I Need Sleep!!!

On June 5th it will be one month since my TAH. I was able to sleep at first (due to pain killers) but I cannot fall asleep till almost 1 or 2 AM!!! I should be going back to work in about 2 weeks and there is NO WAY I can work an 8 hour day on 3 or 4 hours of sleep. Does anyone else have this problem. My doctor has started me on estrogen and I have been on it for about 2 weeks.

I had the same problem. My doctor put me on premarin and it has improved my sleep. I was told that a dose adjustment could be required. Talk to your doctor, let them know.

Hi rennieroo
This sleep issue is a hard one. I feel for you. I'm not sure if you have your ovaries, but my thought is if you started some estrogen you might need to balance it with progesterone. Try reading this article on Why Progesterone . This answers some of the questions on why you might need it. Progesterone is often called the calming hormone.
There is another article on the Benefits of Progesterone you might want to check out.
I'm sure this isn't the only answer to sleep problems, but this is what came to mind right now. I hope it is helpful.
's,Rita

I'm having that problem too, but I can't take hormones, as I had breast cancer that was ER/PR positive. I'm also told that I shouldn't take any of the "natural" soy products. My gyn gave me Lunesta, but I just lie awake even with it. Not about to take Ambien CR, as it makes me sleepwalk.

There are other sleeping aides available other than Lunesta and Ambien. Maybe you could check into other options. Sleep is the absolute cornerstone of sanity, in my humble opinion. Keep trying and being persistent. Good luck!!

My gyn suggested Tylenol PM...started that 2 nights ago and it seems to help

I have some "Simply Sleep" - the PM without the Tylenol (have to watch on Tylenol due to liver issues). I may try that tonight. I need to get on a normal routine.

I've found setting up a "bedtime" routine helps. Taking a nice hot bath (if you're ok'ed to do so--maybe shower), drinking a cup of tea or hot chocolate made with warm milk, then snuggling up in bed. Granted in summer you don't want to get all hot....but it's the routine, it lets your mind know it's time to start going into "downtime". You could also try the shower and turn the lights down/off while you watch your last hour of tv. Then even if you just lay there, set a time to shut everything off and close your eyes.