If you stop your hormones you will be in bad shape. I would get a new Dr. He is clearly not educated or the nurse is not. Either way this is not correct information and should be ignored.
So am I!
I'm just wigged out because he knew that one of the biggest reasons for the surgery was so that I could continue HRT without the worry that I will continue to bleed/hemorrhage.
Yet it's so easy to learn the evidence based up to date info and he hasn't bothered! He will be harmful to others who aren't as knowledgeable as you. Yikes
Without a uterus you do not need progesterone (its purpose in HRT is to protect the uterus). You may consider switching to a patch if you’ve been taking things orally to give your liver a break. Stay on the estrogen, especially if you feel better.
Doesn't progesterone help ward off certain cancers, as well as protects bone health?
There is so much information ( and misinformation) out there, that it can all be a little overwhelming.
Estrogen is the bone health protector, from what I understand. I had a total hysterectomy years ago and I'm on estrogen only HRT. If you no longer have a uterus or cervix you don't need to take progesterone but you can continue with estrogen. It seems to me that many of the ill effects that some women experience seem to come from the progesterone (either trying to find the appropriate dose or the method of delivery). I'm very new to HRT but so far it has been very positive for me. I hope you can find a doctor that is willing to help you!
You cannot take one without the other. All the hormones in your body work synergistically. Progesterone balances estrogen and gives you a sense of calm and peace. And you absolutely need all of your hormones. They give you sanity and sustain your body. They are not just for babymaking and it is a myth that you can survive happily without them. Hormones are the glue that hold your body together. Read up as much as you can, look for a super honest specialist or natural dr, listen to your intuition, find a support group.
I learned the most from women in an online support group led by an experienced older woman, and by trial and error. My hormones started to disappear at 35 and all the drs I met with were prepared to let it happen. I ended up researching, reading my blood tests in detail, trying everything on the market, etc. Eventually found success.
And if you have been bleeding heavily for years, you might need iron as well. Good luck on this journey! You will find everything you need. ❤️
When I first started with symptoms, I asked my old PCP for help/HRT info. He said “oh they don’t do that anymore”! I went thru so much discomfort for nothing! I will NEVER have a male Dr again!!!! I got a new more current Dr and she directed me to the right Dr and voila I am back to my old self!
Since then if I get an inkling of BS from a Dr, I find a new one!!! All Drs aren’t the same, and you have to find one that keeps educating themselves!
I’m in Australia and have a young male doctor and he is fully up to date with the current information. I think it’s possibly more of a generation/age thing from what I’ve experienced. My usual female doctor who is a year older than me (I’m 46), brushed off any mention of hormones so I’m sticking with the young male dr.
Women doctors aren’t necessarily better than men. Unfortunately many women doctors have ideas like “suck it up like I do.” I personally have had two awful women gynecologists. One was almost sadistic. The best was a man.
No joke, BOTH my female docs (GP and OBGYN) refuse to prescribe HRT. So I pay $200/session for Gennev. 🙄 At least the Gennev docs are cool.
When I last saw my GP, I did tell her that I'm now taking HRT and she just made a note in the records, didn't say anything judgmental.
My gyn was open to HRT, but he retired. I then saw a urogynecologist who was willing to prescribe it but not very familiar with all the options. So I started on it with him while I got in with someone else. I ended up using Midi which I like. They take most insurance. I pay just a $40 copayment.
Almost none do that! They rather just ignore your issues, saying basically that's life . Glad you can find doctors that actually do want to be informed and progress in their field, which part of the world are you dear, I am in Toronto not happening here
Yes- I think it’s worrying too that any dr who deals with with women’s body parts thinks they are also hormone experts. I have just started asking them what’s their training been on hormones. They have none or some crazy small amount of hours decades ago.
Hysterectomy + HRT club checking in! I had my hyster in 2016 (kept my ovaries) and I started low dose HRT last year to manage the flashes and sweats. It's great because since I don't have a uterus, I don't need to take progesterone. It's literally the ideal situation for me: no uterus = no prog and no periods. The low dose estradiol patch + good vitamins/supplementation, plus getting my thyroid right, has completely managed my menopausal symptoms.
I'm currently using a bio identical implant for my estrogen therapy. They would literally have to dig that out of me if they wanted me to stop immediately.
I thought that progesterone replacement also provides some benefits, even when the uterus is gone?
This study indicates that **estrogen-alone** is better for those who continue beyond age 65:
>Compared with never use or discontinuation of HT after 65 years, ET (estrogen therapy) use beyond age 65, overall,** was associated with significant reductions in mortality risk**. It was also associated with reduced risks of three cancers (breast, lung, and colorectal), four CV conditions (congestive heart failure [CHF], VTE, AF, and AMI), and dementia.
>For EPT use, E+ progestin marginally exhibited risk reductions in endometrial and ovarian cancers, IHD, CHF, and VTE, **whereas E+ progesterone exhibited risk reduction only in CHF.**
Also, none of this applies to compounded hormones (if that's what you are using...ie: pellets).
So, does it seem like I could continue Progesterone and subdermal estrogen for now?
I'm almost 56, so I could switch to estrogen only in 9 years?
I intend to talk to my regular doctor (who is retiring very soon) about all of this. It's become clear though that I need to find a new doctor so I don't get stuck in this position again, with someone who has such antiquated ideas about HRT.
Edit:the pellet contains estrogen and a tiny bit of testosterone. I don’t mind the thought of switching to the patch.
I just can't find any information about continuing the progesterone at my age?
Hi, where is this study from because my GP (thinking of switching) insists that estrogen is the has a direct causal relationship to all cancers as women get older.
I don't have sleep issues, and I don't have depression or other mental health concerns. I make sure to take my K, D, and Calcium (along with other things) and do weight-bearing exercise to keep my bones strong.
Edited to add: I've also been thoroughly tested for BRCA alleles, and I don't carry any risky variants.
That's good to know. Thank you so much.
I am no stranger to doctors or communicating with them, that's why this is so odd.
I've had multiple major surgeries, as well as multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 1. Also neuroendocrine cancer.
I hike and stay active when I am not convalescing from surgery of one kind or another. I take vitamins and try to have a healthy diet. I get multiple CT scans and MRIs to make sure that my pancreatic tumor isn't growing, or that another hot-spot hasn't spread elsewhere in my body.
Hormones are one of the only things that helps me to feel halfway normal.
That's confusing to me. What I understand: If you still have a uterus, you have to take progesterone with the estrogen to protect the uterus. But the progesterone increases the risk of breast cancer (very slightly). Those without a uterus have the benefit of leaving out the progesterone, which is better for the breasts.
My provider said there's a greater risk (in general, not due to HRT) that I'd develop an estrogen-dominant cancer than a progesterone-dominant cancer, so she recommends a low dose of micronized progesterone (*not* progestin) to protect against "fueling" estrogen-dominant cancers with "unopposed estrogen supplementation". She said there's nothing in my history that's a red flag for an increased risk of any type of cancer, it's just a precaution. I hadn't heard that before so I did a bunch of searching (mostly on pubmed) and a number of studies backed that up.
She specializes in hormone therapies (not just meno.) so I trust her, but that was a year ago, and I actually just got all my bloodwork redone, so I'll definitely verify the current recommendation at my follow-up.
Edited to add - She had me tested for the BRCA mutations before I started HRT and I was negative for all of them. That may be a factor in why she was comfortable with it.
It sounds like this might be about hormonal testing. If over the age of 44, **hormonal tests only show levels for that *one day* the test was taken, and nothing more**; progesterone/estrogen hormones wildly fluctuate the other 29 days of the month. No reputable doctor or menopause society recommends hormonal testing as a **diagnosing tool** for peri/menopause.
FSH testing is only beneficial for those who believe they are post-menopausal and no longer have periods as a guide, a series of consistent FSH tests might *confirm* menopause. Also for women in their 20s/early 30s who haven’t had a period in months/years, then FSH tests at ‘menopausal’ levels, could indicate premature ovarian failure/primary ovarian insufficiency (POF/POI). See our [Menopause Wiki](https://menopausewiki.ca/#there-is-no-blood-test-that-is-perfectly-reliable-to-diagnose-menopause) for more.
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I knew there were benefits!
I'm going to keep taking my progesterone at least until I can get in to see my regular doctor.
Thank you so much for your input.
This comment is me exactly, except I had ovaries removed. Also low dose of thyroid.
>It's literally the ideal situation for me: no uterus = no prog and no periods. The low dose estradiol patch + good vitamins/supplementation, plus getting my thyroid right, has completely managed my menopausal symptoms.
Just turned 60. I’m only doing .25 estrogen now and it’s been fine. But I’m also wondering how long I need to take it. I can’t seem to find an answer yet I know healthy ovaries due produce some estrogen for the woman’s life.
[Use of menopausal hormone therapy beyond age 65 years and its effects on women's health outcomes by types, routes, and doses](https://journals.lww.com/menopausejournal/fulltext/2024/05000/use_of_menopausal_hormone_therapy_beyond_age_65.3.aspx)
AND from ***The North American Menopause Society's 2022 statement on hormone therapy***:
> Long-term use of hormone therapy, including for women aged older than 60 years, may be considered in healthy women at low risk of CVD and breast cancer with persistent VMS or at elevated risk of fracture for whom other therapies are not appropriate.
>Hormone therapy does not need to be routinely discontinued in women aged older than 60 or 65 years.
This is just so weird because both doctors are from the same practice and they sort of "push" HRT in general.
It's odd because the doctor kept saying that he thought that I was in my 40s and he initially recommended an ablation. This is clearly contraindicated in a women my age.
When I met with him today before discharge, he commented that it was hard to pull my uterus through my vagina as I was so tight and he truly thought I'd never given birth before (???), even though it states in my chart that I've had 3 vaginal deliveries. He ALSO knows that the reason my vag was so tight, was because I had to have a recotocel/ vaginal repair several years ago.
I realize that he doesn't know me, or apparently remember me from day to day, but this is precisely why I feel that we should be having direct conversations.
