What is HRT? + Liz's thoughts on natural menopause remedies | Liz Earle Wellbeing

Liz Earle returns with her menopause series. This week, she answers your questions about HRT. What is HRT? What age can I take it? How long can I take HRT for? She also discusses the idea of natural menopause remedies and shares her thoughts on helpful herbs.
Resources mentioned in the episode:
The NICE prescribing guidelines for menopause: www.nice.org.u...
The Truth about HRT: lizearlewellbe...
The Truth about Menopause: lizearlewellbe...
The Good Menopause Guide: lizearlewellbe...
The Menopause Doctor website: www.menopaused...

[@plainjane7083]

I can’t believe this, I started menopause at 53 and was immediately put on anti depressants. I ended up losing the job that I loved and not recognizing myself. Thank you so much, I am calling my doctor first thing tomorrow .

[@biorbforum]

Amazing information! Every female and GP in the world should be shown this! Xxx

[@rosequartz7841]

At 61 I've struggled with each stage. Anti depressants! Etc Different hrt Depression Insomnia etc....herbs! I wrote to him and he rang me at work and I felt his push back but reiterated my needs , struggles and symptoms that were impacting my life beyond words. Now I'm on patches, drinking lots, resting and being active and now feeling a much needed shift after intermittent reprieve. Thank you Liz, I wish my mom had known this !xxx

[@lizearlewellbeing]

Glad you're feeling okay and find our content helpful!

[@cathylarsen7300]

Hi Liz, I'm commenting from New Zealand. I'm starting on my body identical micronised progesterone plus transdermal estradot today after a) reading your book and reading Louise's book b) doing my own research c) availing myself with the Greene climactic scale d) being fully prepared for my doctors appointment, I guess I'm now at the start gate. Thanks for all your time and energy you put into reaching woman like me and others 🙏

[@lizearlewellbeing]

This is really good to read, hope you find it helpful

[@samanthabrankin9592]

Thank you so much for all you are doing on HRT I had been on Premarin since I was 33 (hysterectomy) I am now 54! after listening about this tablet I am now on Estrogel 😀😀 so much info I never knew about HRT thank you Liz 🙏🏻

[@lynnstew7409]

Thank you. I have learned alot watching your videos and feel alot more confident on my journey with hrt.

[@daisymermaid1418]

Thank you for doing this Liz, my Gp is so awkward and against HRT it's such a challenge to get anywhere with them.

[@nickyvallis5616]

This is such helpful & life changing information for women. I think you keep it real Liz & use only evidence & scientific based research with your knowledge & wisdom together that has helped so many. Thank you! X

[@lizearlewellbeing]

So good to hear this is useful - thanks so much!

[@sylviahamilton6038]

Thank you for this, I’m now 50 years old haven’t had a period for over a year. I’ve had mild hot flushes and anxiety. However my point pains are getting unbearable. 2 years ago I was diagnosed with severe bone on bone osteoarthritis in my left hip, my consultant advised me a total hip replacement was the only option. Thankfully I had this procedure in 2020 at the age of 49 and it has been life changing. I remain active looking after and riding my horse, walking my dog and weekly Pilates classes. My BMI. Is 25-26 so I’m not really overweight. I’ve been in touch with my gp who is referring me for tests with the nurse clinic, hopefully they will decide that hrt is right for me. I am keen to preserve my joint health especially as I have mild arthritis in my right hip, left knee, hands and ankles but the pain is very real.

[@lizearlewellbeing]

Glad you found it helpful. Sending lots of love!

[@lisahill1304]

Thank you Liz: I’ve learned a lot by listening to you and also put my mind at rest. Massively knowledgable 😍

[@lizearlewellbeing]

You're so welcome!

[@rhonamorrell5827]

Thank you for your continued support: Your videos are empowering to women.

