Actually just cried at the Dr

[FiftyNotOut]

she was so lovely
I've had symptoms for a while, periods actually stopped last year, I've not been sleeping, had terrible brain fog - struggling so much so I finally decided I didn't want to 'power through' and it was stupid to try so I made an appointment (phone obvs because Covid).
Dr phoned this morning, went through history, symptoms etc and then said 'only question is why you didn't do this before you're a prime candidate for HRT'
I'd been ready with facts prepping for a fight and she was just so understanding, said 'you don't have to feel like this' and I blubbed.
So prescription will be waiting for me tomorrow - let's hope this helps

Really hope it does help and don't feel bad for crying, it sounds perfectly natural

Ah that’s good she was helpful. Do update us on what you get and how you feel after it’s had a chance to work

I hope it works for you quickly Fiftynotout.

It's nice to have a sympathetic doctor.

Hugs I’m feeling rubbish again today heat and grumpy dh not helping.

so about 6 weeks in and here's the update.
I had sore boobs for a while and some really intense itching on my chest and stomach (not sure if that's connected ) I also had a slight bleed in about week 2 but nothing since
those are the only negatives - my mood is better, I'm sleeping a bit better (not a huge amount but noticeable), I'm certainly not as irritable and best of all (and my worst symptom) I can concentrate, I can think and I can go back to thinking I'm actually OK at my job - I was honestly beginning to think I'd have to give up work or cut down as I wasn't able to manage but I'm back!
I feel more like me and my family inform me I'm not as tense
only downside so far is the gel is a bit messy

This helps give me confidence to talk to my GP. Last time I tried he simply said I had to "power through and get used to it." My joints hurt so much now it is impacting everything I do. Time to woman up and get some help!

I wonder if these drs would tell men to 'power through it' if they went with ED or prostate issues, or whatever.

Honestly, given it can all last 20 years for some women, that' s hardly helpful.

Good to hear Op. I went to Docs repeatedly with joint pain, night sweats, anxiety/rage,
upset stomach, brain fog and never once did she suggest peri. I'm finally on mirena coil + everol 50. Symptoms have definitely reduced.
Don't be fobbed off people. GP's deserve a bollocking for letting us struggle on like this when there is a range of treatment readily available. The more we speak out, the better it will hopefully be for our younger 'sisters'. I cannot imagine how bad it was for our Mothers and Grandma's to just struggle on.
One thing to suggest and one thing that people to be aware of.
Suggestion- ask for patches. They're amazingly adhesive and loads less messy than gel. I use my mumsnet recommended korean face cloth to remove the adhesive remnants.
To be aware of- There's a bill going through parliament to exempt HRT from prescription charges. 29th Oct is its second reading.