Hello to you all!
I am Clarissa, I'm 38 and have been having some crazy changes in my life and body lately. I recently moved 5,000 miles back to my hometown, and am trying to get setttled here while navigating lots of health symptoms. I've been quite upset through some of it, but am finding my strength growing bit by bit. I started reading about PERIMENOPAUSE and think that this must be what is going on with me! I've been to the doctor who has put it down to lots of stress, my husband still working away from home, etc. I've been offered anti-depressants but little in the way of help with my hormones!!! I was really angry about this, as my symptoms are usually only bad during PMS/Period time. I'm seeing a GYN soon though and getting my Estrogen levels tested. I have had the FSH tested, it is normal, according to that.
My symptoms??? WELL, I have been having hot flases during PMS and my periods, wake up VERY sweaty, heart pounding, unable to sleep, which made me VERY afraid for several weeks, as I got worried about not sleeping. I had lots of trouble eating after my move so I lost 20 pounds and probably had low blood sugar which made things worse. I started taking Lorazepam for the anxiety, which doesnt' help at all if I am having the hot flash/pounding. I only take a tiny dose of it, only when I'm having an anxious day (maybe 3 times a week). I still have periods, they are anywhere from 16-14 days apart, last about 4 days, not very heavy, except the first day. I have always had terrible cramps and usually get headaches, though they are mild. Another STRANGE symptom for me, is that my breasts no longer ache at all, not any time during the monthly cycle!!! DOES ANYONE KNOW WHAT THIS IS A SIGN OF? I assume it is down to one of the hormones being too high or too low, etc. I've also had lots of internal shaking, mostly in the mornings, and I am just now reading that this seems to be a symptom, too!!
So, I would appreciate any help SO MUCH, as I am tired, run down, taking care of my 4 year old, missing my husband like crazy, putting up with doctors who won't listen, and family who all think I'm a bit nuts. I am taking Estroven (just started) and slept well the past 2 nights (though woke up trembling). I also take Flax Seed Oil daily, Black Current Oil capsules, and I eat pretty healthily, though my appetite isn't always great.
OK, that's enough, I'll be reading your posts now :-).
Thanks for reading this,
Clarissa
Full Version: I'm NEW, 38, LOTS of questions :-)
Hi Clarissa! I'm kind of new here too. I'm 36 and completely convinced that my hormones are out of whack. I don't know that I can help you, but you'll find tons of help and reassurance on this site. When I'm having a really bad day, this is the one place I can come to for some peace of mind. At least I know I'm not the only one out there. Hang in there and hopefully you'll get some answers and rest soon. If it makes you feel any better, I've had a full workup (MRI, EKG, EEG, EchoCardiogram, bloodwork, etc.) All of it was normal, but I have certainly be ABNORMAL this summer and fall. I've decided that most days my body is going to take me on one kind of adventure or another and for now, I'm just along for the ride. Good luck and HUGS to you! 
CJ
PS: If you want to read my whole story, it's posted in the 30s Betwixt and Between message board.
CJ
PS: If you want to read my whole story, it's posted in the 30s Betwixt and Between message board.
Whoops! I forgot to mention, they did find out I have Mitral Valve Prolapse, but they say that's not really related to everything else going on with me.
CJ
CJ
QUOTE (clarissak @ Oct 14 2007, 08:18 PM) 
Hello to you all!
I am Clarissa, I'm 38 and have been having some crazy changes in my life and body lately. I recently moved 5,000 miles back to my hometown, and am trying to get setttled here while navigating lots of health symptoms. I've been quite upset through some of it, but am finding my strength growing bit by bit. I started reading about PERIMENOPAUSE and think that this must be what is going on with me! I've been to the doctor who has put it down to lots of stress, my husband still working away from home, etc. I've been offered anti-depressants but little in the way of help with my hormones!!! I was really angry about this, as my symptoms are usually only bad during PMS/Period time. I'm seeing a GYN soon though and getting my Estrogen levels tested. I have had the FSH tested, it is normal, according to that.
My symptoms??? WELL, I have been having hot flases during PMS and my periods, wake up VERY sweaty, heart pounding, unable to sleep, which made me VERY afraid for several weeks, as I got worried about not sleeping. I had lots of trouble eating after my move so I lost 20 pounds and probably had low blood sugar which made things worse. I started taking Lorazepam for the anxiety, which doesnt' help at all if I am having the hot flash/pounding. I only take a tiny dose of it, only when I'm having an anxious day (maybe 3 times a week). I still have periods, they are anywhere from 16-14 days apart, last about 4 days, not very heavy, except the first day. I have always had terrible cramps and usually get headaches, though they are mild. Another STRANGE symptom for me, is that my breasts no longer ache at all, not any time during the monthly cycle!!! DOES ANYONE KNOW WHAT THIS IS A SIGN OF? I assume it is down to one of the hormones being too high or too low, etc. I've also had lots of internal shaking, mostly in the mornings, and I am just now reading that this seems to be a symptom, too!!
So, I would appreciate any help SO MUCH, as I am tired, run down, taking care of my 4 year old, missing my husband like crazy, putting up with doctors who won't listen, and family who all think I'm a bit nuts. I am taking Estroven (just started) and slept well the past 2 nights (though woke up trembling). I also take Flax Seed Oil daily, Black Current Oil capsules, and I eat pretty healthily, though my appetite isn't always great.
OK, that's enough, I'll be reading your posts now :-).
Thanks for reading this,
Clarissa
I am Clarissa, I'm 38 and have been having some crazy changes in my life and body lately. I recently moved 5,000 miles back to my hometown, and am trying to get setttled here while navigating lots of health symptoms. I've been quite upset through some of it, but am finding my strength growing bit by bit. I started reading about PERIMENOPAUSE and think that this must be what is going on with me! I've been to the doctor who has put it down to lots of stress, my husband still working away from home, etc. I've been offered anti-depressants but little in the way of help with my hormones!!! I was really angry about this, as my symptoms are usually only bad during PMS/Period time. I'm seeing a GYN soon though and getting my Estrogen levels tested. I have had the FSH tested, it is normal, according to that.
