starting the gel but again hopefully it will pass so so far so good
Hi joanie
Your mentioned it took about 8 weeks to notice the shedding stopped had you incorporated the testosteroneat this point to or was it just the estradot patch ?
Hi Sammiejane,
I was using Testogel while I was on Oestrogel, so shedding didn't stop until I
switched to patch.
JP x
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Hi joaniepat
I can't have testosterone till my estrogen levels are higher do you think this is what I'm missing re my hairloss shedding
I'm a bit worried though because I've lost majority nape of neck and receding hairline behind my ears and now I've swapped to the patch it feels as though it has activated it as my hairline feels sore and not sure if this the patch or just because estrogen is increasing in my body I have slight glaze over my eyes to.
My hair shedding had slowed on the gel but not completely stopped but wonder whether this was because my estrogen levels had gone lower and now there increasing with the patch I'm shedding more ?
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Hi Sammiejane,
Gosh, I don't know. It's all very complicated isn't it? This is just to say that I was given testosterone before my oestrogen levels went up because I was still on Oestrogel at the time and not absorbing much. I was given it for lack of energy. Hair shedding for me only improved after I'd been on Estradot for a while. I guess people don't all react the same.
JP x
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Hi joaniepat
It's all very exhausting ! My gynocologist seems to think that I should have testosterone now because it helps VA and libido and energy and again my estrogen levels ware low but I have been suffering a good 10 months now and I'm not improving on estrogen alone. I'm going to give the patch a little longer and see but if not I'm going back on the gel cause I can't see any other patch working differently
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Hi I have been chatting to my doctor about using HRT gel, does anyone have any views on this please, so many mixed opinions on this it's quite confusing
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Hello Korea and welcome back to the forum.
Unfortunately your post seems to have been overlooked. I suggest that you try again in the New Members section where many more ladies will see it and be able to offer you the help and guidance that you need.
Wishing you well.
K.
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Hello! I have just started on HRT and also been listening to Dr Newson health podcasts which I found really helpful. Can I ask a question? I have started the Everol Sequi Patches (the first progesterone lot) on Day 20 of my cycle. Shouldn't I time the patches so that the Everol Conti (oestrogen lot) hits this time of the month when my hormone levels would naturally dip? Sorry - worrying I have timed the taking of them wrong..maybe it all shakes down in the end - when you are on the first 3month try out ...
Many thanks in advance for your comments x
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Hi, I've been on evorel patches 50, for 11 weeks and cant say I've found any improvement on my symptoms. I still have palpitations, nightly drenchings, hair loss, anxiety, and brain fog. Is it worth going back to GP and asking for a higher dose , change to something else or persevere for a while longer? Would love some advice
Thanks x
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Hi
I would try higher dose first before changing ! 11 weeks you should really be having some relief !
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I had a total hysterectomy last year and have been taken one pump of Oestrogel , I've tried 2 but made me feel bloated sick and horrible headaches. I had my estrodial level taken before I started HRT and it was <100 my vit d was 54. I had another test 8 months later and my vit d is 89 but my oesradiol suboptimal is <1000 . I am right in thinking this is the same and just written different and that my level haven't changed . .
So has it been worth taken HRT , my mood swings and insomnia are back as are the flushes but not as bad as after the op . Has anyone else had this result thanks
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I find the whole HRT thing very confusing. I am 47 and peri menopausal. It's been six weeks since my last (very light) period. I am usually 28 days regular as clockwork, but that has all changed over the last year or so. For the last two weeks I have felt like I'm having a period, but without any bleeding. Generally I am much more sensitive to temperature changes than ever before, I have foggy brain, whacky emotional mood swings, horrendous tiredness, terrible lack of concentration and a distinct lack of libido. Having said all that, I am managing to live with these symptoms, my husband bless him is remarkably patient and my job is just about manageable despite the fog! My friends advise going to the GP but I am strongly resisting. I don't quite understand HRT - I get that it can be a welcome relief from symptoms, but surely at some point it has to end? Is it better to just grit my teeth and go through it naturally?
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hi michellelouise
i had total hysterectomy at 35 am now 40 i also had ovaries removed i haven't been on any Hrt for 4 yrs has my gp advised at the time that hrt didn't suit me because i tried both tablet and patch in elleste solo and had bad side effects.
i only initiates hrt estrogen only in 2018 due to dampness but thinking maybe GP was right because i haven't managed to find a balance yet with hrt and have more provs now then before i started in terms of i have now have hair loss weight gain of over a stone and can't sleep i have been on estrogel 2 pumps i now suffer aniexty headaches daily migraines depression i also take ovestin cream for VA but not in a good place i am now only 40 but am considering stopping hrt and protect my bones non hormonal and like you say go through natural as i've been in menopause 5 yrs now and feel hrt may be making me worse , i don't leave my house i have no energy . i am going to have one last attempt with adding in progesterone with the gel and then possibly testosterone november and see what happens but if doesn't help or i feel worse i shall quit !
i briefly tried the estradot patch 75 as i'm not obsorbing the gel well but that higher dose was better but my boobs were so sore i was crying in pain which again makes me wonder if i need progesterone to counter act estrogen effects x as it's all about balance
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It's not good.......it's GREAT!
If you've had a TAH/BSO at 33, you have no choice but to face it. Thankfully I adapted well onto the Evorel 50 and have stayed on that ever since....I'm now substantially older and gutted to see Evorel 50 pretty much extinct now. :-X
Currently changing over to another patch now so my fingers are well and truly crossed I'll settle on this. Quite anxious atm as I don't want tablets/gels and choices are limited right now.
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The message above from menopausepro appears to be an advertisement.
JP x
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lizzy loo
can i ask as i'm interested why you chose no tablets or gels ?
have u ever taken progesterone or testosterone ?
how have u found your hair on everol 50 ?
i'm on the gel and not doing great even though it's been a year ?
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Hi, I was on Femoston 1/10 for a few weeks but doc took me off it as my mental state was very dark, I scared myself how I low I got. I started taking HRT mainly to help with the anxiety and mood swings, my flushes, dryness....etc aren't too bad. I'm not sure if I just need to get medication for anxiety, not HRT. I've never had mental health issues before and there was no real trauma that could trigger it. Hence why doc thought HRT would help. I've been off work for weeks and am just not functioning well. I am so confused by all this HRT stuff.
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lizzy loo
can i ask as i'm interested why you chose no tablets or gels ?
have u ever taken progesterone or testosterone ?
how have u found your hair on everol 50 ?
i'm on the gel and not doing great even though it's been a year ?
Hi Sammiejane,
Sorry not popped on here for a few days. I was put on the Evorel 50 a few days after my surgery years ago. With me having everything out; it means you don't take any progesterone or testosterone. I settled well with the Evorel and as it did the main things of combatting sweats, flushes etc and so I haven't had the need to change. Lucky I guess. It's also a dose that isn't huge but does cover you against the osteoporosis risk.
Recently I looked at the other options with patches becoming scarce. After a brief research I decided I didn't want tablets as there's a higher risk of clots and indigestion (apparently) and so I decided I needed to find another patch solution. The gel thing looked messy and time consuming so I didn't read into that much tbh.
I'm sorry you're yet to find a good balance for yourself. I think after a year if you're not happy and settled with it then maybe you should try another option? My hair is fine (always had a good head of hair!) although I do shed loads too. No major thinning or anything though. x
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hi lizzyloo
i couldn't get the everol patch to stick lol
i've had all removed but wondering if an imbalance at play so thought i need to add in progesterone !
you can have testosterone as this works for libido dryness va energy ! and is normally low after ovaries removed especially with increasing estrogen x
i think the gel is causing hair loss u see as i went 4 yrs no hrt my body i believe had already adjusted to low hormones but since adding in estrogen it's exelarated hair shedding so is thinning now i think i need to wither stop or swap to a patch i'm up and down to much
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Sammiejane,
Gosh you seem to be all over the place getting on an even keel!
With everything removed you don't take progesterone too. I have the ovestin cream for the dryness which works and i use it twice weekly. Do I have a high sex drive?......err no far from it!!!!! But hey ho it doesn't overly bother me.
With the patches (evorel and estraderm) I rarely have a sticking issue. Maybe where you're putting them is making a difference? Mine go on alternative top outside of thigh.
Sounds like you need to see a professional to help you make choices? You need support on this. It can feel a lonely world if you're not feeling happy with treatment x
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For me...definitely good in the first half of the cycle.
Prior to starting Novofem I had been horrifically depressed, was not sleeping, lost all enthusiasm for life and was dreading Christmas! I had suffered many other typical perimenopause symptoms including: hot flushes, foggy thinking, palpitations, forgetfulness, suddenly developed eczema for the first time in my life, became very accident prone, lost the confidence to drive (I had always considered myself a very competent and confident driver), reactions to certain foods that I had never had previously...the list goes on. I had managed to get most symptoms under control for the first year or so but then after spending a fortune on natural remedies they suddenly stopped working.
I started on Novofem (1/1) at the beginning of December; I had virtually no side effects other than slightly lumpy in left breast (which has always been there). I keep a close eye on it as I've had to have a cyst drained a couple of times. Within days I started to feel better than I had done in a very long time. I could even laugh at funny things on the tv. I also started baking again which I hadn't done for a long time. I could feel myself actually enjoying life for the first time in ages!
In addition to this I experimented with taking Mirtazapine and Citalopram. I soon came off the Citalopram because it was making me more anxious and agitated and I found I had developed involuntary twitches all over my body. The Mirtazapine I take at night to help me sleep and it has been a godsend! I take the lower dose rather than the higher one.
Like many women I was so reluctant to take HRT or any form of antidepressant but I knew I had to do something because my quality of life had become so poor I was suicidal! I had previously taken Mirtazapine for depression and when I came off it I had no side effects that I can recall.
Fast forward to the second half of taking Novofem... I was okay for about a week but I could feel myself starting to go downhill. Yesterday, I was extremely tearful all day and in a dreadful state. I had already spoken to my doctor about changing to a different product because of the reaction I was experiencing. I made myself last out the full 12 days on the norethisterone part of the cycle but I'm extremely glad to be back on the estradiol part of the cycle again now. I can already feel my mood improving again. Talk about Jeckyll and Hyde!!!
So now I've decided to go onto Kliovance which is 1mg/0.5mg to see if this works better for me. What I am certain of right now is I've found the right level of Estradiol that I need for now. If I don't tolerate the lower dose of norethisterone again, I'm going to switch to Femoston 1/10 as I know that the progesterone side of that one is slightly different and generally better tolerated!
I have to say a HUGE thanks to all the ladies who have posted on this thread. I read every single page and made notes before choosing my first attempt.
Sorry this write up had been so long but I just felt I really needed to say something about my whole experience. I will update again as I progress with my new HRT product.
One final thing... I do still watch my diet very carefully. I try to keep sugar intake to an absolute minimum, I don't touch any form of cheap instant or decaf coffee, I avoid red meat, bread and pasta nowadays and I try to get a balanced amount of fruit and veg in my daily consumption.
::)
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Hi rulo
:welcomemm:
Thanks for telling us your story which is encouraging that you feel generally better on oestrogen as part of HRT.
What I am puzzled about is that you started on Novofem - a cyclical HRT for women in peri ( although some post-meno women also take cyclical HRT), felt bad on the norethisterone ( second) part of the cycle, so have changed to Kliovance. This is a continuous combined ( no-bleed) HRT for women who are post-menopausal and as such you would be taking the norethisterone all the time. I think maybe you have picked the wrong one? The cyclical HRT types often have higher dose progestogens for a shorter time (you can see all the different products on the menu under Treatments/HRT preparations).
