Sew What’s Up Presents
The Sew What’s New Archive
This archived content is from Mary Wilkins’ sewing and
quilting message board “Sew What’s New,” which was
retired in August 2007. It is being provided by
“Sew What’s Up,”
which serves as the new home for many members of “Sew What’s New.”
From: MaryW
Date: 11-17-2003, 11:23 AM (1 of 105)
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I have been having hot flashes for some time now. They are murder. They don't sound like much of anything but when you actually experience a full fledged hot flash or power surge, it is really something. I have had a few friends who also had them and went to their family physician for help. We all know about the hormonal replacement meds they have now. Every friend has also found breast cancer after beginning to take these meds. I was really apprehensive to try anything, but when I was putting in half days because of these flashes I knew I couldn't keep it up. I couldn't concentrate, and was cranky as a bear too. I tried a over the counter alternative. I found something by a Canadian firm, Swiss Natural Sources. It is called Natural HRT and it works like a charm. After taking 2, I felt immediate relief and there are no side effects. (At least for me, anyway.) You take 2 a day before meals and a months supply is $20.00 No I am not affiliated with this company but I just wanted to let anyone know that might be in the same spot as I was. Now, if I could just hide this 20 lbs. I need to lose. 
MaryW
owner/editor of Sew Whats New |
User: MaryW
Member since: 06-23-2005 Total posts: 2542 
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From: maps
Date: 11-17-2003, 04:18 PM (2 of 105)
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what kind of store did you find that at mary? drug store or herbal store?? i'm going crazy with night sweats right now and not ready for the hormone replacements, they kind of scare me, with all the side effects, but give me a natural treatments and i'll give it a try for that price why not!
Marge
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User: maps
Member since: 06-18-2003 Total posts: 152 
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From: Magot
Date: 11-17-2003, 05:04 PM (3 of 105)
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My internal combustion engine is just occasionally going into overdrive so I'll be watching these discussions with interest. Night sweats is more my thing, which is well messy!
love and kisses, Jan
Guts-R-Us Cells a Speciality DNA to order. |
User: Magot
Member since: 12-22-2002 Total posts: 3626 
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From: stitchmd
Date: 11-17-2003, 05:16 PM (4 of 105)
| Does this contain Block Cohosh? I read that it is an herb which has proven to be effective in recent studies. If so it should be easy to find under other names. |
User: stitchmd
Member since: 02-25-2003 Total posts: 226 |
From: Karebear
Date: 11-17-2003, 08:09 PM (5 of 105)
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Mary... thank you for the natural HRT... supplement... info... I will not go into the dull chatting of "menopause" but.. I do encourage the RATH of flashes.. it is necessary.. I do go into a "surge" of heat.. and I have a fan that blows on me.. at work.. at home... I do not want to suggest I "suffer" from these hot times... because suffering to me is painfull this is not painfull.. it is finding that you are releasing the extra heat... Now as far as wanting to lose some weight, Mary.. I have gone thru this as well.. today.. I am losing height, therefore my weight is lower.. but my width is still the same .. I am beginning to be my mother... much success... Karen Karen
http://www.dancingwicks.com "If you want to build a ship, don't herd people together to collect wood and don't assign them tasks and work, but rather teach them to long for the endless immensity of the sea." --Antoine de Saint-Exupery |
User: Karebear
Member since: 01-24-2002 Total posts: 338 
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From: james.diane
Date: 11-18-2003, 12:19 AM (6 of 105)
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Just recently I have started to have a few days when I get them and then nothing for a few weeks. I have worked out that I get them in the run up to my period, so I assume its hormonal. I went to the doctor, thinking it can't be menopausal I'm not old enough! ( 44) Doctor says " how old was your mother when she started the menopause?" I didn't know. I rang mum and asked her. Guess what? She was 43- and she tells me that my sister (40) has just gone onto h.r.t! I have had the odd one at night, but most of mine are during daytime - very embarrassing at work! I also have a fan in my office. I think I feel worse when I get mine because I already work in a very hot environment. Do you think my forgetfullness is related to this......??! Diane :)
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User: james.diane
Member since: 09-23-2003 Total posts: 100 |
From: Mother in Law
Date: 11-18-2003, 12:21 AM (7 of 105)
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Oh Mary you have hit a raw nerve with me in the hot flash department and weight gain. I have lost 20 pounds in the last month on the weight watchers diet. I feel better and was taking the natural suppliment called Estroven. It is around 20.00US and there is about a months worth and I only have to take it once a day. The hot flashes did go away while I was taking it but ran out and haven't thought about getting them while out and about. SO...............I need to get some because as you say I find myself getting really edgy and I could bite someones head off if they look at me the wrong way...................so, I think I need to go straight to the drug store and get some more soon. LOL My poor husband thinks I'm an eskimo, while I'm running around the house in shorts and sleevless tops with the air conditioners full blast, he's got sweats on and shivering. (it's been 80F here for highs.) So we're all in the same boat. LOL Oh and one more thing............................NO HORMONE REPLACEMENTS FOR ME EITHER. Cancer runs in my family. Hugs Susie |
User: Mother in Law
Member since: Total posts: |
From: Mother in Law
Date: 11-18-2003, 12:23 AM (8 of 105)
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The forgetfulness is called s-t-r-e-s-s. I have it bad. Hugs Susie |
User: Mother in Law
Member since: Total posts: |
From: james.diane
Date: 11-18-2003, 12:33 AM (9 of 105)
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I don't want to take hormones ,either. I had a dvt after I had my daughter and my doctor wouldn't let me go back on the pill because of the risk of a stroke. But hrt = hormones, and although my doctor says they are a different type and are safe, it still worries me. I might look around for some of those natural remedies. Diane :)
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User: james.diane
Member since: 09-23-2003 Total posts: 100 |
From: Mother in Law
Date: 11-18-2003, 12:46 AM (10 of 105)
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Estroven is suppose to be all natural. I'm scared of all the others too. I took progestrone for a long time before I stopped having my periods and they made me feel better then but I got off of them because of the risk of cancer. I was also smoking at the time and that was a double wammy. So now i'm smoke free and hormone free except for the estovent. I also purchased that black Cohosh in an all natural form at the Whole Foods and it worked well. I haven't been back to Whole Foods lately and it's across town and out of the beaten path so I didn't get any of that again either. They say Mexican yams is suppose to be an all natural cure for hormone replacement also. Hey you know most medicines use to come from all natural forms years ago. Why not try it today. But seriously the black cohosh and the Estoven did help me. Susie |
User: Mother in Law
Member since: Total posts: |
From: Magot
Date: 11-18-2003, 03:03 AM (11 of 105)
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well done on the weight loss Susie, still going in the right direction!
love and kisses, Jan
Guts-R-Us Cells a Speciality DNA to order. |
User: Magot
Member since: 12-22-2002 Total posts: 3626
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From: MaryW
Date: 11-18-2003, 09:01 AM (12 of 105)
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Yes, night sweats are murder too. I had both. The ingredients in this are: Dong Quai Chaste Tree Berry Extract Black Cohosh Wild Yam Root Red Clover Extract Burdock Root The capsules are clear, with gray ash looking stuff inside and they smell terrible. MaryW
owner/editor of Sew Whats New |
User: MaryW
Member since: 06-23-2005 Total posts: 2542
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From: Mother in Law
Date: 11-18-2003, 01:33 PM (13 of 105)
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Here is the link for the Estroven. It worked for me. http://www.estroven.com/XStrength/ingredients.html Check it out it's pretty good. Mary I had some of that Dong Quai, Black Cohosh and the Wild Yam Root sometime or another, all are suppose to help in the change us women have to endure. But my husband told me he noticed the difference when I was taking the Estoven so it must be helping me. Also I was using it when I lost the weight. I've run out and now I'm craving foods again, so it's back to the drug store for more Estoven. susie |
User: Mother in Law
Member since: Total posts: |
From: Sherri
Date: 11-18-2003, 02:21 PM (14 of 105)
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Ladies I know I am to young to really help with the menopause thing but I wanted to say if you are having night sweats please check it out with a Dr first (rather then just thinking it is menopause) because it could be a thyroid problem and that is related to weight gain as well. Sherri My website
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User: Sherri
Member since: 02-07-2001 Total posts: 357 |
From: Magot
Date: 11-18-2003, 02:26 PM (15 of 105)
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Good point Sherri, I only have half a thyroid and had a blood test a month ago to test thyroxon levels which are fine-so my increased night sweats are likely to be pre menopausal rather than thyroidal. ( when I had my thyroidectomy I did notice a reduction in the sweats) but there is no way I am over weight!
love and kisses, Jan
Guts-R-Us Cells a Speciality DNA to order. |
User: Magot
Member since: 12-22-2002 Total posts: 3626
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From: VCMOM
Date: 11-18-2003, 02:36 PM (16 of 105)
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Just a note... Please try any natural remedy before trying HRT. I use a natural progesterone creme Progensa 20, its taken my night sweats away a pump bottle lasts a couple months and runs Approximately $30 (lasts me 2.5months) and you can buy it online or at health food stores. Both Mom and Mother in Law have contracted cancer from HRT. MIL's cancer went undetected for sometime as some HRT cancers grow in single cell ribbons. No lumps to be detected in a mamogram. She had several mamograms, but she knew something was wrong even though nothing showed up. This kind of cancer is only detectible through a biopsy. Lori |
User: VCMOM
Member since: 10-31-2002 Total posts: 74 |
From: Mother in Law
Date: 11-18-2003, 03:17 PM (17 of 105)
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I just had all that checked out and mine are fine. I was hoping the weight gain was due to a thyroid problem at least I could blame it on that but it was fine along with all my other blood chemistry levels, even the cholestrol and trygls. were okay. It's all hormones I'm afraid to say. But that is a good thing to check first, Sherri. Hugs Susie |
User: Mother in Law
Member since: Total posts: |
From: james.diane
Date: 11-18-2003, 11:30 PM (18 of 105)
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Good point, Sherri - my dr did check my thyroid levels, which were o.k. Luckily, I don't have weight gain - yet - I think I must burn it off( never sit still.....)
