Sensitive to progesterone

[tasmaniandevilchaser]

Hi, I've always had awful reactions to the contraceptive pill, mood swings from hell, also during my first pg. I've also had bad PMT in the past. I've heard people talk about being sensitive to progesterone and it seems to fit. My mum and my sister were the same.

Officially im in peri now at 43 (though it won't be long before I'm officially menopausal) and I'm having mood swings from hell, crushing fatigue, no libido, horrible anxiety. I'm really miserable.

So my question is what if I go on HRT? Am I likely to get the same symptoms as I did on the pill? I'm going back to my GP this week and I want to discuss HRT but I am quite worried about getting worse mood swings. I know it's just a matter of trying different ones out but I had to just give up with the pill, it just wasn't worth it.

Has anyone found a particular pill /dose worked/ didn't work for them? What questions should I be asking my GP?
Tia

TBH it's highly unlikely your GP will know the answer. They are not experts or specialists on HRT, unless they have an interest and have been on courses. You will find more help and info online (Women's Health Concern) , Menopause Matters and forums.

You are young at 43 for peri- are you sure you are, or is it 'just' worsening PMS?

You could well be helped with HRT but it's really worth trying lots of lifestyle things as well or before- if you don't do this already ie- moderate to vigorous exercise 5 x a week, cut out sugar and refined carbs except as a treat (this will help stabilise blood sugar levels and stop the fatigue/ crashing episodes), reduce caffeine, cut out alcohol, eat foods with lots of Omega 3 etc.

Progestogens in HRT are different to the Pill anyway. There are basically 4 types and some of us do need to try a few types to get the best one.

Some women say Femoston is good because the progestogen in it is similar to our own (dydrogesterone) whereas others like Norethisterone are more androgenic and more likely to cause side effects in some women (but not all.)

You're just going to have to try and see how it goes.

Thanks for your reply, it's what I suspected, about just trying various different progesterone pills/ patches.

I'm very sure it's peri, there's a strong family history of early meno - my mum was already in the menopause by my age. My last period was nearly 8 mths ago. Ive had peri symptoms for at least 6 yrs.

On my GP's advice Ive been taking starflower oil, and 50 mg vitB6 for the last 6 mths. I've also done an online CBT course which was helpful. My diet isn't too bad and it has helped a lot to cut down on alcohol. Exercise wise I walk a lot but I'm too knackered to run at the moment.

It's good to hear the progesterone in the pill is different to HRT, I don't think I could face feeling worse than I do now!