Menopause & HRT - My Experience | Let's Chat | Caroline Mrs M
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- Опубліковано 23 лип 2024
- Hello! Today I'm chatting about my experience of the menopause and taking HRT. I'd love to hear your experiences of this as well, please leave a comment below.
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Hi Caroline I am so glad that the HRT is beneficial to you. As you might know, I started it about 5-6 years ago and it has changed my life. It is so annoying that the GPs have no clue and because of that so many women are suffering unnecessarily, my GP wouldn't even entertain the idea of HRT and I had to go private to a menopause specialist, I am staying on it till I die lol. My mother in law is 83 and she is still on it (one patch a week) she doesn't look her age and her hair is full like it was when she was younger. Have a good weekend xox Nisha
I remember you talking about it when you first started, Nisha, and how your GP had refused. I'm so glad I went back and asked a second time, as it's made such a difference to me already. On another note, I've just watched your undereye video and remembered I was sent some microneedle patches a while ago which I've never used, so I'm going to dig them out and give them a try! xo
I feel like a freak or something, but I literally did not know when I went through menopause. I was walking through my grocery store one day and it hit me that I had not gone down the aisle with the feminine hygiene products in a LONG time. I went home and told my husband, "I think I've changed!" His question, understandably, was, "Changed what?" I told him, "My life!" I had always been hit or miss with my periods and so when I went a long time without one I DIDN'T EVEN NOTICE. I remember that my mother had a terrible time and she stayed in bed a lot and she was very moody, and she cried a lot, and she didn't feel like doing anything and I, on the other hand, just stopped. If I had any mood swings, I was not aware of them, and my husband did not tell me I had them and I'm pretty sure he would have done so if I had been too moody. In fact, I had none of the accompanying problems that are normally associated with the change. Like I said, I feel sort of like a freak!
So good to hear, I was on hrt for 11 years, great stuff, really helped me. Ty. x
Thank you so much for this video----fascinating topic, I very much appreciate your input!
Really interesting topic! I’m done of course, but hearing this I wish I’d looked into it at the time! I’m happy that it’s working for you and I’m sure your viewers will benefit from all this content. 🥰❤️🇨🇦
I started menopause at 46 and pushed through the hot flushes and mood swings, this year I started non-hormone therapy, so far so good! Thank you Caroline xx
I’ve learned so much over the last year about the menopause and HRT I take HRT but have a patch and a tablet as I take warfarin a blood thinner and I have heart problems but between my cardiologist and gynaecologist they managed to sort me out. Best thing ever.
Thanks for being willing to share and for your candor. I have been considering talking to my primary care about HRT and am now encouraged to do so.
Hope it goes well, JoBeth, glad the video was helpful.
Morning Caroline, I have been waiting for this vlog on your views of HRT, found this very interesting and informative , I think you are glowing at the minute , sending you all lots of love xxxx
Glad it was helpful!
Thankyou for this I am waiting to see what will be best for me I think it will be patch but say here with tears in my eyes have felt so alone , this has helped sending you the biggest hugs
Oh Jeanmarie, I'm so sorry to hear that. I'm really glad it helped a bit, I really glad if the video helped a little bit xx
Thanks Caroline, very interesting.If I could just sleep like I used to that would be amazing! Going to try it!
Hope it works for you, Miranda :)
I started HRT patches over a year ago and I feel 1000 times better.
The sleep is amazing, I struggled with sleep for years.
I’m so glad it’s helping you in the same way 😊
Such a great topic Caroline. I went on HRT in the Uk in my early 50’s and never looked back. I’m on tablet form. Came to France and the doctor recommended I didn’t stop as he said all the symptoms would return. I’m now 64 and still on it. Yes, quality of sleep, memory, mood swings, tearfulness etc, all disappeared with HRT, so I’m a huge advocate and can’t understand why one wouldn’t want to take it. Unless of course there are medical reasons. Long live HRT !!!!!
I am on exactly the same HRT patches - have been on it for just over a month now, but similarly I feel it's helped my sleep and general mood very quickly too, so will definitely keep going with it. Enjoying all of your vlogs Caroline. 😊
So glad it's working for you too, Laura.
Hi Caroline, I had to have a full hysterectomy at 43. The moment I woke up following surgery ( it wasn't key hole) so I'll not go into too much detail about the scar! I felt in my head that I was 16 again, only in hospital for 2 day's as I had to have hrt immediately. It worked wonderfully until I was diagnosed with high blood pressure and according to my GP it was dangerous to continue with my hrt. I never experienced a menopause. Now I'm 62 this year. I've three adult children but the low moods have returned. Some is due to outside stressors but I've always been able to deal with stress quite well. You are quite right about getting a face to face appointment with a GP. I coped well during the last few years so I'm mystified regarding these really low moods which are basically continuous. I'm glad you are getting relief from the hrt.
Hi Lesley, I have high BP too and am on medication for it, so it may be worth revisiting the possibility of HRT with your GP again.
I appreciate this video, even though I don't relate (never had a single symptom, nor did I even realize I was in menopause). Before you all hate me, I had the most horrendous periods, starting at age 9, and since I attended a convent school, was thought to be a witch!! Perhaps this was my reward - my last period was at age 58, so the fact that this had been going on for almost 50 years, I felt I deserved an easy time. Now, listening to this, perhaps it might have helped with things that I hadn't thought of as menopausal. I understand the aging 20 years in 2, the lack of sleep, the feeling of despair. Interestingly, I have had face to face (or mask to mask) in person visits with my doctor throughout the pandemic. I'm glad it's helping you.
Hi Caroline I found this really interesting I've felt the same and have talked to my GP about hrt.
OMG! This video has been a revelation to me! thank you Caroline. I haven't slept through the night in over 3 years, the night sweats are the worse although like you no hot flushes in the day. My joints ache and my skin is dry. Here in my part of France my Doctor is reluctant to give out HRT but I am going to make an appointment with my gyni after seeing this video. Thank you again, this has given me the push I needed :0)
Best of luck, will keep my fingers crossed for you. Glad the video was helpful.
Thank you so much for this video Caroline so many women are scared of hrt it needs to be spoken about more im on the same hrt patch as you it has changed my life I had a male dr also and needles to say he didn't agree with is either I have a lady dr now and I tg for her what women don't realise is that men doctors are not trained in hrt there not interested most of them anyway within 6 mths ull find an even bigger change in yourself women thank god are now taken control of there lives and not been dictated to by the male doctors my symptoms were so bad I thought I was losing my mind it was like I wasn't in my own body anymore so thank you Caroline for this video im sure it will help so many women xx
So interesting that you had a similar experience with male GP, Pat, you're right, they definitely need to be more understanding of us menopausal women!