If you had not gone 12 months without a natural period when you started the Novofem (and not on mini-pill or Mirena coil) then you are peri-menopausal and should still be on cyclical HRT. In any case if you don't like the progestogen part then cyclical would still be better to try when post-menopausal.
If you haven't got the prescription yet then the only alternative cyclical combi tablet HRT is Femoston....
Sounds like you're on the right track with your diet and hopefully exercise too :)
Good luck and let us know what you decide and what works. Perhaps when you do so, start a new thread on this board and then more people will see it - sometimes posts on the pinned threads get overlooked!
Hurdity x
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Hi all. I am new to this site and would love some advice about HRT because doctors seem incompetent about the menopause. I have been in peri about four years. Longest without a period nine months. Periods have been erratic for about three years. Anyway went to docs this year about not feeling well. Had all the symptoms, she thought I had a virus! No i said i am in menopause. Anyway she gave me hrt which I took. It didn't help so went back to see a different doctor in the practice. Told him it wasn't helping. He looked at my notes and asked me what progesterone I was taking. At the time I didn't know much about HRT so didn't know anything about progesterone. She had given me estradiol ONLY. Anyway this doctor has put me on patches which are not helping either. And they are evorel conti For post meno or no period for 12 18 months. I am bleeding on off all the time. Been on them two months. Please tell me what to ask for because I am losing the will.x
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Hi Baby - I've answered your post on your other thread in the new members section :)
Hurdity x
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Hi Hurdity,
I'm confused. I've looked up Novofem on the treatments section and as I understand it the estradiol part of the cycle is 16 days (red tablets) followed by the norethisterone part of the cycle which is 12 days (white tablets). The same reads on the leaflet with the actual product. Novofem is 1mg/1mg. Kliovance works the same way with 1mg/0.5mg which is why I have decided to try that one this time. Nowhere does it say that these are continuous tablets. Am I misinterpreting what the info says? My first doctor recommended me having the Novofem because my periods were erratic - sometimes monthly, sometimes every three months. Please can you explain further? Thank you
Rulo x
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Hi yes correct about Novofem - this is for peri meno so a cyclical HRT. If you look up Kliofem/Kliovance they're in the post-meno section and its says you take the tablets daily: https://www.menopausematters.co.uk/postmeno.php. if you read abit more in these sections it explains the difference. The cyclical ones will list the oestrogen , and then underneath the progestogen with the number of days it should be taken.
It explains here: https://www.menopausematters.co.uk/progestogens.php
"HRT in the Perimenopause: If HRT is commenced in the early stages of ovarian decline when periods are still present (the perimenopause), estrogen is taken every day and progestogen for 10 to 14 days per month (sequential HRT). This cyclical progestogen induces a monthly withdrawal bleed in about 85% of women. If the periods are becoming infrequent, the progestogen can be taken for 2 weeks every 3 months, inducing a 3 monthly bleed (long cycle HRT).
HRT in the Postmenopause: If the periods have been stopped for more than 1 year (postmenopause) before starting HRT, or the women is aged 54 or more, progestogen can be taken every day along with the estrogen (continuous combined HRT). Continuous combined, or period-free HRT, may cause some bleeding in the first 6 months, but should not induce bleeding thereafter."
so - as I said you would be swapping from cyclical to coninuouis if you change from Novofem to Kliovance/fem which may not be appropriate at your stage of menopause.
if you were having periods every three months and had not been without a natural period for 12 months, like I said in previous post, then cyclical is appropriate otherwise you could ghave unpredictable breakthrough bleeding as your own cycle kicks in ( HRT does no supress ovulation). If you don't mind this and are prepared to have a progestogen every day - which itself can cause low grade persistent side effects - then give it a try if you think you are late peri and your doc is happy?
Good luck and hope this helps!
Hurdity x
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Hi Hurdity,
Thankyou very much for this. It is beginning to make more sense. I have to re-read things several times these days to make sure I really understand - another joy of perimenopause!
I have now bought a pack of Femoston 1/10. My current doctor wrote me out a prescription for this one a while back but I never followed up getting it made up.
I will keep people posted as I am really interested to see how I react (which I hope I don't) to the dygesterone part of the cycle!
Rulo x
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I'm 60 and gynaecologist feels I should stop my Evoril Conti patches based on age but I have no other risk factors, still working and I am happy to take the minimally increased risk. However my weight is creeping up which I hate but happy as OA creeping in everywhere which HRT helps and I love no flushes. 🤔
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I've been on the conti now since 5 November and no marked improvement. I am late peri. Maybe it's the progesterone. Seeing doctor saw doc last week and he thinks I should give it longer and it won't help keep messing with hormones. Advice please?
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Mood swings are awful
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And my eyes are playing up today.
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Please again.x
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Advice please :(
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Baby try posting a new thread in 'All things memopause' as it will be more noticed.
I can't help as HRT is a mystery to me. ::)
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There's so much conflicting information these days about HRT. Tell us what you think--is it good or bad? My feeling is that for most people it's good when used appropriately and reviewed but here you can have your say!
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Very bad in my case.
I took a very low dose of gel. After just two months I was gasping for breath, constantly hungry, put on a lot of weight, breast tissue hardened and became lumpy... re the gasping for breath, I was told to come off it immediately.
I am so pleased to have found out sooner than later of the disastrous effects it can have. I really had no idea how powerful is was.
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So I've been given my first HRT prescription but reading the side effects 😧I'm having second thoughts, maybe I should just hibernate for ten yrs or so, just so I don't make others suffer my explosive moods any advice to a newcomer?.
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:-\
Very bad in my case.
I took a very low dose of gel. After just two months I was gasping for breath, constantly hungry, put on a lot of weight, breast tissue hardened and became lumpy... re the gasping for breath, I was told to come off it immediately.
I am so pleased to have found out sooner than later of the disastrous effects it can have. I really had no idea how powerful is was.
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So I've been given my first HRT prescription but reading the side effects 😧I'm having second thoughts, maybe I should just hibernate for ten yrs or so, just so I don't make others suffer my explosive moods any advice to a newcomer?.
Hi Ms grumpy
:welcomemm:
Why don't you introduce yourself in the new members section or the main All Things Menopause and tell us a bit more about yourself - where you are in menopause - in terms of cycle length and flow, how old you are, and what symptoms you are hoping to relieve with HRT?
Please don't be worried - the list of side effects does look alarming but if you have been prescribed it your doctor will have taken into account your medical history and in most people at most ages the benefits outweight the very small risks. Depending what type you have been prescribed and your last period - you may be more likely to experience side effects on some preparations than others but many women don't have any side effects at all - we don;t usually hear from them!
Also don't be alarmed at Jari's post - her reaction is very much unusual and will be down to her individual health circumstances rather than the HRT per se.
Do give it a try and let us know how you get on - like I said maybe do another posts as they often get missed on this thread....Good luck with it :)
Hurdity x
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Hi Ms Grumpy,
As Hurdity says, how old are you etc? Are you already post menopausal? What are your symptoms?
I know the list of possible side effects is long and are there for good reason.
Just like to kindly point out Hurdity, my experience was not due to other health circumstances. All those side effects were caused by hrt and went as soon as I stopped taking it.
Ms Grumpy, some women get on with hrt and others do not.
What are the reasons that you consider taking it?
X
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Thanks Jari - however as far as I can see, gasping for breath is not listed as one of the side effects - not any breathing problems. I am sorry you experienced this but like Birdy says - no-one need be frightened of taking HRT if there is no medical contra-indication. Best thing is to start low and slow and build up gradually and hopefully side effects will be minimal and the body can acclimatise. If it doesn't then a different route, preparation or dose may be required. We are here to help :)
Hurdity x
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Thanks Hurdity. I appreciate that.
Possibly the hrt that you are taking does not have breathing problems as a side effect.
I took Oestrogel. I was prescribed 2 pumps a day, which I think is quite low, however, after a couple of weeks I noticed slight breathing difficulty. I decided myself to reduce to one pump a day. After another 2 or 3 weeks I was still quite breathless. It wasn't improving. I think I even then reduced to half a pump, but it still didn't improve. It kept getting worse. To the point I was then one day sitting on the edge of the bath and gasping for breath. I was told to stop it immediately. I did and my breathing improved within days.
I still have the leaflet from the pack. There are lists of different side effects, but the first list starts with the first of 13 of the most common. These include: symptoms of an allergic reaction, sudden chest pain, pain in chest that spreads to arms or neck, difficulty in breathing, breast lumps, anaphylactic reaction. etc etc.
So, mine does state difficulty in breathing. Which hrt do you take? Does yours not state this? I would be interested to know if different types can cause different side effects?
I am very curious to know why I had that reaction.
Thank you! :)
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Very bad in my case.
I took a very low dose of gel. After just two months I was gasping for breath, constantly hungry, put on a lot of weight, breast tissue hardened and became lumpy... re the gasping for breath, I was told to come off it immediately.
I am so pleased to have found out sooner than later of the disastrous effects it can have. I really had no idea how powerful is was.
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Great for me once I got past the three months of horrendous side effects.
Has relieved me of all my menopause symptoms and also all my Hashimoto's symptoms.
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I've been on combination HRT for 4 months now (Evorel Sequi) and love it - it has changed my life dramatically!!! But I have come across this article on breast cancer.org which says there is 75% increased chance of breast cancer with combination HRT. I'm sure I must be interpreting it wrong as I've never seen that figure mentioned anywhere before, as I did a lot of research beforehand. I thought most of the problems came from the research from 2002, but this is breast cancer.org which surely must be based on recent research. Am I reading it wrong?? Looking for someone to put my mind at ease and sorry if I've mis-interpreted it and giving people a fright! :
Here is the link to the article:
https://www.breastcancer.org/risk/factors/hrt
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See my and CLKD's comments on you other thread.
JP x
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Thank you! x
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Hi I have been hrt for nearly two weeks I know it's early days but still having hot flushs and
This second week feeling quite yucky headache and a horrible taste in my mouth is this normal I'm on evorel 25mg and progesterone 100mg one daily
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Hi I have just joined the forum and hope my experiences will help some of you and perhaps some medical advice will help my problem.I had a total hysterectomy when I was 48 and have been applying 5mg estradiol gel for 24 yrs with no problems.I was living in France and french doc said it was ok to continue, even when I reached 70.Last year at 72 I had a very minor stroke(cardiovascular accident).French hospital consultants thought it was caused by HRT and HRT was stopped.
In the year leading up to stroke husband spent 6 mths in hosp and rehab after breaking pelvis,I handled the sale and organisation of moving from a very large house, so had a lot of stress.Mother died from stroke at 50 and father had minor strokes before his death at 89.Are these more likely reasons for my stroke rather than HRT?
I have been having hot flushes,night sweats,dry,itching vagina and bladder problems.Now back in Scotland have been using 10mg estradiol pessaries and they have worked like magic.Only sweats and hot flushes now, which I can cope with.Question is should I continue with HRT and possibly risk another stroke or take a chance on almost feeling normal again?
Advice and thoughts would be much appreciated.
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You may be interested in this https://www.nhs.uk/news/medication/stroke-risk-lower-with-hrt-patches/
Most people who have strokes aren't on hrt so IMO the doc was wrong to say hrt caused it as he can't know. The study above indicates no increased risk with low dose patches. I would expect gel to be the same as it's transdermal. At the end of the day it has to be your choice after you've weighed up the pros and cons.
