Three common side effects after starting on hormone replacement therapy and how to fix them

[@heatherhirschMD]

What side effect did you have after starting HRT and what helped you fix it?! Comment below!

[@DisneyLissy]

I started last week and I’m cramping so bad. I always had horrible cramps when I had my period and can’t go through this again. Will this stop?

[@surgag]

Thank you! I’ve been on HRT for 6 months & this was very helpful.

[@lorrainespear1210]

I had a week or two of very minor spotting after starting HRT. That was the only side-effect. Otherwise it has been fabulous. No more night sweats. I don't feel like have to urinate all the time. No more brain fog. I don't feel like I'm in perpetual PMS mode. Best of all is the arthritis pain in my hands, feet and left hip is gone, even on rainy days.

[@SzazaM077]

Lack of libido

[@DW...]

@heatherhirschMD If you experience crying every day - would a higher dose of estradiol help? 🙏

[@xflyer87]

Side effects for myself: I started getting a good nights sleep, night sweats gone, brain fog so much better, I can remember things now (yay!). Seeing a knowledgeable gyno is so important. If you don’t have a gyno you like then kick that one to the curb and find someone you do like. A good one will help you with any problems that occur and listen to your concerns.

[@olderandwiser127]

a great source is Women's Health Network. Also, fixaflash.

[@debbie5128]

Collagen, magnesium, and vitamin c are what I take daily. Taking Collagen has improved my mobility ten fold. It takes a month or so to feel it. Keep moving your body - walk, cycle, swim, use light handweights, nothing too strenuous on the body. If you have stress - remove it immediately. Stress is the biggest igniter for menopause. It truly is a time to know your body, cycles, and be kind and loving to you. No more people pleasing 😁😁

[@mdaze9753]

I went into menopause at 48 after my mother died. I can attest to stress being an igniter ✋

[@Karikk72]

I swear that’s what happened to me !! Lost my dad July of 22 and things went crazy with my body right after !

[@SirenaSpades]

I've taken these since my 30's and I wouldn't say I've ever "felt" collagen. If you want something for mobility, it's glucosamine chondroitin.

[@debbiedejager2948]

I agree with this but would like to add that every woman going into menopause (if they are physically able to) should be doing some form of strength training to compensate for the loss of bone density & muscle mass which we know is exacerbated by the onset of menopause and the natural ageing process. This means lifting heavy by starting off with light weights and progressing to heavier weights over time. It’s not about bulking up but maintaining body strength. In combination with this I would include exercise such walking as close to 10000 steps a day as possible (understandably many of us have all day desk jobs). Taking up a Pilates or yoga class at least once a week, to focus on maintaining flexibility. Diet of course plays an 80% role in this. It seems to take a lot of us too many years to realise this and actually do something about it! I speak for myself here too. A lot of ailments (lack of energy, bloating) can be corrected through diet. Needless to say, going into menopause changes the game plan for many of us completely, our worlds are indeed turned upside down, where very little seems to be what it was before. So we need to up our game and this is basically what this message is about. Taking control of these changes to the best of our ability, so that life doesn’t ‘just happen’, to us. Do the research, make that appointment with an HRT specialist gynaecologist if need be to discuss your HRT journey, get yourself some weight equipment at home, find an exercise buddy to help hold you accountable on your fitness journey. With All this in the mix, our mental health will thank us for it.

[@branver1172]

What type of collagen do you take? My joints could use help.

[@liasmith696]

Thx Dr. Herschel~I’m 50 years young, just started HRT and I’ve traded watching home décor videos to menopause vids because they are so informative! 😂

[@niebieskimotyl3308]

Same here, binging menopause videos😊

[@stephaniefraser5044]

@@niebieskimotyl3308 same!

[@mystrength5640]

Hrt is incredible.. it’s changed my life! 🎉💐

[@dlm4501]

What exactly are you taking? I'm wanting to start but I'm kind of afraid to.

[@mystrength5640]

@@dlm4501 There are Pharmaceutical and there are Non- Pharmaceutical.. Try to see an Endocrinologist or Hormonal Specialist.. who specialise in women’s health.. Brain Fog. coz your Thyroid. .. D3 . Blood levels Bone Density. Body weight / Insulin/ Glucose/ All MINERALS and Mental side all Should be considered.. Vitamin B deficiencies etc.. fitness levels etc. 🎊

[@dorothygale5032]

​@@dlm4501 me too

[@zmaja]

No bleeding, just headaches and nausea, stomach pain, but I was patient, eventually it got better, after a couple of weeks no side effects, I just feel great and I have no intention of stopping, ever.

[@jujugoketo3711]

Thank you for this video. OBGYN has had me on estrogen for 2 years. Went to functional doc and switched to a blended cream. Got order for ultrasound- now I have hyperplasia - 15 mm thick uterine walls ( no Cancer cells).Immediately wanted to do surgery for D and C or hysterectomy. Been researching- I believe I should be able to reverse the thickening with progesterone. Really upsetting that I should have been checked earlier - AND I should have never been on estrogen without opposing progesterone..WHY would this happen! I just don’t doctors. You must research everything for yourself. Thank God for KZbin to give me a clue and do.additional research!

