I am 53 and 2 years post-menopausal. Initially had some breakthrough bleeding when commenced HRT last year which has totally settled now for the last 7 months. Scan showed multiple fibroids in March. Next due in Dec as now on alternate days of vaginal progesterone and Estradot patches with twice a week vagifem. Started on 25mcg which was not adequate to control flushes; new GP increased to 37.5mcg and then 50mcg as her words were " you are too young to only be on 37.5mcg". I am 63 and on 75mcg". She mentioned all the added benefits of estrogen regards bone health, brain health etc. She is very pro-BHRT and uses it herself at age 63. She specializes in women's health and I feel she knows her stuff.
When I increased to 50mcg I had breast tenderness, a few hot flushes and excessive vaginal secretions with a slight headache.We were on holiday and my husband said I was a bit "hyper" with lots of energy!
![Grin ;D](https://www.menopausematters.co.uk/forum/Smileys/extended/grin.gif)
. I perservered for about 2 weeks, but symptoms remained and then decided myself to first snip a bit of the 50mcg patch (around 44mcg) and then cut back to 37.5mcg. (50mcg patches out of stock and still had 37.5mcg so that influenced my decision big time) Since being on the 37.5mcg the last week the odd recurring flushes (on the 50mcg) stopped, breasts OK and vaginal secretions normal.
So made me wonder if even at my "young age" (53
![Wink ;)](https://www.menopausematters.co.uk/forum/Smileys/extended/wink.gif)
) the 37.5mcg with the twice weekly vagifem might be sufficient for me?? The plan was to have me one month on the 50mcg and then to introduce testosterone gel which I am very reluctant to do. Reason being I had increased facial hair on Tibolone a year ago but since then my testosterone levels dropped quite low. But I did NOT cope at all with having stubbles by lunchtime so ceased the Tibolone which in all other areas worked great!
Opinions on my theories please.....Should I have persevered with the 50mcg until the symptoms settled in order to gain the added benefits and then add the testosterone? I know it is speculation and we all differ...My GP is on long leave atm.