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Can anyone tell me if hrt is good for you and helps. I'm looking at starting prognova 1mg but seems no one has responded to whether they have taken it. Managed to find old posts from 2015 so is it a really old drug. Really dont know what to do whether to start it or not bother. Defo perimenopause had hysterectomy 6 years ago and I'm 47. Kept my ovaries but sick of feeling tired all time aching joints cant sleep palpation foggy brain. Would love peoples views please xxx
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From all the articles and studies I´ve read, it would seem that bio-identical HRT is safer than synthetic, and that transdermal estrogen is safer than oral (ie does not raise the risk of blood clots/thrombosis). As long as you take bio-identical HRT, I cannot see how it could be bad for you, since all you are doing is basically supplying the hormones your own body used to make in abundance.
I do believe, however, that synthetic hormones with a different structures than our own carry certain risks if used long-term, which is why I prefer bio-identical HRT.
Most important of all - no woman should have to suffer needlessly at this day and age, when there are so many options available.
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I’ve just started on evorel patches and am finding the nausea pretty grim - does it wear off ?
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[I’m struggling so much at the moment with my decision to go on hrt.
I’ve been so sure I want to try it until tonight I read a negative post on fb about it and I’m all up in the air again now. I just feel so wretched all the time my quality of life sucks. But I’m cancerphobic and I feel like I’m playing Russian roulette
With my health too. I just don’t know what to do.
quote author=Libby Babe I’m link=topic=794.msg7678#msg7678 date=1179759400]
Hi Hot2Trot
It is a very difficult decision to make I agree with you there and I always vowed I would NEVER take HRT, mainly because of all the bad press it seems to get. However, there came a time (about 2 months ago) that enough was enough and I couldn't stand it any longer. I am afraid I shut my ears a bit to all the bad press and just decided to go for it and give it a try. It has helped and I hope it will continue to do so and I am trying not to worry about what happens too far in the future. Initially I am only on a 3 month trial but if the benefits continue then I will be reluctant to come off it.
No one can decide for you but all I would say is that there is a certain element of risk in so many things that we do in our lives and maybe we need to think of HRT as just another one of those things and maybe it is worth a try! I hope you don't think I am being too naive about this but quality of life NOW is so important to us all, don't you agree?
I hope you can decide what to do and make the best decision for yourself.
Take care
Love Libby
[/quote]
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Kay that is such a useful response and I really hear you! I too have been in the 'I'm going to do this menopause thing naturally' camp, but the way I am feeling right now is raising some serious questions for me in terms of my mental health and if it might be something I really need to reconsider.
We just have to feel our way along sometimes - let go of old beliefs and rules - refresh our data and have another look! I'm new in here but really loving hearing all of this amazing support.
Thank you.
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I’ve just started on evorel patches and am finding the nausea pretty grim - does it wear off ?
Hey
Just wondered how you are with these now?
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Kay..I felt the same re HRT and swore I would manage without but got to a point when life was so awful I had to do something. I was worried about the risk but my life was of such low quality for me I was prepared to take on board the risks if I could feel ore like myself again. However, doc has suggested I come off and try anti depressant as am losing hair a bit...apparently (rarely) utrogeston can do this? (although I got the impression the doctor I spoke to wasn't a fan of HRT.. Unfortunately in our practice, due to covid, you get who you get....and I didn't know this one)
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I just wish we were better educated about the whole menopause. Our NHS is fab but it's hit and miss who you see initially and are referred onto which makes making an informed decision very difficult, particularly if you're suffering from chronic symptoms.
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My wife has just started on Evorel Conti. She's 49 and eventually bit the bullet with HRT after awful symptoms for 7 years. We literally have everything crossed that this makes her feel better. Anybody got any experience of these? (I'm female also and peri - she's much further ahead than me).
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My sister swears by Evorel Conti. Your wife will have to try it and see. There are plenty of options if she doesn't like them.
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[I’m struggling so much at the moment with my decision to go on hrt.
I’ve been so sure I want to try it until tonight I read a negative post on fb about it and I’m all up in the air again now. I just feel so wretched all the time my quality of life sucks. But I’m cancerphobic and I feel like I’m playing Russian roulette
With my health too. I just don’t know what to do.
quote author=Libby Babe I’m link=topic=794.msg7678#msg7678 date=1179759400]
Hi Hot2Trot
It is a very difficult decision to make I agree with you there and I always vowed I would NEVER take HRT, mainly because of all the bad press it seems to get. However, there came a time (about 2 months ago) that enough was enough and I couldn't stand it any longer. I am afraid I shut my ears a bit to all the bad press and just decided to go for it and give it a try. It has helped and I hope it will continue to do so and I am trying not to worry about what happens too far in the future. Initially I am only on a 3 month trial but if the benefits continue then I will be reluctant to come off it.
No one can decide for you but all I would say is that there is a certain element of risk in so many things that we do in our lives and maybe we need to think of HRT as just another one of those things and maybe it is worth a try! I hope you don't think I am being too naive about this but quality of life NOW is so important to us all, don't you agree?
I hope you can decide what to do and make the best decision for yourself.
Take care
Love Libby
[/quote]
This is exactly how I feel Kay21....you've put it in a nutshell. I have been on HRT since March and am still struggling with my decision, but when I spoke to a doctor and she said, "Well just stop then and try these anti depressants" I felt awful after only 3 days (didn't try the anti deps tho) It worries me that I might be on it for the rest of my life..putting myself at cancer risk etc but life so far when I tried to do without it wasn't worth living almost...the metal and physical effects of the meno were that bad. I think the mental impacts on the physical too and makes you less able to deal with it....
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Hi there. This is my first time here. My head is just about exploding from over thinking this so I thought it would be good to get some input from other ladies who have walked this path before me. I’m 56 (6 years in) and I thought I’d done a damn good job of getting through the worst of menopause and felt I was nearly on the other side when VA struck in full force in March!!! Vagifem was hopeless (I kept going with it for far too long thinking it might kick in) but when my GP swapped me over to Ovestin 2 weeks ago I’ve had a lot of improvement. Not perfect by any means, but way better. She also said she would be happy to start me on systemic hrt in addition. That’s the bit I’m confused about. Whether I should stick with just Ovestin hoping it will keep on improving. Or whether I should take up the window I have left before age 60 to start on hrt, getting a more satisfactory improvement, and also reap the benefits of hrt while I can. Has anyone here found that when they stop hrt that the VA is less of a problem going forward? Or does it come back in full force once hrt is stopped? Thank you in advance. I come from NZ where there is a big reluctance towards HRT, believe it or not . I don’t know a single person on it so it is a big shift for me to see it as a good thing.
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HRT was a godsend when I was given it at 41, cycles were erratic, frightening head throbs, token periods, insomnia, low moods and it was made better by 2mg cyclical HRT. Now at almost 48 I’m wondering if I should be put on continuous HRT? I tried patches this year and didn’t get on with them so I went back to Elleste Duet 2mg which I’ve always been fine on. Except I’m not fine this time! Almost 2 months on it and I’m experiencing palpitations a lot, bouts of anxiety/panic and I’ve just been told by GP to sit out until I’ve done 3 months! And it’s out of stock anyway. I would really like some advice on what to do? My GPs seem to know very little about it. I’ve even wondered if I should come off it altogether to see what my body is doing naturally? I feel sure I wouldn’t have a period naturally. Or ask to try continuous HRT? I get anxious even thinking what I should do?
Please, any advice would be very welcome?
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Good or bad? Having read an article which referenced Dr Currie and Tina Peers I’d say that HRT is good when administered by a knowledgeable expert in the field of menopause who considers the patient. Why is that Tina Peers, a private menopause consultant, considers it good practice to do an annual blood test to see if your HRT needs adjusting? Yet in the NHS this is not the case? Because menopause affects me so much I read and research it as much as possible and on occasion can know more than the GP I end up speaking to! I’ve even had a GP say that he has to consult his colleagues because they know more about ‘that’ ie HRT treatment. I don’t think if menopause affected men that there would be this lack of attention to it or the supply issues we are currently facing.
30 years ago I watched as a teenager as my mum went through a terrible time with symptoms and the GPs that came to see her said they couldn’t find anything wrong with her. I can still hear her today saying to them, “What about this HRT?”. They agreed to give it to her and it gave her her life back. But what if she hadn’t have asked?
Considering menopause will affect every woman (half the world) I really think that more GP practices should consider having a dedicated menopause consultant who takes the time to listen, run hormonal checks and normal health checks (eg maybe your heart should be checked if you’re having palpitations rather than assuming it’s always down to the menopause) and medication administered with greater knowledge. This is what women deserve.
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Hi my sex drive improved with tostran gel. Still struggling to get the right dosage as it is supplied for men
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Hi can anyone advise me. I am due to have a hysteroscopy and biopsy due to my uterus being double the thickness it should be and having bleeds that I shouldnt be having at the age of 59. I have been on HRT for 4 years and for the last 2 am taking 2 pumps of eostrogel and one progesterone tablet at night. I have been told that if the thickening hasnt been caused by cancer then the HRT will have caused it and I will most definitely have to stop taking it. Also in the last month my breasts have become tender and the nipples very itchy. Quite worried about coming off it as no doubt symptoms will return. Any advice please?
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Hi meenaruss,
I've had 2 or 3 hysteroscopy for thickened lining & bleeding before, but was never advised to stop taking it. I suppose you should follow the consultants advice but I would be asking him/her why they feel you need to stop it. For me the alternatives would be flushes, mood swings, forgetfulness & aching limbs - they would then have to treat me with medication to releive those returning symptoms which all carry side effects etc.
Good luck with your hysteroscopy & keep us posted.
Cazikins.
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Hi can anyone advise me. I am due to have a hysteroscopy and biopsy due to my uterus being double the thickness it should be and having bleeds that I shouldnt be having at the age of 59. I have been on HRT for 4 years and for the last 2 am taking 2 pumps of eostrogel and one progesterone tablet at night. I have been told that if the thickening hasnt been caused by cancer then the HRT will have caused it and I will most definitely have to stop taking it. Also in the last month my breasts have become tender and the nipples very itchy. Quite worried about coming off it as no doubt symptoms will return. Any advice please?
Hi meenaruss, could you still be perimenopausal? That would explain these symptoms. Are you going to have the Essure coil removed?
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Hi meenaruss,
I've had 2 or 3 hysteroscopy for thickened lining & bleeding before, but was never advised to stop taking it. I suppose you should follow the consultants advice but I would be asking him/her why they feel you need to stop it. For me the alternatives would be flushes, mood swings, forgetfulness & aching limbs - they would then have to treat me with medication to releive those returning symptoms which all carry side effects etc.
Good luck with your hysteroscopy & keep us posted.
Cazikins.
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Hi they have advised me to stop the HRT as they said thickening of the uterus always requires investigations and carries risks of cancer. They have not even mentioned the essure clips!
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That's weird. Could you still be perimenopausal?
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Hi can you still be perimenopausal at 59???
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I was on oestrogen only systemic HRT for a long time after a hysterectomy. I was never better. I developed M.E . much later on and, again, coped as well as possible and managed to climb rapidly from severe to moderate to moderate/mild. I put this down to the far-reaching qualities of oestrogen which I think go vastly underestimated. Around the time of the breast cancer scare, I was bullied off my HRT by a gp who said (and I quote) "You have two choices here. Stop your HRT immediately or wake up on a trolley somewhere with your breasts off." (There is no form of any type of cancer whatsoever throughout my family.) I was early 50s. Brutal! I sought a second opinion in the same practice, a man this time and was told the same. Stop immediately. I asked if phasing out would be kinder to my systems and was told no. I stopped. It was like falling off a cliff. My M.E. and general health deteriorated rapidly and I developed deep buttock abscesses which would not heal for months, huge amounts of antibiotics involved. My cognitive, physical and emotional resources and balance have not recovered. Now, I use Estring to help with recurrent utis and discomfort down below when sitting. This has helped enormously and I am now trying Estriol cream for the vulval/external area. I have a moderate quality of life which I know is down to many practices like Mindfulness and paced, limited, physical exercise, but I know my M.E. and general wellbeing would be better still on systemic HRT. Those were unquestionably my best times. My next plan of action is to seek a referral to a menopause clinic and post-meno specialist there. Perhaps my best times can yet return! I think a lot needs to be done to support women through menopause who have life-changing conditions where the benefits of oestrogen can be understood, validated and acted on.