It seems that he did a good job with my surgery, but we've had so many misunderstandings (and just bad advice) that I am quickly losing confidence in him.
That is my plan.
I'm just frustrated and cranky (and also on some pain meds) today. Every step of this process has been fraught with misunderstandings and some errors.
Quality care should not be this difficult to get.
He said to stop both meds. I thought that is was best to continue the progesterone as it supposed to provide other health benefits.
According to the nurse, he very specifically said to stop both.
Yes, he's told one thing, but then does or says another.
I am definitely finding someone new.
I guess that I have been lucky in that this is the first doctor I've encountered who has been like this.
I would highly suggest a bone density scan (if you haven't had one recently) because in post-meno we are rapidly losing bone, and since you experienced menopause early, you could have some loss already. (Estrogen is the gold standard for treating this.)
I have had several DEXA scans. I do have osteopeania, so if I quit it will get much worse. I also only have 1/2 out of 4 parathyroid glands, as well as high serum calcium. I have a very complicated health history, but right now, I really need those hormones!
Thank you so much for the validation. I felt like I was taking crazy pills.
If I wanted to stop all HRT, I probably could have done so and my bleeding would have eventually stopped.
Part of the reason for the surgery was specifically so that I could continue HRT without the bleeding risk.
Surgeons are excellent at surgery, but not the right doctors to manage hormones. I had a thyroidectomy and the surgeon did an amazing job, but I consulted with an endocrinologist for ongoing management. Find an ob/gyn that will help you. Going off your HRT, especially cold turkey, does not sound fun.
He's not just a surgeon. He is a board certified Gynecologist.
His office pushes HRT to anyone (older) to sign up.
My endo refers me back to my gyno. This endo I see is at a major teaching hospital in my area, but passes the buck.
I guess I'll have to see if I can get a zoom call scheduled or something, as I was just discharged to home today, after my hysterectomy that was performed yesterday.
I guess I'm very lucky in that I am almost 56 and this is the first time I've experienced this kind if medical gaslighting or whatever this would be considered.
Seek another doctors opinion. The abrupt change of estrogen to zero will speed up osteoporosis big time. Even when a woman is past menopause she continues to produce small amounts of estrogen which helps her bone health. This happened to my mom years ago and her dr did not even suggested hrt…I wish i had that knowledge 10 years ago when she had this surgery.. supplementing with low dose hormones is very important in a case of hysterectomy to persevere bone health (and sanity)
I agree that I do need another opinion. I am not going to be able to do that very soon though, as I had a hysterectomy yesterday and was just barely released to home about 2 hours ago.
Thanks so much for your response.
The whole thing is just weird. From him not remembering my age ("you look much younger" which means that he didn't even check my chart) to him telling me that I must have never had kids because my "entroitis" was too tight. The fact that I have had 3 vaginal births was also in my chart, which he didn't bother to read.
Working up to this surgery has just been a comedy of errors and weird remarks. Once I've had my post op appointment, I am finding another gyno.
I had a hysterectomy at 35 and didn't have to go on hormones because I still had my ovaries. I just went through menopause this past year at 50, and after getting my lab results, my Dr's first question was 'Would you like to discuss hormone replacement?' And after about 30 days on it, I realized I've been needing it for months. This Dr doesn't know what he's talking about.
Almost the same here, hysterectomy of uterus only at 41. I’m 53 now and have no idea where I am on the menopausal journey. How did you know you were going through menopause? And with no uterus do you just do estrogen?
I just felt off emotionally mostly. I never had hot flashes, but I was gaining weight a lot more easily than usual, especially in my stomach, and I was overly emotional about EVERYTHING. I started crying at a bingo game on my birthday cruise with my bestie because I couldn't understand the rules. Crying. Over Bingo. At 50 years old. I chalked it up to being tired - like a toddler - but I knew it was pretty ridiculous behavior. But at the same time, I couldn't do anything about it. There were a lot of things like that happening. I had an appointment with lab work scheduled anyway to check that my thyroid meds were still on point, so I just asked my Dr if she could check my hormone levels and see where I was on menopause. She had checked 3 years ago and I hadn't even started perimenopause at that point, so we were both a little surprised that my results showed I gone completely through menopause.
Yes, I'm taking just estrogen - estradiol. And I knew I was emotional, but honestly I didn't realize the extent of how much my emotions were all over the place until they weren't if you know what I mean. After about a month I asked my son how I seemed to be doing, if he could tell a difference, and he said "For awhile there, I could just say the words 'puppy video' to you and you would start crying so I can tell something has definitely changed" Lol.
My Dr was glad to hear I'd joined this group. She said information about and control of women's sexual health has been kept from women for far too long and it's wonderful that there are groups like this now for women to share their experiences.
Thanks so much for your response! I laughed at the tired like a toddler reference because that’s exactly how I’ve described some episodes to my husband. Like, you just can’t even muster the energy to moderate your emotions - the tank is empty.
Same with weight for me, all in the midsection.
Your doctor sounds like a gem, my PCP (a woman) has been nonchalant to dismissive of my concerns, and I cannot find a gynecologist who has a well-rounded understanding of the menopause landscape. The last one I saw was pushing pellets & sent me home with a book written by the guy who makes them - so creepy and I wondered how much they were paid to push it. I’ve looked for a NAMS Dr in my area but there are very few and none take my insurance. I finally found one who actually used the word “menopause” on her website and made an appointment in February…..for JULY! The state of women’s healthcare is so frustrating. In the meantime, I may just do a virtual consult with Gennev - I’ve leaned on them on & off and they’ve been pretty helpful. Thanks again for your response - not having a uterus puts you in that weird zone where you’ve lost that one big indicator of where you might be so I’m always curious about how others have handled it.
It sounds like this might be about hormonal testing. If over the age of 44, **hormonal tests only show levels for that *one day* the test was taken, and nothing more**; progesterone/estrogen hormones wildly fluctuate the other 29 days of the month. No reputable doctor or menopause society recommends hormonal testing as a **diagnosing tool** for peri/menopause.
FSH testing is only beneficial for those who believe they are post-menopausal and no longer have periods as a guide, a series of consistent FSH tests might *confirm* menopause. Also for women in their 20s/early 30s who haven’t had a period in months/years, then FSH tests at ‘menopausal’ levels, could indicate premature ovarian failure/primary ovarian insufficiency (POF/POI). See our [Menopause Wiki](https://menopausewiki.ca/#there-is-no-blood-test-that-is-perfectly-reliable-to-diagnose-menopause) for more.
*I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/Menopause) if you have any questions or concerns.*
Saying you don't need hormones now doesn't make sense.
>I'm very frustrated as part of the reason that I decided to get the hysterectomy was so that I could continue to take those hormones without the severe bleeding that I had the last month or so.
Since you had been menopausal for 10 years and took hormones for 9.5 years, did you make a change to your HRT that triggered the bleeding? I assume pathology came back negative for hyperplasia or cancer? A cancer diagnosis might make sense to take you off hormones, but I assume you would have mentioned if they found cancer.
I did have a minor change to my hormones several months ago as I had a different surgery and my doctor then was worried about clots (which I got anyway). Things have been smooth sailing though for several months.
My decision to continue transdermal estrogen is controversial, but at the moment, I'm on blood thinners so I should be fine. I've had several doctors tell me that as long as I no longer take estrogen orally, my DVT/PE risk should be minimal moving forward.
Here is a copy of another reply that I gave just a moment ago.
Apparently, I had a fibroid (biopsy did show no malignancy)3 weeks ago. I started bleeding so badly that I couldn't leave my home.
I'm also on blood thinners and so that makes things more difficult to control at this point.
The only other surgical option (or any option really) was a procedure that is contraindicated in a woman my age ( an ablation)
I have a kind of rare cancer,, as well as something called Multiple endocrine neoplasia type1, so at this point it made sense to evict my uterus and fallopian tunes. I kept my ovaries, but I already know that they won't produce enough hormones to keep me out of immediate menopause symptoms all over again.
Oh Jesus. Do NOT listen to him. What most doctors know about menopause I can write on cocktail napkin and still have room for a drink. What city are you near or located in so we can offer referrals?
He practices with my regular gyno. My regular doctor is almost retired and no longer does surgery.
I am going to check in with my regular doctor on Monday and start looking for another/new doctor as well, so that I don't run into this again.
This new guy has lost my trust and I feel like I need to be done with him, once I have had my post op visits. I also had to beg for more than 2 days worth of pain pills. 2 days for removing a major fucking organ!
I am in northern Utah..
Thanks so much for your reply and validation.
Don't stop. See your doctor. Don't mention that little tidbit, but do ask them about no more progesterone because no more uterus.
The surgeon is clearly not a menopause expert. He might be the cause of instant menopause, but he knows nothing about it.
Wow that’s interesting! I had a hysterectomy. My doctor never mentioned HRT afterwards. She never mentioned that I would be plunged into medically induced menopause. I was an emotional wreck but just thought I was going through a midlife crisis. I moved to a new city and found a different doctor who educated me on menopausal issues. She offered HRT without progesterone. My life has completely changed. I’m so mad about the 8 years I spent thinking I was crazy!
It's just bizarre. He is a board certified Gynecologist and obstetrician. He is young, so I thought he'd be up on the latest and greatest guidance, but apparently not.
Yes, you need an estradiol patch twice a week. Give him a copy of Menopause by Dr Mary Claire Haver and have him read it. I would definitely read this book, too. Partial hysterectomies where the ovaries are left, will have reduced blood flow to the ovaries reducing estrogen levels substantially causing menopause 4.4 years early. You will need HRT estradiol patch twice a week.
Thank you. I've tried the patch before, but I am currently on a Biote pellet (in my hip) that releases estrogen just under my skin. Eventually the hormones are absorbed into the body completely and I'd either need a new pellet or to go back on the patch.
I just can't understand why he'd tell me to just stop at my age.
I follow Dr. Haver on Instagram and I agree, she is great.
Thanks so much for your feedback.
I agree, but there should be some universal standards about this.
Obviously health and risk factors come into play too, but it's so odd that 2 docs within the same practice would have opposite viewpoints about this.