My symptoms??? WELL, I have been having hot flases during PMS and my periods, wake up VERY sweaty, heart pounding, unable to sleep, which made me VERY afraid for several weeks, as I got worried about not sleeping. I had lots of trouble eating after my move so I lost 20 pounds and probably had low blood sugar which made things worse. I started taking Lorazepam for the anxiety, which doesnt' help at all if I am having the hot flash/pounding. I only take a tiny dose of it, only when I'm having an anxious day (maybe 3 times a week). I still have periods, they are anywhere from 16-14 days apart, last about 4 days, not very heavy, except the first day. I have always had terrible cramps and usually get headaches, though they are mild. Another STRANGE symptom for me, is that my breasts no longer ache at all, not any time during the monthly cycle!!! DOES ANYONE KNOW WHAT THIS IS A SIGN OF? I assume it is down to one of the hormones being too high or too low, etc. I've also had lots of internal shaking, mostly in the mornings, and I am just now reading that this seems to be a symptom, too!!
So, I would appreciate any help SO MUCH, as I am tired, run down, taking care of my 4 year old, missing my husband like crazy, putting up with doctors who won't listen, and family who all think I'm a bit nuts. I am taking Estroven (just started) and slept well the past 2 nights (though woke up trembling). I also take Flax Seed Oil daily, Black Current Oil capsules, and I eat pretty healthily, though my appetite isn't always great.
OK, that's enough, I'll be reading your posts now :-).
Thanks for reading this,
Clarissa
wow, you're going through alot with moving & raising a young child & dealing with the health symptoms. you'll find this to be an invaluable forum of support & information. i started having changes in my mid to late 30s & it took all hell to break loose this year before i figured out the hormonal connections.
read some of the recommended books. i started with susan love & have just started vliet's books. i would suggest one of hers 1st - maybe 'it's my ovaries, stupid.' others here will give you good suggestions & advice.
my biggest piece of advice - trust your instincts even if the doctors & whoever else may doubt you.
best, ellen
Clarissa,
That doctor who told you it was stress when you are having hot flashes is just a bad doctor. Run and don’t look back!!!
Hot flashes, anxiety, and not being able to sleep are signs of low estrogen.
When you get your estrogen tested make sure and test it on a low day rather than when you are feeling good. A day when you are having hot flashes is a good day to test it. If you get it tested and it is “normal” the doctor will just blow you off again.
As suggested, Vliet’s books are very good. Reiss also has a good book but his advice on progesterone is way off and can get you overdosed. Just keep that in mind when reading Reiss. Reiss also likes triest which is unnecessary (see Vliet). If you replace “estradiol” with triest in Reiss’s book and skip the progesterone chapter, it is a good book.
You have to decide what you want to do. Do you want to take hormones or not? Do you want to go on the pill until menopause or use natural human estrogen? What ever you do don’t let them give you prempro (horse estrogen plus progestin—a hormone like drug). The books will help you figure out what to do. Vliet will give you options. She talks about the right birth control pills to take (moderate dose estrogen + low dose progestin).
I am in peri and I opted for estradiol gel plus vaginal progesterone for several days/month. I also take testosterone because my T level is low and I get anxiety without extra T.
You really need to educate yourself because most doctors do not have a clue. Another author to read is Gillespie.
You should not have to take Lorazapam when a small dose of estrogen (and maybe testosterone) will make you feel like yourself again.
Kathy
That doctor who told you it was stress when you are having hot flashes is just a bad doctor. Run and don’t look back!!!
Hot flashes, anxiety, and not being able to sleep are signs of low estrogen.
When you get your estrogen tested make sure and test it on a low day rather than when you are feeling good. A day when you are having hot flashes is a good day to test it. If you get it tested and it is “normal” the doctor will just blow you off again.
As suggested, Vliet’s books are very good. Reiss also has a good book but his advice on progesterone is way off and can get you overdosed. Just keep that in mind when reading Reiss. Reiss also likes triest which is unnecessary (see Vliet). If you replace “estradiol” with triest in Reiss’s book and skip the progesterone chapter, it is a good book.
You have to decide what you want to do. Do you want to take hormones or not? Do you want to go on the pill until menopause or use natural human estrogen? What ever you do don’t let them give you prempro (horse estrogen plus progestin—a hormone like drug). The books will help you figure out what to do. Vliet will give you options. She talks about the right birth control pills to take (moderate dose estrogen + low dose progestin).
I am in peri and I opted for estradiol gel plus vaginal progesterone for several days/month. I also take testosterone because my T level is low and I get anxiety without extra T.
You really need to educate yourself because most doctors do not have a clue. Another author to read is Gillespie.
You should not have to take Lorazapam when a small dose of estrogen (and maybe testosterone) will make you feel like yourself again.
Kathy
QUOTE (584296a @ Oct 15 2007, 03:08 PM)
Clarissa,
That doctor who told you it was stress when you are having hot flashes is just a bad doctor. Run and don’t look back!!!
Hot flashes, anxiety, and not being able to sleep are signs of low estrogen.
When you get your estrogen tested make sure and test it on a low day rather than when you are feeling good. A day when you are having hot flashes is a good day to test it. If you get it tested and it is “normal” the doctor will just blow you off again.
As suggested, Vliet’s books are very good. Reiss also has a good book but his advice on progesterone is way off and can get you overdosed. Just keep that in mind when reading Reiss. Reiss also likes triest which is unnecessary (see Vliet). If you replace “estradiol” with triest in Reiss’s book and skip the progesterone chapter, it is a good book.
You have to decide what you want to do. Do you want to take hormones or not? Do you want to go on the pill until menopause or use natural human estrogen? What ever you do don’t let them give you prempro (horse estrogen plus progestin—a hormone like drug). The books will help you figure out what to do. Vliet will give you options. She talks about the right birth control pills to take (moderate dose estrogen + low dose progestin).
I am in peri and I opted for estradiol gel plus vaginal progesterone for several days/month. I also take testosterone because my T level is low and I get anxiety without extra T.
You really need to educate yourself because most doctors do not have a clue. Another author to read is Gillespie.
You should not have to take Lorazapam when a small dose of estrogen (and maybe testosterone) will make you feel like yourself again.
Kathy
That doctor who told you it was stress when you are having hot flashes is just a bad doctor. Run and don’t look back!!!
Hot flashes, anxiety, and not being able to sleep are signs of low estrogen.
