Estrogen dosage advice needed

I am many years out from my hysterectomy and was on just Vivelle Dot .05 for the first 5 years - I was doing ok but noticed I could not lose weight and joints were achy so increased the dosage to .075 two years ago. Now I have gained yet another 8 pounds and am very frustrated.

I added Testosterone (compounded 300 mcg dose) daily two years ago as well. I was hoping by increasing my Estrogen and adding Testosterone I would start to lose weight and feel better. I also have tried adding Progesterone many times over and in every form but for some reason I have a lot of ringing in ears and nightmares on it so I always discontinue it.

My exercise program is high intensity working out 1 1/2 to 2 hours daily rotating with weights, cardio, yoga and pilates. I work out 6 days a week and have cut calories way back but I keep gaining weight and losing muscle. I show my doctor my work out schedule and diet and she doesn't know what to tell my, just saying it is my estrogen causing the weight gain but not offering any alternatives. I don't want to go off of it altogether as I am only 49 and feel it is too early for that. So should I lower it again to see if I drop the 8 pounds I gained or any other ideas - I am clueless. I can't add any more exercise or I would not be able to get out of bed. And yes I have had my thyroid checked every which way and it is normal as well. Help.

When you added the testosterone did your doctor test your free and total testosterone levels to be sure you were low in T?

Have you had your thyroid checked?

Where are you gaining the weight? If you are gaining it in the belly area, that could be a sign that your estrogen is low. I tried in vain to lose weight. I didn't start losing the weight until I got my estrogen up to a good level. After that, I added in progesterone and lost a bit more. In my case, progesterone was not necessary to lose most of the weight. The estrogen was the key.