HRT beginner

[Topsyturvey10]

I've been to my GP with my very random list of what seems to be peri symptoms. She has sent me for blood tests and an ECG (I get palpitations on and off) and is calling me with the results, she directed me to a few menopause websites to read up on it and she said she would be happy to put me on HRT.

I've gone down a few rabbit holes reading up on it and feel like I've met myself coming back the other way😬

In other peoples experience, what have you got on with/not got on with, is there anything I should ask for or avoid? What do GPS seem to prescribe at first.

I'm a bit confused with testosterone, do I need to have levels measured in blood test or do they prescribe it anyway or it it only available privately?

I'm 46, still have periods, my BMI is in the normal range.

In other peoples experience, what have you got on with/not got on with, is there anything I should ask for or avoid? What do GPS seem to prescribe at first.

The drive now is give all women transdermal HRT which avoids the blood clot risk. That means avoiding tablet and offering a patch, or estrogen gel + Utrogestan.

I'm a bit confused with testosterone, do I need to have levels measured in blood test or do they prescribe it anyway or it it only available privately?

You can't get testosterone on the NHS. You need to be referred , or refer yourself, to a private menopause specialist. It's not given out routinely and only after a few months on HRT to see if you actually need it.

Have you read the website of Dr Louise Newson? Loads and loads of good stuff there. Just use the search box or go to Resources and there are videos and podcasts.

Hope your appt goes well.

Thank you Jinglinghellsbells