I'm going to write about my experience with hormone replacement therapy and why I'm on it.
Due to endometrosis, I had to have a total hysterectomy at age 29. My gynecologist and I talked about HRT and the one's he thought I should try. He first wanted to wait until I actually started having symptoms of menopause. The doctor said it would be better if I could hold off as long as possible before starting HRT's because of some risks associated with taking them. A couple of risks include stroke and heart disease. He was concerned because my mother had a stroke and her doctor told her it was impart of her being on HRT's. This made my risk higher for stroke.
When the symptoms started, I went through different HRT medicines to see which one would work for my symptoms. Some worked for a few days, then the hot flashes and night sweats would be back. Sometimes the hot flashes would be worse than before. It took about three months before I found a medicine that would help my symptoms. The one that works is called Vivelle Dot Patch. I've been using it about 8 years. The patch is suppose to be changed twice a week, but the last couple of years, I would only change it once a week. The last few months I have only used the patch once in three months. The hot flashes are not bad and only last a few minutes. I began doing light exercises and that has helped. My husband is concerned with me being on HRT's because of the risks and what happened with my mother. It does not help when the media tells of the "bad" things that can happen while being on HRT' s. Don't get me wrong, I am concerned, but it is a risk I must take so that I can feel better.
Amy Morrow
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I think it is all up to the person whether they feel the benefits outweigh the benefits. If it makes you feel better more power to you. It is great that you decided to begin exercising, and that it is helping you. Hopefully with time the exercise will better your symptoms.
ReplyDeleteI am 25 and I couldn't imagine starting menopause in a couple years!! Wow! I know it was for the better and all for your ability to feel better, but I still can't imagine it for myself. I am glad to hear that HRT has been helping. It really is amazing to see the risks that we women take to be able to function daily. Keep taking good care of yourself and you have no issues. You are taking this class and others that will keep you aware of all your options. Good luck with your treatment in years to come!
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