Thank you for coming on here and being so transparent and helpful. I'm almost 46 and trying all the natural things too but not feeling like it's working as it should!
We have to lift weights and do things like lunges and squats, because we lose SO much muscle mass as we age, especially after 40. Having muscle mass and being strong, is one of the biggest predictors for longevity. ❤
Thank you for this, I just joined Midi 2 months ago and also turn 51 in November. My brain fog and lack of get up n go is such a horrible feeling. I feel all over the place too.
This is so incredibly helpful! My symptoms started around 38/39 (now 41) and have gotten more significant after 40. I only hear how HRT is a godsend but never the details of the journey of adjusting, testing and cons. Thank you! Normalizing the aging process as women is healing in more ways than I can express. ❤
Thank you!!! I started hormone therapy last October and it was life changing! I suffered for 3 years before I decided to see my doc. I’ve also found that intermittent fasting has helped with brain fog and energy!
I went through total hell ... I couldn't go on any hormones because of major issues with potential breast cancer ... I had to have many many cysts drained from my breast over a 5 year timeframe. They just wanted to get me through the entire menopause phase and pray I didn't get breast cancer. My Drs told me that I can NEVER be on hormones or I'd be in big trouble ... so I had to deal with weight gain and major hair loss... I have to wear hair toppers because my hair has thinned to the point of seeing my scalp. It's been mind blowing of all the things that happened to me 😢 so I understand everything you're talking about ❤
I’m 41 and am just 1 month away from hitting the 12 month mark. I’ve been on an HRT journey for the last year and am feeling pretty dialed in now. The cherry on top for me was adding testosterone a few months ago. I feel like a million bucks!!
I hear that from so many. Can I ask what form of testosterone you are getting? Thank you so much for sharing and I'm happy to hear you are feeling good!
@@ashleywoodcock6118 I went with the cream. I’m doing 5mg per day. The provider I go to doesn’t prescribe the injectable version, but I’ve heard that’s better if you can get access to it.
Thank you for sharing what you’ve been going through. I found Dr. Mary Claire Haver about two months ago. I was able to find a menopause specialist where I live and get on the estradiol transdermal patch and oral progesterone. I started with .05 and it has worked miracles! The brand I’m on is made by Sandoz, it’s the patch that is changed twice weekly. I’ll be 57 in October. I’ve been on HRT for almost 6 weeks and I haven’t noticed a difference in absorption based on where I place the patch.
Thank you for sharing! I've read that brand is another good one. I'm glad it's working for you so well! Dr. Haver is one of the resources I listed. Thank you for watching!
I honestly think the weight has to be managed separately. Dont assume that going on hrt fixes all the problems that unbalanced hormones have caused. Unfortunately for some of us this does not work. Lets remember that insulin is also a hormone and should be managed too. Once i had settled on my hrt I started working on my metabolic health. Started intermittent fasting then moved on to very low carb and eventually low carb/carnivore. This has been a game changer for me. All the weight came off. But it wont come off just by taking hrt 😢. Thanks for this video. Really important to put our stories out there. X
Thank you for sharing! I do agree it separate. At least for me and many others. Yes, insulin is an issue with menopause and something I'm currently researching more about to see if that is one of the puzzle pieces that I need. I've been back to intermittent fasting recently only due to not wanting to eat. I sometimes see positive changes with that and other times it doesn't seem to matter. I'm already moderate on my carbs but am someone who needs them. Some don't as much. Thank you for watching!
So many things for me got better once on HRT-all the things you listed… sleep at first but still struggle with it, joint pain went away thank God still struggle with brain fog from time to time… The replacement of the hormones is nowhere near what we used to make so we will never reach a feeling of 25yrs again! However, I do believe all the lifestyle adjustments help immensely! Diet needs to be on point most of the time, hydration is so important now too, resistance training because loss of muscle mass is real, and that is a key to our metabolism 💪🏼❤
So happy it’s working for you! I’m definitely not trying to feel 25 again, nor would I want to. 🤣 I definitely felt better the older Ive gotten except for this. And even with that I’m thankful it’s not worse. 😊
Thanks so much for sharing this with us. I did miss your videos when you weren't online as much. Unfortunately, I went through all of this without taking anything to help with all the symptoms and in looking back it could have helped if I had. It was a tough ten years of life going through all the changes. The most depressing thing I've encountered is the weight gain, those extra 15 pounds that never seem to come off no matter how I try. And completely losing a waistline hasn't helped. Your videos and transparency are helping so many people and we appreciate all you do!
My gynecologist has been very helpful. I’m on Bijuva an estrogen & progestin pill. I was on birth control during my peri and post menopause. I’m 55 and feel great. My only concern is my cholesterol. I’m getting a calcium heart scan to see if I have plague build up. For reference I’m a runner for over 2 decades and lift weights as well. My weight is normal at 125Ibs 5’2. Mother of 2 adult daughters. Good luck to all women dealing the issues associated with menopause. Grateful we have choices! God Bless! 🙏
Thank you for sharing! My cholesterol has always been good, but it got a little better after starting hormone replacement. I’ve learned elevated cholesterol is associated with menopause.
