I have been struggling with perimenopause for quite some time, along with my other latest and greatest health issues.
During one of my visits to the doctor, she had suggested HRT as another option for me. “It’s not what it was, there are safe options”.
I’ve also been doing a lot of reading, especially Dr. Jen Gunter’s book (The Menopause Manifesto).
I try to make decisions armed with as much information as possible, and ask questions.
So, this week I went back to the doctor. My symptoms have progressively been getting worse, and I was not able to manage them effectively.
We had a well informed discussion. She laid out the options, pros and cons of each, and made her recommendation.
The advantages to early treatment were what sold me: alleviating my menopausal symptoms, improving vaginal health, bone health protection, potential cognitive benefits, mood stabilization, and improved sleep quality.
Duration?? I can be on it for 10 years.
I put my first Estalis patch on this morning. (also, thank you insurance).
The package comes with a removable “here’s when to take your patch” checklist. So my days are Saturday and Tuesday.
The patch is a small, clear circle, and needs to go on my abdomen or buttocks. I have opted for my abdomen.
I have been told that I should expect to see changes within 2 weeks to a month.
I’m opting to document this, as I am all about sharing, lol.
As a woman at this stage in life, sharing this experience is important. We are given alllll the information for puberty, but have been pushed aside when it comes to this significant shift later in life.