When you get your estrogen tested make sure and test it on a low day rather than when you are feeling good. A day when you are having hot flashes is a good day to test it. If you get it tested and it is “normal” the doctor will just blow you off again.
As suggested, Vliet’s books are very good. Reiss also has a good book but his advice on progesterone is way off and can get you overdosed. Just keep that in mind when reading Reiss. Reiss also likes triest which is unnecessary (see Vliet). If you replace “estradiol” with triest in Reiss’s book and skip the progesterone chapter, it is a good book.
You have to decide what you want to do. Do you want to take hormones or not? Do you want to go on the pill until menopause or use natural human estrogen? What ever you do don’t let them give you prempro (horse estrogen plus progestin—a hormone like drug). The books will help you figure out what to do. Vliet will give you options. She talks about the right birth control pills to take (moderate dose estrogen + low dose progestin).
I am in peri and I opted for estradiol gel plus vaginal progesterone for several days/month. I also take testosterone because my T level is low and I get anxiety without extra T.
You really need to educate yourself because most doctors do not have a clue. Another author to read is Gillespie.
You should not have to take Lorazapam when a small dose of estrogen (and maybe testosterone) will make you feel like yourself again.
Kathy
kathy,
great guidelines & suggestions. it sounds like you have really done your research (that's what i'm trying to currently do so that i can answer some of the questions that you posed).
just curious, what factors influenced your decision to use estradiol gel & vaginal progesterone, as well as the testosterone? as i am doing my reading, the thing that is striking to me is the need for individualization of treatment. i see my pcp soon, who last visit suggested the pill to regulate my fluctuations (i'm 44). another doc prescribed yaz last november & it was like having the psychotic flu. i don't want to repeat a scary situtation.
thanks for recommending the other authors.
ellen
Hi Ellen,
My first decisions came after reading Natural Hormone Balance by Reiss. What he said made sense to me so I found some triest on line and ordered it. I tried it a couple of times when I was having a bad day (could not drag myself out of bed, was so depressed, flashes). The triest was a miracle for me, I felt so much better. I then made an appointment with my hormone doctor who put me on triest. I had my blood drawn which showed an estradiol level in the 70s and a non-detected testosterone level. He agreed to put me on testosterone cream.
Previous to that I had read Lee’s two menopause books and was using topical progesterone. The progesterone just was not helping me anymore so I thought there had to be a different answer. My compounding pharmacy had a reading list that included Reiss’s book. Unfortunately the reading list did not include Vliet (probably because she likes women to use the patch and not compounded estrogen).
My hormone doctor also recommended oral progesterone. I tried progesterone several different ways and settled on vaginal progesterone because I cannot tolerate oral progesterone and topical progesterone has been shown not to protect the endometrium in 30 % of the women who use it. I am still tweaking my progesterone dose every month.
I have experimented with triest, biest, and estradiol in olive oil and estradiol in a gel (oestrogel). I feel the best with oestrogel. Oestrogel is in a long acting base and does not wear off and give me symptoms frequently during the day like all the other estrogens did. Biest was the worst for me.
I have tried going off my testosterone but I have found that I really need it just like I need the estrogen. Without the testosterone I get anxiety and have trouble driving my car.
I did not want to try birth control pills (again) because I was never able to find one that did not give me either depression or severe pms all month long. I am also concerned about the oral estrogens in the pill depressing my testosterone even further (oral estrogens bind up testosterone because they cause your liver to produce extra sex binding hormone). If I ever went on the pill I would still need to take testosterone cream. I have bone loss in my mouth and hips and I really need my testosterone to help me keep the bone that I have and possibly build more.
Vliet says that using natural hormones in peri can be difficult (or something similar); she is right but the payoff is huge because I have a life now and can get out of bed, drive my car, do most of my work, and not cry all the time because of depression—not to mention all the other positives. For instance, my skin is better—I was noticing that it was starting to sag (side effect of too little testosterone), my vaginal dryness is gone, I am hopeful that I will not loose my teeth (my dentist said a year ago that I was going to loose my teeth due to bone and gum loss), I am hopeful that I will not get osteoporosis like my mother/grandmothers. By no means are things perfect now. I am still struggling with fine tuning my dosages all the time and I have days where I am just exhausted. But in general I feel good and much better than I did when I was falling deep into the peri-hole. When I have a bad day I pay attention and tweak my hormones so that I will have less bad days.
In addition to all this I have added some extra supplements, extra iron for low ferritin, adrenal extract for adrenal fatigue, vit D for bone/breast health, iodine in the form of lugol’s solution for breast health and overall deficiency.
Kathy
My first decisions came after reading Natural Hormone Balance by Reiss. What he said made sense to me so I found some triest on line and ordered it. I tried it a couple of times when I was having a bad day (could not drag myself out of bed, was so depressed, flashes). The triest was a miracle for me, I felt so much better. I then made an appointment with my hormone doctor who put me on triest. I had my blood drawn which showed an estradiol level in the 70s and a non-detected testosterone level. He agreed to put me on testosterone cream.
Previous to that I had read Lee’s two menopause books and was using topical progesterone. The progesterone just was not helping me anymore so I thought there had to be a different answer. My compounding pharmacy had a reading list that included Reiss’s book. Unfortunately the reading list did not include Vliet (probably because she likes women to use the patch and not compounded estrogen).
My hormone doctor also recommended oral progesterone. I tried progesterone several different ways and settled on vaginal progesterone because I cannot tolerate oral progesterone and topical progesterone has been shown not to protect the endometrium in 30 % of the women who use it. I am still tweaking my progesterone dose every month.
I have experimented with triest, biest, and estradiol in olive oil and estradiol in a gel (oestrogel). I feel the best with oestrogel. Oestrogel is in a long acting base and does not wear off and give me symptoms frequently during the day like all the other estrogens did. Biest was the worst for me.
I have tried going off my testosterone but I have found that I really need it just like I need the estrogen. Without the testosterone I get anxiety and have trouble driving my car.
I did not want to try birth control pills (again) because I was never able to find one that did not give me either depression or severe pms all month long. I am also concerned about the oral estrogens in the pill depressing my testosterone even further (oral estrogens bind up testosterone because they cause your liver to produce extra sex binding hormone). If I ever went on the pill I would still need to take testosterone cream. I have bone loss in my mouth and hips and I really need my testosterone to help me keep the bone that I have and possibly build more.