Thank you so much for posting your experience. I am still cycling, but having lots of symptoms and it started with prolonged PMS. I can relate to when you said "I was only having 2 good days per month" People talk about symptoms, but I had never heard anyone talk about how they come in waves with your cycle. I keep hoping my period will come, so I'll be out of my misery, but lately my cycles seem longer... I have an appointment with a menopause specialist coming up! and definitely plan to ask about HRT!
I just shared a video the other day sharing about my symptoms with perimenopause…I’m currently waiting for my bio identical progesterone & testosterone to come tomorrow! We women need to keep sharing and discussing 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻 Love that you are too!
I forgot to ask in the previous comment, why form of testosterone are you taking? I'll be interested in hearing how you're doing since starting testosterone plus DHEA. Progesterone is great for so many things, especially sleep.
@@MissCrystal I’ll be grateful for the sleep part considering I woke up twice last night and had a tough time getting back to sleep😔 I have heard that too about the progesterone 🤞🏻 The testosterone is vaginal cream, that goes “you know where” lol 😆 Hopefully it comes today! Cause I’m excited to get started🫶🏼
Thank you, Crystal! The brain fog is the worst symptom for me. If my husband starts a sentence with "can you...." I stop him right there and tell him to write it down because the words will be gone in 5 minutes!
Oh gosh, thank you for sharing! Dementia is a real issue and I wanted to get help to ward that off as quickly as I could. HRT has definitely helped! I just need a little more tweaking.
I heard an Ob-Gyn give the numbers of normal levels of hormones before menopause, and then after even with HRT, and If I remember correctly, HRT is not getting you back up to where you used to be. I wonder if that is why things don't magically go back to the way they used to be just because you start hormones. I am so thankful for all the doctors on social media who help educate us on what is happening to our bodies. I am shocked at all the misinformation I hear from my friends who don't research this.
Yes, I’ve heard that as well. Our levels are just to get back to no symptoms and ward off disease. There’s just so many pieces of the puzzle to consider and we all metabolize things differently. 😊
I’m just starting the video but Dr Susan Hardwick Smith is another great resource here on RUclips, along with Dr Haver and Dr Hirsch. Didn’t see her mentioned in your links so wanted to throw that in there.
I can relate , I’m 45 but have awful pmdd , and it’s messing my thyroid up . I’m defiantly in perimenopause . The brain fog , lack of motivation , racing heart , sleep , the list goes on . I’m hoping to start hrt when I go to my gynecologist next month .
I too have noticed that where I place my patch seems to have a bit of a different effect. I’m on 0.05 Estrodial when I put on my hip seems to work better than lower abdomen. Also, when I use 200 mg progesterone pill it makes me sleep better but I feel sluggish the next day. So I use the 100mg and it’s better but I sometimes have break through bleeding.
I agree about the patch placement. I've noticed the same thing with hip placement. Love the 200 mg of progesterone for deep sleep but man does it make me feel groggy unfortunately. Thank you for sharing!
I started on HRT about two months ago and it is helping. I went over the risks thoroughly with my general physician and we weighed pros and cons. I also started on testosterone about a year and a half ago. I get pellets through a place called Blue Sky. That same provider offered estrogen pellets but I can’t find much info on the pros and cons. He said it would keep me more even, but I would like more information first. I do know it’s obviously harder to adjust if the dose doesn’t work out. Prior to starting HRT I was already on a health journey. I use Trainwell and haven’t missed a workout since I started almost a year ago. I think that and maybe the testosterone have really helped my wellness. One odd thing is that even though I work out 4 times a week and have lost 60 pounds, my cholesterol was worse this year. Not sure what’s up with that :/. Thanks for this video and the dialogue.
Glad to hear it’s helping! My cholesterol was always good but got a little better after starting hormones. I read it can get high when estrogen gets low. I don’t like how the pellets can’t be adjusted. since I’m so sensitive to medication it’s not going to be an option I want to try.
HBD! I’m 52.5. Started HRT a few months ago. My gyno didn’t check labs. I haven’t had a cycle in 2.5 yrs. I felt great initially. A lot of what you have said applies to me. Lately I’ve taken off my patch b/c I’ve had migraines and a weird severe left ear ache and low energy again. So I think I’m dominant now. Started taking artichoke extract b/c it helps with ED and your adrenals. So far it is REALLY helping. Energy has picked back up, depression and “meh” feeling has left. So maybe try that? Elle is for Living talks about it in her supplements videos. You gotta keep your adrenals in check with managing HRT. You learn as you go. Throw something against a wall and see if it sticks. 😅
Hi, thank you for sharing! A year ago or so I took artichoke extract. I think it helped initially. But like a lot of others have reported, it then made them gain weight. Myself included. Even after stopping. I think it can help push out excess or "bad" estrogen initially but then may become too low. Yes, adrenals are a big part. I learned about them probably 10 years ago when seeing a functional doctor for my thyroid. I don't care for pellets either. I don't like how the dose cannot be adjusted. Many do like them though.
