Is HRT possible if the last period was 3years ago(48yrs old) and menopause symptoms have just started?

I had my last period three years ago and up until six months ago felt fine. Now I have pains in my joints, dizziness, nausea, flushes and mood swings. The doctor has told me that because it is so long since I have had a period it is not worth checking hormone levels or thinking about HRT. Is this correct? Could my periods have stopped for some other reason than the menopause ? Do I have to go on like this forever? I am 51 but feel 81. I have had ultrasounds, blood test etc and all seems fine except some blood in the urine which they say comes from 麓leaky kidneys麓'

Yes. Many women get menopausal symptoms like hot flushes and mood swings during the perimenopause (when periods start to become erratic and finally stop) but some women, like yourself, can develop symptoms later. HRT is just as useful at this point, providing there is no other cause for your current symptoms such as a thyroid problem (this can be ruled out through a simple blood test). You need to talk to your GP about this again - although hormone levels probably aren't of any use, it sounds like HRT could certainly be an option for you if your symptoms are truly getting you down. (I'm a GP with a post-graduate qualification in Obstetrics & Gynaecology).

Go and get a second opinion if you're not happy.

I think that Solvay pharmaceuticals has a good web site that answers questions about HRT. I don't know that site address, but I am sure you can find it if you google Solvay and HRT.

I'd like to see a male doc go through menopause without HRT! There are some over the counter remedies that you can try. Some work better than others but Black Cohosh seems to be best. Problem is that you must take 2 per day for at least 4 weeks before you start getting some relief. Try a product called "Hot Flash" from the local health food store.

I think your doc should be concerned about blood in the urine. Leaky kidneys is not normal!!!! Do you have protein in the urine also? Kidney problems should not be ignored.

Hello ....... having read your question fully, I really do feel that you should report back to the Dr. and insist upon a test re: your kidneys. I have never heard of someone being fobbed off with 'leaky kidneys'. If you get no joy, you are fully entitled to ask for a second opinion. I would persue the kidney issue before the HRT issue.

However, once you are satisfied that you have a good report on the kidneys and you should not have blood in your urine, then discuss HRT. Again, if you are getting 'no where fast' with the Dr. Ask for an appointment with 'Well Woman Clinci'. There you will find that a blood test is taken and the measure of your hormones will be clear as daylight.
If you have a history of breast problems, cancer....you will not be given HRT.

There are two very divided schools of thought about HRT. 50% say 'NO' it can cause breast cancer. The other 50% will agree that HRT gives a woman that 'feel good factor' back.
If it is of any help to you, I have been on HRT implants for over 24 years and swear by it. Having said that, sadly my Mother and two sisters are all cancer patients, so my prospects are not good. I still, by the way, suffer hot flashes every night without fail. Also, during the daytime, when the sun is very warm, for no other reason, I have a hot flush. Usually my scalp and back and forehead. It is awful but better that then no HRT. I am 59 years old.

In the USA....HRT implants are illegal, they give out pills for this and pills for that but nothing can beat HRT.

Don't forget to tell them exactly how you are feeling etc. How can they help you if they do not have the full facts.

Good luck with your mission, it all takes time and yes, we feel so dreadful and as you say, feel 81.
Best wishes to you, hang on in there....