[@belindabayfield698]

Oh my goodness Lizard, thank you for your shared info re HRT. Both my sister and I decided to seek the advise of a specialist in London re hrt as we were not getting anywhere with our GPS. To cut a long story short 18mths ago I lost my sis ter to colon cancer at the age of 56. So many times since her death I have questioned whether or not hurt had any part in this. With your very quick statement about osteoporosis, heart disease and colon cancer you have put my troubled mind at rest. For that I am very grateful 🙏💖

[@belindabayfield698]

Sorry about the lizard bit 😬😅 predictive text 😠😠😠

[@lizearlewellbeing]

@@belindabayfield698 😂😂 Liz and the team here found that so funny!! The studies show HRT cuts colon cancer risk by 30%. So very sorry to hear of your loss and very pleased to have helped ease your mind. Best wishes, Annie.

[@wildviewretreat8807]

Excellent - sending to my female family members !! Thank you

[@lizearlewellbeing]

Wonderful to hear, thank you

[@cecilysabino3475]

I am astounded I have been on HRT for 30 years , since my hysterectomy I was on Premarin ☹️Since my own research I am now on Oestrogel and awaiting an NHS appointment at a Menopause Clinic . Thank you for your podcast ❤️

[@lizearlewellbeing]

❤️

[@gudginfamilyvideos9576]

In Endometriosis awareness month, can you talk about how HRT can affect endometriosis? I suffered with this since age 12 but was only diagnosed in my 30’s for fertility reasons. Having suffered for over 30 years I had a hysterectomy and following your informative posts and Dr Louise Newson, the menopause dr, am finally on HRT, though still battling for testosterone! I had thought that if I took HRT my endometriosis could flare up again. Can’t thank you both enough.

[@sharonpurcell2580]

Excellent overview. So much helpful information. Keep up the good work!

[@lizearlewellbeing]

Thank you so much!

[@lisab9734]

Best video I have seen that has made me feel safe about hrt. Thank you x

[@lizearlewellbeing]

and thank you ❤️

[@colettemuir1967]

Thank you for your reply I have I rang my doctor and asked for 1 that knew more about menapause I mentioned liz and louise Newson and she said she loves them has learnt a lot from them I am now on everol patchs been about 7 week I feel great not 100% but sleeping so much better feel like I can look forward now thank you so much for all your advice if id not stumbled upon your blogs I would probably still be stuck in that horrible state I was in x

[@zoerichardson995]

Thank you Liz, I used the Greene Climatic Scale today on my telephone review appointment. After 5 weeks on a starter dose of HRT with no improvement my GP increased the dose over the phone. A further review due in 4 weeks.

[@lizearlewellbeing]

Do make sure you are using Estrogel and not Estrodose (peel away the sticker on the pack if using the gel form), just in case! More info on this on our website here: lizearlewellbeing.com/healthy-living/menopause/oestrodose-oestrogel-what-you-need-to-know/

[@justinedowell4023]

Thank you 😊 for doing this very helpful

[@lizearlewellbeing]

Thanks!

[@Shushun_q]

Thank you so much for this🙏🏽💕

[@lizearlewellbeing]

❤️

[@bernadetteoconnor5684]

Thank you soooo much for replying ❤️

[@yvonnepiper55]

Hi Liz. Your HRT videos are so informative!! Can you get the plant based, yam derived HRT from your GP? I'm on the Evorel Sequi combination patches but I have contacted my doctor and these are not plant based. The progestogen element is synthetic...

[@lisaewin2221]

Thank you again Liz. Are there any particular ones I should ask the gp for. I’ve felt very nervous to take. But after watching this I feel more comfortable xx

[@lizearlewellbeing]

Do read Liz's guide on all things HRT! lizearlewellbeing.com/product/the-truth-about-hrt/

[@donnasampson3140]

So when the time comes for me to come off the mini pill hrt is gonna be the path i go down . Thank you for the info so helpful x

[@samchant-summers5382]

Me too! Xx

[@lizearlewellbeing]

Really pleased to hear this was helpful - thanks so much for sharing!

[@bernadetteoconnor5684]

Hi Liz, am 63 and i know by listening to your podcasts etc, that my struggle has been my menopause, to much to go into, but i have no energy, underactive thyroid (hashimotos), i get excruciating headaches especially sharp stabbing pains near my hypothalamus in my head, low mood was described antidepressants, cryed out for help but wouldnt give me hrt, ten years ago now, am i to late to try hrt, still have my womb,

[@lizearlewellbeing]

No it's never too late to start - would recommend taking a look at the resources on Menopause Doctor www.menopausedoctor.co.uk/ and also having a watch of Liz's video on how to talk to your GP about menopause kzbin.info/www/bejne/pmbZfZ6NiMeGfKc

[@rosequartz7841]

What a help this is. X

[@lizearlewellbeing]

Glad to hear!