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Hi can you still be perimenopausal at 59???
Yes.
They call it late onset menopause and it's more common than one might think.
The Timing of the Age at Which Natural Menopause Occurs
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3285482/
Should I be worried about late-onset menopause? » Professor Andreas Obermair
https://www.obermair.info/latest-news/blog/late-onset-menopause/
Age at natural menopause and risk of incident cardiovascular disease: a pooled analysis of individual patient data - The Lancet Public Health
https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanpub/article/PIIS2468-2667(19)30155-0/fulltext
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Hi can you still be perimenopausal at 59???
Yes. I'm 60 and have just had a proper period. There's a thread on it, there are several members on here not meno after 55.
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Hi can you still be perimenopausal at 59???
Yes.
They call it late onset menopause and it's more common than one might think.
The Timing of the Age at Which Natural Menopause Occurs
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3285482/
Should I be worried about late-onset menopause? » Professor Andreas Obermair
https://www.obermair.info/latest-news/blog/late-onset-menopause/
Age at natural menopause and risk of incident cardiovascular disease: a pooled analysis of individual patient data - The Lancet Public Health
https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanpub/article/PIIS2468-2667(19)30155-0/fulltext
As far as I can see, although interesting, I don't think these references actually address meenaruss's question - about menopause at age 59 and beyond.
Meenaruss - as with every condition there is a range and there will be individuals that fall at either end of the spectrum - so a few women/girls will experience very early menopause - sometimes even in their 20's and a few also in their late 50's. There are studies on this - but one I found you have to request full text and I haven't done that.
The most important points are that whilst it is within the range of normality to experience late menopause, the nearer to 60 you get, the more vigilant you need to be in relation to bleeds etc - and to report anything that seems very abnormal for you, unusaly pains, heavy bleeding etc - just in case there is an abnormal cause.
Some women develop fibroids as they age which respond to oestrogen and these can cause bleeding if they get to large. Also some women have endometriosis, polyps etc
Another point is that once you start HRT it is not possible at all to determine when you reach menopause because the HRT either overrides the cycle if peri-menopausal, or if post-meno can cause bleeding due to imbalance of oestrogen and progestyerone. The only way to determine this when on HRT (presumably) is to scan the ovaries I think and look at follicular count (?), possibly the hormone Anti Mullerian Hormone (AMH) - but this is not routinely measured and I'm not sure anyway what happens to this hormone once you start HRT.
Just realised that you had made other posts before the Q about peri-menopause....
"Are you going to have the Essure coil removed?" Essure coil - this wasn't mentioned so no idea where that comment came from??
Meenaruss - you'll need to explain about this as it's not clear? Why don't you start a new post on a new thread and we can explore your situation more fully?
Like I said if you are on HRT there is no knowing when you become or became menopausal but an indication will be what your periods were doing when you started HRT and you age then.
If the HRT has caused the thickening then this just means that the balance between oestrogen and progesterone is not right and you need to make some adjustment. There is no need to stop if there is no good reason for this.
That said you could still be one of the outliers and have a natural period at 59 but this is not a likely explanation - but never say never!
Good to have hysteroscopy and biopsy to check all is well and check for any abnormalities which could be causing the thickening (other than HRT imbalance) - then take it from there.
Hope this helps
Hurdity x
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Can I startHRT at age 70?
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Can I startHRT at age 70?
Yes you can. You will probably need a menopause specialist though, it is unlikely that a GP will prescribe it.
JP x
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Hi can you still be perimenopausal at 59???
Yes.
They call it late onset menopause and it's more common than one might think.
The Timing of the Age at Which Natural Menopause Occurs
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3285482/
Should I be worried about late-onset menopause? » Professor Andreas Obermair
https://www.obermair.info/latest-news/blog/late-onset-menopause/
Age at natural menopause and risk of incident cardiovascular disease: a pooled analysis of individual patient data - The Lancet Public Health
https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanpub/article/PIIS2468-2667(19)30155-0/fulltext
As far as I can see, although interesting, I don't think these references actually address meenaruss's question - about menopause at age 59 and beyond.
Meenaruss - as with every condition there is a range and there will be individuals that fall at either end of the spectrum - so a few women/girls will experience very early menopause - sometimes even in their 20's and a few also in their late 50's. There are studies on this - but one I found you have to request full text and I haven't done that.
The most important points are that whilst it is within the range of normality to experience late menopause, the nearer to 60 you get, the more vigilant you need to be in relation to bleeds etc - and to report anything that seems very abnormal for you, unusaly pains, heavy bleeding etc - just in case there is an abnormal cause.
Some women develop fibroids as they age which respond to oestrogen and these can cause bleeding if they get to large. Also some women have endometriosis, polyps etc
Another point is that once you start HRT it is not possible at all to determine when you reach menopause because the HRT either overrides the cycle if peri-menopausal, or if post-meno can cause bleeding due to imbalance of oestrogen and progestyerone. The only way to determine this when on HRT (presumably) is to scan the ovaries I think and look at follicular count (?), possibly the hormone Anti Mullerian Hormone (AMH) - but this is not routinely measured and I'm not sure anyway what happens to this hormone once you start HRT.
Just realised that you had made other posts before the Q about peri-menopause....
"Are you going to have the Essure coil removed?" Essure coil - this wasn't mentioned so no idea where that comment came from??
Meenaruss - you'll need to explain about this as it's not clear? Why don't you start a new post on a new thread and we can explore your situation more fully?
Like I said if you are on HRT there is no knowing when you become or became menopausal but an indication will be what your periods were doing when you started HRT and you age then.
If the HRT has caused the thickening then this just means that the balance between oestrogen and progesterone is not right and you need to make some adjustment. There is no need to stop if there is no good reason for this.
That said you could still be one of the outliers and have a natural period at 59 but this is not a likely explanation - but never say never!
Good to have hysteroscopy and biopsy to check all is well and check for any abnormalities which could be causing the thickening (other than HRT imbalance) - then take it from there.
Hope this helps
Hurdity x
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Hi can you still be perimenopausal at 59???
Yes.
Hi - this has been extremely helpful Thankyou. Just to add something else into the mix I was fitted with the essure clips/coils in 2007 and then was diagnosed with adenomyosis in 2009 (heavy very painful periods). I then had endometrial ablation to no avail - did not work. In 2016 after having not had a period for 5 months I was put on evorel sequí patches due to severe menopause symptoms and this worked wonders. In 2018 I changed to the oestrogel and progesterone. I have been somewhat alarmed to read all the reports on essure and wonder if this has contributed to my problems.
They call it late onset menopause and it's more common than one might think.
The Timing of the Age at Which Natural Menopause Occurs
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3285482/
Should I be worried about late-onset menopause? » Professor Andreas Obermair
https://www.obermair.info/latest-news/blog/late-onset-menopause/
Age at natural menopause and risk of incident cardiovascular disease: a pooled analysis of individual patient data - The Lancet Public Health
https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanpub/article/PIIS2468-2667(19)30155-0/fulltext
As far as I can see, although interesting, I don't think these references actually address meenaruss's question - about menopause at age 59 and beyond.
Meenaruss - as with every condition there is a range and there will be individuals that fall at either end of the spectrum - so a few women/girls will experience very early menopause - sometimes even in their 20's and a few also in their late 50's. There are studies on this - but one I found you have to request full text and I haven't done that.
The most important points are that whilst it is within the range of normality to experience late menopause, the nearer to 60 you get, the more vigilant you need to be in relation to bleeds etc - and to report anything that seems very abnormal for you, unusaly pains, heavy bleeding etc - just in case there is an abnormal cause.
Some women develop fibroids as they age which respond to oestrogen and these can cause bleeding if they get to large. Also some women have endometriosis, polyps etc
Another point is that once you start HRT it is not possible at all to determine when you reach menopause because the HRT either overrides the cycle if peri-menopausal, or if post-meno can cause bleeding due to imbalance of oestrogen and progestyerone. The only way to determine this when on HRT (presumably) is to scan the ovaries I think and look at follicular count (?), possibly the hormone Anti Mullerian Hormone (AMH) - but this is not routinely measured and I'm not sure anyway what happens to this hormone once you start HRT.
Just realised that you had made other posts before the Q about peri-menopause....
"Are you going to have the Essure coil removed?" Essure coil - this wasn't mentioned so no idea where that comment came from??
Meenaruss - you'll need to explain about this as it's not clear? Why don't you start a new post on a new thread and we can explore your situation more fully?
Like I said if you are on HRT there is no knowing when you become or became menopausal but an indication will be what your periods were doing when you started HRT and you age then.
If the HRT has caused the thickening then this just means that the balance between oestrogen and progesterone is not right and you need to make some adjustment. There is no need to stop if there is no good reason for this.
That said you could still be one of the outliers and have a natural period at 59 but this is not a likely explanation - but never say never!
Good to have hysteroscopy and biopsy to check all is well and check for any abnormalities which could be causing the thickening (other than HRT imbalance) - then take it from there.
Hope this helps
Hurdity x
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Hello
I wonder if anyone could help. I've just been prescribed Evorel Conti by my GP, 3.2mg. Although my FSH levels came up as those of a post menopausal woman, I still get periods, although these have become irregular over the last few months. It's my understanding that Evorel Conti is for women who haven't had a period for about 18 months. Has anyone else been prescribed this in perimenopause?
Thank you.
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I am starting to do my research to see if HRT would be the path to go down.
I am 55 and my menopause age was approx 44. I have vaginal atrophy and zero libido. Apart from that, no other symptoms.
I have just been diagnosed with Osteoporosis and am borderline for Osteo meds.
Would HRT be advisable?
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Hello
I wonder if anyone could help. I've just been prescribed Evorel Conti by my GP, 3.2mg. Although my FSH levels came up as those of a post menopausal woman, I still get periods, although these have become irregular over the last few months. It's my understanding that Evorel Conti is for women who haven't had a period for about 18 months. Has anyone else been prescribed this in perimenopause?
Thank you.
Hi PurpleFaze. It seems your post has been missed. Conti HRT is usually prescribed once you have been without periods for a year unless you are over the age of 53 (sometimes 54). Hope this helps.
Taz x :)
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Hello
I wonder if anyone could help. I've just been prescribed Evorel Conti by my GP, 3.2mg. Although my FSH levels came up as those of a post menopausal woman, I still get periods, although these have become irregular over the last few months. It's my understanding that Evorel Conti is for women who haven't had a period for about 18 months. Has anyone else been prescribed this in perimenopause?
Thank you.
Yes, I was. I got it home and read the information sheet that says it's for menopausal women (one year without a period). I rang the surgery, they apologised and changed it to evorel sequi.
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HEY LADIES. Question. I was told that I may be being put on the pill. This is by an endocrinologist. I do have an appointment with a NEW gyno Friday, since mine is retiring in Feb. I am about to be 50. Have not a period in two years. No symptoms really during these two years. A few here and there. BUT NOW, IT IS FULL TILT. Any advice, thought, etc... Please help if you can.
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Do you mean birth control pill? I would ask for hrt instead.
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Hi, I've been browsing on here for a while and would like to ask people who've chosen HRT how bad your symptoms got before you asked for help? At what point of peri did you ask for HRT? And what type?
