How to approach GP about HRT

[TheMidnightBell]

I've got an appointment booked with my GP in a couple of weeks to discuss my menopausal symptoms. I think I'd like to try HRT but I'm aware that some people have had a battle with their GP to get it so am looking for advice on what to say/ask for/insist on etc. I'm 49 & they've suddenly hit me over the last few months. Sweats, exhaustion, dizziness, headaches, mood swings, sore & swollen boobs. I'm fed up. I've been taking the mini pill for 12 years to treat the symptoms of endometriosis. I was hoping that being on the mini pill would mean that my menopausal symptoms would be less severe & I wouldn't need HRT but apparently not. I still take the mini pill and HRT? Would they just give me oestrogen? I'm not really sure what to ask for. Thanks.

Hopefully your Dr will be supportive but there are some tips here.

https://www.themenopausecharity.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/How-to-ask-your-GP-for-help-rev.pdf

Make a list of your symptoms and how much they are affecting you. Research the available treatments so that you can ask for the form you think is most suitable for you. Go prepared to ask and reason.

My friend said she opened with I would like to try HRT and here are the reasons why I believe I am peri-menopausal, she had a bullet point list so she didn't waffle. She was also armed with NICE guidelines print out just in case there was battle to be done.

Weirdly for me my endo symptoms have improved with the natural drop in oestrogen so I am holding off going for HRT myself.

I had two failed attempts being fobbed off by GP. Third time I was very blunt - said I wanted it, what meds I wanted (you'll need progesterone as well as oestrogen if you still have periods) ie oestrogel and utrogestan and that I'd done my research. The write the script immediately.

You would still need contraception, which might mean staying on the mini pill, but a mirena coil might be a good option then you have more oestrogen options. I'd have a look at menopause matters or balance menopause, the balance app is good, and you can keep a diary of symptoms which may be helpful to your gp. It's a good idea to have an idea of what you might like to try, and to have read up about the pros and cons. Transdermal (patches, gel, spray) are less likely to cause blood clots than oral HRT, which might be more relevant if you are a smoker, overweight or have a family history.
I would try and go with the attitude that your GP will help you rather than assuming they are going to be against giving you anything. Also bear in mind that contrary to recent media reports, HRT isn't a cure all for all the symptoms women can get around this time of life, tends to be best for sweats and flushes, and if you get benefit in other symptoms that's a bonus

Thanks everyone. This is all really helpful.