What if I can’t use HRT
HRT is often portrayed as the be-all and end-all answer to menopause symptoms. But what if you have been through surgical menopause, HRT doesn’t agree with you, or you don’t want to use it?
We all have choices and should never feel pressured to do what the majority does. Our bodies belong to us. Why give in to pier pressure? Yes, HRT has many benefits, but we still have a choice.
So what else can we take if we can’t take HRT, and what else may we be prescribed?
Many GPs will look at the following:-
Antidepressants
There are two types of antidepressants – selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin-noradrenaline reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) – which may help with hot flushes caused by menopause.
These medicines are not licensed for this use. This means they have yet to undergo clinical trials to test if they help this symptom, but many experts believe they’re likely to help, and your doctor will discuss the possible benefits and risks with you.
Tibolone
Tibolone (brand name Livial) is a prescription medicine similar to combined HRT (oestrogen and progestogen).
It’s taken as a tablet once a day. It can help relieve symptoms such as hot flushes, low mood and reduced sex drive, although some studies have suggested it may not be as effective as combined HRT.
It’s only suitable for women who had their last period more than a year ago (known as post-menopause).
Clonidine
Clonidine is a prescription medicine that can help reduce hot flushes and night sweats in some menopausal women. It’s taken as tablets 2 or 3 times a day.
It does not affect hormone levels, so unlike HRT, it does not carry an increased risk of problems such as breast cancer. But research suggests it only has a minimal effect on menopausal symptoms.
Complimentary medications
Purchase online or in a health food store. These are:-
St John’s Wart
Evening Primrose
Ginseng
Black Cohosh
Always check that these alternatives do not interfere with any prescribed medication.
Find what works best for you and run with that because we are all different. One size does not fit all.
Related Articles
Related
PCOS and Menopause Interactions
Understanding PCOS and Its Interaction with Menopause Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a complex hormonal disorder affecting many women, particularly those of reproductive age. Characterised by irregular periods, excessive androgen (male hormone) levels, and...
Navigating Mirena Coils
h, the Mirena coil—a tiny T-shaped superhero in the realm of contraception and hormone management. But what happens when it's time for this little warrior to retire, especially during the tumultuous seas of perimenopause and beyond? Let's delve into the benefits of...
Navigating Estrogen Dominance During Menopause
Navigating Estrogen Dominance During Perimenopause: Symptoms, Questions, and Solutions Are you sailing through the choppy waters of perimenopause and feeling like your hormones are playing a game of tug-of-war? You might be experiencing what's known as estrogen...
Menopause and Massage
If you are anything like me, I am sure you relate it to a sports injury or a day at the spa when you think about massage. But what if I told you that it could also benefit women during peri-menopause, menopause and post-menopause? So why is this, and should we be...
How Do I Approach My Employer
Discussing menopause in the workplace can be extremely daunting. And often, the sector we work in can make a difference in how management takes our requests on board. Coming from a Construction background, I know all too well how difficult it can be to discuss...
Hot Flushes and Snug Knickers
Hot Flushes and Snug KnickersMenopause can be a challenging time for many women, particularly regarding weight gain. In this blog post, we aim to empower you with the knowledge and tools necessary to take control of your body, maintain a healthy weight, and boost your...
Lessons in embracing your authentic self during Menopase from Tina Turners Life
Tina Turner: Lessons in Embracing Your Authentic Self During MenopauseRecently, I found myself captivated by a documentary about the extraordinary life of Tina Turner. Her journey left a lasting impression on me, and I couldn't help but reflect on the tragedy she...
Navigating Allergies During Menopause
Understanding the Connection Among the Menopause Community Group, questions like, "Why has my skin suddenly started itching?" are frequent. Many don't realise there's a direct link between menopause and allergies. Unfolding the Symptoms Women usually experience...
When Magnesium Turned My Nights into a Technicolor Dream Fest!
If you've been following my menopause journey, in our closed group then you'll know that it's been an adventure filled with ups and downs, of mood swings, restless legs, and the occasional night sweat. But today, I want to share a rather unexpected side effect of...