I've been trying to ride this perimenopause thing out as the symptoms keep changing. Hot sweats have switched from daytime to night time now, which stops me sleeping.
Anxiety is high. I'm forgetting things a lot. Bad headaches. Sleep would help these a lot.
Periods and mood swings have been in overdrive for a couple of years, but I haven't had a period for almost two months now. I feel as though I've been getting phantom period pains and sore boobs though.
Standing up after a long time sitting or slumping in front of the TV is a game of incontinence Russian roulette - this is the symptom that's most upsetting me right now and I don't know if HRT would help this?
My gut feeling is that maybe it's time for me to ask for more help. But what if this isn't as bad as it gets?! I'm 45, if that helps and think I've been in peri for approx 4yrs.
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Hi, I've been browsing on here for a while and would like to ask people who've chosen HRT how bad your symptoms got before you asked for help? At what point of peri did you ask for HRT? And what type?
I've been trying to ride this perimenopause thing out as the symptoms keep changing. Hot sweats have switched from daytime to night time now, which stops me sleeping.
Anxiety is high. I'm forgetting things a lot. Bad headaches. Sleep would help these a lot.
Periods and mood swings have been in overdrive for a couple of years, but I haven't had a period for almost two months now. I feel as though I've been getting phantom period pains and sore boobs though.
Standing up after a long time sitting or slumping in front of the TV is a game of incontinence Russian roulette - this is the symptom that's most upsetting me right now and I don't know if HRT would help this?
My gut feeling is that maybe it's time for me to ask for more help. But what if this isn't as bad as it gets?! I'm 45, if that helps and think I've been in peri for approx 4yrs.
I would definitely enquire about it. It's a young age and speaking from experience, you need to protect against Osteoporosis. I wasn't offered it by error, and now I am paying the price!
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I would definitely enquire about it. It's a young age and speaking from experience, you need to protect against Osteoporosis. I wasn't offered it by error, and now I am paying the price!
[/quote]
Sorry to hear that Stockport1965 - are you suffering with osteoporosis now?
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I would definitely enquire about it. It's a young age and speaking from experience, you need to protect against Osteoporosis. I wasn't offered it by error, and now I am paying the price!
Sorry to hear that Stockport1965 - are you suffering with osteoporosis now?
[/quote]
yes, just been diagnosed with it
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Periwhat I agree with the above. Regardless of symptoms you should be on it to protect your bones and heart.
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@Sheila99 That is good to know, thank you. I guess I am wary of going on it too soon and peaking too early.
I'm wary of long-term medication as I prefer to try natural, low-intervention options first, but I don't feel that I'm coping too well right now. Thanks for replying.
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I'll try to get a GP appointment and see what they say. I've been putting it off.
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Don't think of it as medication. Rather it's replacing what your body should be producing but isn't, perhaps similar to taking vit D in winter. Hrt is the other way round, it's best to start it before you've had a long period of oestrogen deficiency. I decided quality of life was more important. I thought my anxiety and insomnia were bad but osteoporosis has to be worse. Hope your appointment goes well and you have a knowledgeable GP.
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Hi, I've been browsing on here for a while and would like to ask people who've chosen HRT how bad your symptoms got before you asked for help? At what point of peri did you ask for HRT? And what type?
I've been trying to ride this perimenopause thing out as the symptoms keep changing. Hot sweats have switched from daytime to night time now, which stops me sleeping.
Anxiety is high. I'm forgetting things a lot. Bad headaches. Sleep would help these a lot.
Periods and mood swings have been in overdrive for a couple of years, but I haven't had a period for almost two months now. I feel as though I've been getting phantom period pains and sore boobs though.
Standing up after a long time sitting or slumping in front of the TV is a game of incontinence Russian roulette - this is the symptom that's most upsetting me right now and I don't know if HRT would help this?
My gut feeling is that maybe it's time for me to ask for more help. But what if this isn't as bad as it gets?! I'm 45, if that helps and think I've been in peri for approx 4yrs.
I am 44 and have had peri menopausal symptoms about 4 years now. I started combined HRT two months ago and it has made a huge difference for me. My mood swings have more or less gone, I have a lot more energy and I'm able to concentrate more, I don't forget things which was causing me problems at work. My period hasn't changed, I have a little spotting but it's irregular, up to 6-8 weeks.
I never imagined I would feel this different and would definitely recommend it.
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I am 44 and have had peri menopausal symptoms about 4 years now. I started combined HRT two months ago and it has made a huge difference for me. My mood swings have more or less gone, I have a lot more energy and I'm able to concentrate more, I don't forget things which was causing me problems at work. My period hasn't changed, I have a little spotting but it's irregular, up to 6-8 weeks.
I never imagined I would feel this different and would definitely recommend it.
[/quote]
Thanks for this Alice 76, it's really good to hear it's improved your quality of life so much. I started taking it 5wks ago and some things are starting to get better already - you're giving me hope that it will keep going! I really wish I could concentrate on my work right now.
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Hi, I too have been, and still am, unsure about HRT. I believe that the body is amazing and nature has its own strengths and resources to deal with things. However, I had a slight prolapse, osteopenia, zero interest in sex and aching joints. I was recommended by two GPs to try HRT. I have been on continuous oestrogen gel and Utrogestan for about 5 months now. Still have the prolapse but it feels slightly better, no aching joints, but still no interest in sex. I had quite a lot of bleeding every third week for the first 3 months which then stopped. However when my oestrogen gel was changed I bled again and my GP has talked about thickening lining of my uterus??? Do we just swap one lot of problems for another?
And it's now a months wait to speak with my GP.
Well, what a day for starting this thread.
I am right now in the midst of weighing up what to do. My gynaecologist has prescribed Oestradol valerate but I just cannot decide whether to take it. He did a blood test and then rang me to say he had done a prescription for me. We have had no discussion on the pros and cons and I have many doubts.
Reading the posts here, makes me more inclined to try. My only problems are heat intolerance, poor sleeping and missing libido and I have been post menopausal for nearly four years.
Frankly I would do almost anything now to get my sex drive back so I am pretty much at a thinking point of nothing ventured nothing gained.
Like marymouse, I have tried to take a balanced picture of it all but as soon as I decide I should give it a try, I find a reason why I shouldn't.
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Hi there. This is my first time here. My head is just about exploding from over thinking this so I thought it would be good to get some input from other ladies who have walked this path before me. I’m 56 (6 years in) and I thought I’d done a damn good job of getting through the worst of menopause and felt I was nearly on the other side when VA struck in full force in March!!! Vagifem was hopeless (I kept going with it for far too long thinking it might kick in) but when my GP swapped me over to Ovestin 2 weeks ago I’ve had a lot of improvement. Not perfect by any means, but way better. She also said she would be happy to start me on systemic hrt in addition. That’s the bit I’m confused about. Whether I should stick with just Ovestin hoping it will keep on improving. Or whether I should take up the window I have left before age 60 to start on hrt, getting a more satisfactory improvement, and also reap the benefits of hrt while I can. Has anyone here found that when they stop hrt that the VA is less of a problem going forward? Or does it come back in full force once hrt is stopped? Thank you in advance. I come from NZ where there is a big reluctance towards HRT, believe it or not . I don’t know a single person on it so it is a big shift for me to see it as a good thing.
if it helps I'm in a similar position to you. 8 years post menopause and my VA (or genito urinary symptoms of menopause as they are now called, GUSM) were awful, then had cystitis type symptoms for 3 months too. What I hadn't appreciated is that if you are on vagifem or local creams you will need to take for life to maintain vaginal and urinary health. I was using creams haphazardly which was stupid as I felt scared using it. I was finally examined by a gynaecologist following 2 months in vagifem regime and told I still had significant dryness high in vagina. Decided to try systemic hrt for this reason, apparently 20 percent of women with VA need both, maybe you are one too. I've been on oestrogen gel and utrogestan for 10 days, vagina improving BUT progesterone making feel exhausted. I'm going to carry on to see if things settle though. Don't give up, I'm not
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Hi, I’m new on here.
I’m not sure where to post medical type questions...
I have two queries- has anyone else suffered from hormone related migraines? And has anyone returned to HRT after a long break?
I was using estrogel for several years, my new doctor raised safety issues as 1) I had been on it for a long time and 2) I’d started getting chronic migraines with aura.
I got a bit worried and decided to come off it, just before the first lockdown. My GP prescribed beta blockers for the migraines. At first this seemed to work, though the migraines didn’t really go away completely and are now increasing again. I’ve had a horrible time with low mood and extreme tiredness painful joints etc..
I watched the Davina mc call channel 4 programme recently and then looked up menopause doctor. I now think I should have stayed on estrogel, as I still have menopausal symptoms- do they ever go away? I’m 64 btw and used to be lively, happy and fit. I’m now fat, unfit and miserable.
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I think it’s excellent, I only suffered night sweats for about 2 weeks and couldn’t put up with it 😂 At the time I was studying for a degree in psychology (mature student) and we studied the psychology of women’s health and our professor was so in favour of HRT and provided loads of info so I went to the GP armed with lots of knowledge. I was prescribed Femoston 2/10 and as I was peri menopausal I was on a cyclical regime which I stayed on for quite a few years. I then watched Dr Louise Newson, the Menopause Doctor, which recommended Utrogestan and Oestrogel so once again I went armed with lots of info and requested I change to a continuous regime with Utrogestan and Oestrogel. The Doctor agreed and I’ve been taking that for 2 months and feel great. I definitely recommend watching Dr Louise Newson’s video, it explains it all so well 👍
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I'm on so many things now I'm not sure what's helping and what's not. Ive been on antidepressants for years to help with pmt then hrt when peri kicked in. Tried various hrt patches and utrogestan. Got the mirena fitted 18 months ago which was horrible for months before settling down. Using 100mc estradot patches. Then faffed about with testogel/tostran. Now using ovestin for va which helped. But still feel depressed. It was hoped I could wean off antidepressants when hrt settled down but don't think it ever will.
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Sad for you, Denise Didi. I'm guessing the more stuff that's piled in, the harder it is to know what's doing what; helping or isn't. Is there any way of simplifying things right down and stripping back to some level of basics? Sounds like your oestrogen levels may not be sufficiently evened out to tolerate the testosterone yet? It's horrible feeling like it's an endless process of trial and error without any sense of steady progress which is what we all want to realise! Where are your gains right now? Can you develop those in some way? The depression may need an approach separate from or in addition to hormones? Otherwise it's, again, determining what's helping. How do you work with it holistically? PM me if you like? Take care.
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Thank you for taking the time to respond. I am due a review at the meno clinic soon I think. The consultant is very good so here's hoping she can help, think I need more oestrogen. I have been thinking I need to start my cbt act techniques again. I booked a holiday yesterday to help me focus on something positive. Thanks again for your kind thoughts. We are all in this together - has been my moto for lockdown and certainly applies to menopause! 👏😊
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For me---GOOD!! Definitely GOOD..changed my life when I went on it, no hot flushes at all, able to sleep, CRIPPLING anxiety , low mood, tearfulness and catastrophising lessoned massively.... I dread the day I come off if it all comes back cos to be honest my life was half a life, not the full one I have now.
For me....quality of life
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Seeking advice. I'm concerned my HRT is no longer working and wondering if I should switch to a patch or higher dosage. I've been on the Mimvey pill (1.0mg estradiol/ 0.5mg norethindrone) for almost 2 months. During the first month, I noticed an immediate mood and energy boost and got a period after about two weeks. This past month, my mood felt flat again (like pre-HRT) and I did not get a period. I'm wondering if my body is not absorbing the estrogen anymore and if I should switch to a patch? Or perhaps I need a higher dosage? Can anyone recommend a different prescription? Or some bloodwork I should request? Any advice would be greatly appreciated. Thank you.