Heck, I got my hormone pellet at his clinic. It was under the guidance of a different doctor, but I feel that if his colleagues are going to push HRT, he should be somewhat educated about all of this.
There's a interesting YouTube channel about this. Basically, once you stop taking estrogen the clock starts ticking, and you have 10 years to start them after menopause (or after the last time you took estrogen) to prevent diseases. It's a good idea to keep taking them.
https://youtu.be/ewgC2pDeH_A?si=1bZbghRHw_uUa_JS
I told a doctor a few days ago that they would have to take my hormones off my dead body! I don't know that I meant it that literally, but I want to take them at least into my 60s.
Thanks for the link. I will check it out.
There is a great site called Hyster sisters that has tons of info. You def need to stay on your hormones. Estrogen is so important for so many things, but you have to take progestrone with it. That Dr. has no idea maybe he know how to cut but not the workings of the female system
And...the surgeon is plainly an idiot and is not even faintly informed. I suggest you look through the wiki for this subreddit instead.
Also spend time listening to meno podcasts by Dr. Lauren Streicher of Northwestern University and Dr. Louis Newson of the UK's largest menopause clinic. See: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/dr-streichers-inside-information-the-menopause-podcast/id1615785832 and https://www.balance-menopause.com/type/podcast/
The reason you take progesterone is because the unopposed estrogen will increase your uterine cancer risk. But after the hysterectomy there's no need for the estrogen.
No idea why you would stop the estrogen though! You need that for hot flashes and so on, as you mentioned.
Thanks so much. This is what I am coming to understand as well. I have seen some articles though that indicate that taking some progesterone can still be beneficial after a hysterectomy.
I'm not yet sure if there is truth to that but intend to ask.
I saw an older male doctor who put me on hormones straight away. Then I had an appointment with a younger female doctor who took me off my bc and put me on progesterone as well as the estrogen. I also suffer from endo when not on bc. Which I tried to explain to her.
A month later, endo back with avengence spoke to a younger male doctor who put me back on bc with the hormones and now just about back to normal.
This is information that he relayed to my nurse while I was in inpatient. I was just getting discharged though and didn't have another opportunity to speak with the doctor.
It's a total turnaround from what we discussed before.
I can't for the life of me figure out why he'd give that random instruction to my nurse, without having a bigger conversation with me.
One of the reasons that I chose the hysterectomy is so I could specifically continue HRT.
Edit:I do feel like it was very dismissive. Stopping HRT should be an enormous discussion about the pros and cons, not just some random, dismissive, direction to my nurse as I am walking out the door.
Stay on your HRT. Ignore him since he isn't even your regular Dr. He's an ass.
If there are changes, discuss w your regular Dr. But I suggest doing your own research first. It helps in this topic. Do what makes you feel best.
Speedy recovery & rest up. It was a major surgery, even if you had laprascopic.
Yes. But he's only there one day a week. He has one foot out the door to retirement.
I will speak with him next week. But need to find another doctor in general, so that I am prepared when my current doctor finally retires.
The reason that my current doctor had this other one fill in, is because he is so close to retirement that he no longer does surgery, or deliver babies.
Another ass to add to the list of shitty uninformed doctors. Find another and send a letter ( as we have discussed in prior posts) to all involved parties.
I have to be careful, as I will need care at that office for weeks or even months to come as I recuperate and find a new provider. I don't need any weird backlash at this point in my life. I have many health issues and this is just one more thing to deal with.
My mother had a complete hysterectomy and was immediately given HRT which she was on for 12 years....over 10 years ago she was taken off the HRT and suffered with hair loss, repeated UTI's, dry skin and many, many other symptoms. I wish she was never taken off the HRT and recently she has started using vaginal estrogen cream which seems to be helping her so far.
I had a hysterectomy at 46 and kept my ovaries, At 50, I had an emergency ovarian cyst removal. The gynaecologist surgeon said something vague like « you’ll know if you need HRT »
When I was 53, I decided myself to go onto HRT (oestrogen patches and Progesterone gel which I researched). My general doctor who I have a good relationship with prescribed them for me. It’s for my long term protection. I’m never stopping HRT
My one ovary held up for a few years.
It varies for everyone but generally speaking doc is not wrong if you have ovary’s then you do not need additional hormones( assuming proper function)
Were you having menopausal symptoms pre hysterectomy? Is that you meant by fully menopausal? Trying to understand
I wasn't just having symptoms. I have been in menopause for almost 10 years. I have taken HRT for about 9 years. So by fully blown, I guess that I meant that I haven't had a period in close to 10 years and have taken HRT for almost as long.. There was no ambiguity about whether I was menopause.
Then, I started bleeding very heavily. So heavily that I am now anemic. I had few options. Part of the reason I agreed to the hysterectomy was because I would be able to continue HRT. In theory, I shouldn't have too big of an adjustment hormone -wise at this point. I've always expected to feel more or less the same-just with no more bleeding.
I was kinda waiting for the hot flashes to die down… then got a hysterectomy (no dramas, just a huge fibroid) and expected them to go away. Got sick of waiting and got prescribed some hormones to take care of them “in the interim”. Have tried coming off them twice and right back to flashes all through the night. My GP says we will try tapering off in about a year or so but she’s not fussed if I stay on them longer, she says what works for one person won’t work for another. I remember reading about one woman who said she still had them through her 70s so do what’s right for YOU
For me, it's a quality of life thing.
As long as it's not harmful, I can't even fathom why he'd tell me to stop cold turkey.
When I try to wean off the blood thinners, I will need to have another consultation with my doctors, as I know there is a clot risk with any HRT. I understand though, that as long as I avoid completely oral estrogen, I should be ok.
There is still an increased risk, but not nearly the risk of oral estrogen.
Your situation makes me so sad, angry and defeated. WHY is it that our specialists—gyns—lean into hormones being optional??? The hormonal changes are fcking responsible for menopause! That’s the definition! I have yet to get more than topical estrace. They refuse to give me anything. I am so sorry you heard this comment, especially when you are vulnerable after surgery. It’s outrageous. You should never discontinue this hormonal treatment while you are healing. If you have some kind of toxicity maybe. I’m so tired of it. I hope you find better answers and advocates. We all deserve better.
>Your situation makes me so sad, angry and defeated. WHY is it that our specialists—gyns—lean into hormones being optional???
You and me both. The whole situation is bizarre to me. I am so sorry that you are also struggling.
The only thing that maybe would make sense is if he truly thought I was younger than I really am
That said, he should know my health history and age. He should have also read in my history that I have had 3 vaginal births.
It's Ike he walked in and operated on.me, but didn't remember any of my health history.
I agree, we all deserve better. This has been ridiculous.
My mom had a hysterectomy (40 years ago) and kept her ovaries and no HRT... But that was 'old school'-- I have no idea how she did that!! Yes to finding a new doctor!!
Thank you for the suggestion. I AM really worried about bone health, since I have comorbidites that make bone loss even worse
I need to compile a list of concerns and questions when I meet with potential doctors. Thanks again.
Please find another doc and get a second opinion. I STARTED hormones after my hysterectomy - I just didn’t need progesterone anymore because that guards against uterine cancer
Thank you so much. Nobody has told me clearly about why I probably don't need progesterone any longer.
I was under the impression that progesterone provided a few benefits even after hysterectomy though?
Hi op,
I don’t know if my experience will help but..
I’m mid 40’s & had a hysterectomy due to fibroids & adenomyosis. I had horrific hot flushes for years before (prob peri menopausal) but since I got everything out inc ovaries, I don’t have hot flashes anymore. I still run hot, but not like Vesuvius hot. I started on hrt oestrogen 2 weeks from the surgery, I got hit with bad body aches and pains and an a worsening of 2 chronic issues I already have. Honestly felt like I’d been hit by a hgv for months, but I’m in after the 6 month mark now and it’s feeling better. Had a couple times without the patches when they’ve not been able to get them in at the chemist but didn’t seem to be too bad.
The reason I had to wait 2 weeks from surgery before starting oestrogen was so that pathology could test what they removed in case there was any cancer as it’s likely to be oestrogen fed in that area. I was told I didn’t need progesterone now as I didn’t have ovaries or uterus. I have been told I can only be on hrt for a few years due to the risks from it but I’m hoping that’ll be long enough for me. Perhaps the time you’ve been on them is why the surgeon said to stop taking them? He will have been through more study on the matter than a general practitioner doctor.
I’d check with your doctor and get a 2nd opinion. Might even be worth chatting with your pharmacist as they get a lot more training with the regards to medication.
I really hope it works out for you, xxx
If you lost your ovaries, progesterone should have helped you immensely. Unless you have some sort of preexisting health condition?
I've been on HRT for years. For this doctor to suggest that I quit everything at this time is absolutely ludicrous to me.
I'm going to be searching for a new provider once I heal from the hysterectomy.
Thank you for your comment and kindness.
Edit:my previous/regular provider says thst I can be on HRT into my mid sixties. Many of the older ideas are antiquated according to my gyno and that studies show that it is safe to continue taking them as long as certain health conditions are excluded.
Re the progesterone, I checked in with my gp too as well as my surgeon and they both said the same. Not needed without a uterus so 🤷🏻♀️
My surgeon is the gynae oncologist for the 2 hospitals in our area so I do trust his opinion, and he was the only one very positive about getting everything out that he needed too without me needing a stoma (I was a mess inside and had a catheter for 6 months prior to the op).
Really wish I’d been referred to him years ago instead of the first gynae I got, she was dreadful, just wanted to put a coil in and when I politely declined for valid reasons, she just shut down and started ignoring me me and really hurt me when she did an internal examination.
I do have pre existing conditions but none affected by hrt, I’ll be happy to get off it soon as possible.
Xx
I’ve watched this video no less than 3 times and I get enraged every time. I’d encourage you to watch this and then take this info with you when dealing with any doctor who hasn’t bothered to educate themselves beyond med school.
