HRT for joint issues and dryness???

[Sofabodatgym]

I hit menopause at 48, 4 years ago. My hot flushes have abated and I actually don't miss hormones as I had real bad pmt. My mood is so much more stable now. So 50% of me doesn't want hrt.
But I'm really worried about my joints. To the point that I'm having problems walking. I don't know how much of it is menopause but I was fine beforehand. And last few months the joint pain/stiffness/mobility is a lot worse. I've also had vaginal dryness since early 40s.
Should I push for HRT? Even though my GP isn't interested. Will I get really bad pmt and weight gain and mood swings again?
Or does anyone have advice for natural alternatives for joint pain in menopause? I'm already really active. But the mobility issues are hindering it.
I also worry about heart health and stroke risk, both in my family history.
So, basically I'm 50/50. What have you done when you have one/two really bad symptoms of menopause but you don't miss periods/pmt?
And I have no idea on brands or dosage or anything really

In short, yes. My joints felt better after a few days on HRT.

HRT will help with vaginal dryness, but you can also get topical oestrogen if you'd prefer.

I don't get periods while on HRT - so it's not a given that you will. I had joint stiffness - my achilles were so tight in the morning I struggled to walk downstairs. HRT really helped with that. Definitely worth a conversation with your GP.

How long to see a difference? I'm about 3 weeks in and wonder if I need a higher dose as I've not noticed any change.

Three months to settle in with HRT, I found.

I'm trying to wean myself off (now on Evoril25 patches) to see if I can manage with supplements and exercise instead.

My weight has certainly gone up since I was effectively sped into surgical menopause, three years ago, in my early 50s and I really hated my breasts getting even bigger. (Thankfully that shit has comed the fuck down.)

HRT is great for joint aches. I would defo give it a go but it's not right for everyone.

@GeorgeOrwellsTurningGrave I'm the opposite to you. I had a surgically induced menopause, was on estrogen implants and came off those......and it was a disaster. Absolutely crippling joint pain that wouldn't abate plus loads of other issues (I'm 55 now, btw). So I am now titrating back up and absolutely won't be stopping again.

Like I said: worth trying but it's not the answer for everyone