As I approached my late 40s, I began noticing changes that I couldn’t ignore. My sleep, which had always been peaceful, became a nightly battle. I’d wake up drenched in sweat, my heart racing, and then spend the rest of the night tossing and turning. My moods were all over the place—one moment I’d be fine, and the next I’d feel like crying for no apparent reason. My energy levels plummeted, making it harder to get through the day, and I struggled to concentrate at work. Even worse, my family started noticing the changes in me. My children would ask if I was okay, and my partner and I started having arguments over the smallest things. I felt like I was losing myself.
I realised I was entering menopause, but I wasn’t prepared for how much it would affect every aspect of my life. I had heard about Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT), but like many women, I was unsure if it was right for me. The stories I’d heard were conflicting—some said it was a lifesaver, while others warned about the risks. After months of trying to manage on my own and seeing how it was impacting my relationship with my partner, my work, and my ability to be there for my children, I knew I had to do something.
My First Steps: Seeking Professional Help
The first step I took was booking an appointment with a menopause specialist in London. I cannot emphasise enough how important this decision was. Menopause is a deeply personal experience, and I needed someone who could help me understand what my body was going through and guide me towards a solution. During our first meeting, the specialist listened to my symptoms, asked about my medical history, and explained the various options available. She assured me that HRT could be tailored to my specific needs, but also that it wasn’t a quick fix—it would require some trial and error to find the right balance.
We discussed the different types of HRT—oestrogen-only, combined oestrogen and progesterone, and even bioidentical hormones, which are designed to be chemically identical to the hormones my body naturally produces. Knowing that there were options made me feel more in control of the situation. Together, we decided to start with a low-dose combined HRT, as I still had my uterus and needed the protective effects of progesterone. This was all new to me.
My HRT Journey: Finding the Right Balance
Starting HRT wasn’t an instant solution, and the first few weeks were challenging. My body was adjusting to the new hormones, and while some symptoms, like the night sweats, began to improve, others, like my mood swings, took longer to stabilise. During this period, my relationship with my partner continued to be strained. He didn’t fully understand what I was going through, and I found it difficult to explain how I felt. I knew I needed to be patient—not just with the treatment, but with myself and those around me.
I began with HRT pills, but after a few months, my specialist suggested switching to a gel that I could apply to my skin daily. The gel provided more consistent hormone levels and was easier to manage. It also allowed me to adjust the dosage more precisely, which was important as we continued to fine-tune my treatment. I also found it convenient that I could buy the gel online with my prescription, which made life a bit easier.
After about three months, I started to notice a real difference. My hot flashes had almost disappeared, I was sleeping better, and my mood swings were less intense. The fog that had clouded my thoughts lifted, and I felt more like myself again. My energy returned, and I could focus on work without constantly feeling overwhelmed. My children noticed the change too—they said I seemed happier, more like the mum they remembered. My relationship with my partner also improved as I became more communicative and less irritable.
The Importance of Professional Guidance
One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned on this journey is the importance of professional guidance. HRT is not something you should approach on your own, and it’s definitely not a one-size-fits-all solution. Every woman’s body is different, and what works for one might not work for another. My specialist was crucial in helping me navigate this complex process, monitoring my progress closely and adjusting my treatment as needed.
She also made sure I understood the potential risks associated with HRT, such as an increased risk of blood clots and breast cancer. But with the right approach—starting HRT at the right time, using the lowest effective dose, and choosing the best method of delivery—these risks can be managed. It’s all about finding the balance that works for you, under the guidance of a knowledgeable professional.
Reflecting on My Journey
Looking back, I’m incredibly grateful that I chose to explore HRT with the support of a specialist. The journey wasn’t always smooth, but the results have been worth it. HRT has given me back my quality of life—it’s helped me reconnect with my partner, be more present for my children, and perform better at work. Most importantly, it’s helped me feel like myself again.
If you’re struggling with menopause symptoms and wondering if HRT is right for you, my advice is simple: don’t try to navigate this journey alone. Consult with a menopause specialist or an HRT clinician who can provide you with the support and information you need. Whether you visit a menopause clinic in person or online, having a professional guide you through this process is essential.
Menopause is a significant life transition, but with the right support and treatment, it doesn’t have to be something you simply endure. It can be a time to reclaim your well-being and step into the next chapter of your life with confidence and energy. For me, HRT has been a crucial part of that journey, and it might just be the right choice for you too.