HRT - sore joints

[Libelula21]

Hi,

I’m 48 and haven’t had a period in 14 months.

Symptoms are not too bad - though have let work get on top off me and am super anxious about that - the worst aspect is sore joints.

I’m unsure about HRT so have ordered some Everol Conti from Superdrug to try out before asking the GP for a prescription.

My question is - is there a type of HRT considered better for sore joints? Or is it very individual from person to person?

I appreciate this is your experience but I also think if you asked here you'd find it's almost unique
It certainly wasn't my experience when I started on HRT, and I didn't expect it to be either, given the NICE guidelines are quite clear.

Taking in all your points, incl wrt to having a smear.

I think my Evorel Conti is due to be delivered from Superdrug today! (I’m in Scotland, so HRT is free.)

Finding some interesting advice in this thread. I’m definitely not Vit D deficient though - the 6yo sorts that - but maybe some things to think about.

I don’t want to start popping lots of expensive supplements based on homeopathy with no real clinical evidence (suddenly remembering that’s what my late mum did) but if I could manage my symptoms, that would be great.

As it is, the joint pain is compounding problems, because I feel too sore to exercise so that’s making even more fat and unfit, and doubtless having a knock on effect on my mind.

I’ve recently taken a break from drinking alcohol, but not noticing any improvement on these symptoms.

Okay, my patches were delivered today and I’m wearing one now. Fingers crossed for a good effect!

So: it’s been less than a week, and my joints are still sore. BUT - I’m feeling better I’m other ways, less old lady-ish, so so far so good. Libido coming back too.

How are you feeling now?

Ive just had blood tests after a discussion with my GP about HRT and whilst I don’t know about that, apparently I have low B12 and vit D so need to talk to the pharmacist and have a repeat blood test. I assume that may have contributed to some of the feelings I attributed to the menopause. I will still be talking to the GP about HRT though.

All good here. Boobs a little sore today and joints still very achey.

I did speak to my GP, have had bloods taken about 15 months ago, etc. I went ahead and bought ‘over the counter’ online because I didn’t want a smear test and thought I’d try it out before asking for a prescription. I haven’t checked my blood pressure lately but it’s always been fine.

I started on Evorel Conti patches 3 days ago. I actually feel better already, even my joints don’t hurt as much. I hope this feeling stays it’s like a magic patch! I wish I had got it sooner. Op I hope your joints start easing soon.

I started hrt a couple of weeks ago and am slowly feeling better.
I also had a smear last week. It was the best one I’ve ever had. She didn’t use the big creaky metal things, just a small plastic contraption, it felt so much less invasive. I don’t know if this a new, widespread method but it might help you a little?

I've found hrt has helped with joint pain. Oestrogen receptive tissue is in lots of places in your body which is partly why everyone has a variety of symptoms!
My GP has been really helpful and is up to speed on current thinking and prescribing.
Blood tests pinpointed some deficiencies also. Not a miracle but a definite improvement.

@Libelula21 You don't need a smear test before starting HRT.

Where did that crop up?

If your GP has insisted, they are wrong, frankly. You have a right to refuse.
The only smear tests you need are the ones you would normally choose to have every 3 years. There is no connection between HRT and cervical health.

This may be repeating what's been posted, but what is your 'joint pain' like?
Is there soreness to the touch? Heat? Stiffness? Aching? And which joints?

You might need blood tests and Xrays to rule out something like RA.

Could you see your Dr about that?

@JinglingSpringbells thanks - I think my GP is well intentioned - I don’t think I’ve had a smear for 5 years, but the last one was so painful I told the nurse to stop.

And yes, I didn’t feel HRT should be conditional upon an up to date smear. If HRT helps with dryness first then I might countenance it.

Pain is stiffness - especially first thing - and achiness. I recognise I’m probably about 2 stone overweight.

If your GP wants to do a smear (regardless of HRT or not) she should offer you vaginal estrogen to use for at least 2 weeks beforehand. (This is quite normal.)
But if you are dry anyway, you should add that to your list of what to use :)

I did not know that! Hoping the HRT patches continue to alleviate symptoms.