[@biancabulloch1160]

Thank you so much for your help on this very important subject. I am 50 and have been having some symptoms for a few months. This morning I had a phone consultation with my doctor. Thanks to you talking about the NICE guidelines I felt confident on what I wanted and what was available and will be picking up my oestrogen gel and progesterone capsules this week.

[@lizearlewellbeing]

This is really good to read - thanks so much for sharing

[@samanthakatecreates6179]

Thankyou so much for this

[@fernblack5259]

The list of affects, not side effects, sound very serious. I have been reading the info sheet with my hrt.

[@lizearlewellbeing]

Do speak to your GP if you have any concerns!

[@hassinamotala3101]

Great info.... my gynae is reluctant to put me on HRT because I have a history of breast cancer from my maternal side..& I am already hypertensive...what is your advise for me? I had aTAH/BSO 4years ago....

[@lizearlewellbeing]

Do please read Liz's guide on all this here: lizearlewellbeing.com/product/the-truth-about-hrt/

[@Ava-lm1zy]

Could you do a video on the difference between Oestrogel and Sandrina if any please thanks.

[@valeriebrodie7135]

Thankyou Liz, this has been very informative and it has eased my mind about hrt also.

[@lizearlewellbeing]

Glad it was helpful!

[@hjhhtyu1244]

I am meriem from Morocco Thanks for your useful vidéos, i will start using HRT ,but unfortunately ,they are not available in Morocco,but i will ask a friend to sent them from France....massive Thanks

[@lizearlewellbeing]

You are welcome!

[@nellsands5679]

Hi Liz. Could I please have the name of the progesterone capsule you recommended. Thank you

[@lizearlewellbeing]

it is called Utrogestan. Do download Liz's guide to HRT here: lizearlewellbeing.com/product/the-truth-about-hrt/

[@karenmasterman5876]

Do you know of any doctors or clinics within Canada (specifically Calgary or Vancouver area) who are not against HRT? I am 61 and know that I would benefit, but cannot find anyone to listen. Every time I try to discuss it I’m told the risks outweigh the benefits and am told antidepressants or counselling is the way to go!!! I’m at my wits end.

[@lizearlewellbeing]

Apologies we don't, but it would be worth checking on the International Menopause Society Website or perhaps asking the team at menopaaudedoctor.co.uk. Hope this helps and very best wishes, Annie x

[@karenmasterman5876]

@@lizearlewellbeing thank you Annie, I will definitely look.

[@pappacicciafulham]

Great clear advise. My Gp (Male) turned me down and offered me the pill! I went down the private route and take the same things as Liz. My new GP now prescribes it to me on the NHS. I also take DHEA, can you do a talk on that?

[@kimkas26]

Hi if you don't mind can i ask what it is you take x

[@pappacicciafulham]

@@kimkas26 Hi yes, the estro gel 1 pump morning 1 at night - utrogestan at night and DHEA 25mg in the morning300 Vegetarian Tablets Brand: EuroVital. DHEA was prescribed by a private HRT doctor and now I buy it online

[@lizearlewellbeing]

Very interesting and we shall investigate! Thanks for the suggestion :)

[@HJ-vu2my]

Started using bio identical progesterone and 2 pumps of Oestrogel after 8 days it has made absolutely no difference to night sweats and sleepless nights. Is there a better place on the body for it to absorb better. Using on my upper outer arms or do I just have wait for it to take effect (2 separate blood tests consistent with menopause High LH/FSH and low Oestrogen). Many thanks 😊

[@heatheringram2976]

I’m 51 and started taking HRT two months ago. It got rid of hot flashes which is brilliant. But the progesterone has caused my ligaments to loosen. I dislocated my knee very easily rolling over. I’m unsteady walking. My knees are very stiff. I feel older than I did before taking it. I wasn’t told this could happen at all.