[@jonbonjovi6017]

That’s awful that 2 docs gave you estrogen without progesterone. It’s common knowledge that if you still have a uterus, you need progesterone because you will eventualky develop uterune cancer with unopposed estrogen. Any and every doctor should know that. That being said, your post highlights the importance of doing our own research, and being our own health advocates. Pubmed studies are very useful, since google is often biased, though I do always start with my searches with basic search engines. Good luck to you - it sounds like you caught it in time! God bless.

[@ellachallas]

@@jonbonjovi6017 It’s really needed whether there is a uterus or not. I had a hysterectomy and unilateral oophorectomy and was told I would only need estrogen (which was up to me). I ended up taking the estrogen and developed a hemorrhagic cyst that caused torsion on my remaining ovary, which has to be removed in emergency surgery a few years after my hyst. After that, my dr’s told me I would only need estrogen, because I have “nothing left” that I need to take progesterone for. I took estrogen only, again, for the past 6 years and just had to have a CT for a mass that a gynecologist I just started with found during a pelvic exam. Interestingly enough, it’s most likely an ovarian remnant that developed an endometrioma. I’m just sharing to raise awareness 🤍!

[@health9818]

Hope all goes well for you, My cousin got uterine cancer while taking bioidentical HRT she was getting the progesterone but she still got cancer, she had surgery to remove her uterus and she is still going to take HRT even though the cancer doctor said not to. But now she doesn't have to take the progesterone because she doesn't have a uterus. To each their own.

[@MariaJimenez-ye9sn]

Yep. We need to educate ourselves and advocate for ourselves. We know our bodies. We know when something is not right with us.

[@totoslifetotochicken3871]

I started on 0.05 Estrogen patch/100mg progesterone and although my perimenopause symptoms completely went away in the 3rd week, at the 4th week I got a full period with all my debilitating PMDD symptoms . I asked my doctor if we could lower the estrogen 0.025 and up the progesterone to 200mg and so far in my 3rd week of this new dosage and some of my hot flushes came back but I have no period so far which is life saving. Oh, and my sleep is bliss now, which helps with everything. Thank you for all this valuable information!🌺🌺🌺

[@NiaLaLa_V]

Did your PMDD also go into Extra Super Elite Hard Mode as soon as perimenopause started? I am here because I feel like this is even harder than puberty was.

[@MNP208]

@@NiaLaLa_V Yes, that can happen. As my periods came further and further apart, they were heavier too.

[@patriciamoeller7649]

I star HRT couple years ago after I change 3 doctors and when I finally thought I’m going to fell better she prescribed the estrogen patch and of course after few weeks I bleed she didn’t prescribe anything else but the patch , so after I called to see her she immediately book me for a biopsy and the cost was almost 2000 dollars out of pocket because my insurance didn’t cover it, now I had another doctor who prescribed a estrogen gel and progesterone I’m ok but I know she needs to adjust the dose for them I’m very disappointed of doctors , I’m 52 no energy and 4 different doctors 😢

[@joannbarrientes4996]

I feel same way

[@theresamcdonald-smith5046]

At 64 years old, I cycle my HRT (estradiol, progesterone, testosterone) and still have a period every month like clockwork. It’s worth it, for as good as I feel. I use only bioidentical hormones from a compounding pharmacy prescribed by a holistic doctor.

[@joannebarlow3900]

Can you explain what you mean by this please?

[@health_Natural2]

Period at 64?? Really???

[@theresamcdonald-smith5046]

@@health_Natural2 yes! I’m assuming I will have it as long as I cycle the hormones.

[@theresamcdonald-smith5046]

@@Maggie-zr2ow Well, you’re actually trying to mimic your body when it was younger, so I go with the cycling. I tried static dosing, but I didn’t feel as good. Check out Suzanne Sommer’s book “Ageless”. She mentions other doctors in the book that also have good books. I spent about a year research this stuff before I started. It’s been 14 years for me, now.

[@starrhall8160]

It is unnatural to have ur period at such an age. Tricking the body is not a good idea.

[@xochitlsuffle3343]

I been on HRT a little more than 6 months, I had bleeding but my obgyn did not want to lower my estrogen because I have been feeling GOOD, so she gave me more progesterone, 200mg and it didn’t stop, so went to the maximum 300 progesterone and it is still not stopping so I am changing to the IUD, hopefully that works. But HRT really changed my life!!

[@dorothynewhouse1160]

I had a complete hysterectomy at 30 didn't take HRT therapy ever I'm now 54 and my body is weak tired, I'm in pain daily I'm overweight and can't lose weight I'm tired and have no energy..I recently made a Dr. Appointment to discuss hrt.

[@heathernotzdaniels6350]

I'd be curious to know what your dr said to you about it. I am much the same position, age 31 complete hysterectomy, 2 years of estrogen, then the scare, now 51, and feeling like I'm having some sort of menopause like symptoms again. I'm having hot flashes again, I haven't slept well in over 20 years now, I have thyroid issues, pain issues, so many things have built up over the years, no matter how well I took care of myself. Asked my new dr about hormones and she said no, it would cause more issues at this point. I'm not sure it could get any worse honestly. Surgical menopause just isn't discussed yet, and with all of this new information coming out that we should have never experienced this life without additional hormones all these years, I am at a loss as to what to research to find the answers that I need. And you need.