But your body is different now, so if you want to feel better, you have to dedicate yourself to improving your health (tracking your food, increasing protein, add resistance training, etc). You listed Dr Haver as a resource and she makes no bones about it. It’s entirely necessary that you improve your lifestyle, along with HRT. There are so many free, fun resources on RUclips for strength and conditioning workouts for women of our age. Just eliminate added sugar and lift weights 3-4 times per week and you will definitely see a positive change.
Exactly! I’ve been on Hrt for 6 years now and feel great. Definitely listen to Dr Haver. Also, even if you replace estrogen it will never be at the level before menopause. Make sure your patch is high enough to help protect your heart. You will always need to pay more attention to diet and life style after menopause. I don’t count calories or macros but just careful about my food choices and workout with heavy weights. Fitness with PJ is great. You can find her on RUclips. Fitness over 50 app.
Yes, I’m fully aware my body is different. I’m not trying to be 25 again. However like I said in the video, I don’t agree fully with Dr. Haver (any) even though she has been a great resource for a lot of issues. I’m very good about hydration, food, just need to up my resistance training a bit.
Hi. Be careful with the hormones but I’m sure you’re aware of that. I hope you are able to regulate your body. I went into menopause at age 42 and I’m in my late sixties now. I did not opt for hormone replacement because of the risks.
@MenopauseTaylor taught me that not replacing what we lose in reverse puberty, there are where most of the risks come in. Replacing hormones that our body is not making anymore isn’t risky. By the way, insulin is a hormone and no one has risks the same as hrt. A lot of what we were told in the 90s has been thrown out. I’m on estrodial patch and progesterone at night. I’m waiting until this dose settles and then we are going to visit getting testosterone. Women make more testosterone in our lifetime than either estrogen or progesterone. I’m surprised about your statement that it’s hard to get. I’m in Kentucky and we are seeing more physicians training in the testosterone treatments for menopausal women. I want it because my libido is still in the toilet. I have a friend who started T and her libido increased quick! Who doesn’t want that?! It’s a nasty trick- menopause. Men go through mid life chasing it, we go through mid life not wanting it. What a terrible misfit for partners. All my symptoms have improved immensely since starting the patch and nighttime pill. Also- before the hrt, I started the estrodial vaginal tablet. Oh my goodness! I was suffering- SUFFERING from terrible pain from sex. My doctor explained that we lose elasticity, it’s a desert in there- and within THREE weeks- I was back to ‘normal’. Buuuut still didn’t want to do it. Ha! Again! Terrible misfit- but I still take that, the patch and the progesterone. Next stop- testosterone. 😊
Thank you for sharing. Unfortunately many women in the last 20 years didn’t get the hormones they needed due to the WHI study. I’m grateful we know more now to make informed decisions.
@Coffee-Makeup-Stationary Yes, I agree. Vaginal atrophy and loss of libido are real problems for many women and they are often embarrassed to tell their doctor this. Using hrt gel and an oestrogen vaginal pessary made such a difference to me. X
Knowing that everyone’s body and genetic makeup is different, what I have found is, if you are able to take HRT, it is highly recommended. My physician told me that the only risk to me regarding HRT, is not taking HRT. I completely understand if women don’t want to take HRT. That is a choice that we have. However, I encourage everyone to do the research and read about what other physicians have studied and have found regarding HRT. Dr. Mary Claire Haver is the best place to start!
I’ve been getting a mammogram since I was 30 and I have dense breasts, but they do a 3-D mammogram on me. I had a full hysterectomy at 40 and I was on a roller coaster for a while but then I found my right dosage and every so oftenI would take the patch off See if I experience any hot flashes or night sweats and if I did, I put it back on and I went through that for probably 10 years, I’m 63 now and what triggers my hot flashes is when I get stressed or start thinking too much worrying
I’m on estrogen & testosterone. My biggest issue currently is fatigue, brain fog, unexplained weight gain etc. My functional medicine doctor had do blood work recently- he wants to rule out hashimotos or other autoimmune. The reason I bring this up is that I’m wondering if HRT is tricky for you because of your thyroid issues/autoimmune? Some people it’s straightforward but others have a flu in the ointment- I’m guessing? (My lab results come in on Monday- I will ask him specifically about HRT efficacy & autoimmune disorders)
Hey there! I do not have Hashimoto's. Just a slightly low functioning thyroid. Officially diagnosed 10 years ago. Knowing what I do now about thyroid and all hormones, it was probably the beginning of perimenopause for me. I've been on the same low dose of NP Thyroid - 30mg - for many years and get a full thyroid panel done every 6 months. There's probably a small piece of the puzzle I'm missing somewhere so research continues for me. Let me know what you find out at the doctor visit!
