FSH bloods are normal but can I get HRT?

[Stickersandlollipops]

I’m convinced that I’m perimenopausal and have loads of symptoms. In fact I’ve been in and out of the GP for months now with various symptoms like digestive symptoms and changes to my periods. It’s on now that we’ve considered peri and I was sent for a blood test. This has come back normal but I really want to give HRT a trial.

GP doesn’t think this is necessary but I’m really struggling with the physical symptoms as well as mood swings.

Where do I stand? Can I insist? I’m 41 but have an history of menopause around this age in the family.

Anyone? I’m back at the GPs later so would really appreciate any advice on where I stand.

I posted a link from the BMS on another thread yesterday - think it's the one about 'My GP says I will have to come off HRT...'

It says very clearly that FSH levels are not part of diagnosis for menopause in women over 45 as they are inaccurate. For you, at 41, you have a family history of early menopause so that's a risk factor for early meno.

You need to be assertive and tell your GP about the family history and say you want to try HRT. Unless they can give you sound medical reasons not to, they can't refuse.

If they do, as for a referral to a specialist gynaecologist for a 2nd opinion.

I think that’s going to come down to a discussion between you and your GP. They can’t prescribe something they don’t believe is going to offer any meaningful benefit, you can’t demand a prescription for something they think is the wrong thing. But it might be they agree with you that it’s worth a try given your family history, lack of any alternative obvious diagnoses, and their view of the risk of trying hrt. If they won’t prescribe hrt then ask them what other investigations/diagnoses they are considering, and what the risk of hrt is to you.

Agree with regard to getting a 2nd opinion if possible, if your GP refuses. The only issue with that is the possible wait, I had to wait 8 months for a Gynae appointment wuth a refereal for a possible procedure.
When I saw consultant I didn't need procedure in the end and she was incredulous that I had been refused HRT on the ground of age and sent a letter to my GP stating that HRT should not be witheld from women bases on age or FSH results but should be treated for their symptoms (or something like that anyway).
it is incredibly frustrating having a GP that seems rigid in their approach to these things.