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Author Topic: Hi! New Member - post Meno 5 years  (Read 3348 times)

Nikkisyard

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Hi! New Member - post Meno 5 years
« on: June 22, 2018, 11:39:47 AM »

Hi all and thank you for accepting my request to join.

I entered Peri pretty early.. around 2009/10 (at around 43 yrs old) shortly after a big trauma (not sure if that had anything to do with it?) and finally, in 2012/13 I was post Meno. I'm now 51.
I suffer severely with hot flushes (5+ daily) night sweats, insomnia, depression (once very sociable now a hermit), moodiness, weight gain and zero libido (once very active now my poor fella patiently waits and understands).

My bloods say Oestrogen, Progesterone and Testosterone is almost non exsistent. Low Zinc, Iron and 3% Transferrin saturation.

I haven't entered the world of HRT or BHRT yet, though I was prescribed BHRT some years ago. I was afraid to take it, yet I dabbled in alternative supplements such as Black Cohosh (which works for night sweats), Agnus Castus, Maca and tried to be mindful of diet.
The problem is... I never understood my blood results and don't have the money for other tests such as saliva etc.

I'm exhausted. Somethings gotta give.

So... having read a few threads here in my search for answers I joined... and will ask some questions. The main ones being....
HRT or BHRT? (I am now leaning toward HRT but as a horse lover I hate the thought of pregnant mares urine)
Is HRT one size fits all?
Can you use BHRT on only blood results?
Has anyone had success in weight loss? Up until menopause I was slim and happy.... not any more!
Can anyone here help me understand my blood results??

If anyone can direct me toward some informative threads or have any suggestions I'm all ears... and very grateful...

Thank you!
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Dancinggirl

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Re: Hi! New Member - post Meno 5 years
« Reply #1 on: June 22, 2018, 12:23:41 PM »

Hi and welcome to mm

You are young and have already been oestrogen deficient for some time so some hrt would be very beneficial to protect your heart and bones for the long term and to enable you to get your quality of life back. Most HRTs have bioidentical oestrogen these days and there is Utrogestan, progesterone that is bioidentical, but it is not always available from a GP.
Utrogestan doesn't suit everyone so at this stage I would suggest you pop to your GP and ask to try something like Femoston 1:10 sequential hrt as this has bio identical oestrogen and a gentler progesterone so suits many women very well. Starting with a sequential hrt is a good idea so you can judge whether the progesterone suits you but it will give a withdrawal bleed each month. If after a few months you find you are doing ok on this HRT, then you could move to a continuous hrt provided you have gone at least one year without a period prior to starting hrt, which I think you have.
Look under TREATMENTS on this site to see your options. Your GP should prescribe hrt based on your symptoms so go to the appointment with all your symptoms and questions written down and perhaps print off the TREATMENT section to show the GP as well so you can illustrate what hrt you want.
It is very important to get the diet and exercise regime in good order as well, so have a good look at your diet and start to include more foods with the nutrients you need and take supplements where needed. Eat small meals regularly and cut out as much sugar and saturated fat as possible. Libido may well improve with hrt but loosing a bit of weight and taking a bit more care of your body, hair, skin and clothes can boost self esteem. You would probably benefit from some local vaginal oestegn as well( Vagifem ) plus some vaginal Moisturiser ( SYLK or the YES products) and when you do have sex then use extra lubricant e.g. Durex ‘Perfect Glide'.
Good brisk walks each day are also essential - being active is good to lift mood. Get out in the sunshine to boost the Vitamin D levels. Vit D deficiency results in low mood, low immunity, aching joints etc.
Keep us posted. DG x
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Nikkisyard

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Re: Hi! New Member - post Meno 5 years
« Reply #2 on: June 22, 2018, 12:53:10 PM »

Thanks Dancinggirl... I will take a good look at treatments.

I still have the Oestrogel and Utrogestan200 previously prescribed which I am considering starting... I'm now very concerned my levels are so low it may take years to improve... does it take a long time?

I'm taking Zinc, starting Floradix (iron) and Vit C to address that..

Is there anyone who can help decipher these?