I saw that vivelle dot studied the absorption and said that upper buttocks has more absorption than lower abdomen. Bloating is my worst se from hrt. Have literally tried everything and may stop due to it. Have also had some gerd. Ugh. 😑
Oh interesting, thanks for sharing! For me I feel the hip area works best. Lower abdomen seems to feel as if I’m not getting much. So that makes sense for me personally. 😊 I feel you on the bloating. I recently added back in a specific probiotic and it helps a little. I need to stay away from dairy as I’m sensitive but I get such good protein from it. 😏
Hello Crystal 🙋🏻♀️ I commented earlier but just now finished your full video! There is so much info out there to absorb and in the end we all just want to feel better, ME INCLUDED!!! Wanted to let you know what my hormone doctor shared with me the other day when we had my appointment to read labs and get the bio identical hormones started. Please know I’m only sharing and in no way telling you what’s beneficial for you💕 So my doctor doesn’t prescribe any estrogen/estradiol to women who is are still cycling. She starts with progesterone & testosterone (in my case I need extra testosterone because my body doesn’t process it like it should.) Just wanted to share in case you wanted to research more about the estrogen part. Also, I do go to an MD but she’s private and doesn’t take insurance. I know it’s more expensive to use her but for now I’m going this route. Good luck and keep talking/sharing about this topic 🫶🏼 Oh, I’m also starting DHEA, I know you asked about that too.
Thanks for sharing! My doctor doesn't either. That's why I didn't start the estradiol until my labs were showing I was headed towards menopause. And sure enough, less than two months after starting, I stopped having a cycle. It's very common to go almost a year and start again. My doctor personally has done this. My Mom as well. So we'll see what I start doing from here on out. I defiantly needed the estrogen for those many months in between though. That was obvious by my symptoms improving.
Not a Dr but I read / researched if you have a uterus it’s important to take estrogen and progesterone and without a uterus progesterone is good all on is ok to take on its own. Someone please help us all 😮.
Nutritional Yeast Extract has really helped me feel better too. I take a big spoonful with water and it helps my sleep and energy. Regarding Testosterone good luck getting someone to prescribe that for you. I’m sure there is someone out there that will. Pellets scare me. You can’t turn them off. DHEA helps sometimes.
Pellets cannot be controlled and yes the testosterone talk with a Dr seems taboo wth? Most don’t have a clue or it’s the women’s health don’t care thing. 😢😢
My regular physician. Thankfully she has educated herself on current protocols and information. You could also get your OB to prescribe. If they do not give you the care you would like, I added the Midi Health website and the Menopause Society as references to find qualified doctors. Hope this helps! Thanks for watching!
Happy Birthday Crystal! 🎂Thank you for discussing this topic. My biggest issue is irregular fragmented sleep ... So frustrating!😥Not a lot of talks about menopause. Everyone talks about puberty, but nothing about the other end of womanhood. Anyways, you look great and feeling hopefully better, xx
Hi! Yes, the sleep disruptions are so bad. I sleep really hard until about 2-3am and then not as much for a few hours. So then it feels like I've not had as much. I either sleep well or I don't. Thanks for sharing!
Thank you for coming on here and being so transparent and helpful. I'm almost 46 and trying all the natural things too but not feeling like it's working as it should!
We have to lift weights and do things like lunges and squats, because we lose SO much muscle mass as we age, especially after 40. Having muscle mass and being strong, is one of the biggest predictors for longevity. ❤
Yes, I’m aware like I said. 😊
Thank you for this, I just joined Midi 2 months ago and also turn 51 in November. My brain fog and lack of get up n go is such a horrible feeling. I feel all over the place too.
I hope you feel better soon! Keep me posted how it goes with them please. 😊
This is so incredibly helpful! My symptoms started around 38/39 (now 41) and have gotten more significant after 40. I only hear how HRT is a godsend but never the details of the journey of adjusting, testing and cons. Thank you! Normalizing the aging process as women is healing in more ways than I can express. ❤
I actually lost weight when I started HRT. It has helped all
Of my symptoms so much! I had hot flashes, night sweats , brain fog and joint pain.
Thank you for sharing! That’s why I think I’m missing a piece to the puzzle for me. It’s helped so much but not quite optimal all of the time. 😊
Thank you!!! I started hormone therapy last October and it was life changing! I suffered for 3 years before I decided to see my doc. I’ve also found that intermittent fasting has helped with brain fog and energy!
Thank you for sharing and I'm so glad it's helped you!
