Another ignorant GP
. That makes me so cross.
HRT should not cause weight gain but I'm afraid it is common to gain some weight in our 50s anyway and we do need to adjust our diet accordingly. Basically we have to eat less and do as much exercise as possible eg good brisk walking every day, swimming, dance classes etc. Anti depressants certainly do cause weight gain.
You need to try a higher dose of oestrogen and I would suggest you ask for Oestrogel (sometimes labelled as Ostrodose) as you can control the dosage more easily. You could start with 2 pumps of gel on the inner thighs for 3-4 weeks to see if that is better and then increase to 3 pumps (divided between morning and evening) if needed - you can go up to 4 pumps per day. I'm afraid we have to do our own research rather than rely on GPs who often know nothing about women's health. If he thinks you can buy a remedy at Holland and Barrett that will solve your flushes he is very much in the dark ages and needs to go on some extra training.
If he won't help you then ask for a referral to a menopause clinic or a gynaecologist. You could also ask for some Vagifem local oestrogen to ensure your bladder function and vagina are kept healthy.
Good luck DG x