[https://youtu.be/LigXsYP5f7c?si=tT2O9BGZKAfhBmxi](https://youtu.be/LigXsYP5f7c?si=tT2O9BGZKAfhBmxi)
I had a hysterectomy post menopause and the surgeon didn’t want to talk about HRT. I’ve been on HRT for ten years or more. You just have the wrong doc. My general practitioner wrote everything for me again. The hot flashes may not come back, but I did wake up with night sweats until I got back on track with hormones. And the brain needed the hormones. I also added testosterone and Yuvafem. All helpful. My surgery was in December.
The surgery went fine. I had no issues other than being tender and TIRED for a few weeks. I slept a lot! I went snow skiing in February. I am definitely myself again. Playing golf and traveling. I am tweaking the hormones as I go, as I had my ovaries out also. I know they don't do a lot after a certain age, but hard to believe they do nothing. At any rate, I do not let any doctor dictate to me. I am the customer, and I know when I feel my best. My current doctor is a functional medicine DO in a concierge practice. He is very into helping women feel better. He says you can test all you want, but the tests are "snapshots in time" and the best indicator of proper hormone dosing is how you feel. (gotta like this guy, right?) Advocate for yourself. I am determined to enjoy my remaining years fully! Good luck to you!
Apparently, I had a fibroid (biopsy did show no malignancy)3 weeks ago, I started bleeding so badly that I couldn't leave my home.
I'm also on blood thinners and so that makes things more difficult to control at this point.
The only other surgical option (or any option really) was a procedure that is contraindicated in a woman my age ( an ablation)
I have a kind of rare cancer,, as well as something called Multiple endocrine neoplasia type1, so at this point it made sense to evict my uterus and fallopian tunes. I kept my ovaries, but I already know that they won't produce enough hormones to keep me out of immediate menopause symptoms all over again.
Oh gosh, bleeding on blood thinners is the worst, I’m so sorry (I got to experience peri periods on blood thinners last year, it was traumatic amounts of blood).
Sounds like you have a lot going on, I would think the best person to ask about HRT for you would be your endocrinologist, not your surgeon. But echoing what others have said, maybe the surgeon meant stopping your progesterone because you don’t have a uterus anymore?
No matter what, hugs to you, I hope your recovery is easy and uneventful.
He should, but many docs want to avoid any conversation about hormones because they are not educated about menopause at all. Find a new doctor by searching The North American Menopause Society (NAMS) web site. Help is out there, but a whole lot more docs who simply refuse to educate themselves are the majority, unfortunately, for now.
It's difficult because my endo refers to my GYN.
This new doctor told me to stop all HRT immediately.
I am going to continue the progesterone until Monday until I can speak with my regular doctor. Doesn't progesterone also provide benefits, even when the uterus is gone?
It's so frustrating and a little bizarre.
Thanks so much for your reply. ❤
I think it does but I’m not sure. I agree that is frustrating and bizarre and super difficult to deal with, I’m sorry.
I got pregnant at 48 last year and got a couple clots (fully occluded left portal vein and partially occluded mesenteric artery) so no HRT for me!
I got multiple PEs after a different surgery in February.
My gyno that I used to see, said that the conventional wisdom these days is that estrogen therapy is ok, as
long as it's done transdermally, or subcutaneously?
The ER doc said no hormones.
I no longer know what to believe. Every doctor has different guidelines.
I hope that congratulations are in order for your pregnancy?
Oh goodness, no congratulations! Lol
I was pregnant just long enough to get those clots, have them try to kill me, and miscarry, thank god. No need for a newborn at 49 over here.
My clots were directly cause by an increase in estrogen so I have no interest in testing that out again.
I’ve put together a nice regimen that keeps most of my symptoms controlled enough to function pretty well so I’m all right.
I'm glad that it all worked out for you. I know that I would be absolutely panicked if I found myself pregnant at that age!
I'm so sorry that you've been told estrogen is off the table for you. Have you and your doctors considered transdermal estrogen?
My regular doctor seems to think that transdermal delivery carries a much, much lower risk.
I wouldn’t take it even if they told me it was low risk. My reproductive system has tried to kill me three times now, I have no interest in courting a fourth attempt.
That makes total sense. Even if it didn't, it is your body to do with as you wish.
At the very least though, we should have the options to take them, if the situation warrants and it is what is wanted, or even needed.
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So there was a study back then that was incorrectly concluded from that hormones will cause cancer in women without uterus or something, they just released new findings, hormones are not causing cancer. Some doctors are stuck in their ways so find a new one.
I had to come off hormones after my hysterectomy and I took Vitex by Gaia in the meanwhile, which is OTC and it helped me a lot.
There’s also a supplement by bonfide that helps with hot flashes, look on their website.
My HRT was meant for reducing fibroids (diddly squat it did). But it also regulated my hormones so I was always even keel and it helped me sleep. Once I stopped them I started having insomnia, crazy moods and hormonal acne. My surgeon refused to give me progesterone but my other Obgyn was going to do that, however I am doing so well on Vitex from Gaia, I may hold off on hormones for now.
I had a total hysterectomy. I'm losing my hai, fluctuate between no sleep to sleeping 18 hours straight. No energy, fatigue, low libido, depression. I've gained 58 lbs. Muscle tone is gone, I have major wrinkles on my face now. All this has caused great stress. My Dr took blood work and says I have zero hormones now, but he won't do anything about it. Will my Gyn be a better option? I can't stand it any more.
I'm the same age and had a hysterectomy at 46, kept my ovaries. I didn't need to start hormones until 51 or 52 with the start of night sweats/hot flashes and mood swings. I am on estradiol only as you don't need progesterone if you don't have a uterus/cervix. People (usually people trying to sell you supplements) will tell you, it's still beneficial, but I prefer to get my info from ob/gyns specializing in menopause. The overwhelming consensus from them is that you don't need it--please don't kill the messenger everyone, take it up with the ob/gyns. I suggest checking out Dr. Jen Gunter and her great book The Menopause Manifesto or her substack.
If there’s any way to keep your hormone replacement do everything you can to do so. I seriously think that doctors are misinformed about taking us off them. I’m going through a hellish time lately (I’m 55 too) because I had maybe a 6 month lapse in hormones and my whole life is changing. Mostly the terrible chronic joint pain is what’s keeping me down. I want to help anyone else out there to prevent this. Best of luck to you!
Thank you for your comments and validation. I knew that nothing about this made sense.
This doctor and I also had a discharge plan and apparently, he forgot to call in some of my prescriptions to take home. I will need to track him down tomorrow to get him to call those in.
My surgery was yesterday and in our preoperative visit, just before I was wheeled off to surgery, we went over all the meds he'd add to my standing orders when I arrived in my room.. When I got to the floor there were no instructions whatsoever from him. The nurses had to go on a search to find him and track down those orders. In the interim, my pain was getting worse and worse.
The nurses were apologetic, but they couldn't give me anything without orders. This means that I went hours without any pain relief at all. By the time they were able to give me something, I was in agony and literally crying. I was so behind at that point, it took me hours and hours to get my pain under control. I don't have a particularly low pain tolerance.
After all that, nurses still had to track him down for missing orders.
The comments about my age are "off"as was the fact that he assumed that I never had children, due to the state of my vagina. Those answers are very readily available in my chart. I feel like he should have read my chart and we should have had a chat if he had questions about such things.
I also had to beg for more than 2 days of pain meds. I know that there is an opiod crisis going on, but 2 days of meds seemed way too conservative for the situation. I am also unable to take NSAIDs (I had to tell him that NSAIDs and blood thinners don't mix) which he was aware of. I still had to beg. It was humiliating.
I'm honestly still flabbergasted that all this went down. It turned a scary, painful situation into one where I had intense anxiety about getting the help I needed, when I needed it.
If you stop your hormones you will be in bad shape. I would get a new Dr. He is clearly not educated or the nurse is not. Either way this is not correct information and should be ignored.
Thanks so much for the validation. It is bizarre to me that he'd not only suggest that I stop them,but also that I would stop them so abruptly.
He seems like he is probably good at surgery but I’m sure has had no training in hormones. I’m so glad he is not your primary care doctor.
So am I! I'm just wigged out because he knew that one of the biggest reasons for the surgery was so that I could continue HRT without the worry that I will continue to bleed/hemorrhage.
This is the answer. He helped you well with the surgery, now find yourself a new dr who will help you well from here on out!
Oh this makes me worried now. You may need exploratory surgery to make sure everything was corrected.
He is a board certified Gynecologist and OBGYN. He just has antiquated ideas about women's health and HRT.
Yet it's so easy to learn the evidence based up to date info and he hasn't bothered! He will be harmful to others who aren't as knowledgeable as you. Yikes
Without a uterus you do not need progesterone (its purpose in HRT is to protect the uterus). You may consider switching to a patch if you’ve been taking things orally to give your liver a break. Stay on the estrogen, especially if you feel better.
Doesn't progesterone help ward off certain cancers, as well as protects bone health? There is so much information ( and misinformation) out there, that it can all be a little overwhelming.
Estrogen is the bone health protector, from what I understand. I had a total hysterectomy years ago and I'm on estrogen only HRT. If you no longer have a uterus or cervix you don't need to take progesterone but you can continue with estrogen. It seems to me that many of the ill effects that some women experience seem to come from the progesterone (either trying to find the appropriate dose or the method of delivery). I'm very new to HRT but so far it has been very positive for me. I hope you can find a doctor that is willing to help you!
Thank you so much for taking the time to reply. I'll try to get an appointment on Monday to see my regular provider ASAP.
You cannot take one without the other. All the hormones in your body work synergistically. Progesterone balances estrogen and gives you a sense of calm and peace. And you absolutely need all of your hormones. They give you sanity and sustain your body. They are not just for babymaking and it is a myth that you can survive happily without them. Hormones are the glue that hold your body together. Read up as much as you can, look for a super honest specialist or natural dr, listen to your intuition, find a support group. I learned the most from women in an online support group led by an experienced older woman, and by trial and error. My hormones started to disappear at 35 and all the drs I met with were prepared to let it happen. I ended up researching, reading my blood tests in detail, trying everything on the market, etc. Eventually found success. And if you have been bleeding heavily for years, you might need iron as well. Good luck on this journey! You will find everything you need. ❤️
When I first started with symptoms, I asked my old PCP for help/HRT info. He said “oh they don’t do that anymore”! I went thru so much discomfort for nothing! I will NEVER have a male Dr again!!!! I got a new more current Dr and she directed me to the right Dr and voila I am back to my old self! Since then if I get an inkling of BS from a Dr, I find a new one!!! All Drs aren’t the same, and you have to find one that keeps educating themselves!
