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Indiana Jones come and get me because I think I’ve found my holy grail and its name is oestrogen gel and utrogestan and utrogestan. (Okay, that’s two names, but you get my drift…)
It’s been almost three years since I was first put on HRT. Three long years of traipsing back and forth to the doctor.
But finally – FINALLY! – I got it. So what do I think? Let’s get the science out of the way first.
Key Takeaways
Oestrogen Gel and Utrogestan: What Is It?
Basically, oestrogen gel and utrogestan is hormone replacement therapy in two separate bits: a gel that gives you oestrogen and tablets that give you progesterone (click on the links for my easy-to-understand guides to these hormones).
Before this, I was on Femostan, which comes in a tablet, and then I’ve had years of various patches.
What’s Wrong with Other Hrt?
Absolutely nothing, if you can tolerate it. The trouble is, I can’t.
First of all, Femostan did absolutely nothing for me. It offered no relief, psychologically or physically. I ended several months of taking it still scratching at itchy skin and feeling like a ball of anxiety. The only benefit it provided was some relief from my hot flushes.
After that, I switched to HRT patches but quickly noticed mood swings each time I transitioned to the progesterone phase. This prompted me to try various HRT patches prescribed by different GPs, but the outcomes remained the same. Eventually, we identified that I have a sensitivity to progesterone.
Before this conclusion, though, a GP suggested I try oestrogel with a Mirena coil for progesterone or oestrogel and utrogestan, often considered the gold standard in HRT.
Unfortunately, it seems my GP’s office overlooked this recommendation, leaving me without access to what could have been a better solution.
What Are the Benefits of Oestrogen Gel and Utrogestan?
Taking oestrogen transdermally (that is: through the skin, in a gel or a patch) is the safest form of HRT, while a micronised progesterone (body-identical, which means it is physically identical to the hormones our body makes) is the most tolerable form to take.
| Benefit | Description | Example/Details |
|---|---|---|
| Safety | Minimizes the risk of blood clots by bypassing the liver and is gentler on the digestive system compared to oral HRT. | Reduces systemic side effects like nausea and liver strain. |
| Flexibility | Allows for precise dosage adjustments based on individual needs and adapts to manage changing symptoms over time. | Dosage can be adjusted daily under medical supervision without switching products. |
| Ease of Application | Simple daily use applied on clean, dry skin with no need for complex schedules or equipment. | Can be applied to the arms, thighs, or abdomen with minimal effort. |
| Consistent Hormone Delivery | Provides steady absorption throughout the day, avoiding hormone spikes or dips, and eliminates adhesive issues associated with patches. | Ensures reliable and even hormone delivery for better symptom management. |
| Compatibility with Other HRT Methods | Pairs effectively with micronised progesterone for a comprehensive and customizable HRT approach. | Can be combined with options like Utrogestan for personalized treatment plans. |
| Well-Tolerated | Fewer side effects compared to oral HRT, as it bypasses the liver and minimizes systemic reactions. | Users report reduced issues like headaches and nausea. |
| Travel-Friendly | Compact and discreet packaging makes it easy to carry and use on the go without requiring refrigeration. | Ideal for maintaining HRT routines while traveling or during busy schedules. |
So Tell Me – Is Oestrogen Gel and Utrogestan Working for You?
Yes, and no, but mostly yes.
Three months ago, I transitioned to using oestrogen gel and utrogestan, marking a significant shift in my hormone replacement therapy (HRT) journey. This change came after months of uncertainty and a series of frustrating experiences with various treatments and healthcare professionals. Here’s how the process unfolded:
| Section | Primary Details | Additional Details |
|---|---|---|
| Struggles with HRT | HRT didn’t deliver expected results, leading me to question if my symptoms were psychological. | My surgery stopped fitting coils due to Covid, which felt unreasonable as coils were deemed essential for my HRT plan. |
| Advocating for Change | Requested oestrogen gel and utrogestan, but my doctor insisted on progesterone via a coil, leading to doubts about my understanding. | After researching, I confirmed utrogestan is a valid progesterone option and reiterated my request to a trusted GP. |
| Treatment Adjustments | Consulted a new GP, clearly requesting oestrogen gel and utrogestan, refusing previous recommendations. | The GP tailored a treatment plan after researching dosages, acknowledging she hadn’t prescribed this combination before. |
| The Outcome | Finally received my prescription after two years of persistence and self-advocacy. | Though not perfect, this combination has significantly improved my symptoms, offering better balance. |
Three Months On…
Disclaimer first: I’m still on sertraline, an anti-depressant that I started taking because I was so scared of the suicidal thoughts I’d had when the progesterone got me last year. (And that’s the first time I’ve ever put it so bluntly.)
Apart from that, I feel normal. Even not bad at times, actually. I am looking after myself again, with a new haircut and some new clothes, and eating better.
I’m not out of the woods yet, thought. For a couple of days per month, usually around the end of the utrogestan period or sometimes afterwards, I get hit by the black dog again and feel useless and just rubbish, really. But I’ve only had one cry in three months. That’s amazing.
I’m also due to speak to a specialist in a few weeks, so I’m hoping to bump up my oestrogen gel. At the moment, I’m on one pump twice a day, giving me 1.5mg of of hormone.
In general, most days, I feel stronger and happier. It’s taken two years, but finally I think I’ve found my HRT heaven with oestrogen gel and utrogestan.
FAQ
What is hormone replacement therapy (HRT)?
HRT is a treatment used to alleviate symptoms of menopause by replacing hormones that are at a lower level as you approach menopause.
How does oestrogen gel work?
Oestrogen gel is applied to the skin and absorbed transdermally, providing a steady supply of oestrogen to the body, which helps alleviate menopausal symptoms.
What is Utrogestan and why is it used?
Utrogestan is a form of progesterone that’s body-identical, making it more tolerable. It’s used in HRT to balance the effects of oestrogen and protect the uterine lining.
Can everyone use oestrogen gel and Utrogestan for HRT?
Not everyone. The suitability depends on individual health conditions, symptoms, and personal preference. Consultation with a healthcare provider is essential.
What are the benefits of using oestrogen gel and Utrogestan?
This combination allows for flexible dosing, is considered safer and more tolerable, and can effectively manage menopausal symptoms.
Are there any side effects of oestrogen gel and Utrogestan?
As with any medication, there can be side effects. Common ones include skin irritation from the gel and mood changes with Utrogestan. It’s important to discuss these with your doctor.
How do I know if oestrogen gel and Utrogestan are right for me?
The best approach is to discuss your symptoms, medical history, and treatment goals with your healthcare provider, who can help determine the most appropriate HRT plan for you.
Bottom Line
The flexibility of oestrogen gel and the tolerability of micronised progesterone have proven to be a winning combination for managing menopausal symptoms, despite the challenges and setbacks encountered along the way.
The journey highlights the varied experiences women have with menopause and the necessity of personalized treatment plans.
As the quest for hormonal balance continues, the importance of supporting mental health and maintaining open communication with healthcare professionals remains paramount.