Great video thanks very interesting thanks so glad that you feel the benefits of hrt pleased you got to speak to a female doctor I really think that made a difference it’s amazing how different doctors have varying opinions hope you continue to feel great benefits 👍🏻❤️
Thank you for sharing Caroline,I think I will have a chat with the doctor.
Great to talk about this Caroline. I have been on Lenzetto (another transdermal hrt in spray form) since last year and like you, the first benefit has been a good nights sleep. I feel so much better just through that! You look so much fresher in your face if you don’t mind me saying x
Thanks so much, Donna. I'm interested that it comes in spray form, I might ask about that option next time I have a review, it sounds really convenient.
It is convenient Caroline. But it’s oestrogen only. I take progesterone separately at night. Your patches have both I believe. Either way I hope it’s continues to benefit you. I have never felt as normal 😂
Hi Caroline, thank you so much for telling us about your experience with the HRT patch. I was so inspired by you that this morning I finally decided after a few years of being undecided on whether to start HRT, I rang my lady GP and I have now just tonight already put on my first ever patch!! The same one you are using. I have also had terrible trouble sleeping and do get very anxious and and can relate to all you said. Thank you so much again... I am looking, hopefully to feeling like the old (not too old!!) me again ! BTW, I'm 59 but also have felt like I've aged a lot more in the last few years. I am so grateful to you for giving me the push I needed to start HRT. Please keep on doing your videos - you are fab and I always look forward to watching you. Thanks, Caroline. Love Deb.x 😊
Oh Debbie, thanks so much for taking the time to let me know, I really appreciate it. I really hope it works as well for you as it has done for me. x
Hi Caroline, thanks for your lovely reply about the menopause. I've been on the Evorel Conti patches for 11 days now but the last 5/6 days I've had a constant dull ache in my lower abdomen. Did you get that? I rang my GP who said I should give it a bit longer. I hope it gets better as I do want to be on HRT. I just hope this passes. Are you feeling better as the weeks are going on? I wonder if it's just the adjusting to the patches...what are your thoughts? I'd be grateful if you could let me know. Thank you so much.xx
Great video. I started HRT in tablet form and it made such a difference to my life. Gone were the hot flushes, night sweats and mood swings.
Then I recently had an operation on my foot and had to stop taking the HRT for a month, it was awful the hot flushes and night sweats were back, then op was delayed so stayed off the HRT. Thankfully the first day home after surgery I took my HRT , it took a week or so but back to normal now. I think it’s wonderful and am very grateful for my precious HRT. X
So glad you're back to normal again, Jennifer - yay for HRT! x
I had a total hysterectomy and oofectomy at 45 due to the fact I had fibroids and a cyst on my ovary. This turned out to be a chocolate cyst caused by endometriosis which I was totally unaware I had. I was immediately put on an HRT trial of a progesterone hormone. I have never had any menopausal symptoms and was on HRT for 10 years and no symptoms since. I consider myself to be extremely lucky when I hear what other women go through. I have absolutely no regrets about the hysterectomy, probably the best thing ever! I had an excellent female GP throughout and a superb surgeon who did an amazing job. Wishing everyone a trouble free menopause.
I’m 50 and my menopause started when I was 39! I have been using the same patches as you for 10 years and I couldn’t be without them.
To remove the sticky residue try baby oil on a cotton pad; less harsh than nail polish remover.
I’m so glad that you’re benefiting from HRT; luckily now; menopause is a big discussion and more women are getting help. Menopause can be awful and HRT can change your life in a positive way.
Your skin is amazing 😍
Great tip on the baby oil, thank you! And for your kind compliment about my skin - it's mostly make-up, to be honest!
Hiya, I’ve been on HRT for the last 5 years was put on it at 48. I was on the tablet form, last year I decided I wanted to go more natural with my HRT and went for the estradiol patches and utrogestan tablets. Every 3 months I’m having to up the patches as still have a fair amount of the horrid symptoms.I found baby oil on a cotton wool pad very effective at getting the horrible grey residue off my skin that is left by the patches. I’m also thinking of going to see a menopausal nurse at one of the BUPA hospitals as they offer support to run alongside your HRT. Take care keep smiling 🙂Karen x
Great topic to discuss, I am 64, went on HRT in my early 50s but after 7 years my GP wanted me to go off them so I did but never felt the same bad anxiety mood swings depression etc, Saw another doctor and he put me back on them thank goodness feel great again I definitely will be staying on it for as long as possible. Works wonders for me. :) :)
Great to hear!
Hello Caroline, really enjoyed watching this topic. You so down to earth it was good watching. I have been put into a medical Menapause because of cancer and unfortunately not allowed to take HRT because of the type of BC I had so was 48 years young. Love watching as you are local too in NA. X
Thank you for talking about this, Caroline! I'm 52 and I relate to you so much. Apart from hot flushes, I went through menopause without too many issues. In December I had to have both ovaries and tubes removed and was warned I could go through another 'menopause' due to the fact the ovaries still producing small amounts of hormones. After surgery I experienced an exacerbation of my diabetes and was put on Ozempic (a weekly injection to lower blood sugars) - what a life changer! I'm the same size and shape as you, and always struggled to lose weight on my mid section, no matter how much I improved my diet and exercise. I've lost 22lbs in three months and am only 10lbs from my goal. I wanted to mention it to you because Ozempic has now been approved for people that are not diabetic but have weight issues relating to insulin resistance. It's apparently a game changer for us 'apple shaped girls'. I feel years younger and my skin, hair and general wellbeing is amazing. Much love.xxx
HI Lisa, first of all congrats on your weight loss, that's brilliant! Thanks for mentioning Ozempic, it's not something I've heard of before so that's really interesting, but I must be honest and say that I'm certain that my weight issues are only related to overeating, I don't think I have an insulin-related issues. When I buckle down and find some willpower, I find it pretty easy to shift the weight. It's the willpower that's the problem for me, if only there was a magic wand for that!