Diane :)
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User: james.diane
Member since: 09-23-2003 Total posts: 100 |
From: colojd
Date: 11-19-2003, 11:37 AM (19 of 105)
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Hi everyone: I am 52 and have not (yet) had any symptoms of menopause, although I am sure I am underway (skipping periods and very light periods). Talked with my new doctor in October and she was pleased that I was not having problems. Part I am sure is that I began taking natural progesterone about 5 yrs ago due to ongoing heavy period problems. That tremendously helped the period problems and now they know that it is progesterone and not estrogen that can help with menopause problems. The pharmacy I get my products from is Women's International Pharmacy (I think their website is www.womensinternational.com). I too was leary about taking any replacement therapy however the good thing is that this pharmacy uses bio-identical and not synthetic hormones. Apparently the synthetic ones, especially synthetic estrogen, was the one causing breast cancers and other problems. I have passed this pharmacy info along to others. I don't work for and am not compensated by them - just happen to be a patient who has had some positive experiences. Also, the people whose doctors put them on high doses for unlimited time also can run into problems. Anyway, wanted to share my thoughts on this subject! Joyce |
User: colojd
Member since: 05-03-2002 Total posts: 83 |
From: colojd
Date: 01-15-2004, 02:40 PM (20 of 105)
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I just found a very interesting website that does a great job summarizing how what we eat can really affect our "female problems!" I have seen most of this information spread out over several articles, but this one is the best one I have seen yet that puts it all in one article. Last fall, I began eating as little of the refined foods as possible, especially white flour, white rice, white sugar products and anything with corn syrup added. I had been hearing for some time that these items in our modern diet have been wearing us out and causing a lot of problems. I was never a junk food fanatic but as you know if you read labels, this stuff is in everything. It is hard to eliminate this but once I got going I could really see the difference. Primarily I am slowly losing some weight and I see a lot of the bloating that had bothered me before going away. I have had problems with ovarian cysts and hope that making these changes will make those go far, far away, too. Would be interested in what the rest of you think about this information and if you have tried these changes. here's the site: www.drtahira.com/hormones.html Joyce |
User: colojd
Member since: 05-03-2002 Total posts: 83 |
From: Magot
Date: 01-15-2004, 04:33 PM (21 of 105)
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Thanks for that link , Joyce, that was a really interesting article. I especially noted the way black cohash and wild yams affect the absorption of other dietry oestrogen, seems to make sense now why they would affect you if they are coorrecting an imbalance. I like to know the reason behind things before I try.
love and kisses, Jan
Guts-R-Us Cells a Speciality DNA to order. |
User: Magot
Member since: 12-22-2002 Total posts: 3626
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From: colojd
Date: 01-15-2004, 05:47 PM (22 of 105)
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I found that there is so much info in that article I need to re-read it. I didn't catch the part about black cohash and wild yam so will have to read that again. One tricky thing with the herbal remedies like this is that they sometimes have such low levels or fine tuning them to your personal needs can take a lot of effort. I personally don't like to use any of the Chinese herbs for example simply because I just don't know enough about their side effects or other problems. I think most of the article is really, really accurate. There was one statement that I think it more of a general statement and this regarded red meat and dairy. When she says that they may contain estrogens, I think she has to clarify and say that the non-organic ones do. That is a really important thing to note otherwise people will think they have to avoid some important things like meat and dairy that are good protein sources. I did hear not long ago that 70% of all antibiotics used in this country go cattle and that a large part of synthetic hormones also go into the conventional meat sources. That is shocking and no wonder so many people have messed up metabolisms. Like the article said, years ago our grandmothers and great grandmothers did not have junk and refined food abounding in their food sources and they also eat meat, poultry and fish that did not have hormones added and that many diseases that we now have that are all over were not heard of much back then. Sure makes you stop and think! I am going to eat as much whole foods and natural ones as I possibly can. Will be interesting to hear from others who have tried this and how it affected their health! Maybe we should check back in with each other in about six months! Joyce |
User: colojd
Member since: 05-03-2002 Total posts: 83 |
From: MaryW
Date: 01-17-2004, 07:55 AM (23 of 105)
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Joyce, I have been on the natural HRT replacement now for over two months with no side effects of any sort. I feel fine but I do agree with an awful lot you posted. There is so much junk in everything we eat these days, it's very hard to know what is good anymore. Do you know they put food colouring in apples and oranges? why? Just to make it look more appealing. If someone is allergic to the food colouring, it would never occur to them to stop eating something as good as an apple or orange. MaryW
owner/editor of Sew Whats New |
User: MaryW
Member since: 06-23-2005 Total posts: 2542
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From: colojd
Date: 01-17-2004, 09:22 AM (24 of 105)
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You are so right about the needless additives to food. I think they have us convinced that oranges and apples all have to look exactly alike. If you walk up to an apple tree that is growing naturally without any pesticides, I guarantee you that all the apples are different in some ways! I have heard a lot over the past months that organically grown food is the best for people because they use their own natural defenses and immune system to ward off bugs and disease. As a result, it makes for a stronger and more nutricious plant and when we eat it we get the maximum benefits from it. Only makes sense. We are now buying as much organic as we possibly can. Sure wish the prices would go down but heard that in the next year or two there will be more support for organic farms and then we should see better prices. But I guess our health is worth it. What types of hormones are your using? Now they know that hot flashes and such is not due to estrogen going down but your progesterone being off! So all of those people that the doctors loaded up with estrogen probably were making their problems worse! The doctors just don't want to deal with or have time to help patients on a case-by-case basis and it is much easier to hand them a pill that some pharaceutical rep sold to them. I know this sounds cynical but I have had first hand experience with a doctor who just couldn't or wouldn't take the time to be better informed. Anyway, I think the best defense for all of us is to talk to one another. It is sharing like this that makes us more enlightened! Take care Joyce |
User: colojd
Member since: 05-03-2002 Total posts: 83 |
From: AnnH
Date: 04-19-2004, 12:37 PM (25 of 105)
| I think it would be more helpful if instead of just saying you are for or against HRT ... that you would say exactly what HRT you are referring to. As we all know some newer ones on the market have proven to be not so good so if we are to learn from this discussion it is important to state what HRT you feel is not good. Because not ALL HRT is bad. I personally have taken Premarin for 6 years now and although I too am prone to DVT I take a couple aspirin a day to keep my blood slightly thinned out. I have no fear of just plain ole Premarin as my mother took it for a few years in her early 50's after a total hysterectomy. She is now 90 yrs old and still going strong. Premarin has not caused the recent scare in HRT....it has been on the market some 50+years and is extremely helpful for me. I tried ALL the over the counter 'cures' and lotions and potions. I happen to be one of the people that has such severe symptoms that I need to take something stronger that otc. I prefer not taking any medicine but my body had other things in store for me...that old commercial 'better living through chemistry' seems to me my mantra. |
User: AnnH
Member since: 03-07-2002 Total posts: 7 |
From: quiltnart
Date: 04-21-2004, 11:22 AM (26 of 105)
| Go to Dr. Northrup's website. (http://www.drnorthrup.com) Dr. Weil might also have something, but Dr. Northrup is an alternative OB/GYN and a woman in "midlife" so I prefer her information on "womens issues." You might also want to look at her book "The Wisdon of Menopause." |
User: quiltnart
Member since: 01-16-2002 Total posts: 2 |
From: colojd
Date: 04-21-2004, 12:45 PM (27 of 105)
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I think the natural, bio-identical hormones are safer and more effective than the synthetic ones. I use natural progresterone that I get from Women's International Pharmacy. Their website is www.womensinternational.com. I agree with the others who recommend the natural forms of the hormones. There have been too many negative studies showing the synthetic ones are the ones that can cause female related cancers, even if they do work. Sharing the alternative forms and reporting their effectiveness is the only way we women can help each other and make healthier choices. Joyce |
User: colojd
Member since: 05-03-2002 Total posts: 83 |
From: Reta J
Date: 04-21-2004, 07:52 PM (28 of 105)
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My Inner Child started playing with matches too. Started about 10 years ago, ( i am 46 now) not real bad, would just get extra warm and a few night sweats. They usually coincide with my cycle. I have been reading all of your suggestions but i have not done anything yet, as mine aren't as bad as yours seem to be. I guess i am lucky. But I am keeping up with your posts in case my inner child changes from matches to a flame thrower. lol Thanks for all the info.