Vliet says that using natural hormones in peri can be difficult (or something similar); she is right but the payoff is huge because I have a life now and can get out of bed, drive my car, do most of my work, and not cry all the time because of depression—not to mention all the other positives. For instance, my skin is better—I was noticing that it was starting to sag (side effect of too little testosterone), my vaginal dryness is gone, I am hopeful that I will not loose my teeth (my dentist said a year ago that I was going to loose my teeth due to bone and gum loss), I am hopeful that I will not get osteoporosis like my mother/grandmothers. By no means are things perfect now. I am still struggling with fine tuning my dosages all the time and I have days where I am just exhausted. But in general I feel good and much better than I did when I was falling deep into the peri-hole. When I have a bad day I pay attention and tweak my hormones so that I will have less bad days.
In addition to all this I have added some extra supplements, extra iron for low ferritin, adrenal extract for adrenal fatigue, vit D for bone/breast health, iodine in the form of lugol’s solution for breast health and overall deficiency.
Kathy
Hi Clarissa, It sounds to me from reading your post, and your cycles being so close together, that its total perimenopause. It sounds like your having annovulatory periods, which means ur not ovulating, just bleeding. If you arent ovulating, you typically wont have the tender breasts, which is a classic sign of having ovulated. I was having that also a couple of yrs. ago, my cycles were getting shorter, like 23-25 days instead of the normal 28-30. And I would notice, I would get a period but not breast tenderness, which I always had. So than I did some research and read that as we approach peri and menopause we have these annouvulatory periods, where we dont ovulate every cycle. I just turned 47 last mo. and in Aug. I had a period 2 wks. late and it was heavier than normal. Well, I havent had another one. It seems the cycles getting shorter starts happening a few yrs. before peri, than as we get well into peri, they start getting longer, or skipping. Of course its all variable from person to person, but its terribly disturbing, Im still waiting for my period because I didnt have one in sept. But that is just what was happening to me, even 3 yrs. ago i can remember having cycles with no breast pain, and I thought it was so weird, but alas, its all part of this wonderful PERI! Try using a good progesterone cream, it helps balance out the hormones during peri and helps with lots of the other symptoms.
QUOTE (clarissak @ Oct 14 2007, 08:18 PM)
Hello to you all!
I am Clarissa, I'm 38 and have been having some crazy changes in my life and body lately. I recently moved 5,000 miles back to my hometown, and am trying to get setttled here while navigating lots of health symptoms. I've been quite upset through some of it, but am finding my strength growing bit by bit. I started reading about PERIMENOPAUSE and think that this must be what is going on with me! I've been to the doctor who has put it down to lots of stress, my husband still working away from home, etc. I've been offered anti-depressants but little in the way of help with my hormones!!! I was really angry about this, as my symptoms are usually only bad during PMS/Period time. I'm seeing a GYN soon though and getting my Estrogen levels tested. I have had the FSH tested, it is normal, according to that.
My symptoms??? WELL, I have been having hot flases during PMS and my periods, wake up VERY sweaty, heart pounding, unable to sleep, which made me VERY afraid for several weeks, as I got worried about not sleeping. I had lots of trouble eating after my move so I lost 20 pounds and probably had low blood sugar which made things worse. I started taking Lorazepam for the anxiety, which doesnt' help at all if I am having the hot flash/pounding. I only take a tiny dose of it, only when I'm having an anxious day (maybe 3 times a week). I still have periods, they are anywhere from 16-14 days apart, last about 4 days, not very heavy, except the first day. I have always had terrible cramps and usually get headaches, though they are mild. Another STRANGE symptom for me, is that my breasts no longer ache at all, not any time during the monthly cycle!!! DOES ANYONE KNOW WHAT THIS IS A SIGN OF? I assume it is down to one of the hormones being too high or too low, etc. I've also had lots of internal shaking, mostly in the mornings, and I am just now reading that this seems to be a symptom, too!!
So, I would appreciate any help SO MUCH, as I am tired, run down, taking care of my 4 year old, missing my husband like crazy, putting up with doctors who won't listen, and family who all think I'm a bit nuts. I am taking Estroven (just started) and slept well the past 2 nights (though woke up trembling). I also take Flax Seed Oil daily, Black Current Oil capsules, and I eat pretty healthily, though my appetite isn't always great.
OK, that's enough, I'll be reading your posts now :-).
Thanks for reading this,
Clarissa
I am Clarissa, I'm 38 and have been having some crazy changes in my life and body lately. I recently moved 5,000 miles back to my hometown, and am trying to get setttled here while navigating lots of health symptoms. I've been quite upset through some of it, but am finding my strength growing bit by bit. I started reading about PERIMENOPAUSE and think that this must be what is going on with me! I've been to the doctor who has put it down to lots of stress, my husband still working away from home, etc. I've been offered anti-depressants but little in the way of help with my hormones!!! I was really angry about this, as my symptoms are usually only bad during PMS/Period time. I'm seeing a GYN soon though and getting my Estrogen levels tested. I have had the FSH tested, it is normal, according to that.
My symptoms??? WELL, I have been having hot flases during PMS and my periods, wake up VERY sweaty, heart pounding, unable to sleep, which made me VERY afraid for several weeks, as I got worried about not sleeping. I had lots of trouble eating after my move so I lost 20 pounds and probably had low blood sugar which made things worse. I started taking Lorazepam for the anxiety, which doesnt' help at all if I am having the hot flash/pounding. I only take a tiny dose of it, only when I'm having an anxious day (maybe 3 times a week). I still have periods, they are anywhere from 16-14 days apart, last about 4 days, not very heavy, except the first day. I have always had terrible cramps and usually get headaches, though they are mild. Another STRANGE symptom for me, is that my breasts no longer ache at all, not any time during the monthly cycle!!! DOES ANYONE KNOW WHAT THIS IS A SIGN OF? I assume it is down to one of the hormones being too high or too low, etc. I've also had lots of internal shaking, mostly in the mornings, and I am just now reading that this seems to be a symptom, too!!