@@CarolineMrsM ozempic slows down the stomach emptying process and turns on the 'I'm full' switch that many of us take no notice of, so you can't over eat or there are, not very nice, consequences... haha. I'm not advertising it, I'm just so thrilled by my results I want to share it with others. Keep up the good work, I appreciate your videos, especially the fashion xxx
hi Caroline, my doctor was one of the few who would see her patients in office, they had strict procedures in place but there were no problems seeing a doctor. There were a lot of doctors who would not see patients in office but I was lucky. I live in Vancouver, Canada.
Hello Caroline. So glad you are talking about this. I have been on HRT for 7 years. Had such a rollercoaster experience with my GP. Started me on tablets and I had crippling period pains and found out it was the synthesised progesterone in the tablets. Now on evorel patches and Utrogestran which suits me much better. Have had some symptoms coming back and need to up my oestrogen again. Been trying to get testosterone gel as well and a blood test it is very hard via my GP. You are so lucky your sleep is better. I have terrible insomnia since menopause and it’s still bad. People assume it’s only hot flushes that are symptoms of menopause and that is so wrong. My main symptoms were balance problems, joint pain, indigestion, itchy skin, dry eyes and felt so low and unwell. Felt like an old women. HRT has helped a lot but not solved all my symptoms. Research in America shows women in menopause need testosterone as well and UK is still well behind in its research and treatment.
Yes, definitely the testosterone thing is much more talked about in the USA research that I've read than in the UK.
Might I suggest that you get your calcium levels checked? I've been battling horrendous dry skin (think sandy bed and huge flakes all over the floor). I did develop eczema about 6 years ago but during the past 2 years this was dry skin on rocket fuel. Anyhoo, I went to the doc with an intollerably painful finger. Due to the non joint pain and skin they did blood tests. Result was extremely low levels of calcium. After 7 days on a prescribed high dose my skin flaking reduced then stopped, the itching stopped, the protective swelling around my eczema scars reduced. My facial skin has regained elasticity, I'm sleeping so my mood is better. I'm not on HRT but madly, the calcium completely changed my health outlook. I'm told I'm already looking younger...bonus is I feel happier.
@@bu3034 thank you so much. I will definitely get calcium levels checked. X
Well done great video. I’m on hrt at the age of 69. I had a break for a few years because my doctor would not prescribed it any more. My sleep and consequently my sleep was awful!
Glad you managed to get it represcribed, Jo.
Hi Caroline,I really enjoyed this video,as its something I can relate to.Im 41 and perimenopausal,my mum went through the menopause at 37,but never went on HRT,didn't even go to the gp for years,and when she did she found she out she had osteoporosis due to a early menopause,also it has aged her terribly,she is 63 but looks at least ten years older.I promised her that I would visit my gp,and not suffer like she did.Ive noticed my hair is thinning,and my skin that was once greasy is down dry,I've been trying different moisturisers to help combat it.Ive been watching loads of different videos on how people cope with the menopause.Thanks again.xx
Glad the video was helpful, Katie, thank you for taking the time to comment x
So glad you’ve gone into HRT it’s wonderful stuff and I feel we need to get out there and promote it.
I started mine in January and I feel so much better.
My joint pain and arthritis in my neck and shoulders has all but disappeared, it was making my life miserable.
Night sweats also gone, mood swings not half as bad.
I still get periods and the pms was almost unbearable and even that has improved.
I know what you mean about aging I felt like I’d gone from feeling young and full of vitality to old in 6 months. Hope I get that spark back soon 🥰.
I take Everol sequi which is Everol 50/ conti
So glad it's working well for you as well, brilliant isn't it!
Caroline I am new to watching your vids and I absolutely love them! 👍 In terms of menopause, I feel we have had parallel experiences! Same as you, no symptoms I was that bothered by and was treating them with a cocktail of expensive supplements. However, after doing much research I was concerned about 'hidden' symptoms of menopause (osteporosis, higher risk of dementia and heart disease etc) and I also didn't want to slow down and lose my va va voom! I bypassed my GP as he's not great, so went private. Been on Lenzetto spray and uterogestan pills for 4 months, which hasn't been spectacularly transformative but I definitely just feel better and calmer in a quite non-specific way. I also feel positive about doing something beneficial to safeguard my longer term health. All in all a good thing I think.
I spoke to 5 women Drs at my GP practice trying to convince them I was very low and needed help-multiple menopausal symptoms. The 5th one gave me the patches after I told her I had been to a menopause nurse and we had discussed the course of treatment. I have had them less than 2 weeks so fingers crossed (had been trying for over a year to get support).
Great informative video as always thank you Caroline. I think your skin has been looking really lovely of late ( not that it wasn't lovely before of course , but just looks smoother).
Could you tell me where you got your glasses from and which ones they are as they really suit you ? . ♥️
Hi Joy - thank you, they are from SelectSpec online, I can't remember the style name, I'm afraid.
Thank you so much , I too have glasses from SelectSec so I will look again ♥️
Hi Caroline , I’ve been on HRT for5years . I had a battle to get it but got it in the end . It’s a long boring story but my advice to anyone out there is do not let your GP put you on Sertraline or similar drug . GPS are obsessed with this through there general lack of education about HRT .those drugs are good for what they are made for not menopause, HRT for me gave me back a quality of life , not sleeping etc was making life unbearable with work home & family .HRT gave me back me .I’d say to anyone do your research there is so much out there now also people like Davina McCall Nadia Sawalha & now Mrs M speaking about there experience,The Menopause Doctor on line even helps with what to say to your Gp so much out there now .Thank you Mrs M to help to spread the word so women can get the help they need xxx
I agree that the number of people being offered antidepressants is worrying, it's almost as if the GPs are on commission for prescribing them. I still haven't seen the Davina McCall documentary, I'lm going to look it up and watch later.
Hi Caroline..going through the change of life and my cancer treatment I feel my body & mind has changed so much my skin has hardened and dry and so many fuzzies on my hair and stiffness of joints and sleepless nights I use to be so active but now I find myself sitting on the couch a lot and it’s a daily struggle to do housework..I feel like I’ve aged over the past 3years and I hate what all medications that I’m on are doing to me and when I speak to my specialist he’s shrugs me off as well so seeing this vlog I’m going to see a female doctor and what can be done ,I want my life back ..Thanks for sharing 👍🌷
Best of luck, I will keep my fingers crossed for you x
Great Video Caroline - Good sleep would make a big difference ! When i do sleep solidly I have mad dreams about Zombies, floods and David Beckham (tbh the DB one wasn't that bad ha ha )
Funny you should say that, my dreams have been much more vivid than they have been for years since I've been sleeping better. Sadly, however, no sign of DB as yet, I'll live in hope!!
