Firstly, you were given an HRT with one of the strongest progesterones that can give the worst side effects.
Secondly, you started with conic HRT which meant you were using progesterone all the time which is also not teh best idea when first starting HRT.
Thirdly, bleeding on any conti HRT in the first few weeks up to six months is quite normal, even if really post menopause.
Fourthly, this HRT probably didn't suit you in the first place so naturally you are feeling better now you have stopped. I have stopped HRt on a number of occasions and initially feel OK but then things go downhill after a couple of weeks. HRT is about finding an HRT gives the most benefits( makes you feel good) with the least side effects.
There is no ‘coming out the other side' as such with the menopause. Symptoms may subside but the effects of oestrogen deficiency goes on doing the damage to bones, skin, joints, urogenital area etc. - for some this damage is less pronounced and the deterioration is slower - lifestyle can help maintain things better but personally I think it is down to genes.
Perhaps ask for a gentler HRT approach. Why not try oestrogen patches (Estrodot 50mcg) or Oestrogel and use this all the time and then either Utrogestan or Provera for just 12 days each month. This would be a sequential regime and involves a monthly bleed but you may find it is worth putting up with the the bleed to feel better generally. Oestrogen tends to be the ‘feel good' hormone but progesterone if often more challenging.
If you look under TREATMENTS in Oestrogen and Progesterone sections you will see the details about this regime and I would print this info off to show the GP, as I doubt he/she will know about this. If your GP won't prescribe this regime then perhaps try Femoston 1/10 sequential as this has a kinder progesterone and may suit you better.
If you are in you 40s or 50s then some HRT now may well help your long term health (and could help you arthritis) so it may be worth persisting to see if you can find an HRT that works - I also think you should probably ask for more specialist advice as you GP is really not up to speed. DG x