[@rema1787]

I also had a complete hysterectomy at 30 and I do not know what to do! Did you start estrogen right after surgery? What do you mean by scare?

[@heathernotzdaniels6350]

@@rema1787 at that time, it came out in the news that hormone therapy was causing breast cancer, so many women went off of their hormones, it was a huge drop in numbers. Now, it's being reported that information was not accurate. But 20 years have passed, so now it leaves many of us wondering what to do. And yes, I had started estrogen as soon as I came out of surgery, they applied a patch while I was still under.

[@KingBasile]

@@rema1787 The scare would be the WHI study in 2002 with the statistically skewed "results" scaring both doctors & women off HRT. Find a good doctor/health professional who will listen to your concerns, they are online too.

[@4everyoung24]

@@rema1787 I think she means the scare of the study where they decided, without thorough investigation, that estrogen was the devil and all women needed to be taken off asap.

[@charmaineclayton2018]

I have very sore hands and a horrid belly bump , I am a retired fitness trainer, and I still work out and play tennis , but I gained weight in the last 2 years on HRT

[@miriamvenegas6082]

I'm perimenopausal with horrible hot flashes and night sweats, my Doctor prescribed the Estradiol patch and progesterone capsules. This video gave me a more understanding how HRT works, great information. Thank you!

[@niebieskimotyl3308]

I've got headaches and nausea, vertigo, exhaustion, mood swings , bad sleep, joint pains before, hrt stopped that, honestly even some side effects would be better than this combo of symptoms 😊

[@virginia6793]

I heard from another KZbinr who is a doctor that the minimum dose of estrogen to prevent disease like heart disease and dementia is .05 of the patch. If you go lower, it may work on symptoms of menopause, but it's not that good at preventing disease. Is this correct?

[@tinaalbritton3450]

Good question!

[@everhappy6312]

That's Menopause Taylor...Dr. Barbie Taylor talking about that:). Yup. That's correct.

[@askssk715]

Yay! What great timing. Started on .025 patch last November. Increased to .05 patch a month ago and I've started spot bleeding. I figured I just needed to give it time. I have had a Mirena IUD since I was 36 and haven't had a period since. I'm 57 now, so the spot bleeding is funny to experience again. Glad it's nothing to be concerned about.

[@duynajohnson8479]

Estrogen causes cancer.

[@kathrynreifenberger1194]

So informative, thank you Dr.! Tough to listen to because the sound quality is poor, very tinny. A good mic-audio system would be great 👍 (thought you might want to know)

[@ivalani]

Side effects for me: weight gain, anxiety and acne. The first one I am sure was the estrogen , the other two- the progesterone. I stopped HRT and feel well again.

[@TTF-Sunshine]

Thank you. Very clear and great info

[@monikakress3867]

the side effect that I experienced was the eyelid twitch that had been going nonstop for two years went away.

[@mystrength5640]

Magnesium Biglycinate helps at Night.. a good Multi B with FOLATE.. (Not Folic acid) Correct Vit D3 Blood levels..

[@SirenaSpades]

Ok. I'm experiencing massive weight gain. I've been on estrodiol for 9 weeks. I have an IUD so no progestrone. No changes to diet and I've increased my workouts - I work out quite a lot, 6 days a week rowing plus yoga. I started at 118 which I maintained for years, and have gone up to 126 in that short time. I have an appointment next week to follow up. Breast tenderness (no cycles, I assume the IUD takes care of that, which is why I love it, and have loved it since my 20's). I've researched adding testosterone and spoke with my pharmacist about that so I will be talking with my doctor about it during the appointment.

[@ceeceenocap]

8 lbs is in the ballpark of the normal ups and downs of water weight gain/loss across a week. I get that it might seem like a lot for you - and it’s worth paying attention to, for sure, but I wouldn’t let it stress you out. Speaking of stress, you might want to get your cortisol checked. As we get older, that kind of intense exercise can actually lead to weight gain. (not in the health care field here, just another person trying to figure this all out!)

[@user-qw8no5bl5m]

I can relate to this. Testosterone helped me, it was the missing link. Now we’re just working out the dosage and method.

[@Alykat736]

It really sounds like Your Estrogen is too high or imbalanced with progesterone so making estrogen too high .i had the same thing/symptoms due to that .

[@annatolson7797]

8uu,,,,,,Ź

[@SirenaSpades]

@@Alykat736 Saw a specialist, estrogen too low, exploring adding testosterone

[@debbiemartell8100]

Such a great video! Thank you 🙏

[@beverlystormbrumfield6815]

Very informative! Thank you so much! 🩷

[@patriciaa2976]

After being on Estradiol 0.05 patch for three months I started feeling anxious, nervousness (shaking) , palpitations, loosing weight, itchy skin. I was diagnosed with hyperthyroidism. My endocrinologist claims that HRT didn't cause this. I HAVE MY DOUBTS. Im on medication for the thyroid but have not returned to the Estradiol.

