ERT stopped working! Symptoms back...What now?

Hi everyone...
I was started on ERT only about a month ago. Premarin 1.25. It actually started working within the first week as I saw a slow reduction of my night sweats, hot flashes, and feelings of anxiety. I was symptom free. I should have known that was too easy.

I noticed some very slight breast tenderness which I pretty much accepted as no big deal. All of a sudden in the last week, the nights sweats are totally back and although the hot flashes have not totally returned...I can feel them revving up planning their comeback. Yesterday I started with vaginitis which I am assuming will be a return of my yeast infection.

Except for the breast tenderness...those were all the same symptoms that got me on Premarin in the first place. My GYNE doctor started me on a high dose of Premarin in an effort to knock my symptoms out aggressively. The plan was to lessen the dosage as time went on.

I need some advice on where to turn now. I probably need to get one or two books concerning hormone issues. Any favorites? Also I am really hoping to hear some personal accounts from ladies that have gone through this.

I am confused about all of this. I thought woman with a TAH and no ovaries didn't need Progesterone. But I see many that have added it to the mix. Progesterone cream? OTC Progesterone? Some use Testosterone? Yikes! This could take years to figure out.

Any personal stories will be appreciated.

Thanks.

I recommend Dr. Vliet's book "Screaming to be Heard"... was rereleased (thicker and more packed with info ) in 2005, though the earlier version (cheaper and thinner) still has tons of info.

I use progesterone - oral - Prometrium 200 mg - prescription. Helps immensely with sleep. Also Vivelle Dot 0.1 and DHEA (dr supervised), and Vagifem.

Thanks Calypso for the book name and your info. I am looking forward to getting the book and getting a better understanding of this confusing world of hormones.

I knew that ERT/HRT would not be an easy road for me. I have adrenal gland and thyroid issues added in the mix also.

Thanks again for the information.

2weimies,

I too have thyroid and adrenal issues... EM me and we can chat about it if you'd like. Interested to hear what you're taking for thyroid and adrenal. It's a JUNGLE out there!
Take care!