[@lizearlewellbeing]

Do speak to your doctor if you have any concerns!

[@esthergomezjimenez9487]

Thank you so very much for me timely information, have your book and have read It twice. In the process of talking to my gynaecologist about this. My mother and grandmother had breast cancer, and my father had hodgins disease. So have felt that the specialist is some what reluctant to prescribe H R T. Should I still push for it? Much love from Spain

[@lizearlewellbeing]

Lots of specific medical information on cancer risk etc on www.menopausedoctor.co.uk website. Depends on so many factors, including age of your mother and grandmother etc. Estrogel Matters, the book by Prof. Avrun Bluming is worth a read. As is Liz's guide The Truth About HRT. Hope this is helpful.

[@esthergomezjimenez9487]

@@lizearlewellbeing thank you will do🤗

[@colettemuir1967]

Some great advice I never thought how I am feeling is down to menapause my only problem is I had blood clots 3 years ago so dont think I can take HRT Im going to speak to my doctor has anyone else had this problem are you taking anything that helps.

[@lizearlewellbeing]

No risk with blood clots with transdermal HRT (patches, gels, sprays) and by-passes the clotting factors in the liver. More info on www.menopausedoctor.co.uk on this. hope helpful.

[@colettemuir1967]

Are leg cramps and pain in ankles common when starting HRT patchs Ive been on them for about 7 week Thanks

[@PurePeacePower]

@@colettemuir1967 have these cramps just started since you started HRT?

[@colettemuir1967]

Hi yes but They have stopped now so maybe it was just my body getting used to them

[@sarahkenworthy1702]

Does the mirena coil have progestergens ? I am now concerned that the mirena isn’t safe ? Thankyou though for the information on HRT .

[@lizearlewellbeing]

Yes it does, but in very tiny amount (equivalent to one capsule of Utrogerstan!), so is considered extremely safe. It is also localised, ie it stays in the uterus and is not systemic. You can find more information in Liz's guide The Truth About HRT as well as on www.menopausedoctor.co.uk. Hope this is helpful.

[@sarahkenworthy1702]

Thankyou for the quick reply. 😀

[@mariereagan353]

Hi Liz, wow thank you so much for explaining what HRT is, I'm struggling with chronic due to hip screw and I have fibrous dysplasia, arthritis, headaches , carrying too much weight around my middle, why has my GP not ever recommended me this ? Do you think if I get them to give the estrogel it will help me lose weight and I'm often tired, no energy and sleep is dire very disturbed ?

[@lizearlewellbeing]

Do please listen to Liz's Friday Five podcast (last Friday) with Dr Louise Newson on this very subject! Hope helpful.

[@juliapollitt8291]

Would Estrogel be suitable for a migraine sufferer. I’m 54 and peri menopausal. Thanks

[@lizearlewellbeing]

Many women with migraine use Estrogel, yes. Hope helpful.

[@sharonspiers1576]

Hi thanks for this information it’s really helpful. I am 52 nearly and have mild symptoms. Slight brain fog at certain times, mood swings, etc I still have heavy periods so my doctor has suggested the mirena coil. Then further down the line she said can discuss oestrogen options. Can you please advise? Thank you

[@lizearlewellbeing]

Hi Sharon - while Liz can't offer individual advice would definitely recommend heading to www.menopausedoctor.co.uk/ as lots of super useful info there :)

[@bredaducie8432]

Hi, liz ,my doctor put me on the hrt patch conti is it normal to be put on the 50 first instead of the 25 thanks .just curios .

[@lizearlewellbeing]

We can't offer individual medical advice so do speak to your GP if you have any concerns about your prescription 💕

[@susaneldridge6415]

I am very interested in what you say but can i ask what qualifies you to give all this information ?

[@lizearlewellbeing]

Liz has written three books on the subject (endorsed by leading professors who are specialists in this field) and is an official ambassador for The Menopause Society.

[@KnoxvilleHoopMama]

Great question. She’s written books & is an editor of a magazine that’s a MBE (minority business enterprise). I’m not seeing anything related to medical/health certification or degree on her website. These are some bold claims for an editor/author.