[@ironmaidenfitness654]

These sound like menopause symptoms, and maybe this might seam counterintuitive but maybe try talking to your doctor about increasing the estrogen dose for 3 months and see if you feel better

[@melymel36]

She didn’t think that you should be referred to your endocrinologist to reevaluate your dose of thyroid medication? I’m on HRT and high dose of Armour Thyroid and was told to watch for symptoms as HRT can affect the amount of Armour Thyroid I would need.

[@joan.nao1246]

Our entire Endocrine system is affected - absolutely thyroid function affects liver function, sex hormone function, cardiovascular function, etc - and vice versa. It's ALL affected, much like falling dominoes.

[@everhappy6312]

Hyperthyroidism was already in the making before you started HRT. I suggest you follow Dr. Barbara Taylor ( Menopause Taylor) here on KZbin. She is THE EXPERT in Menopause.

[@loneranger7573]

@@melymel36 only if your hrt is oral. transdermal does not affect thyroid absorption of meds. I am on NDT also and HRT. I take 3 grains in winter, usually go down half to a grain in summer. take estrogel and prometrium. allgood

[@jenniferr4041]

Weight gain and feeling premenstrual constantly. My OBGYN offered oral combo. It improved my sleep and hot flashes are gone. I’ve been on them 3 months and question if it worth it. The weight gain is depressing.

[@user-qw8no5bl5m]

Maybe try adding testosterone?

[@everhappy6312]

Me too. The weight gain is making me so upset.

[@questioneverything1776]

Get off the oral estrogen, do patch.

[@cyndi01]

@@everhappy6312I just stopped my Estrogen & progesterone because of extreme weight gain. I lasted a mth ON those hormones. I couldn’t even fit into my clothes. Has your weight gain subsided any?

[@user-gm8qo2ps3x]

Thanks so much for all this information so reassuring Denise liverpool England

[@delenevanniekerk930]

Thank you só much. This is spot on and was very helpful.

[@ariesloveandlight5367]

Thank you ,I’m excited to start hrt.

[@harpertatman]

Ever hear of having contraindications of hrt with cortisone injections? Before hrt the injections didn’t give me bleeding, but after starting hrt, the injections caused horrible cramping and bleeding for 6 months. My doctors didn’t believe me that the two were related, but my ob gyn found research backing me up.

[@everhappy6312]

Started HRT few months ago and my weight is creeping up. I have never in my entire 53 years old life been at 170 lb. Same food, same exercise routine...same everything.

[@tnt01]

Less carbs, more protein and fats. Less cardio more weights. And of course, less calories in than out. Do not consume alcohol and sugar if possible, makes a huge difference.

[@ileanamurias922]

Great information. Do these side effects get better over time? I just started and side effects are not great

[@poukeman2012]

Thank you so much for sharing 🙏🏼

[@happygoluckystar8069]

Very valuable content 👍👍 the only thing that is bothering is the sound and echo. Anything that could be improved?

[@dorothygale5032]

Yeh I found the sound annoying

[@brianne571]

100 mg progesterone pill patch. So droggy couldn't drive, but never so calm before like that part. Plus waves of nausea. I stopped very sedating.

[@deeburrell4897]

Take progesterone at night bbe it has a calming effect to it .

[@sunnievictoria9917]

@@deeburrell4897 no it causes sedation all day

[@jh9912]

My weight did go up 10 lbs overnight when i started low dose patch. Doesn't bother me because i work out 5 days a week. But i do wonder if anyone else had this? And is that indication that maybe estrogen too high? I thought maybe weight would adjust, but it has been 7 months.

[@mdaze9753]

Estrogen causes fluid retention, while progesterone, since it has a diuretic effect reduces that extra fluid. This extra water weight tends to make women feel bloated and can be 5 or more pounds. Are you taking progesterone as well ? Maybe it's too low for the amount of estrogen you are taking?

[@jh9912]

@@mdaze9753 I do not have uterus, so no progesterone. I am on 0.25 patch. My weight went up in a few days of starting.

[@SirenaSpades]

I'm finding that too. I'm going to start a low dose testostrone to fight that. I've been working out 6 days a week but the weight keeps going up. I started at 118 and 9 weeks in I'm at 126 already.

[@r-anne7375]

@@mdaze9753 Its just the opposite for me. I'm on estrogen and I cycle in the progesterone. During the time I'm on the progesterone, I gain so much weight and I'm bloated and moody, just like it used to be before my period. Wish I could stop the progesterone and just do estrogen only, but I have to protect my uterus.

[@jh9912]

@@cathy2893 Sorry to hear that, but it is good to know someone else is experiencing this too. I didn't know that testosterone could help. Thanks! I will look into that.

[@4everyoung24]

I’ve been on Estradial patch, oral micronized progesterone, and intravaginal testosterone. I was put on HRT to treat osteoporosis (as part of a comprehensive plan). Prior to HRT I had mild-moderate insomnia and mild to moderate urinary incontinence. I have been in it about a month and a half and my sleep is great and I have some reduced I continence. However, I have developed the brain fog that most women say disappears when they start HRT! Like for REAL brain fog. I’m scheduling a follow up because this is not good!