Sewing Forever
Housework Whenever Reta J |
User: Reta J
Member since: 01-30-2002 Total posts: 136
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From: colojd
Date: 04-21-2004, 09:36 PM (29 of 105)
| I am 52 and still have not had any symptoms of menopausehot flashes, night sweats, etc. I started on the natural HRT about 4 years ago because I had been getting really heavy, out of control periods. The doctor tried a couple of things like birth control pills which did almost nothing (the estrogen as we now know makes the symptoms worse) so he finally suggested natural progesterone and it worked like a charm. My periods are starting to get less and am skipping some so my doctor said at my last physical in Dec we would just stay on this path at least until the next checkup. I am not anxious to take estrogen but plan to educate myself more on it before agreeing to take it, if that is what she recommends. |
User: colojd
Member since: 05-03-2002 Total posts: 83 |
From: Mother in Law
Date: 04-21-2004, 11:03 PM (30 of 105)
| My Gyn put me on 100mg of progestrone four times a day around 12 years ago. That's when I hit 40. My PMS went away, and I felt wonderful for the first 6 months then I started to slide back into the old way of feeling before the progestrone. He told me that some women's bodys need more than what he was prescribing, one of his patients was on 8 pills a day. The druggest had to make these capsules up as you ordered them. I finally got away from that doctor but that shows how an off balance of hormones can affect your body. My husband could see a big difference in me when I took them. Before taking them he could tell me when my periods were coming before I could, just by the way I acted. Estogen, too much of, I always related to heavy periods and mood swings so I never really cared about taking it even if it meant having healthy bones and such. I hate taking pills of any kind so I mostly just bite the bullet until it passes. |
User: Mother in Law
Member since: Total posts: |
From: colojd
Date: 04-22-2004, 07:53 AM (31 of 105)
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Wow, 400 mg sounds like an awful lot. My doctor started me on 50 mg twice a day. He said that we would start with a lower dose and then see how it went. I did 50 mg in the morning and 50 in the evening. I first started with a natural progesterone cream that was compounded by a small local pharmacy. It worked OK but the creams are messy and I had some spotting between periods, so that is when the doctor said we could try Women's International Pharmacy. They make their progesterone in capsule form and it is bio-identical so it is tolerated and absorbed more like the progesterone made by your body. Once I changed to the capsules, the spotting went away and the periods were far more normal. About a year ago, my doctor suggested that I try taking just 50 mg per day. That seemed to work fine. I am going into menopause now and have been skipping periods and most of the time they are very light. My new doctor told me that we would just stay with the lowest dosage and discuss things next checkup time. I have had no major menopause symptoms like night sweats, vaginal dryness or hot flashes, and I think it has a lot to do with just the low dose supplement of the progesterone along with as much fresh vegetables and fruit as I can on a daily basis. My former doctor had given me some progesterin about 6 years ago when I was having heavy periods. He only prescribed one or two months of pills. They helped stop the heavy periods for a while, but this is synthetic progesterone and not tolerated very well on a long term basis. I'm like you and don't like to take pills, so reducing my dosage to the lowest dose on the progesterone fit in well with me. My doctor and all of the info I have read have indicated that progesterone has had none of the side effects that estrogen has had, even with longer term use. About three years ago, they finally said that progesterone, and not estrogen, was more effective in treating menopause and period problems with less risk. Helps to keep each other informed on these matters! The doctors often are compensated by drug companies to push their products and sometimes the drugs are harmful or not effective. Take care Joyce |
User: colojd
Member since: 05-03-2002 Total posts: 83 |
From: MaryW
Date: 07-06-2004, 09:22 AM (32 of 105)
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Just an update for those who are interested. I am still taking the herbal HRT capsules and have no problems whatsoever. I usually only remember to take one in the morning. The night sweats and hot flashes have all but disappeared. I like the idea I can pick them up in almost any drugstore off the shelf. For about $20.00 I am a happy camper. 
MaryW
owner/editor of Sew Whats New |
User: MaryW
Member since: 06-23-2005 Total posts: 2542
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From: Holly Berry
Date: 07-08-2004, 08:14 AM (33 of 105)
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Mary I wonder if I could take it. I had a complete hyster. in 2001. It was a blessing in some ways and opened up a whole new can of worms in other ways. Untill my hormones were balanced I had about 30 hotflashs a day and my short term memory was all but gone and then there was the depression. After I got a good balance all was OK. Then the study came out about HRT and cancer and I am scared they are going to take it away. I will need a rubber room if they (the doctors) take HRT from me. I am 44 now so I have a lot of years to go. 
Holly Berry
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User: Holly Berry
Member since: 09-10-2003 Total posts: 77 
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From: colojd
Date: 07-08-2004, 08:58 AM (34 of 105)
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Holly: Go to www.womensinternational.com. It is the website for Women's International Pharmacy. They produce only bio identical natural hormones, not the synthetic ones that have been linked to all of the problems. You can request an information packet and then can ask that your doctor contact them so he/she can fill prescriptions for you through them. I am 53 and so far have not had hot flashes, etc. But I did begin progesterone therapy about 5 years ago to help me with the awful heavy periods I was having. It worked wonders - my periods stablized. I take a very low dosage, only 50 mg once a day and this has been enough to help keep thing balanced. They have discovered that it is progesterone more than estrogent that helps women overcome some of the menopause symptoms, and it has far less side effects and problems that estrogen does. Please check out that website because I think it will give you information that probably your doctor didn't bother to tell you about. Good Luck! Joyce |
User: colojd
Member since: 05-03-2002 Total posts: 83 |
From: Holly Berry
Date: 07-08-2004, 09:33 AM (35 of 105)
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Thanks for the information. I'll take all I can get.
Holly Berry
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User: Holly Berry
Member since: 09-10-2003 Total posts: 77
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From: MaryW
Date: 07-08-2004, 07:13 PM (36 of 105)
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Joyce, my periods were awful too. They have just now seemed to lighten up on their own. thank goodness. There were days I couldn't leave the house. MaryW
owner/editor of Sew Whats New |
User: MaryW
Member since: 06-23-2005 Total posts: 2542
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From: colojd
Date: 07-08-2004, 09:50 PM (37 of 105)
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Oh Mary, I was in the same boat for sure. I went from having on time and no problem periods to crazy periods one month and the coped with that literally for years. At the time they started, I owned and operated a fabric shop, with little to no help, so it was quite the experience trying to deal with them. I know what you mean - standing in line at the store or the bank and then that awful feeling and you have to leave and go to the restroom. We were also trying to have another child and it was almost impossible with these period problems. I somehow was able to get pregnant again and had my son in 1991, but as my current doctor says "boy, that was almost a miracle". I lived in a small town and the doctor was a great guy but clueless and all he could do was tell me that there was not much that could be done and if I pushed the issue, there was always a hysterectomy. I held tough on that and wouldn't do it. He tried birth control pills, a D&C, progestin all of which were not long lasting. I had weight gain and other things going on because all was going crazy. I only took the progestin for a couple of cycles which I am sure was not right, but it did correct things for about a year and then the heavy periods started again. I was at the end of my rope and no one seemed to know much about it and not much was on the internet at that point. Finally when I went for my annual, he said "well, there is one thing we can try" - I was all ears of course! He told me about Women's International Pharmacy and that he had been recommended to it by a patient and had several patients now who were happy. I was very interested by like many of you, did not want to mess up my body trying to correct a problem. He did tell me that the current information (this was in 1999) was that progesterone had a good track record with helping my problem and that progesterone had almost none of the side effects or links to cancer like estrogen or the synthetic things like progestin. So I began first with a compounded cream that was made in a local small pharamcy. Helped a lot but I had some spotting in between periods, so finally went to capsules through the Women's International Pharmacy and have had not any problems since. I am easing into menopause - have been having lighter periods and even skipping them so figure that my body is adjusting to the changes. Sorry for the long answer on this, but as you know, these problems are complicated, don't happen overnight and it takes a saavy doctor with sensitivity to help you through them. To be honest, a male doctor has no idea how awful those heavy periods can be! Take care Joyce |
User: colojd
Member since: 05-03-2002 Total posts: 83 |
From: MaryW
Date: 07-09-2004, 05:41 AM (38 of 105)
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I think you are so right about some doctors. Mine told me to attend a woman's clinic downtown that looked after only menopause related problems. The waiting list was 9 months to a year. I am now skipping the odd period and most of the time they are light, well, light for me. But at almost 55, they should stop soon. I won't mind it when they do stop. Some women feel bad their child rearing days are over. Me, I'm doing the happy dance. 
