Menopause hell

[Itoldyouthatmum4]

I have been having flushes, sleepless nights and generally feeling awful for more than five years now. I have got to the stage where I have to do something about it as life doesn't seem worth living at times. I did try Ellest some years ago but felt worse so I stopped it. I had a hysterectomy years ago but still have my ovaries. Can anyone recommend hrt that has worked for them? I am 54 but look 74!! Can't bear the thought of weight gain. I have a GP appt on Friday. Thank you.

I am on tibolone (Livial) and it has been fantastic for me. However, I did put on 1/2 stone, which has taken a while to lose. Worth it though for a regular decent nights sleep

What didn't you like about Elleste. Was it the progesterone phase?

Look here and see what is available. www.menopausematters.co.uk/treatment.php

They seem to start you with Elleste now, then adjust it if it does not help. Some progestogens are more tolerated than others - you have to kiss a few frogs, unfortunately.

Thank you for your advice. Saw GP today who said I could either have HRT or antidepressants. I chose HRT and have started Premarin. Will give it three months to see if it works. Oh, the joys of being a woman!!

Just to say that Premarin is one of the oldest HRTs and not considered the best nowadays. The oestrogen in it is from mares' urine whereas many other more modern forms of HRT contain bio-identical oestrogen which may be safer and 'kinder'. Are you also taking a progestogen because you don't need it after a hyster.

Also- without a uterus you only need oestrogen- you don't need a progesterone which is only used to prevent the uterine lining over growing.

You might get on much better with a topical oestrogen such as Oestrogel ( gel applied to upper arms or legs) or a patch and these types are safer too.