[@cheryljones8209]

Hi Liz, I was interested to hear about NICE guidelines so went and had a look on the NICE website but it clearly states that there is a higher risk of breast cancer in women who take HRT for 5 years +. It's all so confusing! I took screenshot but can't share them on here.

[@ilkiz19]

Yes, it’s very worrying

[@lizearlewellbeing]

Thanks for flagging this - will share with Liz now. Best wishes, Amy

[@cheryljones8209]

@@lizearlewellbeing I couldn't share the page on my phone earlier, but here is the link to the page for your information. www.gov.uk/drug-safety-update/hormone-replacement-therapy-hrt-further-information-on-the-known-increased-risk-of-breast-cancer-with-hrt-and-its-persistence-after-stopping

[@lizearlewellbeing]

@@cheryljones8209 Apparently, this information is still related to the original flawed WHI study, it is not based on the latest data showing the cancer-protective effects of estrogen. There are many specialists in this field working with the MHRA to try and get more accurate, evidence-based information online. More information specifically on cancer risk can be found on www.menopausedoctor.co.uk. Hope this is helpful. Annie.

[@cheryljones8209]

@@lizearlewellbeing thank you for replying. The trouble is, we can't ask our GP's to refer to NICE guidelines for one thing, but ignore another.

[@rebeccaparker1099]

Hi I’m in peri menopause or menopause I’m not sure. My doctor says I cannot be considered for HRT still I’m at least 50 I’m 48 now. The thought of going through these symptoms and more with out help. Thank you for your advice.

[@lizearlewellbeing]

Hope it's helpful - would also recommend having a watch of Liz's video here if you've not already done so kzbin.info/www/bejne/pmbZfZ6NiMeGfKc

[@Ava-lm1zy]

That’s terrible discrimination at its best. I would make a formal complaint

[@desiringless]

What is the name of the body identical hormones sold in Australia if you know? I’ve taken Estalis Sequi low dose 2 years ago for brief time for my crushing vertigo which I believed was hormone related but my GP looked at me stupid. But they allowed me to check my own finding and indeed I was correct because I felt fantastic within 2 weeks on patches, aster feeling terrible for a whole year beforehand. So I’m not sure if Estalis Sequi is Body Identical. I can’t find any info when I google it .

[@shelleywhite6145]

Thankyou so much, that was so informative. I have been on Premarin & Provera for about a year & never knew that about Premarin. Should I review this with my GP? Feel like I've only just started to feel " normal..ish" 🤣 Will be showing this to a colleague at work who is trying the "natural" alternative 🤔

[@lizearlewellbeing]

Yes well worth reviewing with your GP if it's something you don't feel comfortable with. And yes please do share!

[@lucrecevonkasm]

Which HRT do you recommend?

[@lizearlewellbeing]

Do read Liz's guide on all things HRT! lizearlewellbeing.com/product/the-truth-about-hrt/

[@barkhasharma3170]

Hi Liz, I’ve developed melasma on my cheeks after starting hrt. I don’t want to stop taking hrt because it is helping me in managing my symptoms. But how can I manage my melasma which increasing day by day. My gynecologist said the only option is to stop hrt.

[@kathyeaston9976]

Amazing. I was told to come off it after five years. Now 65. Would I still benefit going back on it now I wonder? Stopped taking it at 55. X

[@lizearlewellbeing]

Well worth going back to your GP as so many benefits for brain and bone health in the long term

[@kathyeaston9976]

@@lizearlewellbeing Absolutely. Thought I might give the gel a go. I could buy that to help with sleep etc. Good luck with your journey through it all. Doing an amazing job for womankind. X

[@nataliekelly5070]

Hi Liz ,if you can at some point can you tell me why doctors want to take woman off the mini pill which contains oestrogen and instead prescribe the progesterone only pill. If we need the oestrogen then what's the reason? Any advice would be appreciated. Thank you.

[@Chefinheels]

Hi Liz, do you know the effectiveness of supplementing with dhea in comparison to supplementing with oestrogen? As précurseur to the sex hormones I am assuming it should boost all? But then why don’t drs prescribe that? Thanks in advance.