MaryW
owner/editor of Sew Whats New |
User: MaryW
Member since: 06-23-2005 Total posts: 2542
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From: colojd
Date: 07-09-2004, 08:04 AM (39 of 105)
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For something as common and natural as menopause, all doctors should be well schooled on the topic!! Plus look at how many women in the population will be reaching menopause - all of us baby boomers and that is a lot of people. My former doctor was a General Practioner. He was a nice man and could be a good doctor, but at one appointment several years ago, he told me that he was going to have to learn more about menopause because his patient base was "aging" and he was no longer seeing them because they were having babies! then somehow by the next annual appointment, he thought he knew all about menopause. It is ridiculous for a woman to wait 9 months to a year just for a first appointment with someone who can help her. I am not really an advocate of herbal medicine because I think some people out there are practioners don't know what they are doing, but I do advocate things like naturopathy - at least there is a way to help a person become well without handing them a handful of pills or scheduling major surgery! Medical consumers have always been told to "follow your doctor's advice" but we also should get what we pay for and that should be an informed and skilled doctor who gives you reasonable options and prompt help! too many doctors are in it for the money, it seems. I love forum discussions like these because sharing information is sharing the power to be better informed and to help each other when you doctor may not have the time or interest to be helpful. Joyce |
User: colojd
Member since: 05-03-2002 Total posts: 83 |
From: weB2cats
Date: 07-10-2004, 09:54 PM (40 of 105)
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The problem I've been experiencing, post menopause, is aches in my bones. My bones feel like concrete. I'm sure losing about 20 lbs (like that will happen) would help. It seems like I just woke up one day and I was...OLD! It all started with pulling weeds out in the garden. Eileen |
User: weB2cats
Member since: 11-07-2002 Total posts: 232 |
From: MaryW
Date: 07-11-2004, 08:55 AM (41 of 105)
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I know that feeling. I feel so old some days I just don't want to move. Everything hurts, but I find the more I exercise, ie. gardening, walking, anything, even vacuuming helps. I have one knee that feels really weak, running up and down stairs can be an adventure. LOL. MaryW
owner/editor of Sew Whats New |
User: MaryW
Member since: 06-23-2005 Total posts: 2542
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From: weB2cats
Date: 07-11-2004, 10:18 AM (42 of 105)
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I also have been taking Estroven. It's especially nice because there is no iron in it to make me queasy. Iron supplements are a definite "NO" for me. Ironic isn't it? At a time when I might need Iron the most, it makes me totally sick. I'd rather eat liver (and I do). It was because of the Soy and Black Cohosh in Estroven that I decided it might be a good, natural supplement. I have never tried HRT but my 85 year old mom raised 9 kids, went through menopause and claimed this helped a lot. My pausing began at age 47 and to this day I have never experienced a hot flash. Maybe it's the Irish in me. I am so bad about following through on a vitamin program but mom swears by her vitamins and she has the best skin and health. The mind starts to slip in compensation. One thing I am beginnning to see clearly is that the bad habits of the past do catch up with you. The body plays games and I have no control over the osteoporosis thing from happening or any number of other possibilities. I do know that I don't want to die a fat lady and somehow I have to get the initiative together to trim off these late age pregnancy pounds! |
User: weB2cats
Member since: 11-07-2002 Total posts: 232 |
From: DorothyL
Date: 07-13-2004, 10:58 PM (43 of 105)
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Don't think of it as getting hot flashes. Think of it as your inner child playing with matches. Dorothy |
User: DorothyL
Member since: 12-09-2002 Total posts: 3883 |
From: LeapFrog Libby
Date: 07-14-2004, 01:35 PM (44 of 105)
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My Dr gave me a kinda left-handed compliment last time I saw her.. She said reason I did not have Menopause Symptoms was because I have a 'good layer' of fat and somehow that helps you keep more natural hormones... Of course she is rail thin, you know..
Sew With Love
Libby |
User: LeapFrog Libby
Member since: 05-01-2002 Total posts: 2022 
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From: DorothyL
Date: 07-14-2004, 05:36 PM (45 of 105)
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Libby -- I have that layer too and it seems to be working, things haven't been as bad for me as I hear about others. Dorothy |
User: DorothyL
Member since: 12-09-2002 Total posts: 3883 |
From: colojd
Date: 07-14-2004, 06:45 PM (46 of 105)
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My doctor (also very thin) said about the same thing in general about women entering menopause. Estrogen is held in your fat cells. She said many women can have easier menopause if they are "pleasantly plump" - not obese but carrying a little weight. Thought that was intersting. My daughter also told me that people who lose a lot of weight, especially around their abdomen, can have heavy periods for a while because your body is doing the excess estrogen dumping. IShe has been on the Atkins diet and said people on the message board have talked about that happening. Amazing how our bodies work! Joyce |
User: colojd
Member since: 05-03-2002 Total posts: 83 |
From: Mother in Law
Date: 07-14-2004, 09:51 PM (47 of 105)
I have a lot of extra fat on my body and it didn't help me any. LOL The doctor told me if I lost weight my periods would slack off and not be as heavy. Funny how different people believe different things. I guess my menopause has slacked off also I haven't had any hot flashes in a few months. No periods in over a year and then they were only once a year for the last few years. I guess it's almost over now. I actually get cold when it's too cold in my house. Before my poor hubby had sweats on when it was 90 outside. I told him there was something wrong with him of course it was 60 below inside. LOL 
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User: Mother in Law
Member since: Total posts: |
From: plrlegal
Date: 07-14-2004, 10:36 PM (48 of 105)
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You and your dh are not alone Susie. My poor dh wraps up in the quilt on our bed at night. He says getting up in the morning is like getting up inside a freezer. I tell him he's turned into a wuus! Patsy Patsy
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User: plrlegal
Member since: 05-19-2001 Total posts: 318 |
From: Mother in Law
Date: 07-14-2004, 11:54 PM (49 of 105)
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Patsy, If you came into my house and saw what he has on you'd fall down laughing. He has a pair of sweats on ............ pants and top and a knit cap on his bald head. His bald head he came to the conclusion is the reason he's cold all the time. You lose a lot of body heat out the top of your head. My Dad told us that a long time ago so that's what we figured out was why he was always cold and everyone else was running around half naked trying to keep cool. Now that he has his cap on he doesn't complain as much. My house has condensation on the window it's so cold in here at night. One of my visitors from out of town I had over last weekend said she loves my house it's so nice and cold. LOL I guess it's a women thing. |
User: Mother in Law
Member since: Total posts: |
From: weB2cats
Date: 07-17-2004, 11:54 AM (50 of 105)
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Because of the food industry, a lot of our food has been either genetically altered (hormones to livestock) or chemically altered (diet foods, synthetic hormones). We don't know what we're eating and what the eventual outcome will likely be in terms of our health. When was the last time you ate a 100% PORK hot dog? Now- adays they are mixed with something that wasn't meant to be in a hot dog-chicken, turkey, beef. That's made me so angry! So, now I buy Kosher. Another food that never tastes as good as home baked is brownies. There's a very ugly, phony taste to all the ones I've tried. There is no butter useage, opting for a lardish choice. It's disgusting! Will never eat store bought brownies again. I haven't made an old fashioned pancake or waffle in quite a while because the store bought kind are so much more convenient. But after they are toasted, buttered and syruped, they are very disappointing. The smells and fluffy textures are not as rewarding and who knows if those qualities aren't genetically altered anyway? And the food industry is making beaucoup bucks while reducing the quality of important foods. I really am opting for the most natural foods I can get now. Vegetables, fruits, meats, fish, stone ground brown breads. There is no need to spend money at health food stores when you can simply make those dietary changes. Studies have shown that young girls who have the fast food type of diet tend to get menses sooner and the bone density factor will be affected by their diets. My daughter is 8. Although she has been blessed with a slim figure, I can see now signs of the pounds on her legs. Even though she's active (gymnastics, swimming, bicycling), things are very often determined by our actions. So, this year, there will be more brown bread in the diet and school lunches will consist of brown bagging nutrious foods. |
