Gallbladder Spasm & HRT

I had a dVH (total) on 5/16/11 and except for a sore peri area the 1st 4 days, I've have had an extremely easy recovery (off all pain meds in 48 hours, back to work part-time in 5 days, walking 1.5mi per day starting 3 days postop). Most of the ladies in my online recovery group are going through so much more (I was there with them 10 years ago after a laparotomy for a big ovarian cyst, got off easy this time)

My doctor started me on PremPro the day after the surgery because I was not in menopause and I have endometriosis. It's been going well -- no hot flashes, mood swings, plenty of energy, and no munchies/cravings (HUGE for me) and I've lost 8# since surgery. Wednesday night (9 days postop), I woke up with severe upper right quadrant pain and nausea. I was soon sitting on the toilet, vomiting into my lap. I felt a little better by morning and my doctor said it was probably a gallbladder spasm. I had something like this 3 years ago but it lasted 4 days (although my bloodwork and an ultrasound didn't find anything except a small gallbladder cyst).

So, I learned today that oral HRT increases a woman's chance of gallbladder disease, both stones and spasm. Any input from others who have dealt with this and figured out how to manage it would be appreciated. I have a history of higher cholestrol, triglycerides and LDL, so I'm not so sure this oral route is a good idea, but the patches, creams and rings don't sound so great either.

thanks, Laura

Hi Laura,
It is true that oral hrt might increase the chance of gallbladder issues. However; you have not been on it that long. I would think it may take longer than a few weeks to develop gallbladder disease from oral hrt.

If you are concerned, discuss it with your doctor. There are other options for hrt besides oral. You can read more in the articles at www.hormonejungle.com