So, I would appreciate any help SO MUCH, as I am tired, run down, taking care of my 4 year old, missing my husband like crazy, putting up with doctors who won't listen, and family who all think I'm a bit nuts. I am taking Estroven (just started) and slept well the past 2 nights (though woke up trembling). I also take Flax Seed Oil daily, Black Current Oil capsules, and I eat pretty healthily, though my appetite isn't always great.
OK, that's enough, I'll be reading your posts now :-).
Thanks for reading this,
Clarissa
QUOTE (584296a @ Oct 17 2007, 06:17 PM)
Hi Ellen,
My first decisions came after reading Natural Hormone Balance by Reiss. What he said made sense to me so I found some triest on line and ordered it. I tried it a couple of times when I was having a bad day (could not drag myself out of bed, was so depressed, flashes). The triest was a miracle for me, I felt so much better. I then made an appointment with my hormone doctor who put me on triest. I had my blood drawn which showed an estradiol level in the 70s and a non-detected testosterone level. He agreed to put me on testosterone cream.
Previous to that I had read Lee’s two menopause books and was using topical progesterone. The progesterone just was not helping me anymore so I thought there had to be a different answer. My compounding pharmacy had a reading list that included Reiss’s book. Unfortunately the reading list did not include Vliet (probably because she likes women to use the patch and not compounded estrogen).
My hormone doctor also recommended oral progesterone. I tried progesterone several different ways and settled on vaginal progesterone because I cannot tolerate oral progesterone and topical progesterone has been shown not to protect the endometrium in 30 % of the women who use it. I am still tweaking my progesterone dose every month.
I have experimented with triest, biest, and estradiol in olive oil and estradiol in a gel (oestrogel). I feel the best with oestrogel. Oestrogel is in a long acting base and does not wear off and give me symptoms frequently during the day like all the other estrogens did. Biest was the worst for me.
I have tried going off my testosterone but I have found that I really need it just like I need the estrogen. Without the testosterone I get anxiety and have trouble driving my car.
I did not want to try birth control pills (again) because I was never able to find one that did not give me either depression or severe pms all month long. I am also concerned about the oral estrogens in the pill depressing my testosterone even further (oral estrogens bind up testosterone because they cause your liver to produce extra sex binding hormone). If I ever went on the pill I would still need to take testosterone cream. I have bone loss in my mouth and hips and I really need my testosterone to help me keep the bone that I have and possibly build more.
Vliet says that using natural hormones in peri can be difficult (or something similar); she is right but the payoff is huge because I have a life now and can get out of bed, drive my car, do most of my work, and not cry all the time because of depression—not to mention all the other positives. For instance, my skin is better—I was noticing that it was starting to sag (side effect of too little testosterone), my vaginal dryness is gone, I am hopeful that I will not loose my teeth (my dentist said a year ago that I was going to loose my teeth due to bone and gum loss), I am hopeful that I will not get osteoporosis like my mother/grandmothers. By no means are things perfect now. I am still struggling with fine tuning my dosages all the time and I have days where I am just exhausted. But in general I feel good and much better than I did when I was falling deep into the peri-hole. When I have a bad day I pay attention and tweak my hormones so that I will have less bad days.
In addition to all this I have added some extra supplements, extra iron for low ferritin, adrenal extract for adrenal fatigue, vit D for bone/breast health, iodine in the form of lugol’s solution for breast health and overall deficiency.
Kathy
My first decisions came after reading Natural Hormone Balance by Reiss. What he said made sense to me so I found some triest on line and ordered it. I tried it a couple of times when I was having a bad day (could not drag myself out of bed, was so depressed, flashes). The triest was a miracle for me, I felt so much better. I then made an appointment with my hormone doctor who put me on triest. I had my blood drawn which showed an estradiol level in the 70s and a non-detected testosterone level. He agreed to put me on testosterone cream.
Previous to that I had read Lee’s two menopause books and was using topical progesterone. The progesterone just was not helping me anymore so I thought there had to be a different answer. My compounding pharmacy had a reading list that included Reiss’s book. Unfortunately the reading list did not include Vliet (probably because she likes women to use the patch and not compounded estrogen).
My hormone doctor also recommended oral progesterone. I tried progesterone several different ways and settled on vaginal progesterone because I cannot tolerate oral progesterone and topical progesterone has been shown not to protect the endometrium in 30 % of the women who use it. I am still tweaking my progesterone dose every month.
I have experimented with triest, biest, and estradiol in olive oil and estradiol in a gel (oestrogel). I feel the best with oestrogel. Oestrogel is in a long acting base and does not wear off and give me symptoms frequently during the day like all the other estrogens did. Biest was the worst for me.
I have tried going off my testosterone but I have found that I really need it just like I need the estrogen. Without the testosterone I get anxiety and have trouble driving my car.
I did not want to try birth control pills (again) because I was never able to find one that did not give me either depression or severe pms all month long. I am also concerned about the oral estrogens in the pill depressing my testosterone even further (oral estrogens bind up testosterone because they cause your liver to produce extra sex binding hormone). If I ever went on the pill I would still need to take testosterone cream. I have bone loss in my mouth and hips and I really need my testosterone to help me keep the bone that I have and possibly build more.
Vliet says that using natural hormones in peri can be difficult (or something similar); she is right but the payoff is huge because I have a life now and can get out of bed, drive my car, do most of my work, and not cry all the time because of depression—not to mention all the other positives. For instance, my skin is better—I was noticing that it was starting to sag (side effect of too little testosterone), my vaginal dryness is gone, I am hopeful that I will not loose my teeth (my dentist said a year ago that I was going to loose my teeth due to bone and gum loss), I am hopeful that I will not get osteoporosis like my mother/grandmothers. By no means are things perfect now. I am still struggling with fine tuning my dosages all the time and I have days where I am just exhausted. But in general I feel good and much better than I did when I was falling deep into the peri-hole. When I have a bad day I pay attention and tweak my hormones so that I will have less bad days.
In addition to all this I have added some extra supplements, extra iron for low ferritin, adrenal extract for adrenal fatigue, vit D for bone/breast health, iodine in the form of lugol’s solution for breast health and overall deficiency.
