Progestin alone

I am currently reading the "Sudden Menoapause" book. I know that things may have changed since it was published. It says that for "a woman who has had a hysterectomy, a progestational agent generally is not prescribed". My doctor put me on a progestin for hot flashes and insomnia. He thought about putting me on estrogen, but because of stage IV endo, I didn't think that was wise. He agreed. But now I after reading the book, I am wondering if anyone else was prescribed just progestin? I think I am now than before I read the book.

I was also on progestin alone for a few weeks after my surgery, and I also had stage IV endo. My doctor explained that the progestin helped kill or starve off any remaining bits of endo, while estrogen would have encouraged growth of any remaining endo. He never said it would help with hot flashes and/or insomnia -- in fact he admitted it would not, but like I said, it was to ensure that I would be endo-free before starting the estrogen. After a time -- actually after I cried uncle -- maybe 6-10 weeks, he took me off of the progestin and started me on estrogen.

Are you sure you have a clear understanding from your doctor as to why you are on the progestin? And are you sure he intends to keep you on it permanently? I would also wonder because my doctor explained that using it for extended periods without estrogen would cause bone loss. Of course I don't want to panic you and your doctor knows what's best for you, but I just wonder if he has explained things fully.

Good luck, and good reading.

I am very sure the doctor gave me progestin for hot flashes and insomnia. That was the only two complaints I had at 10 days post op. It actually states in "Sudden Menopause" that progestin can alleviate hot flashes. Also it says that studies have now shown progestins to stimulate bone-building activity. I think I've read somewhere that it also helps with insomnia, but I can't seem to find that now. I know that my hot flashes have lessened since I've been on the progestin. Anyway, I'm pretty sure that the doctor plans on keeping me on it. He gave me a prescription for a year. I do go back to him for my six week check-up on October 12. So I will see what he says then.