User: weB2cats
Member since: 11-07-2002 Total posts: 232 |
From: colojd
Date: 07-18-2004, 09:22 AM (51 of 105)
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You are so right about food additivies. There is a lot of talk about how all of this altered food is causing the epidemic in diabetes and heart disease to name and few, plus cancer. We have been eating organic as much as possible now. Just look at the girls who are 14 years old and have the bodies of a 21 year old! I am sure all of those hormones in meat and dairy products is doing this! We eat food that is supposed to be wholesome and it is loaded with hormones, additives, antibiotics and more. I heard this spring that 75% of the antibiotics produced in the US go into cattle and other animals. It is no wonder we are getting resistant germs. Plus our bodies has to deal with all of this junk over and over again each day. There was an article in the AARP bulletin about corn syrup and how it is so bad for us. It is not your average sugar product and is in everything. Just read your labels! Then they create these strange products that they put in sugar free products and tell us that it is a "healthly alternative". Another person told me about this article regaring plastics and how many of them mimmick female hormones! We now use very little plastic and never, ever heat up things in plastic containers anymore www.enn.com/news/2003-11-04/s_9207.asp My husband, son and I are on a campaign to eat as much organic and natural products as possible - a "clean diet" as they say. I would bet if the many of us starting rejecting all of this junk food (by that term I don't necessarily mean fast food but good food that they have altered so much that it becomes something other than the real thing) that I bet we would see a big drop in these dietary related diseases! |
User: colojd
Member since: 05-03-2002 Total posts: 83 |
From: plrlegal
Date: 07-18-2004, 03:53 PM (52 of 105)
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oversize portions at mealtimes, snack foods and inactivity are the big 3 according to my doctor. He says the most important thing we can all do for ourselves is cut the portions sizes in half, stop buying snack foods to keep around the house and turn off the televisions and computers and get our fat buts in motion on a treadmill, outside or somewhere! I am amazed at the number of teenagers that are either way overweight or obese. I have a 16 year old niece who has just been diagnosed with Stage 2 diabetes. Diabetes does run on both sides of her family but on the other hand, her parents, especially her mother, have never tried to curb her eating habits, especially the junk food eating and the sitting in front of a tv or computer screen. Patsy Patsy
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User: plrlegal
Member since: 05-19-2001 Total posts: 318 |
From: colojd
Date: 07-18-2004, 07:26 PM (53 of 105)
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Patsy: Those are all good points too. I have heard so many people who were not necessarily overweight say that they never exercise and then are amazed that they develop problems. Even walking every day is a great form of exercise. Snack foods are not only high in calories and bad fats, but take a look at all of the preservatives that they add, just to keep them fresh. Our family had good success with moving some stubborn weight once we watched really closely the simple sugars and carbs that we ate. Not that we ate Wonder Bread or anything like that - we just substituted the more whole grain variety of breads, rice and pasta when we ate them. My husband always snored really loud. Saw an allergist late last winter and the allergist suggested eliminating wheat as much as possible. We had also put a portable electronic air filter in out bedroom and kept pets out but when he eliminated the white pasta and such, his snoring was reduced dramatically. I couldn't believe it. The allergist told him, and I also read on other health websites, that snoring can largely be due to chronic sinus infections because of allergies and other irritants. Just amazing how something so simple made all the difference. I am sure he is healthier because of this one dietary change. He now eats spelt or rice pasta instead of white wheat or whole wheat and does just fine (and he is Italian!). Someone told me that wheat had been bread to have so much protein that in this breeding process, it introduced allergens that never exisited in its ancient ancestor. |
User: colojd
Member since: 05-03-2002 Total posts: 83 |
From: MariLynnTX
Date: 07-24-2004, 02:38 PM (54 of 105)
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I reckon I am definitely abnormal...I have eaten all the unhealthy things that we are constantly warned about all my life. I am 77, have normal cholesterol, normal sugar, no arthritis except in one thumb. All my problems, my doctor told me, come from outside...that is, the accident I had 6 years ago when a van demolished my little car and almost demolished me with it. I was in a wheelchair for 9 months and then on a walker for 3 and now I walk with a cane because my left ankle was so smashed that it is held together with plates and pins on each side. Otherwise, my health is great. I have seven children and 16 grandchildren and I hardly noticed menopause except for a few, very few, hot flashes one year. I love coffee and chocolate, consider them the necessities of life! Until I had the accident, the only exercise I ever did was housework, occasional swimming, and walking to the mailbox! Before the accident, I could still turn a dozen cartwheels in one sq. ft. of space! I am plumper now but not obese, and feel that at my age, who cares? I finally am selling my car because my kids hate for me to drive at night, or into Austin, which is like driving in Houston now and doesn't appeal to me at all. I retired from custom sewing when they put me in a wheelchair, from calligraphy (every bone in my wrist was broken), and from piano students because I was just tired of them, but I now sew for fun and occasionally do some calligraphy and drawing just to keep my hand in, and sing and play just because I love to! I'm a widow, live alone, and enjoy it. If I wake up at night (very seldom) I can get up, read a book, sew, sit at the computer, whatever; fix some coffee, maybe, eat a cookie.... MariLynntx Life is a song...we give it harmony or dissonance.
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User: MariLynnTX
Member since: 08-13-2001 Total posts: 256 |
From: colojd
Date: 07-24-2004, 06:33 PM (55 of 105)
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Sounds like you are enjoying good health despite your scary experiences. Glad you were able to recover and get out of the wheelchair. For as many people who have told me about their hot flashes, almost an equal number say they have had no problems like this. I think it is just one of those mysteries of life - the human body, especially women's bodies are so fine tuned when it comes to hormones that few doctors want to take the time to work with a patient to get it right. We have always been pretty careful about what we ate, but when my husband began to have what the doctor felt was food related allergies, we now look at the labels more carefully. By the way, do you know what your blood type is? I am a type B and according to one natropath who specialiizes in blood types, Type B is the most resiliant to disease and adapt well to change. I am a type B as is my 84 yr old Dad who is still doing well, despite some arthritis. His Mom, who was probably also a B, lived to age 94 1/2. Outside of a bout with some out of control periods for a while, I have had good health and only take low dosage of natural protesterone to help keep the periods at bay which did work well. I only agreed to it if it was not the synthetic hormone and if I could get by with the most tiny dosage possible to get the results. I will be 53 in September and have had no hot flashes or night sweats, luckily. My doctor said that probably by the next checkup this winter, she will consider just taking me off the progesterone. I have enjoyed reading the posts from others and what their problems or situations are and what they are doing to help themselves. Joyce |
User: colojd
Member since: 05-03-2002 Total posts: 83 |
From: plrlegal
Date: 07-24-2004, 06:40 PM (56 of 105)
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I hardly even knew I was going through menopause except for an occasional hot falsh but all in all, I guess I didn't have ot didn't take the time to think about it. It seemed to have happended without me. LOL Hey Marilyntx wanna be like you when I grow up. I think keeping your mind busy and fine tuned, having a positive attitude and allowing yourself to do the things you enjoy most are some of the things that allow us to age gracefully. Patsy Patsy
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User: plrlegal
Member since: 05-19-2001 Total posts: 318 |
From: MariLynnTX
Date: 07-24-2004, 11:01 PM (57 of 105)
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I am blood type A. I have slightly elevated blood pressure and have a prescription for that, also I tend to lose potassium so have a prescription for that, too. I took hormones for awhile for irregular periods, but no longer take them. I am really lucky, had cataracts but when they were removed snapped right back to 20/20 vision. Also have perfect teeth--probably heredity, the dentist says, -and taking pretty good care of them. I agree with Patsy....keeping your mind active and doing what you love to do are very important. Also being naturally laid back helps a lot! My DH used to say Perry Como had nothing on me when it came to being relaxed! That's for those of you who still remember Perry Como. I play some of my Dean Martin CDs often, too! MariLynntx
Life is a song...we give it harmony or dissonance.