Hi Caroline,thanks for the chat about h r t.do like the colour of your blouse really suits you.
Oh thank you!
I started feeling very hot all the time. Couldn't tolerate a coat even in snow. Had this problem for a number of years and no sign of it stopping. Could get very uncomfortable at work as nobody else wanted to work in Siberia. I would be wet through with sweat. Started on same HRT as you and everything great for about 9 months then started to bleed heavily. Quite a shock as had not seen any bleeding for about 5 years. GP sent me to gynaecology team who after hysteroscopy advised stopping patches. Luckily my previous symptoms haven't returned and the bleeding stopped within a month. Such a relief as I felt exhausted. Whether my symptoms would have stopped if I hadn't tried HRT I don't know but great not to be boiling hot all the time again.
I'm so glad to hear your symptoms haven't returned, Wendy, must have been a nightmare being so hot all the time.
Great Caroline,!!! i'm nearly 61 and been on it about 6 months, it was a fight to get it from a female gp took a while, but i started menopause 9 years ago, and it was getting worse, but like you my sleep is so much better, i haven't slept well /at all feels like for years, but i look forward to my bedtime now, and my hot flushes and night time flushes have stopped, so i am a happy bunny, i take the tablets.
So glad it's working well for you as well, Alison.
Thank you for this, I was refused it as Dr reckons I was over the menopause but I get night sweats now, I'm 68.. I have actually been reading up on menopause, so this vlog has come at the right time and it was so interesting thank you so much Caroline.. xx
Definitely worth asking again if you think it would help, I'm so glad I did.x
@@CarolineMrsM Yes I definitely will thank you. Xx
You are never over or through the menopause. For the rest of your life, your body will be oestrogen deficient. There may be no hot flushes or poor sleep, but the effect on your body carries on. Many GPs are woefully ignorant!
@@flutterlybutterly6188 they sure are, and they dismiss you like you are talking rubbish. X
Loved this! I'm now 62, having been very 'lately to the game': I was still having periods as regular as a teenager at 59*!
In 2016 I went to my new GP surgery, having moved home the yr previous. Saw a youngish male Locum who looked both bored and embarrassed having this sweaty ol' bird sitting in front of him, talking menopause symptoms.
Long story short, ended up with the cheapest of cheap version of HRT (any fans of 'The Royale Family'may remember Jim R. accurately referring to it !!)😄.
Managed 2.5mths of constantly bleeding, headaches, sweats, feeling sorta like non-stop PMT.
Worst symptom for me was looking like I'd been blown up with a balloon pump! Kid you not, morning of Day 2 my face/hands/belly looked like a balloon.
I'm not at all vain, but last thing I wanted was to be fat as a pig as id tried my best to lose weight....but give me sweaty any day!
So that 2.5mths have been my one & only experience of HRT.
Not put off by it, and deefinitely open to trying. BUT (a) I'd only see a female GP; (b) I'd have patches; (c) a brand that I wouldn't bleed with: and (d) a patch that would help with my insomnia, God-awful night sweats and aching joints. Does such a patch exist?
Rather not take in tablet form as that would go through liver etc. Prefer something absorbed through skin.
Two of my sisters (78, but the 69yo in particular) scream at me "Go and get some HRT, you silly cow!)! They are massive fans.
Both are on a multitude of other meds: I do not take anything for anything (the Magnesium didn't help me sadly).
I reckon if I have a chance of getting either an online chat or in-person appointment (1-in-1m chance me thinks!) with a female GP, I think now might be a good as time as any to start HRT.
Loved reading all the great comments by normal ladies going through this trek. Why it took Davina McCall to make a TV prog about it before anything was taken seriously, is beyond me!!
Hang in there gals 👍 💕
Best of luck, I hope it will be as much of a game changer for you as it has been for me.
I am 55 and just began taking progesterone about 6 months ago. It’s a game changer with sleep!! I have always been a ‘Type B’ personality and even keeled, I think, but I do believe it helps with moods you didn’t know you had😜
I am supposed to use an estrogen patch as well, but I can’t always remember to. I will not be without the progesterone though!
Hi Caroline , loved this , its so important for us women to be able to share our experiences ,as often GPs are just not informed enough , i started HRT, last july i have 2 pumps of oestrogen gel in the morning , and a progesterone tablet at night , interestingly it says on my tablet that this has a slight seditive effect , so i would imagine thats helping your sleep , only thing i would say is since i started , i seem to dream a lot , never noticed this before , but i also sleep through , so all good , i wonder if anyone else has experienced this ...😴😴😴, but thank you for taking the time , us ladies need to stick together, And of course there's the Prescription issue , making one charge a year , though this won't be untill April 2023...beggars belief ....🥰🥰🥰🥰
Yes, my dreams are much more vivid now than previously, I think it's just due to the better sleep quality (assuming it's this, anyway - they aren't horrible dreams at all). I'm off to google the prescription charge thing now, as I don't know about it!
@@CarolineMrsM ohh yes Caroline this will make your blood boil .....🥰🥰
Never had HRT. I’m a big advocate for taking care of my body naturally thru healthy eating and daily exercise. I’m vegan. Removing dairy in particular had a huge impact on many aspects of my health. I walk daily, follow a short, and not excessive exercise regime including some light weights, 15minute HIIT, and some abs exercises. It’s all helped me maintain a healthy weight and does wonders for my overall mental health. I went through the menopause about the same age as you. Occasional hot flashes and night sweats but embraced it all as signs of my body changing as I enter a new stage in life. I see food as one of the greatest medicines available to us, although I do supplement my diet with a daily women over 50s multivitamin, just to make sure I’m getting all the minerals and vitamins my changed body now needs. I realize however that for some, HRT provides a solution to their individual situation. The most important thing I believe is that we as women along with advice from health professionals, get the right to decide what is best for us.
I am glad you are managing through food and exercise but I did want to say that I don't think people should confuse HRT with traditional "medication" - HRT simply replaces the hormones that your body naturally loses as you get older.
Healthy living is doubtless a great help to our overall health, you're right.
