Hi all,
I hope some of you can share some guidance and experience.
Here is the background. 50, last period 2 years ago. Decided to go on HRT 6 months ago. I had some symptoms during the peri phase (hot flashes, night sweats) that went away when my cycle stopped. But in 2022 (about a year after last period) I started to suffer from severe fatigue, low energy, low motivation, finding it soooo tough to exercise (which is something I have always been into). And total lack of libido. So I decided to give HRT a go.
GP prescribed Evorel Conti 50. After six months of it, I am still getting a bleed every 4 weeks. Like an actual period, with cramps, hugely bloated the day before the bleeding starts, low back pain etc. In addition, after an initial improvement in energy and motivation, I seem to have plateaued and have some OK days and some really low days when I just want to sleep.
So back to the GP. I had a chat over the phone and he suggested switching to FemSeven (different progesterone). Due to the bleeding, I still have to make a physical appointment and expect to be referred for a scan or something (although I am sure it is the HRT and nothing sinister).
I would really like my oestrogen levels to be tested but every time I have suggested this, I have faced opposition. I haven't told the GP yet but on the side, I had my testosterone level checked privately and it is rock bottom. So I think I may benefit from additional testo, but only if oestro is balanced.
Sorry for the long post but:
How do I convince them to test my hormone levels?
Is there any benefit in switching patches and possibly having to wait yet another 6 months for another review?
Has anyone / should I go private with a menopause plan so I get proper answers? Money is tight but I will spend it if I can truly benefit.
Meno is sucking the life out of us and it is no fun.