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User: MariLynnTX
Member since: 08-13-2001 Total posts: 256 |
From: stitchmaniac
Date: 10-26-2004, 06:57 PM (58 of 105)
| I had all of the same problems...hot flashes, night sweats etc. After much research, I found a doctor who prescribed bio-identical hormones. Wonderful stuff. The prescription is put together by a compounding pharmacist. This is not to be confused with the regular hormones most doctors use. Not Primpro or any of those. Bio-identical is made from plants...no side affects or cancer concerns. The regular stuff is made from horse urine......I love mine! No hot flashes or sweats etc. I have been on it for over 2 years and would strongly recommend you check it out. |
User: stitchmaniac
Member since: 11-05-2002 Total posts: 43 |
From: colojd
Date: 10-26-2004, 09:17 PM (59 of 105)
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I have been using bio-identical hormones as well for about 5 yrs now. I take only low doses of progesterone. It is made by Women's International Pharmacy. I began taking it because of problematic heavy periods, not the typical hot flashes and such. I just turned 53 and still have not had hot flashes, night sweats and so forth. My periods are dwindling down to about every other month and are pretty light. My doctor "guessed" at quite a few things to help me with the heavy periods before finally saying that maybe progesterone would help. It has been studied for a long time and there has been no problems like the ones related to estrogen. I was not enthusiastic about taking hormones and if I did, would only want the natural and safest form, which is what I have been using. I first got the cream form through a small compounding pharmacy - that worked OK but not as good as the capsule form I get through Womens International. I think the statement made that the synthetic hormones, particularly synthetic estrogen, are the ones that have been linked to cancer seems to be correct. Go to www.womensinternational.com. They can send you brochures and other information. |
User: colojd
Member since: 05-03-2002 Total posts: 83 |
From: stitchmaniac
Date: 10-26-2004, 11:27 PM (60 of 105)
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I am 56 and very happy with the bio's. I, also, had the heavy periods and clots...but I did the endometrial ablation when I was 40. Probably the best thing I ever did for me! Of course, now my new favorite is the compounding pharmacy! Bio's are great. I am gearing up to do a breast reduction in Jan....hopefully, THAT will be my new favorite! LOL Donna M Growing old is not for the weak! |
User: stitchmaniac
Member since: 11-05-2002 Total posts: 43 |
From: colojd
Date: 10-27-2004, 08:12 AM (61 of 105)
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Yes, Donna, I had the same type of periods. Went from normal, on time ones, to heavy ones as you described. Then it seemed for years things were out of whack. I lived in a resort town, it should have had doctors better informed but didn't. My own doctor was a nice guy but for years would tell me "I don't know" why you are getting these periods. Of course now I know that it often happens with perimenopause and it usually your hormones off kilter. I think I also had fibroids and cysts, but he never suggested that might be the problem. Got weight gain, etc. We were also trying to have another child and had infertility to cope with as well. My doctor tried a D&C (did little to help the problem), he put me on the pill but for only a couple of months, and so forth - I felt he was just wandering around the solution but kept telling me if I pushed it the only answer was hysterectomy which I absolutely said no to. I knew there had to be an answer out there. Then at one checkup, he said "there is one more thing" and suggested progesterone. He told me that it had been long used and studied with none of the problems of estrogen. What he probably didn't know was that the heavy periods are also a sign of excess estrogen, so the progesterone was a good idea to balance it out. He started me on the cream, which worked pretty well but I would have some spotting between periods. Then he told me about the pharmacy and prescribed the capsules and it was like a miracle. I had no side effects and the periods calmed way down. I was so grateful to finally have a workable solution and very annoyed that something like this was not given to me sooner!! Hormones are tricky because they should be fine tuned to match your body, and most doctors don't want to take that much time to work with a patient to get it right. But so glad that you are happy with your results. Joyce |
User: colojd
Member since: 05-03-2002 Total posts: 83 |
From: MaryW
Date: 01-25-2005, 09:54 AM (62 of 105)
My hot flashes are coming on very strong now. I had to buy the same medication extra strength. If I stay away from coffee, it helps. I love coffee. 
MaryW
owner/editor of Sew Whats New |
User: MaryW
Member since: 06-23-2005 Total posts: 2542
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From: Magot
Date: 01-25-2005, 03:26 PM (63 of 105)
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"Always look on t he biright side of life" at least you're having them in the winter.."
love and kisses, Jan
Guts-R-Us Cells a Speciality DNA to order. |
User: Magot
Member since: 12-22-2002 Total posts: 3626
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From: MaryW
Date: 01-25-2005, 05:42 PM (64 of 105)
Yep, I live on the front step in my jammies. 
MaryW
owner/editor of Sew Whats New |
User: MaryW
Member since: 06-23-2005 Total posts: 2542
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From: MariLynnTX
Date: 01-25-2005, 07:30 PM (65 of 105)
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I wrote you about this in a private message which they said was too long. First my computer had some major problems, which I finally got fixed, and part of it was my stupid server's fault. Then I had a gall bladder problem and they removed that after I went to the hospital Aug. 29 at 2 a.m--the ER drs. said my son-in-law saved my life. Next they discovered I had a loose stone lodged in my bile duct--very bad--so they took me into Austin to remove that. Next they found I had a cyst or tumor in my ovarian cavity, and they were sure it was cancer and I now have a long scar, but NO cancer--they removed all that was removable and everything came back from the lab marked BENIGN, so I was very very lucky. I was at home only a few days from 29 August to 16 Dec. They told me I was lucky to get home for Christmas, which I spent down in Friendswood at Jon's & Melissa's. I still have to be x-rayed every 6 weeks because I have a pleural effusion next to my lungs which is supposed to be dissipating but is being very slow but they say it's dangerous to keep draining it because of possible infection. It's been drained 5 times, but hasn't needed it since the last operation. MariLynn
Life is a song...we give it harmony or dissonance.
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User: MariLynnTX
Member since: 08-13-2001 Total posts: 256 |
From: MaryW
Date: 01-26-2005, 05:00 AM (66 of 105)
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MariLynn, you have had a hard time lately. Sorry you have been so sick. Hopefully you are on the mend now.
MaryW
owner/editor of Sew Whats New |
User: MaryW
Member since: 06-23-2005 Total posts: 2542
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From: grandmasue
Date: 01-26-2005, 10:18 AM (67 of 105)
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The toughest thing about hot flashes so far.... convincing my husband I am not stripping all my clothes off for him!
Grandma Sue
------------ At the end I am not showing up at my grave all pretty and well preserved...I am coming in sliding, yelling "What a ride!" |
User: grandmasue
Member since: 10-26-2004 Total posts: 138 
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From: Magot
Date: 01-26-2005, 11:57 AM (68 of 105)
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You and me both, Grandma Sue - I go to bed socks, PJ's, Hot water bottle Known locally as the Impregnable Citidal Costume)and wake up stark nekkid.
love and kisses, Jan
Guts-R-Us Cells a Speciality DNA to order. |
User: Magot
Member since: 12-22-2002 Total posts: 3626
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From: shirleyp
Date: 01-26-2005, 12:14 PM (69 of 105)
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stitchmanic, I had the endemetrial oblation done also. Isn't it wonderful. You bypass the hysterectomy procedure this way. In and out of the hospital in no time. I was anemic for four yrs and at the point of hemorraging. I received a new lease on life. Haven't had a period for 2 yrs now and the doctor figures I won't anymore. Went shopping and was standing at the till when I got so hot I had to take my coat off. I asked the lady at the cash register if the store was hot and she started laughing. I know what's going on she said. My first hot flash. Boy was I hot. |
User: shirleyp
Member since: 02-12-2002 Total posts: 352 
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From: MariLynnTX
Date: 01-26-2005, 02:55 PM (70 of 105)
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My kids tell me I'm too hardheaded to die!!! That night, sitting on the side of my bed at 2a.m. waiting for Matt to come take me to the hospital, I told God I wasn't afraid to die, but there were a couple of things I had wanted to finish first. Next a.m. I was telling this to my doctor and several of my kids who were there (just before they took me to surgery), and my daughter Lisa said, "You'll notice, doctor, she didn't say, I want to see my darling children once more--just I wanted to finish a couple of things!" MariLynn
Life is a song...we give it harmony or dissonance.
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User: MariLynnTX
Member since: 08-13-2001 Total posts: 256 |
From: vicious kittie
Date: 02-02-2005, 06:05 PM (71 of 105)
| i saw a little plaque in a catalog that says "they're not hot flashes, they're power surges"... |
User: vicious kittie
Member since: 02-02-2005 Total posts: 27 |
From: MaryW
Date: 02-02-2005, 07:06 PM (72 of 105)
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Whatever they are, they are awful!
MaryW
owner/editor of Sew Whats New |
User: MaryW
Member since: 06-23-2005 Total posts: 2542
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From: stitchmaniac
Date: 02-02-2005, 09:18 PM (73 of 105)
Shirlyp...you are right the ablation is wonderful. Mine was in 93(?) and I am ever grateful for it. The first hot flash was 5 years ago and after 2 years of trying everything I was thrilled to discover the bio-identical hormones. Unfortunately, last month my doctor decided my levels are too high and he wants to adjust the dose and the flashes started last week! Oh, mercy, they are just as bad as they were when they first started....oh please, I don't want this again! And why is my DH chuckling as I roll down the car windows in a snow storm...  Donna |
User: stitchmaniac
Member since: 11-05-2002 Total posts: 43 |
From: MariLynnTX
Date: 02-02-2005, 09:58 PM (74 of 105)
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Donna, your DH is chuckling because he doesn't realize he is near Death! MariLynntx
Life is a song...we give it harmony or dissonance.
|
User: MariLynnTX
Member since: 08-13-2001 Total posts: 256 |
From: stitchmaniac
Date: 02-02-2005, 10:58 PM (75 of 105)
| How true! He isn't laughing now...he just had an arterial graft Jan. 12th, it got infected (Staph) and had to have a second surgery to clean the site on the 22nd. I have been packing the site since he came home on the 26th and today they finally stitched it closed....amen. Now we just have to watch to see if there are any signs that the actual Gortex graft is infected. I am soooo ready for him to go back to work. LOL |
User: stitchmaniac
Member since: 11-05-2002 Total posts: 43 |
From: mamadus
Date: 02-03-2005, 04:06 AM (76 of 105)
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Magot.. you and I must be on the same wave length... I too wake up "nekkid" more times than i want to count!! one of these days this will be over and we will be back to normal!! I just wish that day would hurry up and get here... just my 2 cents.... MO 
life is too short, not to explore
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User: mamadus
Member since: 12-31-2004 Total posts: 492 
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From: MaryW
Date: 02-04-2005, 09:02 AM (77 of 105)
I found out I have to take caffeine right out of my diet altogether.  I really hated to do that but I was more bothered by the hot flashes than I could stand. It was becoming very difficult to put in even half a day of work when they decided to appear. So far, with no caffeine at all I feel much better. I hope it keeps up becuz I am really tired of feeling like a hot, sweaty pile of crap. MaryW
owner/editor of Sew Whats New |
User: MaryW
Member since: 06-23-2005 Total posts: 2542
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From: MariLynnTX
Date: 02-04-2005, 09:44 AM (78 of 105)
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Ooooh Mary! No real coffee...my heart goes out to you; don't know how you stand it! Can you have decaf? I have a friend who says she can't even have decaf, her doctor said. That's cruelty! MariLynntx
Life is a song...we give it harmony or dissonance.
