HRT Prescription confusion and how to start!?

[GalgoGal]

Hello, this is my first post,
and I'm hoping the wonderful wise women of Mumsnet can help!

I am 47 and for a few years now, have been suffering the effects of what I guess to be the perimenopause. I've always had bad PMS but things have progressively got worse over the years, and my usual anxiety seems to be escalating. Nearly everything makes me cry and, and I frequently over react and shout at the kids and my partner. I am also a hideous sleeper and wake frequently throughout the night; usually at 3am and can be awake for several hours before dropping off again.
My periods are still mainly regular but I am also suffering hideous night sweats which begin before my period - getting worse just before and during, and then tail off slightly.
Anyway after a recent phone consultation with my GP (and inconclusive hormone blood test) I was offered antidepressants or to start HRT.

I have decided to start the HRT route - and without any discussion over the treatment (although GP pointed me in the direction of the Newson resources) I have now been prescribed the 80g Oestrogel (which I chose) and to apply 1.5g once daily (one pump)
And then 100mg Utrogestan - 1 to be taken daily on Days 1-25 of cycle.

I am confused why I have been prescribed the Utrogestan this way as from what I've read this way of taking it is usually reserved for women who've ceased their periods?

Does anyone have experience of this? And what are the pros and cons of doing it this way instead of towards the end of your cycle on a shorter basis on the 200gs which seems to be standard.

Secondly - on a practical level can I start taking the Oestrogel now, and wait until the 1st day of my cycle when period starts, or should I wait til that happens next month and start taking both at the same time?

Any advice would be really appreciated.
I will also call surgery on Monday - but it takes so long to get another appointment at the mo I could be waiting another few weeks!

Thanks.

Hi. This is so confusing. I am late 50s and last had a period about 8 years ago. I have just been put on the same medication as you and I can’t understand how I am to use it when I don’t have a ‘cycle’ as I don’t have a period. Also so confusing having to remember to take it 2 hours after food and not less than an hour after! I have just to trust my gp has given me the correct thing for me. I hope someone gives you advice who has already been on this treatment. 😊

@Granmo Thanks for your reply. Yes - so this is even more confusing! The more I read the more I think I've been put on the incorrect cycle of Utrogestan. Although I think from what I understand this way is suited for Menopausal women who no longer have periods. So I guess that would make sense in your case, I believe?
With regards to taking it - I've also read the best time is at bedtime as usually you would have eaten a few hours earlier, plus it can make you drowsy. It will definitely help me remember to take it then I would hope!

@Granmo Just thinking, re your case - maybe you just pick a day to start a cycle regardless of whether you're having periods? Anyway just a thought. Wow! This is all so confusing. :-(