I went through total hell ... I couldn't go on any hormones because of major issues with potential breast cancer ... I had to have many many cysts drained from my breast over a 5 year timeframe. They just wanted to get me through the entire menopause phase and pray I didn't get breast cancer. My Drs told me that I can NEVER be on hormones or I'd be in big trouble ... so I had to deal with weight gain and major hair loss... I have to wear hair toppers because my hair has thinned to the point of seeing my scalp. It's been mind blowing of all the things that happened to me 😢 so I understand everything you're talking about ❤
Thank you for sharing. 😊
I’m 41 and am just 1 month away from hitting the 12 month mark. I’ve been on an HRT journey for the last year and am feeling pretty dialed in now. The cherry on top for me was adding testosterone a few months ago. I feel like a million bucks!!
Did you go with the cream or shots?
I hear that from so many. Can I ask what form of testosterone you are getting? Thank you so much for sharing and I'm happy to hear you are feeling good!
@@MissCrystal I’m using a topical cream at 5mg per day.
@@ashleywoodcock6118 I went with the cream. I’m doing 5mg per day. The provider I go to doesn’t prescribe the injectable version, but I’ve heard that’s better if you can get access to it.
Good for you for figuring out so young. I'm turning 46 and finally realizing all my symptoms was peri. I just started HRT today:)
Thank you for sharing what you’ve been going through. I found Dr. Mary Claire Haver about two months ago. I was able to find a menopause specialist where I live and get on the estradiol transdermal patch and oral progesterone. I started with .05 and it has worked miracles! The brand I’m on is made by Sandoz, it’s the patch that is changed twice weekly. I’ll be 57 in October. I’ve been on HRT for almost 6 weeks and I haven’t noticed a difference in absorption based on where I place the patch.
Thank you for sharing! I've read that brand is another good one. I'm glad it's working for you so well! Dr. Haver is one of the resources I listed. Thank you for watching!
I honestly think the weight has to be managed separately. Dont assume that going on hrt fixes all the problems that unbalanced hormones have caused. Unfortunately for some of us this does not work.
Lets remember that insulin is also a hormone and should be managed too. Once i had settled on my hrt I started working on my metabolic health. Started intermittent fasting then moved on to very low carb and eventually low carb/carnivore. This has been a game changer for me.
All the weight came off. But it wont come off just by taking hrt 😢. Thanks for this video. Really important to put our stories out there. X
Thank you for sharing! I do agree it separate. At least for me and many others. Yes, insulin is an issue with menopause and something I'm currently researching more about to see if that is one of the puzzle pieces that I need. I've been back to intermittent fasting recently only due to not wanting to eat. I sometimes see positive changes with that and other times it doesn't seem to matter. I'm already moderate on my carbs but am someone who needs them. Some don't as much. Thank you for watching!
I started a year ago and I feel exactly how you feel with weight gain 😢, brian fog, some hip/ knee pain. Still learning thank you for sharing.
So many things for me got better once on HRT-all the things you listed… sleep at first but still struggle with it, joint pain went away thank God still struggle with brain fog from time to time… The replacement of the hormones is nowhere near what we used to make so we will never reach a feeling of 25yrs again! However, I do believe all the lifestyle adjustments help immensely! Diet needs to be on point most of the time, hydration is so important now too, resistance training because loss of muscle mass is real, and that is a key to our metabolism 💪🏼❤
So happy it’s working for you! I’m definitely not trying to feel 25 again, nor would I want to. 🤣 I definitely felt better the older Ive gotten except for this. And even with that I’m thankful it’s not worse. 😊
Thanks so much for sharing this with us. I did miss your videos when you weren't online as much. Unfortunately, I went through all of this without taking anything to help with all the symptoms and in looking back it could have helped if I had. It was a tough ten years of life going through all the changes. The most depressing thing I've encountered is the weight gain, those extra 15 pounds that never seem to come off no matter how I try. And completely losing a waistline hasn't helped. Your videos and transparency are helping so many people and we appreciate all you do!
Happy Birthday! Thank you for sharing.
Thank you! 😊
My gynecologist has been very helpful. I’m on Bijuva an estrogen & progestin pill. I was on birth control during my peri and post menopause. I’m 55 and feel great. My only concern is my cholesterol. I’m getting a calcium heart scan to see if I have plague build up. For reference I’m a runner for over 2 decades and lift weights as well. My weight is normal at 125Ibs 5’2. Mother of 2 adult daughters. Good luck to all women dealing the issues associated with menopause. Grateful we have choices! God Bless! 🙏
Thank you for sharing! My cholesterol has always been good, but it got a little better after starting hormone replacement. I’ve learned elevated cholesterol is associated with menopause.
@@MissCrystal that’s what my doc said too. Thank you for always being real!!!!! :)
Thank you so much for posting your experience. I am still cycling, but having lots of symptoms and it started with prolonged PMS. I can relate to when you said "I was only having 2 good days per month" People talk about symptoms, but I had never heard anyone talk about how they come in waves with your cycle. I keep hoping my period will come, so I'll be out of my misery, but lately my cycles seem longer... I have an appointment with a menopause specialist coming up! and definitely plan to ask about HRT!