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User: MariLynnTX
Member since: 08-13-2001 Total posts: 256 |
From: MaryW
Date: 02-06-2005, 05:19 AM (79 of 105)
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It's no fun without my coffee in the morning, but very much worth it because I feel so much better. I tried decaf and tea. Nothing. As long as I stay away from the caffeine completely the hot flashes are much milder and farther apart.
MaryW
owner/editor of Sew Whats New |
User: MaryW
Member since: 06-23-2005 Total posts: 2542
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From: MariLynnTX
Date: 02-06-2005, 09:49 AM (80 of 105)
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Well, at least you have the things under control. The trouble is, when you are too old for the hot flashes and just beginning to enjoy it, there will be something else! I hope I've toured enough of the hospitals in this area to satisfy whatever malignant fates want to teach me not to talk about never being sick! MariLynntx
Life is a song...we give it harmony or dissonance.
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User: MariLynnTX
Member since: 08-13-2001 Total posts: 256 |
From: MaryW
Date: 02-06-2005, 10:01 AM (81 of 105)
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I know what you mean. My husband bragged for years about never having a stitch or a broken bone. Two weeks ago he tore all the tendons in one hand and his thumb is full of stitches. He will never say another word. MaryW
owner/editor of Sew Whats New |
User: MaryW
Member since: 06-23-2005 Total posts: 2542
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From: MariLynnTX
Date: 02-06-2005, 03:17 PM (82 of 105)
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I can sympathize with your DH. I never had even a cold for years, then suddenly there I was, in the hospital at 2 a.m. after waking up coughing so bad I couldn't catch my breath--my SIL rushed me to the hospital (they said he saved my life). They thought it was pneumonia, but next day they changed that to a gall bladder full of gallstones, and I had never had a symptom, but they took it out and discovered I had a loose gall stone lodged in my bile duct (very bad!) and they took me from the small regional hospital near me to St. David's in Austin which had the facilities for removing that, and they did it (at 11 p.m. of the same day) and then discovered I had a cyst or tumor in my ovarian cavity. They sent me home to recuperate, and then removed the cyst. They had expected cancer, but I didn't have that, thankfully! But I darn sure felt lousy for 3 weeks. I am really feeling fine now. The doctor said I had amazing recuperative ability for someone 77 years old!! MariLynntx
Life is a song...we give it harmony or dissonance.
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User: MariLynnTX
Member since: 08-13-2001 Total posts: 256 |
From: BrokenNeedle
Date: 02-12-2005, 07:43 AM (83 of 105)
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Ladies, your posts have brought me comfort reading about other sufferers. This darn hot flashes come every hour with their friends, nausea, and follow-up chills. Working on third year and can't wait for the next 9 to pass quickly. In appreciation I'd like you to enjoy this. Please excuse, if this is a duplication. http://www.badgirl1.com/PMS.htm PMS  Hey, those are my initials really.
Pamela in NC
Bernina 630, BabyLock evolve, Brother 1500s, Brother ULT2001, Pfaff 2054/56 |
User: BrokenNeedle
Member since: 02-09-2005 Total posts: 5 |
From: DorothyL
Date: 02-12-2005, 10:16 AM (84 of 105)
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That was great. My husband and I am both laughing right now. I don't have a single woman friend I won't send a copy of that to. Thanks Dorothy |
User: DorothyL
Member since: 12-09-2002 Total posts: 3883 |
From: ellymolin
Date: 03-04-2005, 05:57 PM (85 of 105)
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I found that cutting down on the caffeine has really helped me with my hot flashes. I don't drink coffee, but was drinking way too much diet pepsi. My flashes don't last long, but they were coming so often, I was really miserable. Lately I am so forgetful it is scarry. Anyone else having that problem? I had an ablation couple of years ago, what a difference that made for me. I was to the point where I had to stay at home during my periods. One good thing about the flashes, I've lost 7 pounds just from sweating! Enjoy reading all the posts, nice to have others to talk to about these things. Elly |
User: ellymolin
Member since: 01-13-2005 Total posts: 37 |
From: mamadus
Date: 03-05-2005, 05:09 PM (86 of 105)
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ellymolin... you mention forgetfulness along with weightloss... I would tell you to go have your thyroid levels checked.... I've been there and done that.... I was diagnosed with hyperthyroidism a couple years ago... the doc's immediate solution was to suggest removal of my thyroid... I did some online research and we decided to try the medication "tapizole" instead... it worked for me... unfortunately I did put back on all the weight that I had lost (that was the one good thing about the hyperthyroidism) but my mental confusion is resolved and the accompanying heart palpitations have now dissapated... seriously... get this checked out, hyperthyroidism can cause lots of nasty problems.... including heart problems... just my 2 cents... MO life is too short, not to explore
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User: mamadus
Member since: 12-31-2004 Total posts: 492
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From: ellymolin
Date: 03-06-2005, 04:58 AM (87 of 105)
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Mamadus, Thanks, I didn't think of that...maybe everything does not have a connection to my hot flashes. Seemed everything started at the same time. I will get my thyroid checked, thanks for the info. I really appreciate it. Elly |
User: ellymolin
Member since: 01-13-2005 Total posts: 37 |
From: mamadus
Date: 03-08-2005, 02:27 AM (88 of 105)
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Elly.. it does seem that a lot of women develop thyroid abnormalities about the same time that menopause hits... I'm sure there probably is some correlation... keep us posted as to what you find out... in the meantime.. take care... MO life is too short, not to explore
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User: mamadus
Member since: 12-31-2004 Total posts: 492
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From: colojd
Date: 03-08-2005, 08:22 AM (89 of 105)
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Hi Elly: I read that you said you had ablation and this worked fine. I have a good friend who had this done a couple of years ago. She told me recently before she had it done, the doctors gave her medications that gave her hot flashes, etc and that this lasted a couple of weeks after she had it done. Did your doctors do it this way, too? I am 53 and have not had hot flashes or any other menopause type symptoms but I did have heavy periods for a long time. My doctor tried a number of things and the one thing that worked well for me was natural progesterone. My periods went way down a cycle or two after taking it. It was a blessing to have this work. I was about to consider ablation, too because like you, my periods were beginning to run my life!! Joyce |
User: colojd
Member since: 05-03-2002 Total posts: 83 |
From: MariLynnTX
Date: 03-08-2005, 11:08 AM (90 of 105)
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I started having very heavy periods in my late 30's and the gynocologist put me on birth control pills to make me more regular, and it worked. I had a few hot flashes and then quit menstruating when I was about 47 or 48 and that was all of my menopause! Believe me, I was very thankful. I am fast approaching 78 now...first week in April. MariLynntx
Life is a song...we give it harmony or dissonance.
