Absorption issues or high dose of oestrogen?

[BlitzenandMikey]

Hi,
I’ve been on the oestrogen patch and nightly utrogestan for 7 months now. The flushes have gone , but my sleep, joint aches and anxiety are not great. Previously I was on gel and utrogestan for 14 months and still experienced many symptoms, despite being on 4/5 pumps of gel.

Could this mean I’m not suited to transdermal HRT, or not absorbing? Or maybe I need a higher dose of oestrogen? I’ve got an appointment at Chelsea and Westminster in a few weeks to review, but as I’ve had breast cancer, I’m worried I may not be offered any other type of HRT.

Anyone in a similar situation?

Maybe get bloods checked to see what your levels/absorbing is? My consultant advises me that some women need higher doses to get them to pre menopausal levels and to increase gradually until symptom relief. I'm sure a specialist can help?

I did ask my consultant once if it was worth testing my estrogen levels and he poo-pooed it (he's one of the best and trains other drs.)
He said it would only show what the level was on that day and be pretty meaningless.

My guess is that if you are using Utrogestan daily, it' s maybe not suiting you?

I use it on a cycle still (in my 60s) as I felt awful taking it daily.
Has anyone suggested that you stop using it daily and try 10 days per month? It's worth a try :)