I just shared a video the other day sharing about my symptoms with perimenopause…I’m currently waiting for my bio identical progesterone & testosterone to come tomorrow! We women need to keep sharing and discussing 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻 Love that you are too!
I forgot to ask in the previous comment, why form of testosterone are you taking? I'll be interested in hearing how you're doing since starting testosterone plus DHEA. Progesterone is great for so many things, especially sleep.
@@MissCrystal I’ll be grateful for the sleep part considering I woke up twice last night and had a tough time getting back to sleep😔 I have heard that too about the progesterone 🤞🏻 The testosterone is vaginal cream, that goes “you know where” lol 😆 Hopefully it comes today! Cause I’m excited to get started🫶🏼
@@MissCrystal Not sure if I responded to this yet, but I'm taking a bio identical vaginal testosterone cream
Thanks for sharing. I've been on Bio Identical Hormone treatment pellets for six years and highly recommend. ❤
Thank you so much for all that great information! I found the video so helpful!
Glad it was helpful!
Thank you, Crystal! The brain fog is the worst symptom for me. If my husband starts a sentence with "can you...." I stop him right there and tell him to write it down because the words will be gone in 5 minutes!
Oh gosh, thank you for sharing! Dementia is a real issue and I wanted to get help to ward that off as quickly as I could. HRT has definitely helped! I just need a little more tweaking.
Thank you, Crystal! Great video.❤
Happy Birthday, have a wonderful day! 🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉
Thank you! 💗
I heard an Ob-Gyn give the numbers of normal levels of hormones before menopause, and then after even with HRT, and If I remember correctly, HRT is not getting you back up to where you used to be. I wonder if that is why things don't magically go back to the way they used to be just because you start hormones. I am so thankful for all the doctors on social media who help educate us on what is happening to our bodies. I am shocked at all the misinformation I hear from my friends who don't research this.
Yes, I’ve heard that as well. Our levels are just to get back to no symptoms and ward off disease. There’s just so many pieces of the puzzle to consider and we all metabolize things differently. 😊
I’m just starting the video but Dr Susan Hardwick Smith is another great resource here on RUclips, along with Dr Haver and Dr Hirsch. Didn’t see her mentioned in your links so wanted to throw that in there.
Yes, I’ve watched some of her videos. 😊
She is! I love Dr. Susan too🤩
I can relate , I’m 45 but have awful pmdd , and it’s messing my thyroid up . I’m defiantly in perimenopause . The brain fog , lack of motivation , racing heart , sleep , the list goes on . I’m hoping to start hrt when I go to my gynecologist next month .
So sorry to hear you are suffering with that. I can totally relate. Hope your appointment goes well and you can get relief. 😊
Thank you for doing this video
Thank you for sharing this information. It is really appreciated!
I too have noticed that where I place my patch seems to have a bit of a different effect. I’m on 0.05 Estrodial when I put on my hip seems to work better than lower abdomen. Also, when I use 200 mg progesterone pill it makes me sleep better but I feel sluggish the next day. So I use the 100mg and it’s better but I sometimes have break through bleeding.
I agree about the patch placement. I've noticed the same thing with hip placement. Love the 200 mg of progesterone for deep sleep but man does it make me feel groggy unfortunately. Thank you for sharing!
I started on HRT about two months ago and it is helping. I went over the risks thoroughly with my general physician and we weighed pros and cons. I also started on testosterone about a year and a half ago. I get pellets through a place called Blue Sky. That same provider offered estrogen pellets but I can’t find much info on the pros and cons. He said it would keep me more even, but I would like more information first. I do know it’s obviously harder to adjust if the dose doesn’t work out. Prior to starting HRT I was already on a health journey. I use Trainwell and haven’t missed a workout since I started almost a year ago. I think that and maybe the testosterone have really helped my wellness. One odd thing is that even though I work out 4 times a week and have lost 60 pounds, my cholesterol was worse this year. Not sure what’s up with that :/. Thanks for this video and the dialogue.
Glad to hear it’s helping! My cholesterol was always good but got a little better after starting hormones. I read it can get high when estrogen gets low. I don’t like how the pellets can’t be adjusted. since I’m so sensitive to medication it’s not going to be an option I want to try.
