Help - anyone gone on HRT after the age of 55?

[Dollymixture17]

Hi, after two years of solid depression and low libido I asked Dr's if when having my regular blood test for some meds I am on, that I be tested for Oestrogen and Testosterone levels. As you have probably guessed Drs refused but I got a text message to say that they had set up a face to face HRT appointment with Dr.

Bearing in mind, I don't think my depression is all hormone related, I have had some version of it for a long time, maybe most of my life. I do all the right things like exercise, take supplements like Bs, Cs and Ds, eat well etc etc.

At this stage I am open to anything that can help but I am quite concerned about the amount of posts I have seen where women say they have put on weight, that is hasn't helped their libido and they have felt more depressed. I am in my mid to late 50s and so far have managed the Menopause naturally but this depression and libido is really exhausting.

So has anyone had a similar experience, should I insist that a blood test is done before I agree to HRT. I know there are various types of HRT, how does a Dr know what one to put you on? Any help or advice appreciated.

I was 55 when I started HRT but probably should have started earlier. Transdermal is the preferred type so either patches or gel and Utrogestan. I think it's helpful to have a clear idea of what you would like before your appointment. No blood tests necessary.

Why do you want to insist on a blood test? I don't understand. All it will show is low estrogen as you're post meno.

Blood tests are not used for HRT unless women are under 45 and might have other illnesses mimicking meno.

HRT is prescribed on symptoms alone over 45.

You can start HRT at any age- even 80!
The benefits to your heart are if it's used within 10 years of your last period.

As PP says, do some reading online about the different types.

At 55+ you'll be put on patches, gel or a spray for the estrogen (it's safer. re. blood clots.) So think about what you prefer.

You'll need progestogen too- either tablets, the Mirena coil or a patch that includes estrogen +progestogen.

I started HRT in my late 50s (around 7 years after menopause) and am really glad I did. For me the main thing was wanting to improve my bone density, which two Dexa scans have shown it definitely has done. No weight gain. Also no blood test needed.
Why not give it a try for a few months?

I am quite concerned about the amount of posts I have seen where women say they have put on weight, that is hasn't helped their libido and they have felt more depressed.

Any forum is has a self-selecting bias.

Few women come along to say 'Wow-no problems!'

I've been on HRT for 15 years and no weight gain.

I have suffered with depression since puberty. It is so much better on HRT. I only recognized the pattern once everything else went to shit, got onto HRT, and life got easier.

No need for blood tests, just give it a go and see if it helps.

In most other European countries they DO run regular blood tests to check your hormones as well as an annual ultrasound to check the thickness of your uterine lining (which can cause cancer if too thick). However here in the UK this is unfortunately rarely offered.

In your case, op, how about you try out HRT for a few months and see how you feel?

Thanks all for your replies, I do get that you mostly only see negative feedback online. After really trying hard to lose weight recently I'd find it difficult if I put on weight but I won't know till I try will I...

Hi all you will be doing is topping up your bodies own hormones. Not putting strange substances in your body. Women generally gain weight as we age others dont ever.🦄. It sounds like you have tried all the other options to help yourself feel better. The nice guidelines are clear you can try this treatment not seek permission, tell the doctor you want to try it. If after 6 months you don't feel better you can stop it. Some people feel better straight away others need longer. I hope you get a solution you are happy with. X

Testosterone (as part of my HRT) has improved my libido and you do need a blood test to get it, but only after you’ve taken oestrogen for a while.