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Hi! sometimes HRT needs a boost ........ especially as ovaries can continue to pump out oestrogen in spits and spurts.
A patch may help as 1 can add/half some types of replacement therapy. Perhaps put the Mimvey pill into the search box on the forum 2 C what pops up? Do start a thread of your own so that you get more responses.
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Thank u!
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I think HRT is good. It took me a long time to get a GP to take my symptoms seriously and I went through some irritating times until I found a lovely GP who listened to me. I have been on Kliovance for seven years now and have felt much better, though never perfect. My weight has stabilised and my skin and hair look good and people are often surprised that I am 62.
I have had long term mental health problems with a decade long low mood/depression and I wonder if a more interested GP would have been able to prescribe a different HRT to alleviate this. I recently enquired about Tibolone and the 'female' GP I spoke too said NO NO that gives you blood clots! My own research hasn't flagged up Tibolone as being any more of a problem with blood clots and I just think she had her mind closed to HRT full-stop,
On getting my usual prescription approved last week I immediately got a text from my own 'male' GP asking me to make an appointment for an HRT 'Review'. I am now sure he is going to ask me to stop taking it and this fills me with horror! He's a very unpleasant man who I tried to get a face-to-face appointment with about my severe arthritis and who was very short with me. I've had several blood tests recently as I was getting severe joint pain and they all came back normal. My only health issue is low mood and joint pain for which he recently prescribed Naproxen.
I know that without the HRT my life will become unbearable and my mental health will deteriorate. I also believe my weight will go up and I will age overnight. I can't imagine why so many women I meet are so down, sometimes even treat me like some sort of weirdo because I'm on HRT.
I often feel some women suggest you are 'afraid' of getting old if you're on HRT or that you're sex mad! I have one 'friend' who is only 53 and talks about sex as 'that thing she doesn't bother with any more' and I think that is so sad.
My husband and I have been married for 33 years now and although not perfect - his libido is as low as mine quite often - we do at least have a sex life.
I'm terrified that I won't have anything left (my children have already disowned me for no real reason) and because of the menopause (before I got treatment) I couldn't cope with my job and we eventually lost our home (as I was on a high salary).
I doubt I am going to be able to keep my temper with this doctor and his 'review' (especially when previous GP's have said I don't ever need to come off it if I don't want to). I genuinely think GP's have lost the plot at the moment and are trying to save money left right and centre.
I personally would prefer to remain on my very low dose HRT which will keep my weight down and help me keep active. Without it I will eventually become a problem for the NHS as I will put on weight, get depressed and more than likely end up with diabetes and heart disease. It makes no sense to me why GP's think they know best when it comes to HRT. >:(
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Hi everyone
Have only just joined this forum.
Don't know where to start but here goes.
Several years ago I tried different hrt and had to have a combi as I still had a period. I suffered the most horrendous side effects when it came to take the progesterone tried several different types aswell as patches but as I say had terrible side effects.I then decided to stop taking them as I had persevered for several months but did not feel any better.
I am now a few years on and am really struggling and considering trying hrt again. The perimenopause has definately got worse I am still having a period but they are very erratic and I am suffering chills,extremely sore joints, really low mood and self esteemand dreadful anxiety and basically feeling really horrible. I lost my husband very suddenly at the age of 49 and I care for my adult disabled son so I am really under a lot of stress. I was wondering if anyone has had a lot of side effect with progesterone and if they have found an hrt that didn't cause the horrible side effects or is there an alternative for progesterone. I have spoken to my gp and I have to have bloods done in 3 wks then we will discuss hrt again but there seems to be so much help on the forum thought I would look for sone advice. Sorry for the long post Thankyou in advance xx
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I am 56 and saw a gynaecologist recently as I was having problems with Vaginal Atrophy, lack of energy, and hot flushes.
I was prescribed Oestrogel, 75 micrograms 2-4 pumps daily along with 100mg Urogestran pessaries to insert into the vagina, also vaginex to insert into the vagina 3 times a week.
The first two weeks were amazing my hot flushes stopped and I had a lovely calm feeling when I went to bed. I thought I had found my HRT heaven. I am postmenopausal 2 years and have also had an Endometrium Ablation so my lining is very thin but was still recommended to take Progeresterone which I take every other night.
I have been on HRT for 5 weeks now and not feeling as good, my energy levels are poor, I seem to be tired all the time, I have brain fog, breast tenderness, havent been able to sleep for a couple of nights. Still no Hot flushes but I was hoping HRT would improve my quality of life. Any advice would be helpful, like many women on hear going through the Menopause I have tried several HRT's, Evorel Conti, Femoston, Tibolone. I wanted to try the Biodenticals as the best option for minimal risk.
:-\ ::)
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Hi everyone
Have only just joined this forum.
Don't know where to start but here goes.
Several years ago I tried different hrt and had to have a combi as I still had a period. I suffered the most horrendous side effects when it came to take the progesterone tried several different types aswell as patches but as I say had terrible side effects.I then decided to stop taking them as I had persevered for several months but did not feel any better.
I am now a few years on and am really struggling and considering trying hrt again. The perimenopause has definately got worse I am still having a period but they are very erratic and I am suffering chills,extremely sore joints, really low mood and self esteemand dreadful anxiety and basically feeling really horrible. I lost my husband very suddenly at the age of 49 and I care for my adult disabled son so I am really under a lot of stress. I was wondering if anyone has had a lot of side effect with progesterone and if they have found an hrt that didn't cause the horrible side effects or is there an alternative for progesterone. I have spoken to my gp and I have to have bloods done in 3 wks then we will discuss hrt again but there seems to be so much help on the forum thought I would look for sone advice. Sorry for the long post Thankyou in advance xx
Hi there and welcome to the forum. First of all, sorry for your loss, Hannah09.
I've been recommended the Mirena coil for the progestogen/progesterone element of HRT for similar reasons. I can't tell you how it works yet as my first coil fitting is actually today. Plus Oestrogel and Vagifem for the oestrogen elements.
GPs made me try three other HRT regimes first, with increasingly awful mental reactions to the progestogen part, before I was referred to a menopause clinic and recommended to try Mirena coil. You don't say what your side effects were with the other HRT you tried, but for me, the thinking/hope is that because the coil delivers a constant regulated amount of hormone, I won't get the peaks and troughs of extreme mood swings that I had with other types of HRT. Good luck!
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My doctor referred me to this forum/site. I am having hot flushes,no sleep,my body aches,headaches,sweats,weight gain and itching. I need advice on hrt. The doctor gave me antihistamines for the sleep problems but now I am tired all the time.
Help. TIA
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Hi I’m very new to this and have only been on hrt for just over a week now, my gp has given me estradot patches 50 mg and utrogestan tabs 100 mg. My boobs are beginning to feel sensitive but I’m also feeling a bit constipated and when I pass urine it’s almost like the feeling is there is more to pass but there isn’t, my stomach is feeling quite bloated, just wondering if this is a normal effect as I haven’t had a period for 7 years?. Thanks
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HELP. Advice needed. 47, Perimenopausal symptoms but nothing dramatic. I started HRT just 1,5 month ago. 15 days oestrogen, 15 days with progesterone as well. I guess classic HRT for a newbie. The first week/ 10 days I felt depressed like never before, got better and first week/10 days of this month, again, I was awful to the family (first time my husband told me I was being a bitch!), I had to move out....should I stop HRT or this happened to other women who persevered and gained from it?
Thank you and sorry if this is not the place.......
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Without HRT I would have had to give up my career. The anxiety, mood swings and hot flushes along with sleep disturbance had turned me into a crazy lady. Within a couple of weeks of HRT I felt like me again with my symptoms almost completely cleared up. I think my only issue is the lack of structure to obtaining HRT and then having it reviewed.
My symptoms recently started back and GP has now added in AD but I do believe my issues are hormonal, so have to rely on forums for advise more than the GP rather than the GP doing blood works etc to see if possibly I need more oestrogen now that I’m 3 years on since my symptoms got really bad the first time around.
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Hi I’m new here only in my 30s and been on hrt patch’s for a year nearly now it’s calmed down my mood , sweating , restlessness, I currently had no period for over a year before the patch started and a year now on the patch.
Can I ask does anybody else suffer with dark facial hair growth and what do you do to help this 😭 . I’m feeling so low recently .
But I think hrt patch for me as worked so far 🙏
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Hi I’m new here only in my 30s and been on hrt patch’s for a year nearly now it’s calmed down my mood , sweating , restlessness, I currently had no period for over a year before the patch started and a year now on the patch.
Can I ask does anybody else suffer with dark facial hair growth and what do you do to help this 😭 . I’m feeling so low recently .
But I think hrt patch for me as worked so far 🙏
Hello Sez. For the facial hair you could try getting it waxed, threaded or even removing it yourself with hair removing cream or shaving. I am sorry you are feeling so low. It is horrible. I am sending you a virtual hug.
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Oh no, sorry, I couldn't recommend hair removal cream or shaving, not for facial hair. I suggest you get advice from your gp about it before trying anything as it could be caused by something treatable. However, depending on the amount and strength of it, you could research a range of methods from bleaching for mild "peach fuzz" to electrolysis for thick, coarse hair. Anything in-between should respond well to waxing or threading, but maybe let a beautician do that for you? I'm sorry you're feeling low and don't need this issue to add to that, but how great you feel the patch is helping. Let us know how you get on and thank you for having the courage to post on such a delicate subject. Good luck! 😊
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Hi thank you for everyone’s reply my doctor said nothing he can do with regards to facial hair said hopefully the hrt patch will help with this but it hasn’t , yes I tweeze them but they grow back so fast and are thick black hairs and I’m blonde 😭really depresses me how much black hairs I’m getting on my body lately the more I get rid with different techniques more faster it grows back 😭
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I sympathise Sez. I have black facial and body hair. My facial hair started when I was 11. It is horrid.
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I have only been taking HRT for just over 3 weeks. I was very reluctant to do so but got desperate with the lack of concentration & being unable to stay focussed - this led to bouts of uncontrolable crying & generally feeling run down & tired. I was having trouble sleeping, hot flushes & no energy to do anything, barely managing to get through a days work.
I noticed very little change in the 1st week but toward the end of the 2nd week noticed that I had more energy then I had done in months. Housework started to get done properly & not just a flip round with the duster. This week work was not such an uphill struggle & almost a pleasure again. I am sleeping better too. So yes in some ways they have helped to give me back a bit of my old life & I feel a bit more in control again.
On the downside I feel as fat as a pig, My stomach has blown up like a balloon & I am struggling to get into my clothes. I still get the flushes but not too bad mainly at night.
I shall continue with them for another 2 months & hopefully it will work out ok for me.
Cazikins
I had most of your symptoms, brain fog, lack of concentration, sleeplessness, since starting HRT patches a month ago I've found no improvement as yet, but the side effects horrendous (severe painful cramps) and weight gain which I can't afford (medically or financially) I have stopped taking the patches until I can get to speak to a Dr - no appointments this month & I keep being told to call daily in case of any cancellations
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I can't work out if I need HRT or not. I've been reading through some of the posts but I'm just more confused. I became peri menopausal about 4 years ago and I think I'm fully menopausal now (is that a thing?) because it is nearly 3 years since I had any sort of period. I don't have many symptoms really, reduced labido, slight vaginal dryness, and the biggy - hot flushes! So I am very aware that many people are suffering a great deal more but the hot flushes do get me down. All through the winter when I wanted to wear warm snuggly clothes I couldn't really and now the weather's a bit warmer it's even more difficult. I'm also a naturally cold person so when I'm not flushing I'm probably quite cold. I've discovered that I really need to keep at a just off warm temperature to stop the flushes but then I'm uncomfortable being a little cold all the time. But do I need HRT and will it help? I haven't been to see my GP for ages but the last time we talked about this she referred me to MM and I've dipped in and out ever since trying to decide what to do. Eventually I've decided to post a message and see what you think. What worries me I guess is that I could make things a lot worse, I've read some of the side effects of HRT and they scare me a bit! But after 3/4 years of hot flushes they are starting to get me down a bit. Any advice would be very welcome.
