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A myRAteam Member asked a question 💭
Greenville, MI

How many ladies here are undergoing HRT for menopause and if so, does it help or worsen symptoms? I am seriously considering it since I tested negative for the BRCA genes,. I am miserable and my family is facing the consequences.

September 15, 2023
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A myRAteam Member

I was miserable for 7 years. I wouldn't do HRT because of the risk of breast cancer. But, then I found an incredible doctor that really understood the risk factors. Everyone is very different for the risk. There is a science based formula that every one of her patients goes through. I came up so low on the risk scale, that I went ahead and did it. WOW! I have my life back. See if you can find a really good doctor that specializes in menopause and use that formula. I do have breast cancer in my family, but for me, I am low risk. Also, get yearly mamo

September 15, 2023
A myRAteam Member

I began hrt 20 yrs ago. After my hysterectomy and removal of one ovary menopause hit me hard. I was climbing the walls and felt desperate or frustrated 24/7. Irregular sleep pattern, and I was very unlikable not to mention sweaty, flushing, migraines etc. It may take some tweaking to get your levels regulated. There is also a supplemental powder that my daughter was put on that helped her so much. She was in Great Brittain at the time and they prefer using more natural therapies. They don't prescribe a lot of the meds there that the U.S. does.
I'll try to get the name of the supplement she was on. It regulated her hormones to have normal menses so she could get straightened out and plan for a baby.
I have to use Estrace testosterone cream, and also vagifem suppositories. If I dont- lots of inflammation and different infections bc of dryness. We need hormones for our bone health and heart health as well as for all our body's health and for supple skin. Estrogen is stored in our fat cells. We need it for those reasons as well as to keep ourselves from going off our rocker. Talk to an HRT specialist and they will explain different delivery methods. Begin low dose and go back for testing. You are young and deserve a peaceful family life and to also keep your beautiful skin and hair. Give your body what it needs. Ive read negative things about hormones but more good positive things and know how I feel. I also suffered through my mother's menopause bc she didn't take HRT back in 60s. It was HELL. I couldn't do that to my family and friends...or myself. You have identified the problem. Try it on a trial basis and weigh the benefits. The processes and hormones now are different than 20 yrs ago. I get plant based hormones. Hope this helps.

September 15, 2023
A myRAteam Member

I had similar concerns and discussed them with my gynecologist. He asked if I was planning to quit taking the HRT and I replied that I trust him to help me make the wisest decision. My mother survived breast cancer and I chose to follow my gyn's advice and continue the meds. But my symptoms were unbearable. Please consult a trusteed doctor.

September 15, 2023
A myRAteam Member

I had a total hysterectomy in 2017 and have been on hormone replacement therapy ever since. I have weaned down to just 1 mg. I didn't notice any increase in RA activity after starting it.

September 18, 2023
A myRAteam Member

The symptoms of Menopause will subside. I started at 40, had a miscarriage and ended a month after I turned 47. Do NOT know why I remember this. I took some kind of medication to help with the symptoms of menopause. You can also go the natural route. HRT does NOT protect your heart as previously thought. I have a friend who has been on HRT for years since he had a hysterotomy at 40. I think that is VERY risky. PLUS, the braca genes are only two of hundreds that increase your chances of BC. I got BC and am braca negative due to YEARS stress (feloneous neighbors) and a weakened immune system. Then, when you want to stop HRT, you will have to go through the menopause symptoms anyway. LOTS of work arounds.

September 18, 2023

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