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Sertraline or HRT for anxiety and possible perimenopause symptoms?

2 replies

Castlecould · 26/06/2026 21:29

Hi all

I went to my GP last week as I’ve been struggling with anxiety, tearfulness, stress, and insomnia for a while now ( full time working lone parent with additional care responsibilities, financial stress etc)

As I’m already on Propranolol for hormonal migraines and also have gut issues at certain points in my cycle, I asked about the possibility of starting HRT as the migraines and gut issues show that my hormones are already having an impact on my health.

GP didn’t rule out HRT but asked me to consider Sertraline also. I’ve always thought that these meds were more for depression, but I’ve read that they can have a hugely positive impact on anxiety and emotional stability too.

However, when I’ve filled out the peri-menopause symptom questionnaire that the GP asked me to complete, I have ticked every single box. If HRT can help with the anxiety etc and also help with the other issues such as aches, skin issues, brain fog etc then that is hugely appealing. Or would the Sertraline be a better targeted approach to the issues affecting me most at this time?

if anyone has any experiences or thoughts they could share they would be most appreciated.

OP posts:
redboxerclub · 26/06/2026 22:17

How old are you. Is really important. I had the same at 43 and they basically have a cut off of 45 for HRT. The first gp emailed the meno clinic who told them to start me on HRT but she ignored it and wanted me to try and to depressant and clonidine (awful)

anyway I just gave up. I got a bit more informed and asked to see a menopause GP whom apologised and prescribed HRT. But then I was still feeling horrendous and I went back and got sertraline and I has been the best thing ever

Castlecould · 27/06/2026 09:24

Im 47 @redboxerclub That’s interesting about your experience, thanks for your reply.

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