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Hi Liz, and welcome to the forum.
Wel, if it were me, I'd go for HRT. As well as dealing with the hot flushes, which could go on for years, it will protect your health for the future. Also, you should at least be using local oestrogen for your VA symptoms, as this will deteriorate if left untreated.
As to potential side effects, we see posts here about people having problems because of the nature of this group, ie, it is mainly a support group. Most people are fine, use HRT with no problems, and have no need of support groups.
I'd give it a go, no need to suffer unnecessarily!
JP x
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Thank you so much for your reply and advice, I'm making an appointment today :)
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So far the bad outweighing the good :-\ :'(
Started not so good, changed and it got better with some benefits.
10 month in and it's gone spectacularly tits up - or tits sore, more appropriately. And horrendous mood swings and feeling frankly, worthless.
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So far the bad outweighing the good :-\ :'(
Started not so good, changed and it got better with some benefits.
10 month in and it's gone spectacularly tits up - or tits sore, more appropriately. And horrendous mood swings and feeling frankly, worthless.
Hello Me. You are not worthless. You are going through all sorts of changes in your body and you having mood swings is contributing to you feeling this way. Have you spoken to your GP about how you are feeling?
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Hrt is definitely great, my life wouldn't be worth living without it.
I just wish my doctor would do things a bit quicker 😂
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I am about 3 weeks in - Oestrogel (2 pumps) and Utrogestan (200mg) and have just taken my 6th dose of Utrogestan. I was really scared, especially about the Utrogestan as I know a lot of people have problems with it.
I feel amazing. I can’t believe the difference although I get it’s early days, so that may change. My biggest symptoms were low mood - sometimes real angst and despair, getting really hot at night (not exactly a flush though), fatigue and lethargy, forgetting things, weak bladder (I didn’t think that had anything to do with peri- menopause, but it’s completely cured!), sleep problems…
I am 49 and can honestly say I feel better than I have in years. I think I got worse so slowly, I started to think it was normal and forgot where my baseline was.
If this is the ways it stays, it’s more than worth the small risks. I have just started a new, very senior role and I was terrified I’d lost my mojo and wasn’t up to it. I am fine with it 😊 and have my confidence back.
Firstly, please God may this continue and secondly, please can my chemist get Oestrogel back in stock before I run out!
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I am about 3 weeks in - Oestrogel (2 pumps) and Utrogestan (200mg) and have just taken my 6th dose of Utrogestan. I was really scared, especially about the Utrogestan as I know a lot of people have problems with it.
I feel amazing. I can’t believe the difference although I get it’s early days, so that may change. My biggest symptoms were low mood - sometimes real angst and despair, getting really hot at night (not exactly a flush though), fatigue and lethargy, forgetting things, weak bladder (I didn’t think that had anything to do with peri- menopause, but it’s completely cured!), sleep problems…
I am 49 and can honestly say I feel better than I have in years. I think I got worse so slowly, I started to think it was normal and forgot where my baseline was.
If this is the ways it stays, it’s more than worth the small risks. I have just started a new, very senior role and I was terrified I’d lost my mojo and wasn’t up to it. I am fine with it 😊 and have my confidence back.
Firstly, please God may this continue and secondly, please can my chemist get Oestrogel back in stock before I run out!
Hello Tina. Welcome to the forum. It is wonderful to hear how much better you are feeling. :)
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Massive good from me! Literally saved my life. I was one of the women who became suicidal through lack of estrogen and was treated on the NHS with anti-depressants which made not one jot of difference. Since starting HRT, I've returned to work and many other activities that I'd just given up on/couldn't face. It has given me my life back :)
The ironic thing is that I was almost too anxious about HRT to try it, but I'm so glad I took that step. I'm not saying it is for everyone - although secretly I think it probably should be! - however it is a matter of personal choice, but for anyone else who is going through what I was, then please, please use it.
xx
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Massive good from me! Literally saved my life. I was one of the women who became suicidal through lack of estrogen and was treated on the NHS with anti-depressants which made not one jot of difference. Since starting HRT, I've returned to work and many other activities that I'd just given up on/couldn't face. It has given me my life back :)
The ironic thing is that I was almost too anxious about HRT to try it, but I'm so glad I took that step. I'm not saying it is for everyone - although secretly I think it probably should be! - however it is a matter of personal choice, but for anyone else who is going through what I was, then please, please use it.
xx
It is really good to hear how much better you are feeling now. :)
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Hi everyone,
I'm a newbie to this forum, and I posted my question under another thread but I just need some advice on Evorel Conti - mainly whether to start it or not. I'm constantly tired beyond belief, no sex drive, moody, etc, but I'm 50 y/o overweight smoker with family history of blood clots. I have, however, read that benefits outweigh the risks, especially if you are under 60. I just want to get rid off this ridiculous tiredness.
Thanks for any advice / help.
Moody71
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It was awful, then amazing, then awful again.
Getting information is almost impossible and often you don't get any replies on this forum which sometimes feels like the only place where you can ask.
I have decided to come off it altogether as even using the tiniest amount of Estrogel makes my boobs very sore. I've cut back from 1 pump to half a pump and then a pea sized amount and it's just awful. The final straw came today when I was looking at pictures of our day at the beach and my tits are noticeably bigger. They hurt when I take my bra off at night and I just can't bear it any more.
For info, to help others also with questions about Utrogestan and Estrogel, I have been taking the Utrogestan vaginally and I have noticed that it gives me a strange sensation 'down there' as if I need to pee all the time.
So apart from the initial burst of energy, improved mood and some relief from Inflammatory Arthritis pain, it's all gone downhill and side effects have crept in and just got worse over the year 10 months I have been taking hrt.
I brought this up with the hrt specialist appointment I had a couple of weeks ago and questioned if I even needed it. She asked me about lifestyle etc (don't drink or smoke, vigorous exercise every day for at least an hour and am normal weight) and she said it cannot be underestimated how much all those things can help to keep peri symptoms at bay. So I'm going to ditch the hrt and do more exercise!
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Hi everyone,
I'm a newbie to this forum, and I posted my question under another thread but I just need some advice on Evorel Conti - mainly whether to start it or not. I'm constantly tired beyond belief, no sex drive, moody, etc, but I'm 50 y/o overweight smoker with family history of blood clots. I have, however, read that benefits outweigh the risks, especially if you are under 60. I just want to get rid off this ridiculous tiredness.
Thanks for any advice / help.
Moody71
Hi Moody71,
I have been on Everol Conti for almost 4 weeks now. Before I started I was constantly tired ( and headaches, moody and no sex drive). I was in doubt before I started with the patches, only because of the side effects ( the list is sooo long). I spoke to my GP about it, and she suggested that I should give it a try for 3 months, just to see how I feel. And I am glad i doing that, because I feel almost like me normal self. So I will say, give it try, if you feel its not for you, just stop using it.
Hope this help little bit.
Hugs
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Hi all. I've been on Evorel Conti now for about 5 months and the only difference I felt was better sleep really so I decided to try the oestrogen and progesterone tablets at night but it gave me terrible side effects with racing heart beat and bad sleep at night and a "hyper" feeling during the day and just "all over the place" particularly in the mornings. I tried 2 pumps at night and once even 3. But I decided to go back on the evorel Conti patches. Anyone else had this experience with oestrogen and the progesterone tablets? I managed just a week before I wen't back to evorel Conti patches.
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I’ve just been given HRT in form of Oestrogel (2 pumps) and Utrogestan 100mg tablets - I haven’t had a period for years but have read that I may start getting periods again which I’m not keen on.
Also read that my breast size may increase and start lactating - again not keen on this.
Has anyone had this and how quickly after starting this did they experience this?
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I’ve just been given HRT in form of Oestrogel (2 pumps) and Utrogestan 100mg tablets - I haven’t had a period for years but have read that I may start getting periods again which I’m not keen on.
Also read that my breast size may increase and start lactating - again not keen on this.
Has anyone had this and how quickly after starting this did they experience this?
I have never heard any members on here say that have started lactating. My breasts did increase but I would prefer that then the horrid menopause symptoms. :)
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Hi everyone I'm new I'm on evroil sequil patches I'm wondering if you can change the patches every three days instead of waiting for the forth day thankyou
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The effects of HRT have been good and bad for me. I am 3 years post menopause and started HRT May 2022 with everol conti. Mainly for hot flushes that were every 20 minutes all day and all night. within 3 days the flushes had gone and I felt better all round. Able to sleep through the night, more energy and a general feeling of well being. Although I did have a constant headache for the first 6 weeks that subsided slowly. I then read that utrogestan was less of a risk for breast cancer and decided to switch in July 22. I used it vaginally to try and mitigate any progesterone intolerance and was ok for the first 3 months and then developed severely sore breasts followed by what I believe are panic attacks and severe anxiety which I have never had before. On reading Louise Newson's advice, I cut my dose to every other night (Jan 23) and although the breast pain is less severe, it is still there and the anxiety is still a daily event, out of the blue and for no reason. I have decided today that I will stop the utrogestan completely for the next 2 weeks and if my symptoms improve, I will ask GP to swap me back to everol conti as I can't go on like this indefinitely. Any advice would be gratefully received.
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Hi! Let us know how you get on. Some find that keeping a mood/food/symptom diary useful.
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I have only been taking HRT for just over 3 weeks. I was very reluctant to do so but got desperate with the lack of concentration & being unable to stay focussed - this led to bouts of uncontrolable crying & generally feeling run down & tired. I was having trouble sleeping, hot flushes & no energy to do anything, barely managing to get through a days work.
I noticed very little change in the 1st week but toward the end of the 2nd week noticed that I had more energy then I had done in months. Housework started to get done properly & not just a flip round with the duster. This week work was not such an uphill struggle & almost a pleasure again. I am sleeping better too. So yes in some ways they have helped to give me back a bit of my old life & I feel a bit more in control again.
On the downside I feel as fat as a pig, My stomach has blown up like a balloon & I am struggling to get into my clothes. I still get the flushes but not too bad mainly at night.
I shall continue with them for another 2 months & hopefully it will work out ok for me.
Cazikins
Hi Catkins did the weight and bloating ever settle. I’m struggling with this too x
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Hi CJT,
To be honest I can't remember CJT. I wrote this in 2007 ??? ??? however I do believe the bloating stopped eventually but not the weight gain.
I came off HRT eventually 6 months ago mainly because of PMB which caused fibroids & I am now 65. I was 49 when I posted that.
It was this website that really helped me more than anything on my journey through the menopause. The support. knowledge & information I got, & still do at times is amazing.
Everyone's menopause journey is different & it is hard not for it not to rule your life (as it did mine for many years) but in the end I managed to "accept" it & be happy with my lot.
Not sure any of this has answered your question CJT ;D ;D
Cazikins xx
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Hi CJT,
To be honest I can't remember CJT. I wrote this in 2007 ??? ??? however I do believe the bloating stopped eventually but not the weight gain.
I came off HRT eventually 6 months ago mainly because of PMB which caused fibroids & I am now 65. I was 49 when I posted that.
