I'm approaching 51, have been on 0.05 Minivelle patch w/200 mg natural progesterone 12-14 days every 6 weeks. I feel okay with the patch but the progesterone part just wrecks me: bloating, food cravings, lethargic, no motivation, etc. Yes, it's only 12-14 days every 6 weeks, but I dread them. I've never been wild about being on HRT. In truth, have mostly done it because I've read about its protective effects for bone health, cardiovascular, etc.
I want to be free of it! Others on here who have stopped....can you advise and comment? I should mention that when I started HRTI was only having very mild hot flashes even though I was measured with a very high FSH and estradiol at <10. At the time I started HRT, I had not yet gone 12 months w/out a period.
For what it's worth, I'm fit, appropriate weight for height, exercise vigorously and regularly (have for decades) and eat fairly cleanly, don't drink, don't smoke. I'm hoping I can go without HRT and pass through this okay. I think I made the mistake of reading
way too many horror stories
![Shocked :o](https://www.menopausematters.co.uk/forum/Smileys/extended/shocked.gif)
about menopause and now fear all the horrible symptoms that may occur without HRT.
Just looking for some kindred spirtis, some advice or any ideas.....thanks!
![Wink ;)](https://www.menopausematters.co.uk/forum/Smileys/extended/wink.gif)