Sequential HRT- does everyone dread the progesterone weeks?

[jawjaw50]

I started taking HRT sequentially (patches and pills) about 4 month ago after being on continuous (same patches and pills different timings) for several years by my GP (an error said the consultant when I had an appt for irregular bleeding) the continuous had been great for 3 years before my periods went haywire basically- continual light bleeding, hence getting it checked out and seeing the consultant. The bleeding is now regular with the sequential.

I am finding particularly the second week of progesterone is a dark time- bloated, sad, mad, tired and constipated. This goes after a few days of the oestrogen only.

Is this just what it is? Does everyone have a bad time that week? Do I deal with that week for the benefits the rest of the time? I’m slightly dreading taking it tonight!

I'm the opposite .. my body aches everywhere during the 2w when I stop the prog., and also my insomnia comes right back.

You can use micronised progesterone vaginally which will reduce or eradicate a lot of the side effects.

It's off licence in the UK (but not Europe) and many consultant advise or prefer it that way.

Use the same capsule and insert at bedtime as far in as possible.