Hi. Caroline I have been on hrt from the about 47 I was pre menopause I was getting the hot flashes and sweets and some bleeding not all the time so I went on and it stopped all the flashes sweets and the bleeding stopped to it is brilliant I made the right decision to go on it 👍
Hello
Very nice to meet you
New Subscriber here from Amman Jordan The Middle East
Snuffly here too
Started HRT when having premature menopause at age 39
Very pleased with the results
Hair and skin
In my sixty’s now and no problems
Hi Elizabeth, welcome and thank you for taking the time to comment :)
Glad you are feeling better. Not sure if HRT will help your skin. My experience and thoughts - Sleep is a key to good health and a clear mind. I didn’t do HRT. Best wishes to you and everyone.
I had the blood tests last year for HRT and even though I was ok to take it I went down the herbal route, but recently I have noticed my brain fog is getting worse, terrible night sweats and it feels like night after night with no sleep. I had been toying with the idea of going back to the doctors and asking to go on it and having now watched your video I am definitely making that appointment 🙃
Hi Caroline, great video, very informative, if you want to remove the sticky bits from your patches, try using a little bit of baby oil (or any other oil) on a little cotton wool a d it will remove very easily. Your skin and hair are looking very healthy. Please take care and stay safe.
Thanks for the tip, I will give it a try
Thank you for sharing this very important topic. Your menopause journey is very similar to mine. I’m 5-6 years post menopause (I’m 57) and seemed to be coping ok with it, I thought menopause was all about hot flushes and I’d never had one. Just before lockdown I’d been suffering with achy joints, feeling tired, poor memory and just generally low mood, I thought it was just ‘getting older’ then during lockdown I started with palpitations, my anxiety was through the roof, pins and needles and numbness in hands and feet and night sweats, so I started googling my symptoms as you do and and realised I was suffering with menopausal symptoms, I’d wondered why I was getting them now as I thought I’d gone through it ok. My first visit to a lady gp didn’t go well she basically scared me off and as I wasn’t knowledgeable enough about HRT I just left there thinking it was a bad thing. But as the months went on and I watched Dr Louise Newson the menopause specialist on UA-cam I was more knowledgeable about HRT so a few months later I had a consultation with another lady gp over the phone, I’d written a list of all my symptoms and she agreed for me to go on HRT. There’s been a few tweaks on the way but I’ve now been on it 11 months, I’m on the same patches as you and I’m feeling like my old self, not 100% but not far off. There are so many benefits of HRT and gp’s need more training on this subject. But thanks to people like Dr Louise Newson and groups on Facebook about HRT and menopause we are able to learn more. So many women are given anti depressants when they’re not needed, we just need our hormones back. Good luck with your journey! All we want is to feel normal again.
Frightening how many people are being given antidepressants that aren't needed. I've heard this several times now, and it's really not good. Why are GPs so keen to prescribe them, I wonder?
@@CarolineMrsM I agree, doctors aren’t knowledgeable enough about HRT and menopause, they need more training on these matters. Symptoms can be similar to depression but I know I wasn’t depressed, I wanted to do things but just didn’t have the energy to to them. Thankfully now it’s being talked about more 😊
That was very interesting Caroline.
I also finished at the age of 48 I'm now 61 but was never offered hrt.
But I suffer very much of sweats especially at night and bad sleep.
So I think I may ask about it.
Thank you
Kim x
Definitely worth a try, Kim.
If you have been post menopause for 10 years they won't put you on it the same if you have taken it then took a break if that break was 10 years they won't put you back on it
I had to look up HRT to even know what it was. I was a LVN [Lowest nurse] and am 72 and did not know this. A year ago, I started on the KETO diet, not so much to lose weight, but rather to not gain weight [and it does this for me]. But the cholesterol then went up. So, I went to Plant based meats except for fish and chicken. Most plant-based meats are made from soy protein. After well over 10 years without a period, I started having a once-a-month pink pad for a day. That surprised me. Soy is the protein that estrogen is made from. Seems I'm still pumping away down there. I wanted to say something as this might happen to anyone who adds a lot of soy-based food to their diet. I would also add that I had to avoid soy-based food in my fifties as I had migraines from too much estrogen [I have fibromyalgia, and this makes you over produce hormones].
Hi Jan, I tried keto for a while and remember reading about some people restarting their periods after being on it for a while. I didn't know exactly why so your comment was really interesting to read, thank you.
My GYN offered me HRT when I went through menopause, if I needed it. But there's family history that made me choose not to use it. It's probably too late now, but hearing your success with symptoms I currently live with like poor quality sleep and night heat makes me wonder if I did indeed make the best choice. Menopause was fairly easy. It's the aftermath that's difficult. Thank you for such an honest, informative talk! xx ~Patty
So agree, Patty, that the aftermath was much worse for me as well.
Hi Caroline I've been on evorel 25 for 3 months now too..is that the same dose you have? I'm 45 and from research think mine might be too low..but been told they always start you on lowest dose and although night sweats have gone I'm still exhausted all the time. Great vlog good to know it's working for you too xx
Hi Nadia, yes, I"m on the lowest dose. :)
I felt like a new woman when I was taking HRT. Then after 2 years I had to stop taking it when I was 52 (the reasons why I've explained in one of your previous videos) and all the menopause symptoms returned, but after about 12 months the symptoms settled down and I was then fine. However, fast forward a few years to when I was 59 and when I was diagnosed with womb cancer (so had a total hysterectomy and ovaries removed), then 9 months later breast cancer. After surgery, chemo and radiotherapy, the oncologist put me on Femara (letrozole) medication for 10 years because both of my primary cancers were oestrogen fuelled (breast cancer was also progesterone fuelled) and the Femara blocks all the oestrogen in the body. All the side effects that I got as a result of taking the Femara were not very pleasant and some of the side effects resulted in me feeling like I was going through the menopause again.........probably because all the oestrogen was being blocked. I stuck with taking the Femara for 5 years, but then decided that I'd had enough of feeling crap and like 90 every day and would accept the possible cancer risks that go with stopping the medication. I'm now 67 and have not been taking Femara for 3 years. I still get the odd hot flush and have other slight menopause symptoms, but at least I'm feeling like 67 and not 90 every day 🤣. No idea if taking hrt again would sort those menopause symptoms out, but unfortunately that is not a route that I can go down. I do envy all those women that sailed through the menopause with ease.
Thank you for sharing
Hi Caroline
Thank you for this. So informative.
Can I ask you about the turmeric? Does it help your joints?
