Hi MIS71MUM,
I use 4 pumps of oestrogel to override my cycle and I do feel much better. I am 42 and taking HRT for severe PMS (exhaustion, anxiety, depression) which has got worse since my mid thirties and having children. I started at 3 pumps but it didn't surpress my cycle and I felt worse (mainly exhausted). I put all 4 pumps on in the morning (2 on upper arms, 2 on inner thighs) and I sleep well most nights. When I first went up to 4 pumps I had thrush symptoms which lasted a few weeks. I think this was my body adjusting to the higher dose. I haven't had it since.
I also take 7 days of 100mg utrogestan per month (Prof Studd regime). Next month I'm going to try 200mg utrogestan (on advice of Mike Savvas at 3 month follow up appointment last week) as I've been OK on 100mg. If I get side effects from the 200mg, he's said I can go back down to 100mcg the following month. He's suggested the higher dose of utrogestan as I'm currently on such a low dose alongside the high oestrogel and he feels it'd be better to have 200mg utro if I'm OK on it. I'm a bit nervous but will see how I get on.
I would suggest giving the 4 pumps of oestrogel a go and to give yourself a few weeks on it before deciding whether it's working for you. I believe changing our hormone levels can make us feel worse at first so it's worth giving it a few weeks at least. Good luck x