[@MH-yh8rz]

I’ve been on Prometrium for 3 months with breast tenderness as my only problem. Not taking estrogen yet. I don’t want to give up my Prometrium because I sleep so well. Does having only one side effect mean I’m intolerant to progesterone? I would rather live with breast tenderness if it means I sleep better.

[@Elena-rt9yu]

What about testosterone? We need all 3

[@theloveofgardening1928]

What about chest pain and burning. Rapid heart rate ... I can't find anything on it.

[@rgomoffat]

1. Bleeding. 2.Breast tenderness. 3.HRT isn't working. Adjust the doses or change formulas.

[@innabanai7905]

I really want to give HRT a chance but had migraine headaches at the start of bio identical HRT - patch 0.025 and 100 of Progesterone … for 3 months everyday that was unbearable so had to stop HRT 😢 I have tried twice in past 3 years / have history of migraines with aura that actually almost disappeared post menopause ..so disappointed

[@MadFair]

Not sure if this will help but there is some anecdotal evidence that taking the progesterone vaginally (or rectally) reduces some of the more unpleasant side effects. Maybe look at some of the message boards and see what people are saying.

[@Theorist9]

Same! I also have a history of migraines. I tried progesterone a few months ago and had to stop after 2 weeks because of the horrible headaches. I tried progesterone again about 3 weeks ago and the headaches are just unbearable, so I stopped again. I will be talking to my Dr. about either a lower dose or a different option. I cannot function with those headaches. I wouldn't describe them as migraines, but they aren't too far off.

[@miaash3870]

Look into your diet!

[@chart2]

Thank you.

[@therapeuticeating]

So if you have breakthrough bleeding does that mean we SHOULD adjust the hormone level or wait to acclimate to the new level? Does this symptom go away over time? At what time (month marker) should we change the dose?

[@jeand7768]

Same question. I heard it’s ok to bleed but also heard it’s dangerous if the lining is building up. Confusing!

[@foziakhan7680]

I’m on bioidentical Please share your thoughts Thank You😊

[@claudiac7346]

Great video! I am 54, started on HRT four months ago, had some ocasional bleeding and had an ultrasound that shows uterus lining 3mm,and my gynaecologist suggested going on higher dose of estrogen from a transdermal 50 mcg to 75 mcg to fix the bleeding,does that make sense?

[@starrkaralius2152]

I had dizziness, nausea, bleeding(had two periods in 1 month) hot flashes increased, horrible insomnia and anxiety. I've realized I'm having Estrogen dominace and need to increase progesterone. I wish my doctor had helped me. He said you have to wait 3 months since we just upped your estrogen, so he wouldn't raise my progesterone dose. I felt I was gonna die, my anxiety was so intense and aches in pains in my body also. It basically worsened my imbalance. I wish you could be my doctor Heather Hirsch!!

[@Artysmarty150]

He sounds terrible. I’d go to someone else! But I know that’s easier said than done. I hope you get an answer soon.

[@DisneyLissy]

I’m so sorry you had to go through this. I hope you get some relief soon

[@SirenaSpades]

That is really dramatic. All you would have to do is remove the patch. Estrogen dominance, really?

[@colettelundin713]

I had the same experience. I ended up switching doctors due to slow response to my symptoms. It really sucks and shuts you down. I also had extreme fatigue.

[@debbiedejager2948]

It is more expensive but, I would only have my HRT journey managed by an HRT specialist gynaecologist. I read time & again how women suffer because their HRT has been badly managed by a GP who has little if any knowledge about The Menopause.

[@bondjane007]

How do U know which route is best for a patient without just guessing? What do u do for us to know what is right for our body?? What test do U do for us to know what might B the best hormone replacement therapy for OUT body??

[@webbotubes]

I am 35 just started HRT - feel very lost. I was so ill before though! What if you are still on the contrecptive pill?

[@patriciapyper4617]

Yes neausa vertigo and sore joints l am on evorol Conti patches ❤

[@shebyt9327]

Love this information!! Been dealing with spotting since August when i started hrt and then changed it in January. The dose of estrogen I'm on right now (1g Divigel plus 100mg progesterone) barely helps my hot flashes (it does help many other things). I'm afraid if I decrease the estrogen my hot flashes will get worse plus then I may be in for another 6 months of spotting bc I changed things. See how confusing this is?!? I just know I'm so tired of the spotting.

[@sweetpeace5]

Up the progesterone to 200mg

[@stephaniehughes901]

Ive been on an estradial patch and progesterone pill. My symptoms started coming back, so i asked my doc about T . She did bloodwork then prescribed estratest. Im afraid to fill it,because ive bever heard about it. How do u feel about it? Thanks

[@wearelegion1163]

I'm 66, went thru menopause at 58. Just started HRT Combipatch about 4 months ago. No side effects as far as I can tell. How do we know if it's working? Are there blood tests we should be getting to check hormone levels?