[@lizearlewellbeing]

DHEA is not regulated. GPs will generally only prescribe regulated hormones for safety reasons. Hope helpful.

[@lindamacdonald1178]

Fabulous

[@lizearlewellbeing]

❤️

[@lynnchasan6339]

Hi Liz do you know of a menopause specialist in Johannesburg?

[@lizearlewellbeing]

We are so sorry we don't, but it might be worth looking up on the International Menopause Society website or emailing them? Hope you find the help you need. Best wishes, Annie x

[@TheGaryMono]

I am currently taking Thyroxine after having my Thyroid Removed. I have always a voided taking HRT as I worry it will affect my current medication! Is that a possibility?

[@lizearlewellbeing]

Many women take both if they need both hormones. Hope helpful.

[@vivixwaldo4227]

What could be the problems when starting HRT after 10 years of Menopause (58 years old)?

[@lizearlewellbeing]

There is a slight concern that re-introducing lost hormones over a long timescale could cause a problem, but this is rare if started slowly and dose adjusted. HRT is standard NICE guidelines practise up until the age of 60, after which it needs a more in-depth consultation perhaps. More info in Liz's guide here: lizearlewellbeing.com/product/the-truth-about-hrt/

[@vivixwaldo4227]

@@lizearlewellbeing thank you very much for your answer

[@vivixwaldo4227]

@@lizearlewellbeing What kind of problems ? Heart?

[@pamclarke312]

Hello please could you help me!? I had a hysterectomy and they removed everything and both my ovaries too its been a 11weeks since and I feel terrible I keep asking my doctor for HRT but there trying not too give it me and am suffering bad with night sweats mood swings bone aches headaches and hot flashes all time this is because off operation didn't have manupause before could you tell me what to ask them for please huni thank you 😘

[@lizearlewellbeing]

Please do take a look at Liz's menopause e-books here: lizearlewellbeing.com/product/menopauseguides/ best wishes, Annie x

[@imcomingtogetyou211]

I'm sure the book is beneficial. However, you should be on hrt just the oestrogen hormone. I hope you have got this sorted, otherwise complain or find a new Gp. Best wishes.

[@faymerrick4435]

Wondering if the age 60 cut-off by some GPs may be because prescriptions are free and not paid for after the age of 60, therefore more cost to the NHS?

[@lizearlewellbeing]

That's an interesting point - one for us to look into

[@louise257]

Hi Liz, thank you for sharing your knowledge. I am now 54 and when I was 45 I stopped having periods and found I had some other menopausal symptoms but my gp told me I couldn't have HRT as I had migraines with aura and that would put me at risk of stokes. I have since continued to struggle with hot flushes, very poor sleep and a lot of other symptoms such as pain in joints. Do you think I could take HRT and should I go back to the GP and ask them to review this? I do hope you can help but maybe its been left too long now to start HRT.

[@lizearlewellbeing]

Yes well worth going back to your GP - also do give our podcast on headaches a listen here lizearlewellbeing.com/podcasts-videos/podcast/migraine-and-headache-with-dr-katy-munro/ if you haven't already done so

[@lotusflowergs7]

Hi Liz, if you are already diagnosed with vaginal atrophy bleeding due to low estrogen; yet you have 3 fibroids,one calcified; 2 growing...what would be an alternative progesterone choice to Utrogestan? I have read that it shouldn't be taken by individuals with those features? I don't suffer from any other symptoms of menopause...but yes osteoporosis and hypothyroidism have featured on my health report. I need your urgent help...Also can a hard fall on your bum cause terrible pelvic pains and this bleeding? I have been post menopausal for about 6 years now; aged 56. Would you still recommend an estrogen hrt in my situation? Thanks for your work. I have many of your books.

[@lizearlewellbeing]

Hi there! It's always best to speak to your GP or a medical professional, if you have any concerns about your health. Thanks so much for watching 💕

[@claretigoglu5966]

I have hypothyroidism and found HRT harmful, it brought on haemorrhagiah. Keen to learn of things suitable to my condition.

[@kettymanno7256]

Thank you for sharing. I started HRT and I think it is affecting my thyroid and liver.