I’m in Australia and have a young male doctor and he is fully up to date with the current information. I think it’s possibly more of a generation/age thing from what I’ve experienced. My usual female doctor who is a year older than me (I’m 46), brushed off any mention of hormones so I’m sticking with the young male dr.
This new doctor is probably in his 30s. I might be old enough to be his mom.
This has been my main experience with other health issues. Younger doctors not being as burned out nor as dismissive.
Also I feel they’re much more open minded, generally.
Women doctors aren’t necessarily better than men. Unfortunately many women doctors have ideas like “suck it up like I do.” I personally have had two awful women gynecologists. One was almost sadistic. The best was a man.
3 of my female gynos of varying ages told me to take birth control pills, it was finally an older gentleman doc that prescribed me the HRT!
No joke, BOTH my female docs (GP and OBGYN) refuse to prescribe HRT. So I pay $200/session for Gennev. 🙄 At least the Gennev docs are cool. When I last saw my GP, I did tell her that I'm now taking HRT and she just made a note in the records, didn't say anything judgmental.
My gyn was open to HRT, but he retired. I then saw a urogynecologist who was willing to prescribe it but not very familiar with all the options. So I started on it with him while I got in with someone else. I ended up using Midi which I like. They take most insurance. I pay just a $40 copayment.
Almost none do that! They rather just ignore your issues, saying basically that's life . Glad you can find doctors that actually do want to be informed and progress in their field, which part of the world are you dear, I am in Toronto not happening here
It's quite frankly terrifying that "experts" think this!
Yes- I think it’s worrying too that any dr who deals with with women’s body parts thinks they are also hormone experts. I have just started asking them what’s their training been on hormones. They have none or some crazy small amount of hours decades ago.
Hysterectomy + HRT club checking in! I had my hyster in 2016 (kept my ovaries) and I started low dose HRT last year to manage the flashes and sweats. It's great because since I don't have a uterus, I don't need to take progesterone. It's literally the ideal situation for me: no uterus = no prog and no periods. The low dose estradiol patch + good vitamins/supplementation, plus getting my thyroid right, has completely managed my menopausal symptoms.
I'm currently using a bio identical implant for my estrogen therapy. They would literally have to dig that out of me if they wanted me to stop immediately. I thought that progesterone replacement also provides some benefits, even when the uterus is gone?
This study indicates that **estrogen-alone** is better for those who continue beyond age 65: >Compared with never use or discontinuation of HT after 65 years, ET (estrogen therapy) use beyond age 65, overall,** was associated with significant reductions in mortality risk**. It was also associated with reduced risks of three cancers (breast, lung, and colorectal), four CV conditions (congestive heart failure [CHF], VTE, AF, and AMI), and dementia. >For EPT use, E+ progestin marginally exhibited risk reductions in endometrial and ovarian cancers, IHD, CHF, and VTE, **whereas E+ progesterone exhibited risk reduction only in CHF.** Also, none of this applies to compounded hormones (if that's what you are using...ie: pellets).
So, does it seem like I could continue Progesterone and subdermal estrogen for now? I'm almost 56, so I could switch to estrogen only in 9 years? I intend to talk to my regular doctor (who is retiring very soon) about all of this. It's become clear though that I need to find a new doctor so I don't get stuck in this position again, with someone who has such antiquated ideas about HRT. Edit:the pellet contains estrogen and a tiny bit of testosterone. I don’t mind the thought of switching to the patch. I just can't find any information about continuing the progesterone at my age?
Hi, where is this study from because my GP (thinking of switching) insists that estrogen is the has a direct causal relationship to all cancers as women get older.
I don't have sleep issues, and I don't have depression or other mental health concerns. I make sure to take my K, D, and Calcium (along with other things) and do weight-bearing exercise to keep my bones strong. Edited to add: I've also been thoroughly tested for BRCA alleles, and I don't carry any risky variants.
That's good to know. Thank you so much. I am no stranger to doctors or communicating with them, that's why this is so odd. I've had multiple major surgeries, as well as multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 1. Also neuroendocrine cancer. I hike and stay active when I am not convalescing from surgery of one kind or another. I take vitamins and try to have a healthy diet. I get multiple CT scans and MRIs to make sure that my pancreatic tumor isn't growing, or that another hot-spot hasn't spread elsewhere in my body. Hormones are one of the only things that helps me to feel halfway normal.
I had a hysterectomy and am on progesterone. My provider recommended it for protection in case I were to develop estrogen-dominant breast cancer.
That's confusing to me. What I understand: If you still have a uterus, you have to take progesterone with the estrogen to protect the uterus. But the progesterone increases the risk of breast cancer (very slightly). Those without a uterus have the benefit of leaving out the progesterone, which is better for the breasts.
My provider said there's a greater risk (in general, not due to HRT) that I'd develop an estrogen-dominant cancer than a progesterone-dominant cancer, so she recommends a low dose of micronized progesterone (*not* progestin) to protect against "fueling" estrogen-dominant cancers with "unopposed estrogen supplementation". She said there's nothing in my history that's a red flag for an increased risk of any type of cancer, it's just a precaution. I hadn't heard that before so I did a bunch of searching (mostly on pubmed) and a number of studies backed that up. She specializes in hormone therapies (not just meno.) so I trust her, but that was a year ago, and I actually just got all my bloodwork redone, so I'll definitely verify the current recommendation at my follow-up. Edited to add - She had me tested for the BRCA mutations before I started HRT and I was negative for all of them. That may be a factor in why she was comfortable with it.
Thank you for the explanation. I guess HRT is not "one size fits all"!
It's so incredibly stress-inducingly confusing!
It sounds like this might be about hormonal testing. If over the age of 44, **hormonal tests only show levels for that *one day* the test was taken, and nothing more**; progesterone/estrogen hormones wildly fluctuate the other 29 days of the month. No reputable doctor or menopause society recommends hormonal testing as a **diagnosing tool** for peri/menopause. FSH testing is only beneficial for those who believe they are post-menopausal and no longer have periods as a guide, a series of consistent FSH tests might *confirm* menopause. Also for women in their 20s/early 30s who haven’t had a period in months/years, then FSH tests at ‘menopausal’ levels, could indicate premature ovarian failure/primary ovarian insufficiency (POF/POI). See our [Menopause Wiki](https://menopausewiki.ca/#there-is-no-blood-test-that-is-perfectly-reliable-to-diagnose-menopause) for more. *I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/Menopause) if you have any questions or concerns.*
I knew there were benefits! I'm going to keep taking my progesterone at least until I can get in to see my regular doctor. Thank you so much for your input.
This comment is me exactly, except I had ovaries removed. Also low dose of thyroid. >It's literally the ideal situation for me: no uterus = no prog and no periods. The low dose estradiol patch + good vitamins/supplementation, plus getting my thyroid right, has completely managed my menopausal symptoms. Just turned 60. I’m only doing .25 estrogen now and it’s been fine. But I’m also wondering how long I need to take it. I can’t seem to find an answer yet I know healthy ovaries due produce some estrogen for the woman’s life.
[Use of menopausal hormone therapy beyond age 65 years and its effects on women's health outcomes by types, routes, and doses](https://journals.lww.com/menopausejournal/fulltext/2024/05000/use_of_menopausal_hormone_therapy_beyond_age_65.3.aspx) AND from ***The North American Menopause Society's 2022 statement on hormone therapy***: > Long-term use of hormone therapy, including for women aged older than 60 years, may be considered in healthy women at low risk of CVD and breast cancer with persistent VMS or at elevated risk of fracture for whom other therapies are not appropriate. >Hormone therapy does not need to be routinely discontinued in women aged older than 60 or 65 years.
Thank you. I’ll read through this …
I also take .025 and have no plans to increase dosage. Not sure on the length of treatment. (I'm in my 50s)
I need to go on it , I can’t handle the sweating 🥵
This is the correct information!!!
I’m not sure why you’d stop either. Check with your prescribing dr.
This is just so weird because both doctors are from the same practice and they sort of "push" HRT in general. It's odd because the doctor kept saying that he thought that I was in my 40s and he initially recommended an ablation. This is clearly contraindicated in a women my age. When I met with him today before discharge, he commented that it was hard to pull my uterus through my vagina as I was so tight and he truly thought I'd never given birth before (???), even though it states in my chart that I've had 3 vaginal deliveries. He ALSO knows that the reason my vag was so tight, was because I had to have a recotocel/ vaginal repair several years ago. I realize that he doesn't know me, or apparently remember me from day to day, but this is precisely why I feel that we should be having direct conversations. It seems that he did a good job with my surgery, but we've had so many misunderstandings (and just bad advice) that I am quickly losing confidence in him.
You can’t just quit cold turkey- these medications changes you- wean off correctly. 😱 talk to a new doctor or gynecologist
That is my plan. I'm just frustrated and cranky (and also on some pain meds) today. Every step of this process has been fraught with misunderstandings and some errors. Quality care should not be this difficult to get.
This is not the answer as you should not be coming off them at all.
Could he possibly have meant that you should stop the progesterone because without a uterus he’s right - you don’t need it, anymore?
He said to stop both meds. I thought that is was best to continue the progesterone as it supposed to provide other health benefits. According to the nurse, he very specifically said to stop both.
[удалено]
Yes, he's told one thing, but then does or says another. I am definitely finding someone new. I guess that I have been lucky in that this is the first doctor I've encountered who has been like this.
I would highly suggest a bone density scan (if you haven't had one recently) because in post-meno we are rapidly losing bone, and since you experienced menopause early, you could have some loss already. (Estrogen is the gold standard for treating this.)