DHEAS     5.29 nmol/L
Testosterone total (LCMS)   0.33 nmol/L
FSH     32.8 IU/L
LH     4.5 IU/L
LH/FSH ratio     0.1
Estradiol     <0.07 nmol/L
17-OH-Progesteron (LCMS)     0.42 nmol/L
Progesteron     0.7 nmol/L
Prolactin     4.3 ng/mL
Prolactin     91 mU/L
T4 free     14.8 pmol/L
TSH     1.94 mU/L
Transferrin    2.38 g/L
Transferrin saturation at 3%

Do UK doctors prescribe Testosterone for women?

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CLKD

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Re: Hi! New Member - post Meno 5 years
« Reply #3 on: June 22, 2018, 01:09:20 PM »

Why would anyone pay for tests that are available on the NHS  :-\.  If you go along to a GP or Consultant he/she can explain the results there and then.

Saliva tests work how exactly?  If they worked the NHS would do them.

Browse round. Make notes.  Perhaps keep a mood/food/symptom diary to chart progress?   :welcomemm:  the body doesn't get where it is in a hurry in general.

As oestrogen levels drop so muscles may become lax = aches and pains.  Also the body may become dry: inside and out  >:(  ::) so do read the various threads on vaginal atrophy.

What's BHRT?   :-\

Mare's urine is sometimes the only product that helps ladies.  Also, alternatives shouldn't be taken for more than 3/4 months then the body should have a break and some can interfere with regular prescribed and over-the-counter medications.   1 HRT size certainly does not fit all.  It really is Trial and Error.  Perhaps decide which symptom you would like to ease first?
« Last Edit: June 22, 2018, 01:11:54 PM by CLKD »
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Dancinggirl

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Re: Hi! New Member - post Meno 5 years
« Reply #4 on: June 22, 2018, 03:28:32 PM »

How again Nikkisyard
Are you in the UK?
Have you been to see a specialist Gynaecologist?
I'm not an expert but essentially these results simply show you are post menopause - the tests are not significant but your symptoms are. If you had gone to your GP years ago they should have adviced you to take hrt for the protection of your heart and bones. If you already have the Oestrogel and Utrogestan ( well done for getting this) then I would start this straight away. It may take a few weeks to get your oestrogen levels up but if I were you I would start with one pump of Oestrogel per day for one week and increase to 2 pumps per day for the next couple of weeks, continue using the Oestrogel everyday - you then add in the Utrogestan for 10-12 days before going back to the Oestrogel only. The next month you do 16 days of just gel and then add in 12 days of Utrogestan and use this 28 cycle for a few months.  Apply the Oestrogel to inner thighs and the Utrogestan can either be taken orally before bed at night or insert the capsules deep into the vagina before bed. This is a sequential regime and should result in a bleed after you have done the 12 days of Utrogestan. I have suggested you use the gel for a bit longer before adding in the progesterone, just for the first month, as this will allow your body to adjust to the oestrogen and work it's magic. Flushes should start to subside within the first 2-3 weeks but if you are starting at a low base line (as you are) it may take a bit longer. Utrogestan can have a sedative effect so using it vaginally can reduce side effects.
These hormones should really help you so go for it.
Don't worry about testosterone yet, just get things going with the gel and Utro. DG x
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Nikkisyard

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Re: Hi! New Member - post Meno 5 years
« Reply #5 on: June 22, 2018, 09:10:47 PM »

Why would anyone pay for tests that are available on the NHS  :-\.  If you go along to a GP or Consultant he/she can explain the results there and then.

Saliva tests work how exactly?  If they worked the NHS would do them.

Browse round. Make notes.  Perhaps keep a mood/food/symptom diary to chart progress?   :welcomemm:  the body doesn't get where it is in a hurry in general.

As oestrogen levels drop so muscles may become lax = aches and pains.  Also the body may become dry: inside and out  >:(  ::) so do read the various threads on vaginal atrophy.

What's BHRT?   :-\
Hi CLKD... thanks for your reply.