[@DisneyLissy]

I just started the Combipatch last week and I’m having horrible cramps 😭

[@Karikk72]

I was told if yu see 70-80% improvement in symptoms, then yu are on the correct dose ! If not, meet with doctor again

[@SirenaSpades]

Usually the doctor schedules a follow up to do a full panel blood test

[@K-E2019]

How are your symptoms? My symptoms were pretty much gone after just a few days.

[@nancypisani7229]

did your insurance cover the combipatch>? My doc wouldnt give to me bc she said it isnt covered? I have great insurance but i feel she didnt want to give me.

[@charocflores]

Dr. Heather, I have tried gels, creams , vagifem, all made my vulva on one side burn, it won't go away. Now I am trying the patch. I makes me extremely drowsy and gave me a horrible headache that made me almost cry. I cut the patch's half and left the other half on my lower abdomen. It was just 0.025mcg. to begin with. Today I was not as drowsy but still took me 2 hrs. to be back to normal after waking up. My one side of the vulva burns and burns since 2 hrs. after I applied the patch. Don't know what to do. Please give me your opinion. Thank you so much for this education!

[@bridge7528]

Started on hrt a few years ago. I’ve always had migraines (maybe 10 a year ) but began getting them weekly (Tuesday or Wednesday). I asked my doctor if she thought it was hrt(she didn’t) saw a neurologist and asked if he thought it was hrt( he didn’t). He just prescribed migraine medication. I saw a gynecologist and asked if she thought it was hrt( she didn’t). I decided to listen to my gut and stopped hrt in January. I’ve only had one migraine since then. Has anyone else experienced this? I really want to go back on for all the other benefits. It was the patch and progesterone that I was taking. Even went to 1/2 a patch. Any suggestions?

[@erinwhitney2028]

I may be similar…47 & migraines had tapered down but then I started 0.05 estrogen w 100mg prog. Had a horrible migraine which was likely bc I was a day late changing the patch. Had horrible migraines on birth control pills earlier in life and no one connected. When I stopped the BCP, the migraines improved (less intense and less frequent). I’m going to give this 6 months and see if it happens again but if so, I will know exogenous hormones are problematic for me.

[@sunnysal3889]

Taking HRT daily (continuous not sequential) minimized migraines for me. However, when I tried progesterone, it gave me an instant migraine. Even when I tried it vaginally and every other day. I went back to my previous progestin.

[@therapeuticeating]

My worst symptom: IBS, loose stools. What’s up with that? Also, bleeding.

[@agnesjuhasz7715]

I am 49, still having periods, but I am experiencing low to no libido, brainfog and dry eyes. I have just been finally prescribed HRT, but am a little bit confused about it: I was advised to start on the fifth day on my next period, and should use for 21 days: first 11 days only estrogen (gel), 10 days estrogen+progesterone (gel+tablet), then 7 days full stop. I have never seen a dosage like this, I only hear about continuous usage. Does anyone have experinece?

[@loriwestern9103]

Thank you, for posting this, started hrt 2 weeks in started bleeding, trying to consult with my obgyn on which way to proceed.

[@cherylsHTX]

I am on estrogen and Progesterone. I take them at night and now I sleep so hard and deep that even sleeping 12 hours does not feel like enough. I wake up groggy and feeling like someone drugged me. To me this is worse than the insomnia.

[@miaash3870]

Clearly you need a lower dose! Estrogen in pill form is damaging to the liver!

[@sunnievictoria9917]

that is progesterone, it causes drowsiness

[@user-en7ds5vq7s]

Has anyone in menopause had an all of a sudden intolerance to caffeine? My body started to act strange on coffee my passion and my now only reason i would get up in the morning. Its been 4 months of no coffee and i am so depressed and hoping in a year i can have coffee again. Tried other things teas juice etc no go oatmilk shot blood sugar juice shot blood sugar i only want coffee! Anyone else have this happen where coffee makes you feel almost high?

[@loneranger7573]

Yep, no more coffee for me, I have dreams about it I love it so much but it wrecks me, it makes my blood sugar go up, my anxiety go up, and doesnt even wake me up. Also I can no longer tolerate any alcohol. I get smashed on 1 drink or 1 big glass of wine. very sensitive now. I switched to Tea, and only have coffee with a small breakfast. not on empty stomach.

[@user-en7ds5vq7s]

@loneranger7573 thank you for letting me know I have not tried with anything like food yet I found out I have mycotoxin poisoning now too which isn't helping and I have issue with an ovary and my endo. Dr appt not till the 17th so I am flying blind and annoyed till then I guess

[@annegabels6680]

only one is chin cystic acne...terrible? any other options. Derm said it is the progesterone part.???

[@patriciahoneysuckle7310]

so, I frequently have breast tenderness so I am wondering if I start HRT will it continue or get worse.

[@kathyg8684]

Great video!!

[@joannbarrientes4996]

I got spotting, cramps for days, got scared, got off , had to get biopsy, biopsy was normal, i,m frustrated , can,t find a dr, talked to 3 so far

[@cyndieK1]

How long after you started hrt that you started bleeding?

[@DeyaIV]

Interesting! Wow, so many kinds of hormones, dosing and forms on how to take them. It seems like could be very complicated 🫣😩 only menopausal women can start HRT? Or women in perimenopause can start taking hormones?