HBD! I’m 52.5. Started HRT a few months ago. My gyno didn’t check labs. I haven’t had a cycle in 2.5 yrs. I felt great initially. A lot of what you have said applies to me. Lately I’ve taken off my patch b/c I’ve had migraines and a weird severe left ear ache and low energy again. So I think I’m dominant now. Started taking artichoke extract b/c it helps with ED and your adrenals. So far it is REALLY helping. Energy has picked back up, depression and “meh” feeling has left. So maybe try that? Elle is for Living talks about it in her supplements videos. You gotta keep your adrenals in check with managing HRT. You learn as you go. Throw something against a wall and see if it sticks. 😅
Hi, thank you for sharing! A year ago or so I took artichoke extract. I think it helped initially. But like a lot of others have reported, it then made them gain weight. Myself included. Even after stopping. I think it can help push out excess or "bad" estrogen initially but then may become too low. Yes, adrenals are a big part. I learned about them probably 10 years ago when seeing a functional doctor for my thyroid. I don't care for pellets either. I don't like how the dose cannot be adjusted. Many do like them though.
But your body is different now, so if you want to feel better, you have to dedicate yourself to improving your health (tracking your food, increasing protein, add resistance training, etc). You listed Dr Haver as a resource and she makes no bones about it. It’s entirely necessary that you improve your lifestyle, along with HRT. There are so many free, fun resources on RUclips for strength and conditioning workouts for women of our age. Just eliminate added sugar and lift weights 3-4 times per week and you will definitely see a positive change.
Exactly! I’ve been on Hrt for 6 years now and feel great. Definitely listen to Dr Haver. Also, even if you replace estrogen it will never be at the level before menopause. Make sure your patch is high enough to help protect your heart. You will always need to pay more attention to diet and life style after menopause. I don’t count calories or macros but just careful about my food choices and workout with heavy weights. Fitness with PJ is great. You can find her on RUclips. Fitness over 50 app.
Yes, I’m fully aware my body is different. I’m not trying to be 25 again. However like I said in the video, I don’t agree fully with Dr. Haver (any) even though she has been a great resource for a lot of issues. I’m very good about hydration, food, just need to up my resistance training a bit.
Try lions’s mane supplement for brain fog it helps enormously
Hi. Be careful with the hormones but I’m sure you’re aware of that. I hope you are able to regulate your body. I went into menopause at age 42 and I’m in my late sixties now. I did not opt for hormone replacement because of the risks.
@MenopauseTaylor taught me that not replacing what we lose in reverse puberty, there are where most of the risks come in.
Replacing hormones that our body is not making anymore isn’t risky.
By the way, insulin is a hormone and no one has risks the same as hrt.
A lot of what we were told in the 90s has been thrown out.
I’m on estrodial patch and progesterone at night.
I’m waiting until this dose settles and then we are going to visit getting testosterone. Women make more testosterone in our lifetime than either estrogen or progesterone.
I’m surprised about your statement that it’s hard to get. I’m in Kentucky and we are seeing more physicians training in the testosterone treatments for menopausal women. I want it because my libido is still in the toilet. I have a friend who started T and her libido increased quick! Who doesn’t want that?! It’s a nasty trick- menopause. Men go through mid life chasing it, we go through mid life not wanting it. What a terrible misfit for partners.
All my symptoms have improved immensely since starting the patch and nighttime pill.
Also- before the hrt, I started the estrodial vaginal tablet. Oh my goodness! I was suffering- SUFFERING from terrible pain from sex. My doctor explained that we lose elasticity, it’s a desert in there- and within THREE weeks- I was back to ‘normal’. Buuuut still didn’t want to do it. Ha! Again! Terrible misfit- but I still take that, the patch and the progesterone. Next stop- testosterone.
😊
@@Coffee-Makeup-Stationary good luck
Thank you for sharing. Unfortunately many women in the last 20 years didn’t get the hormones they needed due to the WHI study. I’m grateful we know more now to make informed decisions.
@Coffee-Makeup-Stationary Yes, I agree. Vaginal atrophy and loss of libido are real problems for many women and they are often embarrassed to tell their doctor this. Using hrt gel and an oestrogen vaginal pessary made such a difference to me. X
Knowing that everyone’s body and genetic makeup is different, what I have found is, if you are able to take HRT, it is highly recommended. My physician told me that the only risk to me regarding HRT, is not taking HRT. I completely understand if women don’t want to take HRT. That is a choice that we have. However, I encourage everyone to do the research and read about what other physicians have studied and have found regarding HRT. Dr. Mary Claire Haver is the best place to start!
I’ve been getting a mammogram since I was 30 and I have dense breasts, but they do a 3-D mammogram on me. I had a full hysterectomy at 40 and I was on a roller coaster for a while but then I found my right dosage and every so oftenI would take the patch off See if I experience any hot flashes or night sweats and if I did, I put it back on and I went through that for probably 10 years, I’m 63 now and what triggers my hot flashes is when I get stressed or start thinking too much worrying
Was on HRT from 1996-2015. Life soothing drug. Wish I could still be on it.
They say if you put the patch on your butt that you have 20% better absorption. I only put mine on there because I have a tummy tuck scare.