I'm not based in the UK so I don t know what is available on the NHS. My previous research and dabble in Facebook groups for Menopause over the years came up with Saliva tests and Dutch tests as apparently better tests to measure hormone levels. I've never been an avid follower of orthodox meds but equally don't dismiss them. I keep an open mind. I've tried a number of things.
As for Viginal atrophy... it's not something I mentioned or have. I'm simply not interested in sex one iota and that's upsetting as I have a wonderful partner. I miss being sexual.
BHRT is Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy. That's what the Oestrogel and Utrogestran is... as far as I understand.
Not keen at all in taking pregnant mares urine....
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Nikkisyard

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Re: Hi! New Member - post Meno 5 years
« Reply #6 on: June 22, 2018, 09:23:05 PM »


--- Quote from: Dancinggirl on June 22, 2018, 03:28:32 PM ---How again Nikkisyard
Are you in the UK?
Have you been to see a specialist Gynaecologist?
I’m not an expert but essentially these results simply show you are post menopause - the tests are not significant but your symptoms are. If you had gone to your GP years ago they should have adviced you to take hrt for the protection of your heart and bones. If you already have the Oestrogel and Utrogestan ( well done for getting this) then I would start this straight away. It may take a few weeks to get your oestrogen levels up but if I were you I would start with one pump of Oestrogel per day for one week and increase to 2 pumps per day for the next couple of weeks, continue using the Oestrogel everyday - you then add in the Utrogestan for 10-12 days before going back to the Oestrogel only. The next month you do 16 days of just gel and then add in 12 days of Utrogestan and use this 28 cycle for a few months.  Apply the Oestrogel to inner thighs and the Utrogestan can either be taken orally before bed at night or insert the capsules deep into the vagina before bed. This is a sequential regime and should result in a bleed after you have done the 12 days of Utrogestan. I have suggested you use the gel for a bit longer before adding in the progesterone, just for the first month, as this will allow your body to adjust to the oestrogen and work it’s magic. Flushes should start to subside within the first 2-3 weeks but if you are starting at a low base line (as you are) it may take a bit longer. Utrogestan can have a sedative effect so using it vaginally can reduce side effects.
These hormones should really help you so go for it.
Don’t worry about testosterone yet, just get things going with the gel and Utro. DG x

--- End quote ---
Hi DG... thanks again. I appreciate the advice and will take it. I have also taken a look at some of the information provided here as you suggested earlier.. thank you.

I have been based in Switzerland for around 8 years but travel a lot.. many times back to the UK too. It was while I was here that I realised my body was changing. So I had tests... but no Doctor explained them to me or mentioned bone or heart health. I feel annoyed about that. I have suffered a lot mentally and physically but now knowing that this can affect my physical health too is upsetting.

I will start with the Oestrogel and Utrogetan and keep notes. I will stop the Black Cohosh and 5HTP (started both 2 weeks ago with some success but I feel it’s only treating part of the whole).and concentrate on getting zinc, iron and diet/excercise in balance. It’s been hard to do for a while due to feeling so desperately low... but finding some answers and support here has helped so thanks again :)
« Last Edit: June 28, 2018, 04:44:21 PM by Nikkisyard »
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CLKD

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Re: Hi! New Member - post Meno 5 years
« Reply #7 on: June 22, 2018, 09:49:51 PM »

Vaginal atrophy arrives ....... for many of us as a total surprise  :o.  4 me it was like razor blades up there  :-\ .  Appropriate HRT in the form of Vagifem or Ovestin is appropriate should you experience symptoms.  VA mimics urine infection-type symptoms really well  :( so if you develop 'cystitis' feelings, the urge to pee more often, dryness down there - get the Medic to send a fresh urine sample to a Lab., a dip-stick test isn't helpful! the sample needs to be checked for bugs.  If it grows something then the appropriate anti-biotic can be prescribed, if not then it is most likely atrophy  >:( and will require regular treatment for months/years/Life.

Oh Switzerland. As a meander; My late Dad told me when I was about 11 years old that he wouldn't let me marry anyone who wouldn't take me to Zermatt for our honeymoon  ;D.  We ended up in Cornwall [aged 22] .......... still together after all those years ;-). 

Let us know how you get on?
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Nikkisyard

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Re: Hi! New Member - post Meno 5 years
« Reply #8 on: June 23, 2018, 04:08:10 PM »

Thanks CLKD I will watch out for VA  :-\

Actually... I'm in Zermatt!
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CLKD

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Re: Hi! New Member - post Meno 5 years
« Reply #9 on: June 23, 2018, 04:39:20 PM »

I have a painting of the Matterhorn which Dad brought from a street artist in the late 1940s.  Framed.  The family story varies a bit ..... eventually I will find a place to hang it here!

