HRT Pills

[Supastoner1]

Hi, I've just been to my Doctor and I've had a blood test that confirms I am in Menopause ( or poss Perimenopausal?). I am 46 years old. My symptoms are day and night sweats and very low mood. Anyway, my doctor prescribed me with Estelle Duet. I am in the process of a divorce and am not taking any contraception at present, however, would like to try a Merina coil in the next few months. I have read up on HRT and have heard that the Merina Coil plus a patch is a very good way of taking HRT. I mentioned this to my doctor but he just poo pooed me!! My question is, if I start taking the Estelle Duet, will it be easy to transfer to Merina Coil and patches when I'm ready. Or would it be better to wait until I'm ready for the coil and start then? Any input would be gratefully received. Many thanks.

[PollyPerky]

Not sure why your fr is poo-pooing this because the Mirena plus a separate form of oestrogen is considered the gold standard by consultants (gynaes.) Sounds as if your GP is not up to speed but may also have an eye on the coffers and is offering you the cheapest option. You can swap at any time but best to do it near the end or beginning of a cycle - doesn't make a huge difference.

[Diggum]

If you're feeling crap I'd go ahead and start the pills now. But definitely push for Mirena and oestrogen patch when you're ready for it as it's a very good option.

[Supastoner1]

Thanks so much for your responses. I think I'll just go ahead and get the Merina Coil and then go back to request the patches. Does anyone know if I'm allowed to request the drugs that I would like, rather than just putting up with whatever they give me on the NHS?

[PollyPerky]

You are allowed to state your preference - your body! If they really difficult, and it's all about cost, you can always ask for a private prescription and pay for the items. However, as transdermal HRT is now considered safer than pills, NICE says so, a GP would be hard pushed to refuse.