[@Jesusiswatchingyou-123]

What is the minimum estradiol blood level?

[@yasminmant2666]

Going through menopause now, have a few hot flushes, they last about 5 minutes, I’m pretty ok actually, is it true that the Chinese don’t have a word for menopause because they don’t suffer from any bad symptoms?

[@lizearlewellbeing]

Ooh I've not heard that before - will have to have a spot of research!

[@tracybownes7612]

can you please tell me the name of the best gel to use as i have tried patches and they didnt suit me but would like to try the gel

[@lizearlewellbeing]

Liz uses Oestrogel - you can read more about it here lizearlewellbeing.com/healthy-living/menopause/oestrodose-oestrogel-what-you-need-to-know/

[@kimkas26]

I am suffering with several symptoms of perimenopause quite bad thats effecting my daily life my mum went through the menopause at 36 i am 44 i have presented my symptoms to my doctor but he is unwilling to help me as i still get my period i dont know what to do

[@lizearlewellbeing]

Hi there - do download our menopause symptom tracker free here lizearlewellbeing.com/healthy-living/menopause/menopause-symptom-tracker/ as this is really helpful for taking with you to see your doctor. If you're getting nowhere with your GP, would also recommend seeking a second opinion. If you've not already done so, Liz's video here on how to talk to your GP is well worth a watch kzbin.info/www/bejne/pmbZfZ6NiMeGfKc

[@amandamassyn7227]

How is the Yam human?

[@lizearlewellbeing]

The extract is body identical, ie molecularly identical to that which the body produces. Hope that helps! Annie x

[@dcampbell19]

Hi Liz, Re : the issue of people saying taking HRT is not natural, I don’t think you can argue that they are talking about the HRT compounds only.They may be referring to the natural end of the fertile part of life. Menopause is a natural process. Also I think you should be extremely careful when assuring viewers re cancer. You are not medically qualified. Many drs do believe there is a cancer risk ,furthermore one of the reasons most women must take progesterone when they take oestrogen is to reduce the known risk of uterine cancer ( caused by unopposed oestrogen)

[@lizearlewellbeing]

Progesterone is the issue here in relation to cancer risk. Unopposed oestrogen presents no cancer risk post-hysterectomy, for example. Liz is reporting on the clinical evidence and more detailed information can be found in her three books on the subject, including The Truth About HRT. Much of the current medical information given to GPs is in need of updating. Copies of recent clinical studies and meta-analyses can also be found on www.menopausedoctor.co.uk and you may enjoy Liz's podcasts with Prof. Michael Baum, former lead oncologist at The Royal Marsden, the lead on Tamoxifen trials and leading breast cancer specialist. Hope this is helpful.

[@skilla1010]

Menopause might be a natural process but for many women it is disabling. This leads to a distinct disadvantage in the workplace and with personal relationships. Also we have to consider the evolutionary process. My gynaecologist said most women never lived to menopause age even as recently as one hundred years ago and they also had much later menopauses if they did because having multiple births delayed it. We have to look at where we are today. We just cannot have a vast swathe of women suffering needlessly for what could be 30+ years of post menopausal life. It might be worth you looking at the evidence. There are several studies for micronised progesterone that show there is no increased breast cancer risk as it is anti proliferative.

[@lizearlewellbeing]

@@skilla1010 Thanks for this really interesting comment 👍🏼

[@dcampbell19]

@@lizearlewellbeing Thank you for replying but your answer isn’t balanced. You state that unopposed oestrogen is not a risk for those who have had a hysterectomy. That is true. Strange way to phrase it however. I was speaking about the vast majority of women - I assume that most women have not had a hysterectomy. For those with a uterus unopposed oestrogen is a cancer risk which is why they are always given the progesterone to thin the womb lining and reduce the risk. I am not medically qualified and neither is Liz Earle. Some drs support HRT use, some do not. Some drs work closely with pharmaceutical companies to promote HRT as HRT use remains a minority choice. Viewers would be well advised to read widely around this subject and decide for themselves. Be wary of anyone with a one sided opinion. Be particularly wary of anyone with something to sell you. I had a difficult menopause transition. I tried HRT and found it helped some things and created new problems too. Bloating, headaches etc.I am also aware that once you stop ( and NICE guidelines do not recommend permanent HRT use) your symptoms will likely return with a vengeance. I use nothing now and I feel great .