How have you been today?
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Nikkisyard

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Re: Hi! New Member - post Meno 5 years
« Reply #10 on: June 23, 2018, 07:50:15 PM »

You MUST hang it... please do..
I would love to see it.

Today I have had a good day. I took some Valarian & Hop tincture when I went to bed and for the first time in I don't know when I slept 8 hours straight... unheard of.

I'm adjusting my supplements according to the deficiencies I have and am watching my diet... while not little and often I've had lots of lovely salads and fish... and went for a walk in the sun today too.

And I've started the Oestrogel so we shall see!

Onwards and upwards!
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Nikkisyard

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Re: Hi! New Member - post Meno 5 years
« Reply #11 on: June 28, 2018, 04:48:53 PM »

If you already have the Oestrogel and Utrogestan ( well done for getting this) then I would start this straight away. It may take a few weeks to get your oestrogen levels up but if I were you I would start with one pump of Oestrogel per day for one week and increase to 2 pumps per day for the next couple of weeks, continue using the Oestrogel everyday - you then add in the Utrogestan for 10-12 days before going back to the Oestrogel only. The next month you do 16 days of just gel and then add in 12 days of Utrogestan and use this 28 cycle for a few months.  Apply the Oestrogel to inner thighs and the Utrogestan can either be taken orally before bed at night or insert the capsules deep into the vagina before bed. This is a sequential regime and should result in a bleed after you have done the 12 days of Utrogestan. I have suggested you use the gel for a bit longer before adding in the progesterone, just for the first month, as this will allow your body to adjust to the oestrogen and work it’s magic. Flushes should start to subside within the first 2-3 weeks but if you are starting at a low base line (as you are) it may take a bit longer. Utrogestan can have a sedative effect so using it vaginally can reduce side effects

Hi Dancinggirl... firstly sorry I messed up the post above due to user error! I’ve popped the original text back (I luckily had it open in another window!)

So... I’ve been on the Oestrogel for 5 days now... will start the Utrogestan200 in 2 days.
All seems ok.. but my uterus does feel bloated and hard.. is this normal?

Also... yesterday I has a strange buzzing sensation in my uterus... it came and went... I was aware of it and dismissed it... but it was quite apparent throughout the day....
« Last Edit: June 28, 2018, 04:53:05 PM by Nikkisyard »
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Dancinggirl

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Re: Hi! New Member - post Meno 5 years
« Reply #12 on: June 28, 2018, 04:57:20 PM »

Some bloating can happen but it's best not to overthink things. If you've been on teh gel for only 5 days , you shouldn't start the Utrogestan yet. You do days 1-15 on the gel only and then add in the Utrogastan for 12 days after that, - so ondays 16 to 27. You then go back to 15 days of gel only. A bleed should arrive a day or two after you finish the Utrogstan phase. 

Try to relax, learn some Mindfulness to help calm you and go out for brisk walks. Eat small meals regularly and drink plenty or water.  Your body need time to adjust and settle.  Dg x
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Nikkisyard

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Re: Hi! New Member - post Meno 5 years
« Reply #13 on: June 28, 2018, 07:55:12 PM »

Thanks DG... I'm relaxed.. just curious. Been too busy to worry too much - the buzzing sensation did make me wonder though.

Will stay chilled about this and continue with the plan... I appreciate your time and advice xx
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Nikkisyard

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Re: Hi! New Member - post Meno 5 years
« Reply #14 on: July 13, 2018, 08:40:48 AM »

Hi!
A quick update... :)
Just stopped my 12 days of Utrogestan... not looking forward to the bleed to be honest but at the moment it is what it is... I think I may swap to Utrogestran 100 and take it daily.

My night sweats have indeed stopped. Perhaps very mild ones occasionally but not disturbing my sleep.. and I actually sleep better!

I've made changes to my diet and continue with the supplements so I really feel like I am turning this around...

Thanks for you advice :) a way to go yet but I'm on the right track :)
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