Hi Wendy
Sorry I missed your post as I haven’t been back on here for a bit.
So for me I have struggled with symptoms for a decade and I wished I had sorted HRT sooner but there has been and still is a lot of negativity around HRT.
I think we are only now speaking more freely and sharing more openly about it . Thanks to TV programmes and media and advocates like Davina ! She’s an inspiration.
I went to the GP and stated what I wanted . The issue with this is if you don’t have a GP well versed and with an actual interest in HRT you are at best going to be prescribed a standard treatment which is first line according to their formulary -
You can google on line and see what that is for your area in some instances .
At worst - it can be detrimental to your health if they aren’t switched on to the nuances of safeguarding your health whilst choosing the right dose / oestrogen type / levels .
In terms of private I have only explored Alva health - which is an online service where you answer questions. It then advises you on your options and you can then opt for a free 30 min consultation.
They won’t give you the RX without you providing your latest BP reading.
My issue with this service is ‘follow up ‘- I need to be able to access for reassurance and advice throughout my treatment and especially at the beginning. They charge follow ups at £90 for an hour and £50 for 1/2 hour.
The other option I am looking at is
https://www.newsonhealth.co.uk/ - there is a waiting list though if 3 months . Appt is £30 but you have 2 follow up emails and they insist on follow up within 12 months max. Even if you don’t go this route there is a wealth of info on there and also an app. ( free).
I’ve been on eveorel sequi Rxed via the Gp coming up to 6 weeks this week and I have to say I am beginning to feel a whole lot better.
It has given me issues with side effects but I believe some will simmer down and any symptoms left over will be because my Prescription needs to be tweaked. There is a limit on how much that can be achieved with sequi as it is an all in one dose. But who knows maybe there is something the GP will suggest.
I have therefore one foot in both camps - I will continue on this and revisit with my GP but I have also signed up to newson ( long wait) - I don’t think HRT is the answer for everyone but nor is it a one size fits all and I want to have an approach specific to my needs.
The best thing you can do is avail yourself of as much info as you can.
😥 long post ! Hope it give you some help and or food for thought 💭