Kathy
kathy,
thank you so much for sharing that with me. i'm still trying to wrap my brain around all this (when it's working, which is not as frequently as i would like). i've been sick for a long time & i'm beginning to believe that hormonal imbalance has been a key factor. this past year just forced the issue because things have gotten so bad. i can certainly relate to the types of symptoms that you describe & i'm glad that you have been able to make progress toward a healthier situation. i can tell, as well, that you have thoroughly educated yourself so that you can make the best possible decisions.
this was coming to a point where i had begun to lose hope of ever feeling well again. & none of the doctors had been helpful - the shrugs & it's stress & in your head & all that stuff. i found my way here in the spring & made an appt with a gyn here who was part of the WHI study & an "expert" in meno. she couldn't even be bothered to do the intake - a resident did it. & then i was ushered in to her office where she pronounced that i had PMDD & needed antidepressants.
it's incredible that i never really thought about how our hormones continually impact us in every way. & here i've suffered for years with bad pms. the pill never impacted the pms & i always felt low level depressed on it & low sex drive - & i never knew that it could be the pill causing any of it. it wasn't until the severe yaz experience that i made any of the connections.
even after the connections & suspecting peri, i adopted the "just have to suffer through this" mentality even though i was disabled by it. but thanks to you & others, i realize that it doesn't have to be like that. so i have a bunch of learning to do & decisions to make. maybe even some hope to restore. i now have a decent doc, at least. i see her soon & i want to get a referral for a complete endo eval/testing (did have some bloodwork in july - T was 22, FSH 10, E 169 - all around midcycle). then i hope i have gathered enough info to make some informed decisions & possibly get my life back.
thanks again & continued good luck,
ellen
QUOTE (clarissak @ Oct 14 2007, 07:18 PM)
Hello to you all!
I am Clarissa, I'm 38 and have been having some crazy changes in my life and body lately. I recently moved 5,000 miles back to my hometown, and am trying to get setttled here while navigating lots of health symptoms. I've been quite upset through some of it, but am finding my strength growing bit by bit. I started reading about PERIMENOPAUSE and think that this must be what is going on with me! I've been to the doctor who has put it down to lots of stress, my husband still working away from home, etc. I've been offered anti-depressants but little in the way of help with my hormones!!! I was really angry about this, as my symptoms are usually only bad during PMS/Period time. I'm seeing a GYN soon though and getting my Estrogen levels tested. I have had the FSH tested, it is normal, according to that.
My symptoms??? WELL, I have been having hot flases during PMS and my periods, wake up VERY sweaty, heart pounding, unable to sleep, which made me VERY afraid for several weeks, as I got worried about not sleeping. I had lots of trouble eating after my move so I lost 20 pounds and probably had low blood sugar which made things worse. I started taking Lorazepam for the anxiety, which doesnt' help at all if I am having the hot flash/pounding. I only take a tiny dose of it, only when I'm having an anxious day (maybe 3 times a week). I still have periods, they are anywhere from 16-14 days apart, last about 4 days, not very heavy, except the first day. I have always had terrible cramps and usually get headaches, though they are mild. Another STRANGE symptom for me, is that my breasts no longer ache at all, not any time during the monthly cycle!!! DOES ANYONE KNOW WHAT THIS IS A SIGN OF? I assume it is down to one of the hormones being too high or too low, etc. I've also had lots of internal shaking, mostly in the mornings, and I am just now reading that this seems to be a symptom, too!!
So, I would appreciate any help SO MUCH, as I am tired, run down, taking care of my 4 year old, missing my husband like crazy, putting up with doctors who won't listen, and family who all think I'm a bit nuts. I am taking Estroven (just started) and slept well the past 2 nights (though woke up trembling). I also take Flax Seed Oil daily, Black Current Oil capsules, and I eat pretty healthily, though my appetite isn't always great.
OK, that's enough, I'll be reading your posts now :-).
Thanks for reading this,
Clarissa
I am Clarissa, I'm 38 and have been having some crazy changes in my life and body lately. I recently moved 5,000 miles back to my hometown, and am trying to get setttled here while navigating lots of health symptoms. I've been quite upset through some of it, but am finding my strength growing bit by bit. I started reading about PERIMENOPAUSE and think that this must be what is going on with me! I've been to the doctor who has put it down to lots of stress, my husband still working away from home, etc. I've been offered anti-depressants but little in the way of help with my hormones!!! I was really angry about this, as my symptoms are usually only bad during PMS/Period time. I'm seeing a GYN soon though and getting my Estrogen levels tested. I have had the FSH tested, it is normal, according to that.
My symptoms??? WELL, I have been having hot flases during PMS and my periods, wake up VERY sweaty, heart pounding, unable to sleep, which made me VERY afraid for several weeks, as I got worried about not sleeping. I had lots of trouble eating after my move so I lost 20 pounds and probably had low blood sugar which made things worse. I started taking Lorazepam for the anxiety, which doesnt' help at all if I am having the hot flash/pounding. I only take a tiny dose of it, only when I'm having an anxious day (maybe 3 times a week). I still have periods, they are anywhere from 16-14 days apart, last about 4 days, not very heavy, except the first day. I have always had terrible cramps and usually get headaches, though they are mild. Another STRANGE symptom for me, is that my breasts no longer ache at all, not any time during the monthly cycle!!! DOES ANYONE KNOW WHAT THIS IS A SIGN OF? I assume it is down to one of the hormones being too high or too low, etc. I've also had lots of internal shaking, mostly in the mornings, and I am just now reading that this seems to be a symptom, too!!
So, I would appreciate any help SO MUCH, as I am tired, run down, taking care of my 4 year old, missing my husband like crazy, putting up with doctors who won't listen, and family who all think I'm a bit nuts. I am taking Estroven (just started) and slept well the past 2 nights (though woke up trembling). I also take Flax Seed Oil daily, Black Current Oil capsules, and I eat pretty healthily, though my appetite isn't always great.
OK, that's enough, I'll be reading your posts now :-).