[@sweetpeace5]

Perimenopause if you have an educated doctor! No reason to suffer for years leading up to ceasing periods altogether as many women do.

[@jeanheffernan4715]

1. Bleeding 2. Breast tenderness 3. Isn’t working

[@olderandwiser127]

switch to topical application. Makes a huge difference. you can DIY. Eat low carb ketogenic diet such as carnivore.

[@bc15540]

I am wondering if continuous progesterone in perimenopause can cause frequent spotting.

[@giuseppinasanger6410]

Yes and I’d like to know if taking it continuously causes a tolerance after a while and reduces the sleep benefits??

[@kendrarobison4886]

I developed sores on my tongue. Not sure if this side effect will go away or if I should try a different form of estradiol. I have tried oral and the gel.

[@heynedajoon]

Is oral estrogen best taken in the morning or at night? I want to take half the dose now

[@Artysmarty150]

I had breast tenderness for the first three weeks, but it’s not so bad now. I’m going for my first follow-up on Thursday. What questions should I ask? Should I have my hormone levels tested?

[@SirenaSpades]

Wow. My first followup was scheduled almost 3 months out. They are definitely doing a full panel.

[@mariaserapio924]

I'm using pallet to treat my menopause. How can I ask my MS to switch me to FDA approve HTR.

[@sweetpeace5]

Pellets are really the worst form of HRT whether you feel good or not. There is no adjusting so if you suddenly start bleeding (too much estrogen) you cannot take it out. Majority of docs that really know their stuff say they are just a big money maker & bordering on malpractice.

[@ny_njtrailrunnert926]

I wish these doctors who advocate HRT would provide a 30 or 40 minute video providing evidence based medical data and published articles that contain current research about risks, including, but not limited to breast cancer. They should do a literature review going through the data and sample sizes used in the studies, including what types of women were studied and look at the percentages of each of the side effects impacting each group. If they want to be of service to menopausal women, this would be a great starting point. It won’t make them as much money as pushing HRT and making these women consumers for life.

[@sunnysal3889]

Doctor Mary Claire Haver has a new book called The New Menopause, that has been #1 on the New York Times bestseller list for 3 weeks running. It comes with all the receipts, data and studies that are finally taking place again, since the horrible WHI study has been debunked. One is, “Use of menopausal hormone therapy beyond age 65 years and its effects on women's health outcomes by types, routes, and doses”, 2024, in the Journal of Menopause.

[@beatricefrask5230]

Thank you Doctor !

[@nazeeniranfar2616]

Thank you for this informative video. I heard that to fully get the benefit of HRT on bones we have to take the whole 50 microgram of estrodile in the parch! Is this true or halving the patch still works positively to protect the bones?

[@sabinelloyd8532]

I was on HRT for 12 years and felt great. 5 years after stopping I still get occasional hot flushes and my skin is very dry.

[@loneranger7573]

Then why did you stop? its not just for flashes, its for quality of life. hormones are the messengers of your body processes. I have been on hrt for 14 years and will never stop. I have very oily skin now and the occasional chin or forehead zits, i'm fine with that. no wrinkles when your skin is moist and oily!

[@sabinelloyd8532]

@@loneranger7573 doctors here felt I had been on them too long. More risk of breast cancer and strokes. I do take a herbal product that I buy in Germany. I'm in the Netherlands

[@karenflynn147]

Why did you stop taking the hormones your body needs to maintain your health? You are now predisposing yourself to not only the hot flashes and other symptoms but osteoporosis, dementia and cardiovascular disease that the hormones protect us against as we age after menopause.

[@lyndengeo]

The progesterone stopped me. I turned into a zombie and had blurred eyesight.

[@bobbielute4946]

Do you discuss surgical menopause

[@bobkatc9368]

I have dry mouth and burning tongue... I'm on .05 estrogen patch and 100 mg progesterine. Have you found increasing levels helps this symptom?

[@monicathrasher3561]

I’m sorry no one answered you. Please check our pain free you videos. I use to battle with dry eyes and mouth, so much better now

[@annetcell-ly4571]

What age group are you talking about?!If you’re on hormones for life does that mean the uterus sheds even when you’re 80? Or does it settle down after 6months no matter what age you start? Do older women need more or less?

[@jeannejones5449]

Thank you you’re the best💐

[@questioneverything1776]

Once I started progesterone that made all hell break loose! Super sensitive to progesterone, increasing moodiness, depression, breakouts, spotting, breast tenderness. I’m afraid of the IUD. Other ppl sensitive to progesterone that I know didn’t tolerate the IUD either

[@jenniefoucheaux4647]

Thank you for your post, I am also intolerant of progesterone and wondered if the IUD would be more of the same....except require an appointment for removal.

[@questioneverything1776]

@@jenniefoucheaux4647 it may work for you because for some ppl it does. I just can’t afford to lose my mind to find out. I need to be productive and work. When I was on progesterone I tanked mentally and couldn’t work, but I didn’t know it was the progesterone until I stopped taking it.

[@patriciapyper4617]

Were is the best place to put evorol Conti patches please thank you ♥️🌹

[@juliestapleton589]

It will say on the box or you can google it.