Thanks Caroline x
Hi Janice, yes, it definitely helps my joint pain in my arthritic knee. I've taken it for several years now, and thankfully it's fairly reasonably priced unlike some other supplements. I ran out for a couple of weeks a couple of years ago and the difference in pain levels was noticeable. Needless to say, I haven't run out again since!
@@CarolineMrsM thank you Caroline
Hi Caroline, i went into menopause at 37 (as did my mum) in my experience too many Gp's are very limited when it comes to Menopause/ HRT. I was fortunate to find a Dr that specialises in menopause. I'm on the same patches as yourself, unfortunately there has been a shortage recently so I was given the equivalent in a different patch & tablet. Hopefully they will become more readily available. again.
I've been OK with my prescriptions so far, fingers crossed it continues.
Very interesting, I'm just starting menopause I think ,periods off and on I'm 53 .I sleep 9 hrs most days ,I'm tired alot as well been putting off ringing doctors .been having hot flushes and night sweats .what a carry on x
I have been taking the same patches for the last month! Chemist keeps running out though. Found I have been less anxious and slept better too. Will see what happens.
Hi Tina, my normal chemist didn't have any the first time I went for my prescription, and weren't able to tell me if/when they would be getting any. I then went to Boots who had it in stock. Glad HRT seems to be working for you as well :)
Thanks
Hi Caroline ,I have been going through the menopause since I was 48 and I am now 56 ,the flushes have died down a bit now but the night sweats and brain fog drive me me crazy. I asked my doctor for HRT he refused saying I was too old for it now 😔 my sister is 2yrs younger and he gave her it 😟 it does not make any sense to me ,I am going to phone the doctor’s again on Mon and ask for a telephone appt with the female doctor see if she gives me it ,like yourself huni I take loads of supplements and vitamins along with my prescription med’s I must rattle now ,thank’s for sharing this topic it has made my mind up to trying HRT I will let you know if I get them and how they affect me , lot’s of love & hug’s Katie 🌼💛🌼
Definitely worth trying the GP again, Katie, best of luck. x
This is so interesting Caroline. I started menopause at 42 and now at 56 I’m still having hot flushes and hot during the night. I have never been offered this and to be honest never asked. I’m really scared as there is breast cancer in my family and ding want to swap one problem for a major health issue but I’d love to sleep. I must admit I feel as if I’ve lost the person I was before menopause and losing my mam 3 years ago then covid it’s all been a bit horrible. I might look into this. Thank you for your honesty xx
It's definitely worth a try, Tracey, sounds like you've had a rough time x
This was very interesting. I went through the menopause 10 years ago and was so relieved to just not have the constant very heavy periods that I had had for years. I had the hot flushes etc. Doctor never offered anything. Now aged nearly 60 my sleep is horrendous, my joints ache, eyes water, just feel low energy and down a lot. But the continuous lack of sleep could be the reason but having tried all the normal sleep remedies most nights I average 4 hours sleep so always feel tired. I wonder if my doctor would consider this for me now? Will think about it. Thanks Caroline. X
I think they may well consider it, Julia, definitely worth a conversation I would think. Interestingly, your comment has reminded me that my watery eyes have been better than normal since taking HRT, I hadn't realised until you mentioned it.
Am the same age as you September Virgo worrier to . But did research and watch the Davina McColl documentary Chanel 4 amazing. Put all my worry’s to bed been on it 5 months made big difference feel like me again. Thanks for this vid this needs talking about in our age group more . But found the response from the young female dr I had not great I felt I knew more than she did on the subject and straight away offered my and anti depression tablet . So the more we talk about this the more power we have 👍 thanks again ❤️
I must look up the Davina McCall documentary, I haven't seen it yet.
@@CarolineMrsM it’s a game changer and the dr Louise I can’t remember her second name but yep made my mind up to go on it . Thanks for talking bout this very important for woman our age ❤️👍
Caroline…I hope you see this as I missed seeing this particular video.
HRT was a lifesaver when I started using the patch in my mid-50’s. However 7 yrs later, I did develop cancer. Thankfully Stage 1 lumpectomy and 24 radiation treatments and 5 yrs of Femara (leterzole). So I’m a 6 yr survivor. I never missed a mammo…never. So exactly 1 yr to the next they tell me it’s cancer. I tell you this because you must be deligient about getting your mammograms. My gyno doc called me the day after my dx and said “you must stop the patch and you can never take it again.” Hummm???? They had assured me the patch was “safe”? So why did I have to stop it? I actually needed it! I had lots of menopausal symptoms and I felt great after starting the patch. I miss feeling that good but docs won’t let us bc survivors have it after dx. My cousin has the same story. Be careful. Don’t hold that in your hand anymore than you have to.?truly….it enters your system very quickly. Also I have HBP also. Keep a watch on it. The patch can raise your blood pressure also….and cause a weight gain. What I’m saying is just be aware and cautious. Take care!
Yes, similar findings. Breast cancer at 67, having taking hrt for only one year (at 48yrs) all good and dealt with as early detection on a mammogram , early menopause (47 yrs).... definitely not enough knowledge with hrt and yes, gp’s far too hands off nowadays xx
I had a full hysterectomy in 1986 and went full menopause almost immediately. Put on HRT, tablets then patches, I kept that up for about 8 years. Then I talked to my GP about my weight gain (from 11 to 14 stone!) and we agreed it was possibly due to the HRT. When I came off it I enjoyed another menopause. First time I'd been at home, recovering from my op, but second time I was in work. I had mood swings and could be really snappy with my workmates - one young woman and 5 men! But they understood what I was going through and tolerated it, bless them.
I used to refer to "leg out of the bed" nights. It lasted around 8 weeks and, on reflection, it was not that bad. Maybe others "suffered" it more that I did. All was calm but then, of course, I started growing facial hair - we can't win can we? xxx
Heavens, the perils of being a woman, eh?! Did you find that the weight gain was due to the HRT, did it stop after you stopped taking it?
@@CarolineMrsM Oh yes, it was definitely the HRT. I came down to about 11.5 stone over a few months. I'm 76 now and having to lower my blood sugar! A low carb diet (as per Google) seems to be working, fingers crossed.
