HRT. Advised to stop taking HRT. How to manage symptoms

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Hi. It’s really helpful reading people’s experiences so thank you. I’ve recently been diagnosed. Still having tests to decide treatment. But as it’s double positive I have been advised to stop taking HRT. I have been on HRT for a year. The menopause symptoms have returned. I am having constant hot flushes, achy joints and can’t sleep well, constantly waking up throughout the night. So just wondering whether others have been in this situation and how they managed the insomnia etc.

My Grace is Sufficient over 2 years ago

Hi, sorry you have joined this club. I’m on medication for 7 years which has thrown me hot flushes sweats etc. I find when I’m stressed (which I’m sure you are now) makes the flushed worse. Only advice I can give us if you’re a coffee drinker cut it down to one a day. This has helped me with sleep and flushed. Best wishes for your results

shamyshamybaby246 over 2 years ago

Hi same here had to stop HRT my hot flushes are really bad every 30 minutes I've got mini hand fans don't sleep well joint pains it's hard going so fed up with menopause all the best x

FUG over 2 years ago

Hi. I too had to stop HRT after breast cancer diagnosis. Oestrogen positive.

I am now on venlafaxine. This has drastically reduced my hot flushes and night sweats.

Hope this helps.

HelenofTroy over 2 years ago

Hi there, I had to stop my HRT immediately upon my diagnosis after being on it for 12 years as I was Oestrogen Positive. I was put on Letrozole to stop my cancer spreading whilst I have further test and wait for surgery. Letrozole removes Oestrogen from your body so increase menopausal symptoms. I have been having most of the symptoms but find deep breathing helps with the joint pain. My physotherapist taught me a great relaxation technique (I have never been able to do them before) which I do at bedtime and I'm asleep in minutes. Go decaff, cut out fizzy drinks and try to reduce your sugar intake. Be kind to yourself and find something that destresses you - mine is gardening.

Dottykc over 2 years ago

I had to stop 3 weeks ago and am very interested in everyone's replies. Just a roller coaster isn't it. Hope you are able to find help with the symptoms xx

DollyP over 2 years ago

I had to stop HRT too and found cooling mats like these to be very useful: Tanness 2 Pack Gel Cooling Mat | Cooling Gel Pillow Cushion for Absorbs and Dissipates Heat | Cooling Pillows for Night Sweats & Cooling Pillow Increase Sleep Quality | Pillow Cooling Pad : Amazon.co.uk: Health & Personal Care

I was also put on venlafaxine, and have taken the odd sleeping tablet when I needed a really good night's sleep.

To be honest, the first few months were pretty brutal, but I'm much better now. I would say it took about 6 months to fully settle.

Wishing you all the best x

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