Thanks for reading this,
Clarissa
The breast thing is what happened to me. 3 or so years ago my breast were so swollen and painful, one side more than the other that I had a mammo. early. For 2 years at least my breasts were sore often, I mean almost all month long. It hurt to take my bra off it hurt when I got up in the morning and if anyone hugged me I went through the roof. I began to have hotflashes and withing 2 or so months my breasts went from very painful all the time(literally that is no exageration my cycle didn't really bring relief as it once did) to nothing...normal size and no pain for about 8 mo. then I went back to pain sometimes not as severe as before and it is more right before a period. I was having horrible hotflashes when they weren't sore and when the flashes let up a bit they went back to being sore sometimes. I have read The "good" thing about meno. is that those who have fybrocystic breasts(me) will usaully find relief. HUGS Mikki
QUOTE (clarissak @ Oct 14 2007, 07:18 PM)
Hello to you all!
I am Clarissa, I'm 38 and have been having some crazy changes in my life and body lately. I recently moved 5,000 miles back to my hometown, and am trying to get setttled here while navigating lots of health symptoms. I've been quite upset through some of it, but am finding my strength growing bit by bit. I started reading about PERIMENOPAUSE and think that this must be what is going on with me! I've been to the doctor who has put it down to lots of stress, my husband still working away from home, etc. I've been offered anti-depressants but little in the way of help with my hormones!!! I was really angry about this, as my symptoms are usually only bad during PMS/Period time. I'm seeing a GYN soon though and getting my Estrogen levels tested. I have had the FSH tested, it is normal, according to that.
My symptoms??? WELL, I have been having hot flases during PMS and my periods, wake up VERY sweaty, heart pounding, unable to sleep, which made me VERY afraid for several weeks, as I got worried about not sleeping. I had lots of trouble eating after my move so I lost 20 pounds and probably had low blood sugar which made things worse. I started taking Lorazepam for the anxiety, which doesnt' help at all if I am having the hot flash/pounding. I only take a tiny dose of it, only when I'm having an anxious day (maybe 3 times a week). I still have periods, they are anywhere from 16-14 days apart, last about 4 days, not very heavy, except the first day. I have always had terrible cramps and usually get headaches, though they are mild. Another STRANGE symptom for me, is that my breasts no longer ache at all, not any time during the monthly cycle!!! DOES ANYONE KNOW WHAT THIS IS A SIGN OF? I assume it is down to one of the hormones being too high or too low, etc. I've also had lots of internal shaking, mostly in the mornings, and I am just now reading that this seems to be a symptom, too!!
So, I would appreciate any help SO MUCH, as I am tired, run down, taking care of my 4 year old, missing my husband like crazy, putting up with doctors who won't listen, and family who all think I'm a bit nuts. I am taking Estroven (just started) and slept well the past 2 nights (though woke up trembling). I also take Flax Seed Oil daily, Black Current Oil capsules, and I eat pretty healthily, though my appetite isn't always great.
OK, that's enough, I'll be reading your posts now :-).
Thanks for reading this,
Clarissa
I am Clarissa, I'm 38 and have been having some crazy changes in my life and body lately. I recently moved 5,000 miles back to my hometown, and am trying to get setttled here while navigating lots of health symptoms. I've been quite upset through some of it, but am finding my strength growing bit by bit. I started reading about PERIMENOPAUSE and think that this must be what is going on with me! I've been to the doctor who has put it down to lots of stress, my husband still working away from home, etc. I've been offered anti-depressants but little in the way of help with my hormones!!! I was really angry about this, as my symptoms are usually only bad during PMS/Period time. I'm seeing a GYN soon though and getting my Estrogen levels tested. I have had the FSH tested, it is normal, according to that.
My symptoms??? WELL, I have been having hot flases during PMS and my periods, wake up VERY sweaty, heart pounding, unable to sleep, which made me VERY afraid for several weeks, as I got worried about not sleeping. I had lots of trouble eating after my move so I lost 20 pounds and probably had low blood sugar which made things worse. I started taking Lorazepam for the anxiety, which doesnt' help at all if I am having the hot flash/pounding. I only take a tiny dose of it, only when I'm having an anxious day (maybe 3 times a week). I still have periods, they are anywhere from 16-14 days apart, last about 4 days, not very heavy, except the first day. I have always had terrible cramps and usually get headaches, though they are mild. Another STRANGE symptom for me, is that my breasts no longer ache at all, not any time during the monthly cycle!!! DOES ANYONE KNOW WHAT THIS IS A SIGN OF? I assume it is down to one of the hormones being too high or too low, etc. I've also had lots of internal shaking, mostly in the mornings, and I am just now reading that this seems to be a symptom, too!!
So, I would appreciate any help SO MUCH, as I am tired, run down, taking care of my 4 year old, missing my husband like crazy, putting up with doctors who won't listen, and family who all think I'm a bit nuts. I am taking Estroven (just started) and slept well the past 2 nights (though woke up trembling). I also take Flax Seed Oil daily, Black Current Oil capsules, and I eat pretty healthily, though my appetite isn't always great.
OK, that's enough, I'll be reading your posts now :-).
Thanks for reading this,
Clarissa
The breast thing is what happened to me. 3 or so years ago my breast were so swollen and painful, one side more than the other that I had a mammo. early. For 2 years at least my breasts were sore often, I mean almost all month long. It hurt to take my bra off it hurt when I got up in the morning and if anyone hugged me I went through the roof. I began to have hotflashes and withing 2 or so months my breasts went from very painful all the time(literally that is no exageration my cycle didn't really bring relief as it once did) to nothing...normal size and no pain for about 8 mo. then I went back to pain sometimes not as severe as before and it is more right before a period. I was having horrible hotflashes when they weren't sore and when the flashes let up a bit they went back to being sore sometimes. I have read The "good" thing about meno. is that those who have fybrocystic breasts(me) will usaully find relief. HUGS Mikki
QUOTE (epdp2 @ Oct 18 2007, 05:22 PM)
kathy,
thank you so much for sharing that with me. i'm still trying to wrap my brain around all this (when it's working, which is not as frequently as i would like). i've been sick for a long time & i'm beginning to believe that hormonal imbalance has been a key factor. this past year just forced the issue because things have gotten so bad. i can certainly relate to the types of symptoms that you describe & i'm glad that you have been able to make progress toward a healthier situation. i can tell, as well, that you have thoroughly educated yourself so that you can make the best possible decisions.