The sleep is wonderful, isn't it? Makes such a difference to everything 🙂
I am 58 and started menopause when I was 50. For 8 years I have had hot flushes to the point of exasperation and also night sweats . I worry a lot and find it very, very difficult to sleep. My GP laughed when I asked if there was anything to do about the hot flushes and said they can last from 1 week - 7 years. Well I am in my 8th year and feel as though no1 cares about the hell some of us women go through. I moved from Australia to here (the Netherlands) 12 years ago and I have found that Europe is not as advanced or forward thinking as other countries, especially English speaking countries. Seems by the standards here that I just have to shut up and put up with it. I also have lichen sclerosis and have been seen once about that condition. Healthcare here is almost nil when it comes to womens personal health. So glad you have improved and finding the HRT is doing you good.
I'm so sorry to read of your experience, Adele, it sounds awful. I do hope things improve for women in your country soon, if men went through the menopause I think there would be a lot more help and interest from the medical profession, I'm sad to say.
My sudden menopause at 47 post surgery didn't really give me too many problems- weight gain and insomnia that lasted only 2 years - so didn't feel the need for HRT then. Now 57, the insomnia is back so I tried HRT patches and like you, the sleep improvement was instant! The quality is deep dreamful sleep - is this why I'm more chilled or is it the HRT - don't know but it's worth it now I'm older 😀
I went through the menopause between 48 to 52 and just had spasmodic heavy periods which were helped with medication.Im on a short course of hrt in pesary form as I have some dryness and discomfort below.The Dr doesn't like me being on them for too long as they can Increase your appetite thus help you put on weight and I have enough weight as it is but they do help my problem.I only use them twice a week because they give me headaches.I was getting painfull boobs and raging appetites every 2 or 3 months and they have eased .Oh the joys of being a lady of a certain age or no joy if you suffer badly .I don't get many hot flushes now either .Take care .x .
I’m 65 and have never taken HRT. I didn’t have bad menopausal symptoms and they stopped some years ago. I did have the night sweats, but I don’t anymore. My sleep usually isn’t too bad, but I can have occasional bouts of insomnia. Your skin always looks amazing to me. The thing that happened to me was that I got a crinkly neck after weight loss. I wish I’d paid attention to that area while losing weight.
Oh, my neck is probably my most hated part of my body (and there are a few!). Ageing is not kind to our necks, is it?!
@@CarolineMrsM It definitely isn’t kind. I feel I need a bulldog clip at the back of my neck to smooth out the front. 😹
Very interesting, this is something I have been thinking about, could I ask have you noticed any difference in your joints
Not yet, but I'm hopeful I may do as time goes on.
I'm 51 and have been on the gel for 4 months having tried the pill in 2020 and stopped as i put on weight. I started with ostrogel gel and recently swapped to sandrena last month due to the hrt shortage. I have found its helped with my mood, anxiety and concentration though have been putting weight on again which affects my body confidence. Apparently there is no real evidence linking weight gain to hrt and could well happen anyway so could be a coincidence so i don't really know... All i know is i want to start feeling lighter again and still take hrt. Have you experienced the shortages down in devon? I saw a news item recently that showed women having exchanging hrt with other women in carparks as its been so bad.
Hi Jeanette - my first prescription was delayed due to the shortage, but I took it elsewhere and they had it in stock. Since then, touch wood, no further problems.
Don’t touch your eyes with the residue. Boy I was only on for a few months after a total hysterectomy and went off on the advice of my doctor. Hearing this and reading comments I wish I had stayed on forever. I haven’t slept a full night since ‘98.
I'm 62 Caroline and my sleeping is terrible has been for a long time xx
Sorry to hear that, Carol, mine was pretty bad prior to HRT as well x
I was told by my male doctor I could have it for 3 months but he wouldn’t prescribe it any longer than that.I had a long menopause , over 11 years. I would have liked to give it a try to combat the sweats and bad sleep mainly but thought that three months of relief wasn’t worth it if I couldn’t get any more….very disappointed.
Three months?! What would be the point, as you say if it worked and was then taken away again, it would be almost worse! I'm sad to see so many of us have had negative experiences with male GPs around the issue of HRT.
Menopause I was never, asked once by my gp if I was struggling they never spoke about HRT my feeling is they don't want women on it due to the cost to the NHS I don't know why because they readily dish out the contraceptive pill the NHS are really bad with this topic hence I had never taken HRT I would worry more about the bone loss rather than controlling the actual menopause symptoms
I think it's high time that GPs were given some specific training around menopause issues, it seems they are woefully badly informed about it from reading the comments.
@@CarolineMrsM I agree and in the workplace too no provision or understanding of what some women employees are going through thank you for sharing your experience
I felt so much better on hrt but started bleeding within about 3weeks of starting it and didn't stop until I stopped taking hrt so have given up on it I tried 3different types
I am going on 54 but no symptoms as yet if peri menopausal or not? only for the fact my period stopped 3 months ago? Do what’s best for you - I might sail through it - might not?
Great vlog. I have many of the symptoms that everyone it talking about and I’ve just turned 50. Last December I had my coil taken out after have coils for the past 20+ years, and my periods have returned in full force. I am being treated for individual health problems IE joint pain - one type of medication; anxiety- another type of medication ; indigestion issues/stomach problems- another medication. Other health issues as well, night sweats etc.
I’ve mentioned perimenopausal to Drs but they said I’m too young 😅🤥.
I’ll be raising it again and maybe insisting that they look into this, I much rather be taking one medication that could possibly solve many issues, than several that coving each individual issue.
It’s shocking how much my body has changed in the last 2/3 years, I’m really feeling like I’ve aged 20years. Really has effected my quality of life.
Great advice and discussions in the comments.
Thank you 🙏
Hi Lisa 50 is definitely not to young, go back your doctor.
Definitely agree with Tina, that you should press for further investigations at the very least. I can't believe they said you can't be perimenopausal at 50, honestly these GPs, so many stories of people being dismissed in the comments, it's a sad state of affairs.
Not HRT related but for your skin. I recommend researching Zinzino oil. It has massively improved my 73 year old skin. It balances the Omega 3 and 6 in your body and affects every cell apparently. Lots more energy too which is a boost. Costs just over £1 a day!
I will look into it, thank you :)
Yay for HRT! But why no progesterone tablet to protect the lining of the uterus? It took me a couple of GP visits to get it too and it’s silly as there is so much positive research that as well as helping with menopause issues, it helps to protect against dementia, heart disease and osteoporosis. Dr Louise Newson on UA-cam is super knowledgeable and a great communicator -I’ve learnt so much from her. My next ‘battle’ is going to be getting testosterone, much more important than I realised.
