Started on estradiol - how long before it starts working /what side effects to look for

I am also wondering if the hot flashes, irritability, crying, feeling of hopelessness, dread, weight gain, and more are signs of menopause. I had a partial hysterectomy in 2018. They took everything but my ovaries. The past several months I’ve been experiencing many signs of menopause. I’m 47 years old. I went to my OBGYN today and she is certain that I am menopausal. She ordered blood work to confirm. She also prescribed Estradiol 2mg daily. I’m wondering how long it takes to start working. What are some common side effects? Any information is greatly appreciated. I’m desperate.

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How long it takes to start working is going to vary from woman to woman. It does take time for it to reach optimal levels. My doctor always wanted me to wait 3 months before making any changes but not all doctors will say that.

It isn't unusual to experience an increase in symptoms or new symptoms when increasing or decreasing hormones, so do give things time to settle. With your prescription you should have received a printout of potential side effects to look for, or that information can be easily found online by searching for your particular hormone therapy.

As a side note, you had a partial hysterectomy if your cervix was left intact. If your cervix was removed along with the rest of your uterus, you had a total hysterectomy. Removal of the Fallopian tubes and ovaries is a surgery called bilateral salpingo oophorectomy and it isn't a part of the definition of a total or partial hysterectomy. The terms can be confusing, but it can help to refer to this page for further clarification: Abbreviations.



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