My perimenopause HRT journey: finding the right doctor and treatment

I'm diving deep into my personal experience navigating perimenopause and starting hormone replacement therapy (HRT). It's been a journey of self-discovery, frustration, and ultimately, finding the right support and treatment to reclaim my energy and well-being.

The Struggle is Real

After realizing I was experiencing perimenopause, I knew I needed to make lifestyle changes. I focused on exercise, diet, and sleep, but it felt like an uphill battle. My energy levels were low, and even simple tasks felt exhausting. I knew HRT might be the answer, but finding a healthcare provider who truly understood perimenopause and HRT proved challenging.

Roadblocks in the Healthcare System

My first experience with an OB-GYN was disheartening. Despite my research and preparation, the doctor dismissed my concerns and prescribed birth control pills as a quick fix. She insisted that HRT was only for postmenopausal women and even made inaccurate comments about bioidentical hormones. I left feeling frustrated and unheard.

Finding a Supportive Doctor

Thankfully, a friend recommended her doctor, who turned out to be a lifesaver! This doctor listened to my concerns, validated my experiences, and worked with me to create a personalized HRT plan. She explained the different hormone delivery methods and helped me choose the best options for my needs.

Starting HRT and Feeling the Difference

I began with a combination patch containing estrogen and progestin, but later switched to separate estrogen patches and progesterone pills. Gradually, I started noticing positive changes. My energy levels increased, I felt more motivated, and my sleep improved. It wasn't an overnight transformation, but a gradual process of feeling better each week.

Key Takeaways

• Advocate for yourself: Don't be afraid to seek second opinions and find a doctor who listens to your concerns and provides accurate information about perimenopause and HRT.

• HRT can be life-changing: While not a solution for everyone, HRT can significantly improve quality of life for many women experiencing perimenopausal symptoms.

• Personalized treatment is key:  Work with your doctor to find the right hormone delivery methods and dosages that work best for your individual needs.

Seeking Professional Help

Navigating perimenopause can be overwhelming. It's essential to seek guidance from a healthcare professional who specializes in women's health. They can help you understand your symptoms and discuss treatment options.

Let's walk this path together

Even though more than half of the population will experience (peri)menopause at some point in their lives, it remains a taboo subject that people are reluctant to discuss openly. Through sharing my personal journey candidly, including both my challenges and successful changes, I aim to contribute to breaking this silence. Join me on this journey so that we can support each other and avoid suffering in isolation.

Listen to my podcast where I talk about my journey in greater detail. You can find it on Spotify and Apple Podcast. I will also share (peri)menopause related posts that caught my eye on my Instagram account.

Love, Sascha

Untangling menopause.... sharing my story, empowering yours