[@nkmkmommy]

Is the bleeding similar to a normal cycle or is it a continuous bleeding until the body adjusts?

[@anne-louisegoldie]

What if you are post menopausal, already on 100mcg patch and think you are absorbing it alright, but blood oestradiol is below 250pmol /L, and isn't adequate for bone loss protection? Gels and sprays already tried, so I believe it's the dose and not the absorption that may be the issue. At higher risk for osteoporosis due to autoimmune conditions. Thank you 😊xx

[@newclee]

If I may, in the video Dr speaks about changing the route, from transdermal to oral.

[@joan.nao1246]

Transdermal absorption is definitely a problem for many. Oral or inserted pellets might be your next trial.

[@anne-louisegoldie]

@@newcleethank you 😊Unfortunately, oral oestrogen isn't an option for me.

[@newclee]

@@anne-louisegoldie It would seem that you would need to make an appointment with a professional in this area. This way they can work with your individual needs. I hope you are able to find what you need soon!

[@erlindawilson8294]

Hello there Dr Hirsch! Thank you so much for all that you do for a lot of women! I had learned so much from you through you Chanel. I learned so much from you throughout my menopause journey. I need to know more. Please let me know how can I help get a hold of you to know more about. I have a lot more questions. I’m in a small town of Nebraska. Please help. Thank you so much! I 1:13

[@TracyD.-wp8yx]

Check her website. I believe her online medical practice has a provider in Nebraska

[@nancyg9318]

I am only on progesterone 10 days every 3 months with .75 patch. I bleed a lot. Is this a typical dose?

[@carmaela2689]

I didn't just get tenderness, I got a very large lump in my right breast that I have to go have checked now!

[@NiaLaLa_V]

Is there a YOU on the west coast, Seattle area? Preferably one who might be kind to uninsured patients who can't afford to get it wrong.

[@duchessdelarue5983]

If you start taking bio identical hormones before you are at the end of menopause (before you have gone a year without getting a period) will you continue getting periods and essentially never get to the end of menopause(when you stop getting periods)? Or will you eventually stop getting periods either way?

[@everydaymelinda5488]

When I stop my progesterone (100 mg) the breast soreness goes away. Could it just be too high of a dose for the dose of estrogen I'm taking? My blood levels are still low.

[@bondjane007]

Don't U test the person to see what does of each thing they need? I heard they need all 3 hormones for it to work right for some woman, maybe all.

[@sunnievictoria9917]

every doctor should test

[@lf9341]

Does anyone know how quickly HRT kicks in? I can't sleep with the hot flashes.

[@patriciapyper4617]

I can't see my doctor for a appointment

[@mumzthewurd1]

What about bleeding and pelvic pain after 3 years of HRT?

[@yvonnevalery60]

If you have been post menopausal for 8 - 9 years with the only side effects being ringing in the ears and feeling bloated in the stomach, otherwise healthy and fit 59 yr old. Is HRT still recommended?

[@user-qw8no5bl5m]

I’m sure it is!!

[@jeand7768]

Did you get a dexa? HRT protects bones. I wish I knew this sooner and started earlier.

[@karenflynn147]

Look up Dr Mary Claire Haver & the Galveston Diet. She will educate you as to why we need our hormones for our entire lives, even more importantly post menopause! They basically protect us from the ravages of the diseases of old age!

[@joankasayer5633]

I have bleeding was unpleasant and stop HR

[@lynel2765]

Can HRT ( patch & progesterone pill) be taken while on Letrozole for a stage 1 breast cancer ? Having very bad hot flashes as well as incontinence

[@everhappy6312]

For incontinence you can use Estradiol vaginal cream as it is not systemic...it only stays in the vagina apparently. I follow Menopause Taylor here on KZbin. She is a Gynecologist, Lawyer with a MBA...she really knows her specialty.

[@sweetpeace5]

Most physicians would be adamantly against HRT when you’ve had BC. But the ones in the know (really educated) say quite the opposite. There is a doctor extremely well versed in BC/HRT that has some incredible info I first heard her interview on FLCCC Alliance.

[@rocioloera5439]

I been having it for more than a year 😢

[@mdaze9753]

Heather, you did not mention taking oral progesterone vaginally. Is this a viable option for women who are having trouble taking progesterone orally and transdermally? I am having difficulty with the mental side effects of progesterone. Thank you.

[@elenasalisbury8282]

Have been inserting vaginally for 8 months. Once a day before bed. It works really work for me

[@SirenaSpades]

I don't know about others, but I have an IUD which I am very happy with, it provides the progestrone and I never have to mess with it. Also no cycles, which is the best part!

[@user-ev5zq1vf5h]

I also feel very blue and anxious on progesterone

[@K-E2019]

I figured out very quickly that I was intolerant to the micronized progesterone. I had to switch to the “ less natural “ one but that was fine with me . I would have been completely non-functional if I had stayed on the micronized.

[@rsj722]

What did you switch to and is it working? I have same issue.

[@causticchameleon7861]

Can you have bleeding from HRT after you’ve had a uterine ablation?