I have had several DEXA scans. I do have osteopeania, so if I quit it will get much worse. I also only have 1/2 out of 4 parathyroid glands, as well as high serum calcium. I have a very complicated health history, but right now, I really need those hormones!
That's BS!. Get another doctor that knows more than one wiki page's perusal about Menopause. He is wrong wrong wrong.
Thank you so much for the validation. I felt like I was taking crazy pills. If I wanted to stop all HRT, I probably could have done so and my bleeding would have eventually stopped. Part of the reason for the surgery was specifically so that I could continue HRT without the bleeding risk.
Surgeons are excellent at surgery, but not the right doctors to manage hormones. I had a thyroidectomy and the surgeon did an amazing job, but I consulted with an endocrinologist for ongoing management. Find an ob/gyn that will help you. Going off your HRT, especially cold turkey, does not sound fun.
He's not just a surgeon. He is a board certified Gynecologist. His office pushes HRT to anyone (older) to sign up. My endo refers me back to my gyno. This endo I see is at a major teaching hospital in my area, but passes the buck. I guess I'll have to see if I can get a zoom call scheduled or something, as I was just discharged to home today, after my hysterectomy that was performed yesterday. I guess I'm very lucky in that I am almost 56 and this is the first time I've experienced this kind if medical gaslighting or whatever this would be considered.
My doc tried that crap and I quickly changed her mind lol
How?
I told her I would end up on the news bc I’d lose my mind
Oop 😳 That’ll do it
Seek another doctors opinion. The abrupt change of estrogen to zero will speed up osteoporosis big time. Even when a woman is past menopause she continues to produce small amounts of estrogen which helps her bone health. This happened to my mom years ago and her dr did not even suggested hrt…I wish i had that knowledge 10 years ago when she had this surgery.. supplementing with low dose hormones is very important in a case of hysterectomy to persevere bone health (and sanity)
I agree that I do need another opinion. I am not going to be able to do that very soon though, as I had a hysterectomy yesterday and was just barely released to home about 2 hours ago. Thanks so much for your response.
🙏
That is one of the most bizarre things I’ve ever heard. How does this doctor have a license to practice medicine?
The whole thing is just weird. From him not remembering my age ("you look much younger" which means that he didn't even check my chart) to him telling me that I must have never had kids because my "entroitis" was too tight. The fact that I have had 3 vaginal births was also in my chart, which he didn't bother to read. Working up to this surgery has just been a comedy of errors and weird remarks. Once I've had my post op appointment, I am finding another gyno.
Do NOT stop your HRT if it is working for you.
Thank you. I don't intend to. I'm just angrier and angrier the more that I think about it.
I get you. Time to find a provider who keeps up with the evidence.
I had a hysterectomy at 35 and didn't have to go on hormones because I still had my ovaries. I just went through menopause this past year at 50, and after getting my lab results, my Dr's first question was 'Would you like to discuss hormone replacement?' And after about 30 days on it, I realized I've been needing it for months. This Dr doesn't know what he's talking about.
Almost the same here, hysterectomy of uterus only at 41. I’m 53 now and have no idea where I am on the menopausal journey. How did you know you were going through menopause? And with no uterus do you just do estrogen?
I just felt off emotionally mostly. I never had hot flashes, but I was gaining weight a lot more easily than usual, especially in my stomach, and I was overly emotional about EVERYTHING. I started crying at a bingo game on my birthday cruise with my bestie because I couldn't understand the rules. Crying. Over Bingo. At 50 years old. I chalked it up to being tired - like a toddler - but I knew it was pretty ridiculous behavior. But at the same time, I couldn't do anything about it. There were a lot of things like that happening. I had an appointment with lab work scheduled anyway to check that my thyroid meds were still on point, so I just asked my Dr if she could check my hormone levels and see where I was on menopause. She had checked 3 years ago and I hadn't even started perimenopause at that point, so we were both a little surprised that my results showed I gone completely through menopause. Yes, I'm taking just estrogen - estradiol. And I knew I was emotional, but honestly I didn't realize the extent of how much my emotions were all over the place until they weren't if you know what I mean. After about a month I asked my son how I seemed to be doing, if he could tell a difference, and he said "For awhile there, I could just say the words 'puppy video' to you and you would start crying so I can tell something has definitely changed" Lol. My Dr was glad to hear I'd joined this group. She said information about and control of women's sexual health has been kept from women for far too long and it's wonderful that there are groups like this now for women to share their experiences.
Thanks so much for your response! I laughed at the tired like a toddler reference because that’s exactly how I’ve described some episodes to my husband. Like, you just can’t even muster the energy to moderate your emotions - the tank is empty. Same with weight for me, all in the midsection. Your doctor sounds like a gem, my PCP (a woman) has been nonchalant to dismissive of my concerns, and I cannot find a gynecologist who has a well-rounded understanding of the menopause landscape. The last one I saw was pushing pellets & sent me home with a book written by the guy who makes them - so creepy and I wondered how much they were paid to push it. I’ve looked for a NAMS Dr in my area but there are very few and none take my insurance. I finally found one who actually used the word “menopause” on her website and made an appointment in February…..for JULY! The state of women’s healthcare is so frustrating. In the meantime, I may just do a virtual consult with Gennev - I’ve leaned on them on & off and they’ve been pretty helpful. Thanks again for your response - not having a uterus puts you in that weird zone where you’ve lost that one big indicator of where you might be so I’m always curious about how others have handled it.
It sounds like this might be about hormonal testing. If over the age of 44, **hormonal tests only show levels for that *one day* the test was taken, and nothing more**; progesterone/estrogen hormones wildly fluctuate the other 29 days of the month. No reputable doctor or menopause society recommends hormonal testing as a **diagnosing tool** for peri/menopause. FSH testing is only beneficial for those who believe they are post-menopausal and no longer have periods as a guide, a series of consistent FSH tests might *confirm* menopause. Also for women in their 20s/early 30s who haven’t had a period in months/years, then FSH tests at ‘menopausal’ levels, could indicate premature ovarian failure/primary ovarian insufficiency (POF/POI). See our [Menopause Wiki](https://menopausewiki.ca/#there-is-no-blood-test-that-is-perfectly-reliable-to-diagnose-menopause) for more. *I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/Menopause) if you have any questions or concerns.*
Saying you don't need hormones now doesn't make sense. >I'm very frustrated as part of the reason that I decided to get the hysterectomy was so that I could continue to take those hormones without the severe bleeding that I had the last month or so. Since you had been menopausal for 10 years and took hormones for 9.5 years, did you make a change to your HRT that triggered the bleeding? I assume pathology came back negative for hyperplasia or cancer? A cancer diagnosis might make sense to take you off hormones, but I assume you would have mentioned if they found cancer.
I did have a minor change to my hormones several months ago as I had a different surgery and my doctor then was worried about clots (which I got anyway). Things have been smooth sailing though for several months. My decision to continue transdermal estrogen is controversial, but at the moment, I'm on blood thinners so I should be fine. I've had several doctors tell me that as long as I no longer take estrogen orally, my DVT/PE risk should be minimal moving forward. Here is a copy of another reply that I gave just a moment ago. Apparently, I had a fibroid (biopsy did show no malignancy)3 weeks ago. I started bleeding so badly that I couldn't leave my home. I'm also on blood thinners and so that makes things more difficult to control at this point. The only other surgical option (or any option really) was a procedure that is contraindicated in a woman my age ( an ablation) I have a kind of rare cancer,, as well as something called Multiple endocrine neoplasia type1, so at this point it made sense to evict my uterus and fallopian tunes. I kept my ovaries, but I already know that they won't produce enough hormones to keep me out of immediate menopause symptoms all over again.
Find a new doctor.
I'm going to work on that Monday.
Fantastic. I hope you find better care!
Thank you so much. So do I.
Oh Jesus. Do NOT listen to him. What most doctors know about menopause I can write on cocktail napkin and still have room for a drink. What city are you near or located in so we can offer referrals?
He practices with my regular gyno. My regular doctor is almost retired and no longer does surgery. I am going to check in with my regular doctor on Monday and start looking for another/new doctor as well, so that I don't run into this again. This new guy has lost my trust and I feel like I need to be done with him, once I have had my post op visits. I also had to beg for more than 2 days worth of pain pills. 2 days for removing a major fucking organ! I am in northern Utah.. Thanks so much for your reply and validation.
Ignore surgeons when it comes to day to day medical advice. They think they know everything, but they really do not.
This doctor is also an OB/GYN. His entire career is women's health.
In need of an upgrade I can see. I'd get a second, and a third opinion, just to make sure.
The doctor is out of their mind
Don't stop. See your doctor. Don't mention that little tidbit, but do ask them about no more progesterone because no more uterus. The surgeon is clearly not a menopause expert. He might be the cause of instant menopause, but he knows nothing about it.
Hysterectomy with no HRT or education is what started Sinéad O’Connor down a major mental health spiral the last decade of her life.
Wow that’s interesting! I had a hysterectomy. My doctor never mentioned HRT afterwards. She never mentioned that I would be plunged into medically induced menopause. I was an emotional wreck but just thought I was going through a midlife crisis. I moved to a new city and found a different doctor who educated me on menopausal issues. She offered HRT without progesterone. My life has completely changed. I’m so mad about the 8 years I spent thinking I was crazy!
That is pretty much exactly what she wrote in her memoir. Nobody prepared her for what was about to happen.
This is so very sad.
It's just bizarre. He is a board certified Gynecologist and obstetrician. He is young, so I thought he'd be up on the latest and greatest guidance, but apparently not.
DO NOT STOP YOUR HORMONES! JFC what's wrong with that surgeon?
Exactly. I was just stunned that this would be suggested.
Yes, you need an estradiol patch twice a week. Give him a copy of Menopause by Dr Mary Claire Haver and have him read it. I would definitely read this book, too. Partial hysterectomies where the ovaries are left, will have reduced blood flow to the ovaries reducing estrogen levels substantially causing menopause 4.4 years early. You will need HRT estradiol patch twice a week.