I’m on estrogen & testosterone. My biggest issue currently is fatigue, brain fog, unexplained weight gain etc. My functional medicine doctor had do blood work recently- he wants to rule out hashimotos or other autoimmune. The reason I bring this up is that I’m wondering if HRT is tricky for you because of your thyroid issues/autoimmune? Some people it’s straightforward but others have a flu in the ointment- I’m guessing? (My lab results come in on Monday- I will ask him specifically about HRT efficacy & autoimmune disorders)
Hey there! I do not have Hashimoto's. Just a slightly low functioning thyroid. Officially diagnosed 10 years ago. Knowing what I do now about thyroid and all hormones, it was probably the beginning of perimenopause for me. I've been on the same low dose of NP Thyroid - 30mg - for many years and get a full thyroid panel done every 6 months. There's probably a small piece of the puzzle I'm missing somewhere so research continues for me. Let me know what you find out at the doctor visit!
@@MissCrystal I definitely will:)
I saw that vivelle dot studied the absorption and said that upper buttocks has more absorption than lower abdomen. Bloating is my worst se from hrt. Have literally tried everything and may stop due to it. Have also had some gerd. Ugh. 😑
Oh interesting, thanks for sharing! For me I feel the hip area works best. Lower abdomen seems to feel as if I’m not getting much. So that makes sense for me personally. 😊 I feel you on the bloating. I recently added back in a specific probiotic and it helps a little. I need to stay away from dairy as I’m sensitive but I get such good protein from it. 😏
I always put patch on butt check area, tried once on side of stomach and felt like it didn’t work as well
I usually do hip as I also find lower abdomen doesn’t feel like it works. I’ll try the other again and see. Thank you for sharing!
Look into topical estrogen cream for face! Lots of channels are talking about the great anti aging benefits
I've been hearing a lot about that in the last few months. Might be something I look into further at some point. Thank you for sharing!
Is there a name ?
Thank you for this! Wondering if you are doing cyclical or continuous?
Continuous. I've recently been reading more about cyclical. It's hard though when cycles are irregular to determine if that would work and when.
Hello Crystal 🙋🏻♀️ I commented earlier but just now finished your full video! There is so much info out there to absorb and in the end we all just want to feel better, ME INCLUDED!!! Wanted to let you know what my hormone doctor shared with me the other day when we had my appointment to read labs and get the bio identical hormones started. Please know I’m only sharing and in no way telling you what’s beneficial for you💕 So my doctor doesn’t prescribe any estrogen/estradiol to women who is are still cycling. She starts with progesterone & testosterone (in my case I need extra testosterone because my body doesn’t process it like it should.) Just wanted to share in case you wanted to research more about the estrogen part. Also, I do go to an MD but she’s private and doesn’t take insurance. I know it’s more expensive to use her but for now I’m going this route. Good luck and keep talking/sharing about this topic 🫶🏼 Oh, I’m also starting DHEA, I know you asked about that too.
Thanks for sharing! My doctor doesn't either. That's why I didn't start the estradiol until my labs were showing I was headed towards menopause. And sure enough, less than two months after starting, I stopped having a cycle. It's very common to go almost a year and start again. My doctor personally has done this. My Mom as well. So we'll see what I start doing from here on out. I defiantly needed the estrogen for those many months in between though. That was obvious by my symptoms improving.
@@MissCrystal Glad it’s helping! Being a woman is sooooo complicated, isn’t it🤪
Not a Dr but I read / researched if you have a uterus it’s important to take estrogen and progesterone and without a uterus progesterone is good all on is ok to take on its own. Someone please help us all 😮.
Nutritional Yeast Extract has really helped me feel better too. I take a big spoonful with water and it helps my sleep and energy. Regarding Testosterone good luck getting someone to prescribe that for you. I’m sure there is someone out there that will. Pellets scare me. You can’t turn them off. DHEA helps sometimes.
Pellets cannot be controlled and yes the testosterone talk with a Dr seems taboo wth? Most don’t have a clue or it’s the women’s health don’t care thing. 😢😢
Do you get a residue around your patch, I take it off with rubbing alcohol.
Yes, sometimes. I always use rubbing alcohol to prep the new site before and to take off residue from the old.
What kind of doctor prescribes HRT? GP, OB/GYN, or other?
My regular physician. Thankfully she has educated herself on current protocols and information. You could also get your OB to prescribe. If they do not give you the care you would like, I added the Midi Health website and the Menopause Society as references to find qualified doctors. Hope this helps! Thanks for watching!
Happy Birthday Crystal! 🎂Thank you for discussing this topic.
My biggest issue is irregular fragmented sleep ... So frustrating!😥Not a lot of talks about menopause. Everyone talks about puberty, but nothing about the other end of womanhood.
Anyways, you look great and feeling hopefully better, xx
Hi! Yes, the sleep disruptions are so bad. I sleep really hard until about 2-3am and then not as much for a few hours. So then it feels like I've not had as much. I either sleep well or I don't. Thanks for sharing!