It was this website that really helped me more than anything on my journey through the menopause. The support. knowledge & information I got, & still do at times is amazing.
Everyone's menopause journey is different & it is hard not for it not to rule your life (as it did mine for many years) but in the end I managed to "accept" it & be happy with my lot.
Not sure any of this has answered your question CJT ;D ;D
Cazikins xx
Thank you for taking the time to reply x
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Hi CJT,
To be honest I can't remember CJT. I wrote this in 2007 ??? ??? however I do believe the bloating stopped eventually but not the weight gain.
I came off HRT eventually 6 months ago mainly because of PMB which caused fibroids & I am now 65. I was 49 when I posted that.
It was this website that really helped me more than anything on my journey through the menopause. The support. knowledge & information I got, & still do at times is amazing.
Everyone's menopause journey is different & it is hard not for it not to rule your life (as it did mine for many years) but in the end I managed to "accept" it & be happy with my lot.
Not sure any of this has answered your question CJT ;D ;D
Cazikins xx
Thank you for taking the time to reply xx
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Please help! I was on 25mg patches for 3mths and then they were increased to 50mg. I was fine for just over a week but out of the blue I started experiencing headaches, dizziness, nausea and occasional vomiting. I also have increased intense hunger pains all of the time. I have a GP appointment tomorrow but wonder if anyone else feels like this. Yesterday was the worse. This is making me feel so sad. Advise would be so much appreciated.
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Please help! I was on Evorel 25mg patches for 3mths and then they were increased to 50mg. I was fine for just over a week but out of the blue I started experiencing headaches, dizziness, nausea and occasional vomiting. I also have increased intense hunger pains all of the time. I have a GP appointment tomorrow but wonder if anyone else feels like this. Yesterday was the worse. This is making me feel so sad. Advise would be so much appreciated.
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Good for me, my mood is 100% better, I no longer want to hit people whilst shopping or cause an argument with my husband over nothing ! I'm struggling with VA on and off so still perfecting it!
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Hello HighAnxiety and welcome to the forum.
I suppose HRT is like any other treatment, good if it works but bad if it doesn't and gives you other problems instead.
For me HRT was never the magic bullet some women report, even adding in testosterone didn't light my fire so I abandoned that one lol.
I continue to use a medium dose of gel daily as that keeps my hot flushes, night sweats and vaginal atrophy at bay. I still struggle with other meno symptoms however and I am using lifestyle changes to try and deal with those.
This time of life can be a real rollercoaster ride but the lovely ladies on this site are here to provide support and information so you are not alone.
Wishing you well and take care.
K.
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I like HRT! It's stopped the hot flushes and helps me sleep. Have you watched Davina McCall's documentaries?
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Hi Ladies
I've been going through perimenopause since 39 (now 46) and wanted to embrace it naturally, however over the past few years the symptoms have become even more unbearable. I started to use Evorel Sequi patches which helped with all the symptoms but 3 months in I started to get really bad headaches, blurred vision, fatigue, aches and pains but only on the last 2 weeks of the patch (progesterone) then I was out one evening at a work event and had 2 alcoholic drinks (I don't normally drink only special occassions) came out in a really bad rash and then collapsed unconscious. I have now been given epipens and am waiting on allergy testing. I stayed off the patches for a bit but then meno symptoms got so bad I started them again and now 2 months in I have started to have headaches, blurry vision, fatigue etc all same symptoms as before. I just am so lost and don't know what to do as I really don't want to collapse again (I will not be consuming alcohol) but I also can not cope without the intervention of HRT as the night sweats, insomnia, brain fog etc are just too much for me to cope with. Sorry if this is the wrong place to post this but really am at my wits end. Any help / advice would be much appreciated. Has anyone else ever experienced anything like this before?
Thanks for taking the time to read.
Nicky
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Hi! who is over seeing your treatment? Many become sensitivity to alcohol as well as developing food 'allergies'. MayB keeping a diet sheet for 5 days/nights to write down everything that you eat and drink.
Many don't get on with progesterone either.
Your symptoms do sound like a lack of oestrogen. Some find that keeping a mood/symptom diary of use to chart progress.
Let us know how you get on.
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Helo Nicky,
There are several.different choices of hrt and it can take a while for some to find the right regime. Progesterone as CLKD says Is hard for some to tolerate in some forms. I personally did not get on with utrogestan and decided to use the mirena coil for the progesterone part.
Maybe take a look at different hrt options, perhaps a look at the search bar on here? If I were you I would definitely get back in touch with your gp to discuss,.you should not be left feeling like this. Maybe see if there is a particular Dr who is interested in women's health?
Do post any questions on the forum, or let off a bit of steam. Am sure the majority of us have felt as you do in one way or another. You aren't alone in feeling like this I can promise you that.
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Thank you SarahT & CLKD for replying :)
I am just off phone with my GP and she is for prescribing provera and a gel for me to try and see if that helps. I just feel so lost and feel that I've lost part on my old self somewhere along the way. My partner has been so supportive but how long can you expect someone to put up with the craziness especially when you find it hard to put up with yourself.
Thank you for your suggestions and advice I really do appreciate and it does make me feel less alone in this hormonal sea.
I will look at the provera and gel and see if I can tolerate anything is worth a go.
Thank you!
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Nicky I too feel I have lost my old self, but very slowly am accepting a different me. Not better or worse, just different. Acceptance is a bit part of peri for me, though that's easier said then done when some days you feel you are going mad.
Maybe to have a look at advice for husband's on here? It applies to all our lives ones really. Do remember you don't choose to feel this way ( says me who apologises to my husband frequently for being quite hormonally irrational....) This is not a lifestyle.choice!
Do take care x
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Thanks SarahT really appreciate your reply and so glad I posted.
Take care x
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My last experience of HRT about 20years ago wasn't good at all, so I have avoided it at all costs. I'm in the middle of having a bad flare up of VA and I've had to reach out to my doctor. After a discussion with her I'm giving it another go to see how I get on.
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Jenty - treatments have improved enormously over those years. I wouldn't be without my VA treatment now that I have a regime which suits. Good for me.
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@CLKD, I'm still living in the dark ages ;)
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It's life changing for my VA pain. I don't know where I would be without it. My pain has gone from chronic life changing debilitating pain to the bearable i can live with it pain it is today. I wouldn't be able to work without HRT, support my family, or be mentally well or probably exist without it. Before VA I never knew how much pain a vagina and bladder could truly cause. For me HRT keeps me alive and functioning. Thanks for starting this post.
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Please help! I was on Evorel 25mg patches for 3mths and then they were increased to 50mg. I was fine for just over a week but out of the blue I started experiencing headaches, dizziness, nausea and occasional vomiting. I also have increased intense hunger pains all of the time. I have a GP appointment tomorrow but wonder if anyone else feels like this. Yesterday was the worse. This is making me feel so sad. Advise would be so much appreciated.
Yes me i am on everol Conti 50 for 11 weeks and very sore boobs, headaches, I am teary, very tired and feeling low. I think the dose is too high going to try and get an appointment tomorrow.
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Mad hot flushes tired moody at the minute researching best thing for me tried all the health shop stuff I had complete hysterectomy 2017 and have been having hot flushes since but just lately anything I do I feel like I just came out shower wearing clothes doesn’t help I be in shorts unless I’m out somewhere I’m reluctant to take hrt due to allergies to a lot of medications since I lost my daughter my dr is male and doesn’t really listen so I’m researching everything myself there will be a lady dr starting soon so I want to have my research done before I go to her any advice ladies all advice wlecome I just turned 40 so six years of this
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Mad hot flushes tired moody at the minute researching best thing for me tried all the health shop stuff I had complete hysterectomy 2017 and have been having hot flushes since but just lately anything I do I feel like I just came out shower wearing clothes doesn’t help I be in shorts unless I’m out somewhere I’m reluctant to take hrt due to allergies to a lot of medications since I lost my daughter my dr is male and doesn’t really listen so I’m researching everything myself there will be a lady dr starting soon so I want to have my research done before I go to her any advice ladies all advice wlecome I just turned 40 so six years of this
Hello Angelrobin and welcome to the forum. If you start a new thread then you are likely to get more replies.
As your DR is not understanding about this, you could ask him to refer you to an NHS menopause clinic as they will have the knowledge to advise you.
I am so sorry you lost your daughter. 🫂
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I'm feeling utterly hopeless re HRT.
The hundreds of continual threads on here of you all having awful times on it...in whatever form......
Makes me just feel I give up.
I'm so intolerant to meds anyway....and so ill....I couldn't cope with all this awfulness you all seem to experience and the continuous tweeking and trying and misery.
My life has been totally ruined by this beast
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It's not for everybody that's for sure but you will only see the women on here who do have a bad experience and it probably does feel like a lot of bad experiences. But there are women who will be fine on it once they get the balance right, it is all trial and error.
I went on HRT just to ease hot flushes, I came of it after five years as like you, I am so intolerant of meds.
I hope you get the balance right for you, Dorothy!
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Thank you Ayesha x
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I’m in Melbourne Australia and recently saw a menopause specialist which I’d highly recommend for anyone wanting to know the risks and how to do hrt safely. Don’t just go to the gp. She asked about my medical history risk factors. There is no increased risk unless you have those, and use plant based estrogen ie (I think) bioidentical hormones. She said there is risk increase if you use synthetic hormones and also if you have other risk factors ie high blood pressure, heart disease, history of cancer, diabetes etc. She’s told me to do a pelvic ultrasound and a bi lateral mammogram & hormone level blood test to establish a baseline which I really like. I think she said the gel is best, i can’t remember why. I can’t wait to start on it and sleep again and get rid of the interval vibrations and my increased arthritis pain due to terrible sleep! Just thought I’d share because there doesn’t seem to be a whole lot of consistent information on this topic. Good luck all.
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I'm feeling utterly hopeless re HRT.
The hundreds of continual threads on here of you all having awful times on it...in whatever form......
Makes me just feel I give up.
I feel exactly the same since starting I've felt so ill so after 8 weeks stopped it completely I'm near 2 weeks off it but still feeling very up and down anxiety is not good and just want to feel better.
Did you stop the hrt and if so how long before you felt well again
Thanks
I'm so intolerant to meds anyway....and so ill....I couldn't cope with all this awfulness you all seem to experience and the continuous tweeking and trying and misery.
My life has been totally ruined by this beast
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Good or bad ? - Both
I've found a lot of physical benefits, but at the moment the bad outweighs the good as it's totally messed up my sleep cycle, and when I cut down, it's like being back in my early post-oophorectomy days (headaches, night sweats, palpitations, agitation...) - all the symptoms which I'd got over with years ago are now back, worse than before. It's left me feeling destroyed.
What concerns me is that all the articles about HRT that I've seen in the mainstream media are one-sided. It's always a positive story about how HRT has given someone their life back and how wonderful it is. Good for them, but HRT clearly isn't wonderful for a lot of women. Essentially it's advertising, but not labelled as such. And, it makes it even harder for people to be understanding about what we're going through, because they say 'oh, just have some HRT then...'
I'm thankful that this forum gives everyone a voice
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I am sitting on the fence with this one ... I am 55 - 2 years post meno and have gone through all the other symptoms - the only and imo worst symptoms I have now are low energy, low mood and no libido. My gp has given me evorel conti and I haven't started this yet as I would like to feel a lot better but I don't want to start this and then start to feel worse than I do already .. I so hate this time of my life ... and for the 1st time at the age of 55 I actually feel quite depressed
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Good. Very good. Started it due to troublesome symptoms (the whole range - as advertised!). Taking it for bone health, brain function and to control symptoms. Erratic bleeding a bit of a pain though.