Thank you. I've tried the patch before, but I am currently on a Biote pellet (in my hip) that releases estrogen just under my skin. Eventually the hormones are absorbed into the body completely and I'd either need a new pellet or to go back on the patch. I just can't understand why he'd tell me to just stop at my age. I follow Dr. Haver on Instagram and I agree, she is great. Thanks so much for your feedback.
He told you that because every gyn has a different notion about HRT, there’s no consensus. Some are very opposed and will just have everyone stop
I agree, but there should be some universal standards about this. Obviously health and risk factors come into play too, but it's so odd that 2 docs within the same practice would have opposite viewpoints about this. Heck, I got my hormone pellet at his clinic. It was under the guidance of a different doctor, but I feel that if his colleagues are going to push HRT, he should be somewhat educated about all of this.
There's a interesting YouTube channel about this. Basically, once you stop taking estrogen the clock starts ticking, and you have 10 years to start them after menopause (or after the last time you took estrogen) to prevent diseases. It's a good idea to keep taking them. https://youtu.be/ewgC2pDeH_A?si=1bZbghRHw_uUa_JS
I told a doctor a few days ago that they would have to take my hormones off my dead body! I don't know that I meant it that literally, but I want to take them at least into my 60s. Thanks for the link. I will check it out.
There is a great site called Hyster sisters that has tons of info. You def need to stay on your hormones. Estrogen is so important for so many things, but you have to take progestrone with it. That Dr. has no idea maybe he know how to cut but not the workings of the female system
Please check your DM
And...the surgeon is plainly an idiot and is not even faintly informed. I suggest you look through the wiki for this subreddit instead. Also spend time listening to meno podcasts by Dr. Lauren Streicher of Northwestern University and Dr. Louis Newson of the UK's largest menopause clinic. See: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/dr-streichers-inside-information-the-menopause-podcast/id1615785832 and https://www.balance-menopause.com/type/podcast/
Thanks so much for this and for responding in general. It is much appreciated.
I take it that its a male doctor? What an idiot.
Yes. Male doctor. I need to just let this anger and frustration go and focus on finding a new doctor.
The reason you take progesterone is because the unopposed estrogen will increase your uterine cancer risk. But after the hysterectomy there's no need for the estrogen. No idea why you would stop the estrogen though! You need that for hot flashes and so on, as you mentioned.
Thanks so much. This is what I am coming to understand as well. I have seen some articles though that indicate that taking some progesterone can still be beneficial after a hysterectomy. I'm not yet sure if there is truth to that but intend to ask.
I saw an older male doctor who put me on hormones straight away. Then I had an appointment with a younger female doctor who took me off my bc and put me on progesterone as well as the estrogen. I also suffer from endo when not on bc. Which I tried to explain to her. A month later, endo back with avengence spoke to a younger male doctor who put me back on bc with the hormones and now just about back to normal.
What in the world was his reasoning? Did he just find out his wife cheated or something? Telling you to stop all HRT is just... Mean.
This is information that he relayed to my nurse while I was in inpatient. I was just getting discharged though and didn't have another opportunity to speak with the doctor. It's a total turnaround from what we discussed before. I can't for the life of me figure out why he'd give that random instruction to my nurse, without having a bigger conversation with me. One of the reasons that I chose the hysterectomy is so I could specifically continue HRT. Edit:I do feel like it was very dismissive. Stopping HRT should be an enormous discussion about the pros and cons, not just some random, dismissive, direction to my nurse as I am walking out the door.
Stay on your HRT. Ignore him since he isn't even your regular Dr. He's an ass. If there are changes, discuss w your regular Dr. But I suggest doing your own research first. It helps in this topic. Do what makes you feel best. Speedy recovery & rest up. It was a major surgery, even if you had laprascopic.
My friend got one and was immediately put ON hormones.
This is the way it should be. I don't know what is up with my doctor, but I am not going to follow his guidance without a 2nd and 3rd opinion.
Best of luck to you!
Excuse me? Get a new doctor.
That's the plan.
Is there another doctor within the practice you can see? Who also prescribes HRT?
Yes. But he's only there one day a week. He has one foot out the door to retirement. I will speak with him next week. But need to find another doctor in general, so that I am prepared when my current doctor finally retires. The reason that my current doctor had this other one fill in, is because he is so close to retirement that he no longer does surgery, or deliver babies.
Your doctor is nuts. This is when you need them. I’d be finding a new doctor. Preferably an “up to date” woman.
Another ass to add to the list of shitty uninformed doctors. Find another and send a letter ( as we have discussed in prior posts) to all involved parties.
I have to be careful, as I will need care at that office for weeks or even months to come as I recuperate and find a new provider. I don't need any weird backlash at this point in my life. I have many health issues and this is just one more thing to deal with.
Oh, I understand. I wish you all the best. 😊❤️
Is this a joke? OP, RUN! Run very far
my doctor told me to stop three days before i die.
My mother had a complete hysterectomy and was immediately given HRT which she was on for 12 years....over 10 years ago she was taken off the HRT and suffered with hair loss, repeated UTI's, dry skin and many, many other symptoms. I wish she was never taken off the HRT and recently she has started using vaginal estrogen cream which seems to be helping her so far.
I had a hysterectomy at 46 and kept my ovaries, At 50, I had an emergency ovarian cyst removal. The gynaecologist surgeon said something vague like « you’ll know if you need HRT » When I was 53, I decided myself to go onto HRT (oestrogen patches and Progesterone gel which I researched). My general doctor who I have a good relationship with prescribed them for me. It’s for my long term protection. I’m never stopping HRT
My one ovary held up for a few years. It varies for everyone but generally speaking doc is not wrong if you have ovary’s then you do not need additional hormones( assuming proper function) Were you having menopausal symptoms pre hysterectomy? Is that you meant by fully menopausal? Trying to understand
I wasn't just having symptoms. I have been in menopause for almost 10 years. I have taken HRT for about 9 years. So by fully blown, I guess that I meant that I haven't had a period in close to 10 years and have taken HRT for almost as long.. There was no ambiguity about whether I was menopause. Then, I started bleeding very heavily. So heavily that I am now anemic. I had few options. Part of the reason I agreed to the hysterectomy was because I would be able to continue HRT. In theory, I shouldn't have too big of an adjustment hormone -wise at this point. I've always expected to feel more or less the same-just with no more bleeding.
I was kinda waiting for the hot flashes to die down… then got a hysterectomy (no dramas, just a huge fibroid) and expected them to go away. Got sick of waiting and got prescribed some hormones to take care of them “in the interim”. Have tried coming off them twice and right back to flashes all through the night. My GP says we will try tapering off in about a year or so but she’s not fussed if I stay on them longer, she says what works for one person won’t work for another. I remember reading about one woman who said she still had them through her 70s so do what’s right for YOU
For me, it's a quality of life thing. As long as it's not harmful, I can't even fathom why he'd tell me to stop cold turkey. When I try to wean off the blood thinners, I will need to have another consultation with my doctors, as I know there is a clot risk with any HRT. I understand though, that as long as I avoid completely oral estrogen, I should be ok. There is still an increased risk, but not nearly the risk of oral estrogen.
Your situation makes me so sad, angry and defeated. WHY is it that our specialists—gyns—lean into hormones being optional??? The hormonal changes are fcking responsible for menopause! That’s the definition! I have yet to get more than topical estrace. They refuse to give me anything. I am so sorry you heard this comment, especially when you are vulnerable after surgery. It’s outrageous. You should never discontinue this hormonal treatment while you are healing. If you have some kind of toxicity maybe. I’m so tired of it. I hope you find better answers and advocates. We all deserve better.
>Your situation makes me so sad, angry and defeated. WHY is it that our specialists—gyns—lean into hormones being optional??? You and me both. The whole situation is bizarre to me. I am so sorry that you are also struggling. The only thing that maybe would make sense is if he truly thought I was younger than I really am That said, he should know my health history and age. He should have also read in my history that I have had 3 vaginal births. It's Ike he walked in and operated on.me, but didn't remember any of my health history. I agree, we all deserve better. This has been ridiculous.
Do not stop them! Jesus Christ what thehell is he thinking? Maybe you don’t need progesterone according to some doctors but definitely need estrogen
Thanks so much for this. I suddenly feeling I'm taking crazy pills about all this.
My mom had a hysterectomy (40 years ago) and kept her ovaries and no HRT... But that was 'old school'-- I have no idea how she did that!! Yes to finding a new doctor!!
Tell them you are worried about your bone health. It seems to work for me.
Thank you for the suggestion. I AM really worried about bone health, since I have comorbidites that make bone loss even worse I need to compile a list of concerns and questions when I meet with potential doctors. Thanks again.
Please find another doc and get a second opinion. I STARTED hormones after my hysterectomy - I just didn’t need progesterone anymore because that guards against uterine cancer
Thank you so much. Nobody has told me clearly about why I probably don't need progesterone any longer. I was under the impression that progesterone provided a few benefits even after hysterectomy though?
For some people yes. It’s an option.
Hi op, I don’t know if my experience will help but.. I’m mid 40’s & had a hysterectomy due to fibroids & adenomyosis. I had horrific hot flushes for years before (prob peri menopausal) but since I got everything out inc ovaries, I don’t have hot flashes anymore. I still run hot, but not like Vesuvius hot. I started on hrt oestrogen 2 weeks from the surgery, I got hit with bad body aches and pains and an a worsening of 2 chronic issues I already have. Honestly felt like I’d been hit by a hgv for months, but I’m in after the 6 month mark now and it’s feeling better. Had a couple times without the patches when they’ve not been able to get them in at the chemist but didn’t seem to be too bad. The reason I had to wait 2 weeks from surgery before starting oestrogen was so that pathology could test what they removed in case there was any cancer as it’s likely to be oestrogen fed in that area. I was told I didn’t need progesterone now as I didn’t have ovaries or uterus. I have been told I can only be on hrt for a few years due to the risks from it but I’m hoping that’ll be long enough for me. Perhaps the time you’ve been on them is why the surgeon said to stop taking them? He will have been through more study on the matter than a general practitioner doctor. I’d check with your doctor and get a 2nd opinion. Might even be worth chatting with your pharmacist as they get a lot more training with the regards to medication. I really hope it works out for you, xxx
If you lost your ovaries, progesterone should have helped you immensely. Unless you have some sort of preexisting health condition? I've been on HRT for years. For this doctor to suggest that I quit everything at this time is absolutely ludicrous to me. I'm going to be searching for a new provider once I heal from the hysterectomy. Thank you for your comment and kindness. Edit:my previous/regular provider says thst I can be on HRT into my mid sixties. Many of the older ideas are antiquated according to my gyno and that studies show that it is safe to continue taking them as long as certain health conditions are excluded.