this was coming to a point where i had begun to lose hope of ever feeling well again. & none of the doctors had been helpful - the shrugs & it's stress & in your head & all that stuff. i found my way here in the spring & made an appt with a gyn here who was part of the WHI study & an "expert" in meno. she couldn't even be bothered to do the intake - a resident did it. & then i was ushered in to her office where she pronounced that i had PMDD & needed antidepressants.
it's incredible that i never really thought about how our hormones continually impact us in every way. & here i've suffered for years with bad pms. the pill never impacted the pms & i always felt low level depressed on it & low sex drive - & i never knew that it could be the pill causing any of it. it wasn't until the severe yaz experience that i made any of the connections.
even after the connections & suspecting peri, i adopted the "just have to suffer through this" mentality even though i was disabled by it. but thanks to you & others, i realize that it doesn't have to be like that. so i have a bunch of learning to do & decisions to make. maybe even some hope to restore. i now have a decent doc, at least. i see her soon & i want to get a referral for a complete endo eval/testing (did have some bloodwork in july - T was 22, FSH 10, E 169 - all around midcycle). then i hope i have gathered enough info to make some informed decisions & possibly get my life back.
thanks again & continued good luck,
ellen
thank you so much for sharing that with me. i'm still trying to wrap my brain around all this (when it's working, which is not as frequently as i would like). i've been sick for a long time & i'm beginning to believe that hormonal imbalance has been a key factor. this past year just forced the issue because things have gotten so bad. i can certainly relate to the types of symptoms that you describe & i'm glad that you have been able to make progress toward a healthier situation. i can tell, as well, that you have thoroughly educated yourself so that you can make the best possible decisions.
this was coming to a point where i had begun to lose hope of ever feeling well again. & none of the doctors had been helpful - the shrugs & it's stress & in your head & all that stuff. i found my way here in the spring & made an appt with a gyn here who was part of the WHI study & an "expert" in meno. she couldn't even be bothered to do the intake - a resident did it. & then i was ushered in to her office where she pronounced that i had PMDD & needed antidepressants.
it's incredible that i never really thought about how our hormones continually impact us in every way. & here i've suffered for years with bad pms. the pill never impacted the pms & i always felt low level depressed on it & low sex drive - & i never knew that it could be the pill causing any of it. it wasn't until the severe yaz experience that i made any of the connections.
even after the connections & suspecting peri, i adopted the "just have to suffer through this" mentality even though i was disabled by it. but thanks to you & others, i realize that it doesn't have to be like that. so i have a bunch of learning to do & decisions to make. maybe even some hope to restore. i now have a decent doc, at least. i see her soon & i want to get a referral for a complete endo eval/testing (did have some bloodwork in july - T was 22, FSH 10, E 169 - all around midcycle). then i hope i have gathered enough info to make some informed decisions & possibly get my life back.
thanks again & continued good luck,
ellen
Ellen,
I think Dr. Vliet suggests a testosterone level of around 40. Yours at 22 midcycle may mean that you might feel a HUGE amount better with just a little extra T. Your E looks good but that does not mean that it does not drop really low around your period. Also, your E may not be high enough to offset the progesterone you are producing after you ovulate.
If you continue to have bad luck with doctors, Dr. Gillespie has a private list that you can join where you can get help from her privately (just google hormone diva). I joined for three months and she helped me quite a bit even though my hormone doctor is one of the better ones. Reading her Your’re not crazy book before you join may be helpful. The one thing I did not care for too much with her is that she does not like many women to take testosterone. Looking at your numbers, it seems like you would benefit from T. Dr. Vliet seems much more balanced regarding T but she charges a small fortune to see her and Dr. G is very reasonable.
There is hope; just figure out how to get your hormones back in line and you will feel better. I wish you the best of luck with finding a good doctor. Read the books so that you will know if you are getting the right treatment.
Kathy
QUOTE (584296a @ Oct 23 2007, 06:39 PM)
Ellen,
I think Dr. Vliet suggests a testosterone level of around 40. Yours at 22 midcycle may mean that you might feel a HUGE amount better with just a little extra T. Your E looks good but that does not mean that it does not drop really low around your period. Also, your E may not be high enough to offset the progesterone you are producing after you ovulate.
If you continue to have bad luck with doctors, Dr. Gillespie has a private list that you can join where you can get help from her privately (just google hormone diva). I joined for three months and she helped me quite a bit even though my hormone doctor is one of the better ones. Reading her Your’re not crazy book before you join may be helpful. The one thing I did not care for too much with her is that she does not like many women to take testosterone. Looking at your numbers, it seems like you would benefit from T. Dr. Vliet seems much more balanced regarding T but she charges a small fortune to see her and Dr. G is very reasonable.
There is hope; just figure out how to get your hormones back in line and you will feel better. I wish you the best of luck with finding a good doctor. Read the books so that you will know if you are getting the right treatment.
Kathy
I think Dr. Vliet suggests a testosterone level of around 40. Yours at 22 midcycle may mean that you might feel a HUGE amount better with just a little extra T. Your E looks good but that does not mean that it does not drop really low around your period. Also, your E may not be high enough to offset the progesterone you are producing after you ovulate.
If you continue to have bad luck with doctors, Dr. Gillespie has a private list that you can join where you can get help from her privately (just google hormone diva). I joined for three months and she helped me quite a bit even though my hormone doctor is one of the better ones. Reading her Your’re not crazy book before you join may be helpful. The one thing I did not care for too much with her is that she does not like many women to take testosterone. Looking at your numbers, it seems like you would benefit from T. Dr. Vliet seems much more balanced regarding T but she charges a small fortune to see her and Dr. G is very reasonable.
There is hope; just figure out how to get your hormones back in line and you will feel better. I wish you the best of luck with finding a good doctor. Read the books so that you will know if you are getting the right treatment.
Kathy
kathy,
thanks. i saw my doc today to ask for an endo referral. she's a new doc & i like her, but she really thought testing wouldn't show anything. but she's willing to humor me. now i have to find a decent endo.
i'm so tired of having people look at me like i'm crazy, so reading 'you're not crazy' seems especially appropriate. & i'll keep gillespie in mind as a possible resource. should i continued to be amazed that there are seemingly so many of us are suffering in full view but somehow silently when it comes to the medical profession?
appreciate the info & support. may things continue to go well for you.
ellen
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