[@lizearlewellbeing]

@@dcampbell19 Thanks for your comment. Sorry to hear you have had a difficult time of it. There is no link with transdermal oestrogen and increased cancer risk. It is the progesterone component that carries the risk, however women with a uterus will need the progesterone. Absolutely be wary of anyone trying to sell you anything! Unregulated hormone-compounding clinics charge a fortune when safe, regulated, bioidentical replacement hormones are available on the NHS. This is something Liz and the team here have written about for many years. HRT is not one-size-fits all and often changes to type and dosage are needed over many months to get right and alleviate symptoms such as bloating and headaches. The NICE guidelines say HRT can be continues as long as a woman has benefit (often great) vs risks (which are small). It can be taken forever. Symptoms do not necessarily return once you stop taking HRT, as it does not delay them. Many menopausal symptoms last years - if not decades - and may be there for this length of time regardless of taking HRT or not. More information can be found written by a team of independent medics, not funded by or with links to any pharmaceutical companies or with any paid advertising or promotion, on www.menopausedoctor.co.uk. Hope this is helpful.

[@kelleywilliams179]

so what again is a natural replacement /. im 65 with intact uterus. I want natural. im anti pills popper

[@TheBeautymad]

hi liz my question isn't menopause related but what's your thoughts on the supplement chasteberry fruit? i am taking these for premenstrual symptoms, would you recommend these? if not what would you recommend for me to take instead ?

[@lizearlewellbeing]

Sorry for delay - we have not seen any evidence to support these claims. Sorry! Take a look at the Efamol range of evening primrose oil supplements perhaps?

[@christinecrook2003]

I’m almost 45 and perimenopausal. I recently managed to convince my GP to prescribe 2 pumps of estrogel daily which has helped to improve symptoms greatly however, just before I get my period I suffer with terrible vaginal dryness. The GP gave me Replens MD vaginal moisturiser to take twice weekly but it’s making no difference. Would increasing the estrogel during that week help?

[@lizearlewellbeing]

it would be worth asking your GP for a review and considering Vagifem. More information can be found on www.menopausedoctor.co.uk. Hope this is helpful.

[@kahn3179]

The Utrogestran tablets are not vegetarian and I am not able to take them due religion beliefs 😭

[@carolinetaylor8150]

is having the merena coil a synthetic form of progesterone or derived from Yam?

[@lizearlewellbeing]

It is a synthetic progestergen, but in a tiny, tiny amount! The equivalent to one or two Utrogestan capsules for the whole year! And localised, so it stays within the uterus and is not systemic. it is considered extremely safe and effective. Hope this is helpful info.

[@mariatheodoulou9130]

My gynocologist gives hrt as a cream that you rub into your arm , but she also gives a tablet called DIM to take for tbe cancer risk . Can you tell us about the DIM tablet . Also I have a thyriod problem so I avoided taking natural HRT tablets because they all contain soya , which i believe is something you have to avoid if you have a thyroid problem .

[@lizearlewellbeing]

Double check your doctor is prescribing regulated HRT as this is the safest kind, not unregulated compounded hormones. Transdermal gels, patches and sprays do not contain soya and are a good, safe, regulated option - all freely available on the NHS from your GP. Your specialist should be able to liaise with your GP so you can get what you need safely and at very low cost. Hope this is helpful.

[@fleurcraven9862]

Liz... I’ll be taking my HRT with me to my grave 🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻

[@faystalker5711]

You cannot take hrt if you have blood pressure was told buy docter

[@lizearlewellbeing]

This is incorrect advice. You may want to read this helpful guide (endorsed by several leading Professors specialising in this field) and perhaps share with your GP. Hope this is helpful! lizearlewellbeing.com/product/the-truth-about-hrt/

[@jeansmith3367]

Agnus Castus was my salvation - female GP was not helpful

[@lizearlewellbeing]

Do see if you can see another doctor. Agnus Castus can help some symptoms but won't replace missing estrogen. Hope helpful.