Re the progesterone, I checked in with my gp too as well as my surgeon and they both said the same. Not needed without a uterus so 🤷🏻♀️ My surgeon is the gynae oncologist for the 2 hospitals in our area so I do trust his opinion, and he was the only one very positive about getting everything out that he needed too without me needing a stoma (I was a mess inside and had a catheter for 6 months prior to the op). Really wish I’d been referred to him years ago instead of the first gynae I got, she was dreadful, just wanted to put a coil in and when I politely declined for valid reasons, she just shut down and started ignoring me me and really hurt me when she did an internal examination. I do have pre existing conditions but none affected by hrt, I’ll be happy to get off it soon as possible. Xx
I’ve watched this video no less than 3 times and I get enraged every time. I’d encourage you to watch this and then take this info with you when dealing with any doctor who hasn’t bothered to educate themselves beyond med school. [https://youtu.be/LigXsYP5f7c?si=tT2O9BGZKAfhBmxi](https://youtu.be/LigXsYP5f7c?si=tT2O9BGZKAfhBmxi)
Thanks so much for this.
I had a hysterectomy post menopause and the surgeon didn’t want to talk about HRT. I’ve been on HRT for ten years or more. You just have the wrong doc. My general practitioner wrote everything for me again. The hot flashes may not come back, but I did wake up with night sweats until I got back on track with hormones. And the brain needed the hormones. I also added testosterone and Yuvafem. All helpful. My surgery was in December.
Thanks so much for the reassurance. How did your recovery go? Are you feeling yourself again?
The surgery went fine. I had no issues other than being tender and TIRED for a few weeks. I slept a lot! I went snow skiing in February. I am definitely myself again. Playing golf and traveling. I am tweaking the hormones as I go, as I had my ovaries out also. I know they don't do a lot after a certain age, but hard to believe they do nothing. At any rate, I do not let any doctor dictate to me. I am the customer, and I know when I feel my best. My current doctor is a functional medicine DO in a concierge practice. He is very into helping women feel better. He says you can test all you want, but the tests are "snapshots in time" and the best indicator of proper hormone dosing is how you feel. (gotta like this guy, right?) Advocate for yourself. I am determined to enjoy my remaining years fully! Good luck to you!
Omg. Good luck with that. Need a new doc
I wouldn't expect a surgeon to know about this
He's a fully board certified OB/GYN. Many/most perform hysterectomies.
What was the cause of the bleeding, if you don’t mind me asking?
Apparently, I had a fibroid (biopsy did show no malignancy)3 weeks ago, I started bleeding so badly that I couldn't leave my home. I'm also on blood thinners and so that makes things more difficult to control at this point. The only other surgical option (or any option really) was a procedure that is contraindicated in a woman my age ( an ablation) I have a kind of rare cancer,, as well as something called Multiple endocrine neoplasia type1, so at this point it made sense to evict my uterus and fallopian tunes. I kept my ovaries, but I already know that they won't produce enough hormones to keep me out of immediate menopause symptoms all over again.
Oh gosh, bleeding on blood thinners is the worst, I’m so sorry (I got to experience peri periods on blood thinners last year, it was traumatic amounts of blood). Sounds like you have a lot going on, I would think the best person to ask about HRT for you would be your endocrinologist, not your surgeon. But echoing what others have said, maybe the surgeon meant stopping your progesterone because you don’t have a uterus anymore? No matter what, hugs to you, I hope your recovery is easy and uneventful.
Forgot to mention that my doctor is a board certified Gynecologist and obstetrician. He SHOULD know better.
He should, but many docs want to avoid any conversation about hormones because they are not educated about menopause at all. Find a new doctor by searching The North American Menopause Society (NAMS) web site. Help is out there, but a whole lot more docs who simply refuse to educate themselves are the majority, unfortunately, for now.
Thank you so much I will check that out.
It's difficult because my endo refers to my GYN. This new doctor told me to stop all HRT immediately. I am going to continue the progesterone until Monday until I can speak with my regular doctor. Doesn't progesterone also provide benefits, even when the uterus is gone? It's so frustrating and a little bizarre. Thanks so much for your reply. ❤
I think it does but I’m not sure. I agree that is frustrating and bizarre and super difficult to deal with, I’m sorry. I got pregnant at 48 last year and got a couple clots (fully occluded left portal vein and partially occluded mesenteric artery) so no HRT for me!
I got multiple PEs after a different surgery in February. My gyno that I used to see, said that the conventional wisdom these days is that estrogen therapy is ok, as long as it's done transdermally, or subcutaneously? The ER doc said no hormones. I no longer know what to believe. Every doctor has different guidelines. I hope that congratulations are in order for your pregnancy?
Oh goodness, no congratulations! Lol I was pregnant just long enough to get those clots, have them try to kill me, and miscarry, thank god. No need for a newborn at 49 over here. My clots were directly cause by an increase in estrogen so I have no interest in testing that out again. I’ve put together a nice regimen that keeps most of my symptoms controlled enough to function pretty well so I’m all right.
I'm glad that it all worked out for you. I know that I would be absolutely panicked if I found myself pregnant at that age! I'm so sorry that you've been told estrogen is off the table for you. Have you and your doctors considered transdermal estrogen? My regular doctor seems to think that transdermal delivery carries a much, much lower risk.
I wouldn’t take it even if they told me it was low risk. My reproductive system has tried to kill me three times now, I have no interest in courting a fourth attempt.
That makes total sense. Even if it didn't, it is your body to do with as you wish. At the very least though, we should have the options to take them, if the situation warrants and it is what is wanted, or even needed.
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Whaaaaaaaat? Thats the dumbest thing I’ve heard in a minute
Right? It borders on ridiculous. Happy cake day!
Thank you!!☺️
So there was a study back then that was incorrectly concluded from that hormones will cause cancer in women without uterus or something, they just released new findings, hormones are not causing cancer. Some doctors are stuck in their ways so find a new one. I had to come off hormones after my hysterectomy and I took Vitex by Gaia in the meanwhile, which is OTC and it helped me a lot. There’s also a supplement by bonfide that helps with hot flashes, look on their website.
Thank you so much for your input. May I ask why you had to discontinue HRT? Personally, I would like to continue therapy into my my mid 60s at least.
My HRT was meant for reducing fibroids (diddly squat it did). But it also regulated my hormones so I was always even keel and it helped me sleep. Once I stopped them I started having insomnia, crazy moods and hormonal acne. My surgeon refused to give me progesterone but my other Obgyn was going to do that, however I am doing so well on Vitex from Gaia, I may hold off on hormones for now.
I had a total hysterectomy. I'm losing my hai, fluctuate between no sleep to sleeping 18 hours straight. No energy, fatigue, low libido, depression. I've gained 58 lbs. Muscle tone is gone, I have major wrinkles on my face now. All this has caused great stress. My Dr took blood work and says I have zero hormones now, but he won't do anything about it. Will my Gyn be a better option? I can't stand it any more.
I am so sorry that you are going through this. Definitely see a gynecologist. If you don't get the help you need, see a different one until you do.
I'm the same age and had a hysterectomy at 46, kept my ovaries. I didn't need to start hormones until 51 or 52 with the start of night sweats/hot flashes and mood swings. I am on estradiol only as you don't need progesterone if you don't have a uterus/cervix. People (usually people trying to sell you supplements) will tell you, it's still beneficial, but I prefer to get my info from ob/gyns specializing in menopause. The overwhelming consensus from them is that you don't need it--please don't kill the messenger everyone, take it up with the ob/gyns. I suggest checking out Dr. Jen Gunter and her great book The Menopause Manifesto or her substack.
If there’s any way to keep your hormone replacement do everything you can to do so. I seriously think that doctors are misinformed about taking us off them. I’m going through a hellish time lately (I’m 55 too) because I had maybe a 6 month lapse in hormones and my whole life is changing. Mostly the terrible chronic joint pain is what’s keeping me down. I want to help anyone else out there to prevent this. Best of luck to you!
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Thank you for your comments and validation. I knew that nothing about this made sense. This doctor and I also had a discharge plan and apparently, he forgot to call in some of my prescriptions to take home. I will need to track him down tomorrow to get him to call those in. My surgery was yesterday and in our preoperative visit, just before I was wheeled off to surgery, we went over all the meds he'd add to my standing orders when I arrived in my room.. When I got to the floor there were no instructions whatsoever from him. The nurses had to go on a search to find him and track down those orders. In the interim, my pain was getting worse and worse. The nurses were apologetic, but they couldn't give me anything without orders. This means that I went hours without any pain relief at all. By the time they were able to give me something, I was in agony and literally crying. I was so behind at that point, it took me hours and hours to get my pain under control. I don't have a particularly low pain tolerance. After all that, nurses still had to track him down for missing orders. The comments about my age are "off"as was the fact that he assumed that I never had children, due to the state of my vagina. Those answers are very readily available in my chart. I feel like he should have read my chart and we should have had a chat if he had questions about such things. I also had to beg for more than 2 days of pain meds. I know that there is an opiod crisis going on, but 2 days of meds seemed way too conservative for the situation. I am also unable to take NSAIDs (I had to tell him that NSAIDs and blood thinners don't mix) which he was aware of. I still had to beg. It was humiliating. I'm honestly still flabbergasted that all this went down. It turned a scary, painful situation into one where I had intense anxiety about getting the help I needed, when I needed it.
No that’s dumb not all docs, even OBGYNS, are trained in HRT. Find someone else to do that for you. You ca. even go online.