Not sure what to do??

I had my uterus and fallopian tubes removed almost 2 years ago. I kept my cervix and my doctor insisted that I keep my ovaries. I’m on progesterone. (Day 1-4 no pill and rest of the month 2 pills)
Since January, most of my symptoms have returned and I’m cycling for 8-10 days every 2 weeks.
My OB says it’s because I’m not taking the pills days 1-4 of my cycle. My hormone specialist thinks my body is not absorbing the progesterone.
I just sent in a new saliva test so I’m waiting on results.
I am miserable repeating this cycle. Is this normal? I don’t know what’s wrong and I need help.

What are your symptoms?

	Quote:
Originally Posted by GPMS What are your symptoms?

Breast tenderness
Headaches-migraines
Extreme fatigue
Deep cramps
Neck and back aches that ibuprofen doesn’t touch
Constipation
Stomach aches
Bloating
Not sleeping well
Night sweats
Emotional

Usually lasts 7-10 days

hi-
is there a reason your dr wants you to cycle your hormones? I don't understand how that would be necessary since you don't have a uterus any longer. I would think that would cause fluctuations in your hormone levels. since its not necessary to cycle anymore and experience those ups and downs..
I've read that saliva tests are not as accurate as serum blood tests for hormones.
Also read on here that when you are ready for replacing hormone(s), that it is generally recommended to start with estrogen first (and no others)- work on the estrogen only, finding the right dosage, time of dosage and delivery method (patches, gels, oral pills, femring, compounded cream.....etc) that is right for Your body.

You may find that you don't need other hormones other than estrogen if your symptoms improve or are relieved...if not- then consider adding progesterone, or testosterone. ideally only one hormone at a time so if you get symptoms after adding then you gt a good idea of what may be causing symptoms. If you start on several hormones at once then you you may not be aware as to which hormones are causing which symptoms. We are all different- hormone replacement is a trial and error thing still,--a process. really.
I would ask your health care provider for serum blood tests, not saliva. the lab number range and your result , to me, are there to guide- not numbers set in stone. For ex. I've been to several drs who insisted on strict blood levels of estrogen--no higher than 90-100 pg/mls yet I didn't feel good there. My body needed a higher amt. of estrogen replacement. A few health care providers go by symptoms or lack of. I only go to these health care providers . hormone bloodwork hasn't been done on me unless there is a problem I or my medical provider can't figure out going by symptoms. so you may feel good at a certain level of estrogen but I wouldn't feel good at that level.. we are all different.
I would also suggest getting a basic thyroid panel done as some of thyroid symptoms overlap those of menopause.
**when I use the word estrogen for blood work and levels- I'm referring to "estradiol" . though drs can check estrogen levels for all 3 main types- estradiol, estrone, estriol
Ann