Seems the USA are far ahead of us with regards to prescribing testosterone to menopausal women, I hope we catch up soon.
@@CarolineMrsM My good friend has been using testosterone for a couple of months and despite being older than me has become a teen age pubescent boy with a raging libido 😳- her husband is delighted but I think she needs to reduce her dose!
thanks for this caroline, i had flushes at 40. took HRT for 10 years as recommended. then come off it. symptoms started as soon as i stopped. but never bothered to go back for HRT again.. my neibour recently told me she refused hrt because it causes breast cancer to develop! and i did get breast cancer last year. thankfully they caught it in time. then i had radiotherapy. and had to take 'Letrozole' for 7 years. i have developed very painful lumps in my wrists since. and aching in the body a side effect of these tablets. i hate taking them. but need to so the cancer won't return . they are awful side effects. the doctors don't tell you the risks of taking HRT like developing cancer afterwards. i wish i'de never bothered with it now and just put up with the symptoms. it's natures way after all to tell you that your preproduction cycle is coming to an end.
why replace it again? doesn't seem sense does it really. they're artificially putting back what your body has naturally lost.
good luck with yours. x
Many woman who've had breast cancer haven't had hrt. Woman face the risk in any case. Menopause is a state of permanent estrogen deficiency and there are major health implications, including other cancers that are cause by not having estrogen. It is vital for the healthy function of a woman's body. Nature would have us dead very soon after menopause so as we are living longer, we need to replace our hormones. This can be done in an extremely safe and natural way. The benefits far outway the risks.for most woman and there is no better way of ensuring female health after the menopause. Diet, fitness, genetics have their role of course but you can never replicate the unique benefits of estrogen without replacing estrogen.
Your ongoing cancer treatment is suppressing any tiny amounts of estrogen you naturally produce and the effects of that are the symptoms you are experiencing now unfortunately.
@@melgrant7404 Yes indeed, but there is no clear, consistent evidence that estrogen causes cancer in the first place.
Local vaginal estrogen is perfectly safe however, in any case.
@@melgrant7404
Combined hrt has a slightly greater risk of causing bloods clots as it is a tablet that has to be metabolised by the Liver. It is still very very safe in terms of this and breast cancer. Trans dermal estrogen remains the gold standard treatment.
By the way. The contraceptive pill carries far greater risks to woman's health than these new hrt products and they are given to our young daughter's like smarties.
@@melgrant7404 obviously everything is about choice. Being reliably informed is the best way to choose. As woman we have to decide between the risks of hrt, of which I have been reliably informed are very few and the risks of living a significant number of years without our own estrogen. Of which the risks of life threatening diseases are increasingly becoming obvious. The evidence is very clear and as woman we have been misinformed for too long. It saddens me greatly.
All the best to us all.
@@melgrant7404 Very true. My own mother lived without hrt until she was 86, had hysterectomy at 38 and swore she never had one menopause symptom. Yet she developed frequent bladder infections, vaginal atrophy was on statins, had periodic bouts of mental illness, relentless tinnitus and in her case like many woman, osteoporosis. It gave her horrific back pain and she was on pain management...She died with a degree of dementia after breaking her hip for the second time in a light fall that wouldn't have broken a glass.
The hrt patch I feel is better than the gel... But with the patches they are NOT water proof it you have a bath the patch will start on BUT the hrt would have been removed by the water just the glue is felt.
HRT not for me big time! as three friends who took it had cancer afterwards and I prefer natural things I meditate and work on myself and thankfully sleep very well . Mindfulness helps me respect all good that we are different.So glad that we can still see doctors face to face here Italian Health care is one of the best in europe.NHS so overwhelmed in UK my mother has been unable to see a doctor which is terrible I think and many friends have to wait for ages (even years) to see a doctor really awful I prefer meeting Doctors not phone call we just have to ring doctors her for an appointment.Good luck with HRT hope all goes well.
The NHS is certainly in crisis, you're right.
I’m 58 does anyone know what age you have to be to be put on HRT as my symptoms are all over the place ? I found your video so interesting Caroline thank you so much for the info ❤️
I don't think there is a specific age limit as such, as far as I'm aware. Glad you enjoyed the video.
I was 56 when I started on HRT.
I'm 58 in October and still having periods ..they have become more irregular so I'm guessing the menaupause is just around the corner
Hi Caroline , Lynn here on Hubby's phone mines playing up 😏, Do you know Caroline ,. I went straight into the change as we call it , at 47, when I had to have an hysterectomy , I was going through awful night sweats , I had to may in towels and everything , awful it was , but I just put up with it , because it was connected with Breast cancer and my gran had had Breast cancer , also there has been lots of different cancers in the family having had one sort myself , now tho with all that's been going on in the world and losing my mum and brother within two years , mum from cancer ☹️😭, Im suffering terribly with Anxiety and depression , Doctor as said talk to someone I feel I can't empty my inner self out to a stranger , however I feel like I'm going mad 😡, My weight is getting out of control ,I don't know what to do 😭😭😭, would H R T help do you think ? But the risks ,I'm terrified of them , Oh I don't know , Sorry to go on so long but it's a thing terribly close to me just now it's awful , anyway take care love and thank you for talking about it , it should help many people 😘👍 xx
I am finding that a weight loss of 50 pounds is helping my joints (knees) a lot more than HRT ever did. It's a huge difference. I was on HRT for five years after a hysterectomy, then went on Vagifem and been on it for years now.
Congrats on that weight loss, that's a great amount to lose.
Look up Dr Louise Newson,on utube,she’s Britain’s top expert on menopause.Her advice is so helpful.
Hi Caroline, You don't need progesterone ? You must not have your uterus because if you do, you would need to protect it with progesterone.
I battled with my GP to prescribe HRT for me (I had a male doctor), he spouted old studies that had showed females having heart attacks and cancer when on HRT. However, it turns out that study was flawed as it was only done on elderly women - in their ‘80’s. So he finally relented and prescribed them for me. I have never looked back, I also started sleeping better, my moods were much calmer and I stopped getting the hot flashes.
So glad it's worked well for you as well.
Do you take progesterone with it Caroline?
One of the things that the patches have in is norethisterone, which is a synethetic form of progesterone.
If the menopause was a male ailment HRT would probably be prescribed without all the problems women have to get it prescribed You hear it all the time how ladies have
You're so right.
I'm thinking of THAT little blue pill for the guys they were quick to prescribe that one