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User: MariLynnTX
Member since: 08-13-2001 Total posts: 256 |
From: Emmy
Date: 03-09-2005, 03:21 PM (91 of 105)
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Elly.. it does seem that a lot of women develop thyroid abnormalities about the same time that menopause hits... I'm sure there probably is some correlation... keep us posted as to what you find out... in the meantime.. take care... MO In Dr Lee's book "What your doctor may not tell you about premenopause" he says that too much estrogen will screw up your thyroid, projesterone is needed for proper thyroid function. It explains a lot for me, but my thyroid is still out of whack, even with meds. :( |
User: Emmy
Member since: 09-01-2001 Total posts: 127 
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From: colojd
Date: 03-09-2005, 06:08 PM (92 of 105)
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That does make sense about the too much estrogen situation. From what I have learned in the last couple of years, we are bombarded not only with actual estrogen from sources, but estrogen mimmicking products. This makes our exposure many, many times probably what is safe and normal and no wonder so many of us have this problem! It was amazing to learn that many plastics have estrogen mimmicking properties and look at how much of our food and beverages are stored or cooked in plastic! I have stopped heating up things in the microwave in any type of plastic - went back to glass, pyrex and other non plastics. I also heard not long ago that the EPA had tested some of the major cities' water supplies and found many of them had really high levels of estrogen. I didn't get the specific source but they said some was from natural sources and some synthetic but it was one thing that the water and waste treatment plants completely overlook or are unable to remove. Many synthetic pesticides also have estrogen mimmicking properties. We made the choice last year to start buying as much organic meat, produce and dairy as possible. Sorry for the long post on this - it is a subject very close to my emotions!!I am middle aged and as I was growing up, you never heard of many women in your community getting breast cancer - now it is very common. Just makes sense that in addition to the birth control medications that many take, that all of the other exposure from what manufacturers explains a lot. I used to have normal, on time periods and then when I got to about 33 or 34, starting having heavy abnormal periods for years until my doctor finally said "well, there is one other option" (the natural progesterone). That finally gave me the non surgical treatment I was looking for. |
User: colojd
Member since: 05-03-2002 Total posts: 83 |
From: ellymolin
Date: 03-09-2005, 08:54 PM (93 of 105)
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Hi Elly: I read that you said you had ablation and this worked fine. I have a good friend who had this done a couple of years ago. She told me recently before she had it done, the doctors gave her medications that gave her hot flashes, etc and that this lasted a couple of weeks after she had it done. Did your doctors do it this way, too? I am 53 and have not had hot flashes or any other menopause type symptoms but I did have heavy periods for a long time. My doctor tried a number of things and the one thing that worked well for me was natural progesterone. My periods went way down a cycle or two after taking it. It was a blessing to have this work. I was about to consider ablation, too because like you, my periods were beginning to run my life!! Joyce No, I was never given any medications before or after my ablation, which was 3 yrs ago. My dr said if the ablation didn't work, I would have to have a hysterectomy. I haven't had a period since then. Elly |
User: ellymolin
Member since: 01-13-2005 Total posts: 37 |
From: colojd
Date: 03-09-2005, 09:10 PM (94 of 105)
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I had never heard of anyone having to take medications to put them into a menopause type condition before this procedure either. Had a feeling my friend's doctor didn't give her good advice on that. It didn't make sense why you would do this when the ablation would take care of the excessive bleeding. She said she had to take them before the procedure for a couple of weeks and instantly starting getting hot flashes and such and then it continued for several weeks after. She also said that after they did the procedure, that the doctor commented that she should have had her tubes tied - I guess he was concerned that she could still have a tubal pregnancy but she was rather frustrated that he brought that up after the procedure was done. |
User: colojd
Member since: 05-03-2002 Total posts: 83 |
From: Emmy
Date: 03-10-2005, 12:15 AM (95 of 105)
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The lupron can make you terribly hungry ALL the time, and cause weight gain. It can really mess you up and take years to stop affecting your hormones, and may have a permanent effect. I found out about progesterone cream and used it to control things, so I could have a life again. It was the ONLY thing that really worked. Vitamins and supplements like Evening Primrose oil, bioflavinoids, Vitex, and other helped, but the progesterone cream was the best treatment of all. If only I'd had it sooner! |
User: Emmy
Member since: 09-01-2001 Total posts: 127
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From: Emmy
Date: 03-10-2005, 12:17 AM (96 of 105)
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Lupron info lupron link (http://my.webmd.com/hw/health_guide_atoz/aa76766.asp) |
User: Emmy
Member since: 09-01-2001 Total posts: 127
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From: Mother in Law
Date: 03-10-2005, 12:46 AM (97 of 105)
| What is an ablation? I've never heard of that procedure. I've heard of D&C's and I've been cartirized (sp?). I was given Progesterone pills that had to be made up at the pharmacy. They were 100 mgs a piece and I had to take 2 at a time 4 times a day. They stopped the heavy periods and the mood swings for a while but then they weren't enough. They cost a fortune at that time and I didn't have insurance so when it stopped working I quit taking them. Finally I quit getting periods and that was my celebrating time for me. Here in New ORleans they say we celebrate everything with a party well I had a big one when a year rolled around and I was period free all that time. |
User: Mother in Law
Member since: Total posts: |
From: Emmy
Date: 03-10-2005, 12:54 AM (98 of 105)
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What is an ablation? Info about ablation here (http://my.webmd.com/hw/health_guide_atoz/tv6727.asp?navbar=aa76766) More info here (http://www.rscbayarea.com/articles/formendo.html) I had Rollerball type. In 1990, RollerBarrell ablation was introduced, which was easier to perform and required less complex and less costly surgical equipment. However, an experienced gynecologic endoscopic surgeon is required. These are called "First Generation EA techniques". |
User: Emmy
Member since: 09-01-2001 Total posts: 127
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From: colojd
Date: 03-10-2005, 08:11 AM (99 of 105)
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Mother In Law - sorry to hear the Progesterone didn't work. I began with the cream that was compounded in a small pharmacy, too. It worked pretty well but I still was getting spotting between periods. My doctor tried to tell me that I was the only one of his patients who was using the progesterone fron that pharmacy that had this problem. He finally suggested we could try Women's International Pharmacy. They do bioidentical (non synthetic)hormones custom compounded. II didn't want to take any sythentic hormones due to all of the info on how they were causing problems. I think he had just heard about Women's International from one of his patients so was willing to suggest it. He switched me to getting the capsules from them and it was immediately better. No side effects and the periods were under control. I think they have a website and provide info packets if anyone wants to contact them. I have been getting lighter and skipped periods, so am pretty sure that I am well into menopause now. I guess many of us celebrate when the periods are over!! I know I sure suffered for a long time before my doctor did the progesterone. Before that, he told me there was no other choice but hysterectomy and since we wanted another child, that was not an option. Our children are 10 years apart largely due to the infertility that can come with the heavy periods, cysts, etc. My new doctor told me that given how my other doctor took so long to figure things out, it was a miracle that I was able to conceive again! |
User: colojd
Member since: 05-03-2002 Total posts: 83 |
From: MaryW
Date: 03-11-2005, 02:13 PM (100 of 105)
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I just heard of a cookbook that is supposed to be wonderful for those of us going thru menopause. It is called Nourishing Traditions by Sally Fallon. It is on Amazon. The lady told me she had at one point constant hot flashes day and night. When she began to cook from this book, they stopped completely. Also, her digestion is much better and sleeping has improved. There is supposed to be an excellent discussion on nutrition, health and diet as well. We are all different. I just wanted to let you know of one person's experience. MaryW
owner/editor of Sew Whats New |
User: MaryW
Member since: 06-23-2005 Total posts: 2542
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From: Mother in Law
Date: 03-11-2005, 02:35 PM (101 of 105)
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Colojd, I survived menopause but it was horrible while I was going through it. All I can say is hang in there ladies who are still having bad problems with menopause. I didn't want to take hormones either and unless it's diseased they wouldn't take my uterus out so I had to live with it. |
User: Mother in Law
Member since: Total posts: |
From: Hogmami
Date: 03-11-2005, 03:10 PM (102 of 105)
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I feel for all of you. I guess I am one of the lucky ones. I had all the bad stuff removed when I was 42. I had had 4 surgeries before that from the time I was 18 to remove cysts. When it was decided to take everything out I was so glad. I was always in pain. They took everything on my birthday and I felt that was the best present anyone could give me.
Carolyn
Michigan |
User: Hogmami
Member since: 09-30-2004 Total posts: 800 
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From: MariLynnTX
Date: 03-11-2005, 05:33 PM (103 of 105)
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It really seems to be the luck of the draw...I had heavy periods but practically no other problems in menopause. The doctor put me on birth control pills to help my periods and they did, and I had 4 or 5 hot flashes and that was it. I never had another period, hot flash or pain. I waited till I was past 75 and THEN had a lot of problems! But I seem to be over them now, except that I have a lot of fluid around my right lung, but it is beginning to dissipate very very slowly, the pulmonary specialist said, last Wednesday, so not to worry about it (as if I was the worrying kind!). MariLynntx
Life is a song...we give it harmony or dissonance.
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User: MariLynnTX
Member since: 08-13-2001 Total posts: 256 |
From: colojd
Date: 03-11-2005, 05:48 PM (104 of 105)
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The book on nutrition sounds really interesting. I will look for it. There is another good one called Eat Right for your Blood Type. I follow this somewhat and it really does seem to make a difference. As I said before, I think staying away from all that stuff with chemicals in it just has to be better for all of us! You are right when you say that everyone is different. I think some of these problems we have probably have more reasonable solutions, but the doctors talk us into hysterectomies more often than they should. I know my Mom's had one without really having the problems or disease - the doctor told her as long as she was done with childbearing why not take it out. Those doctors probably made big bucks on women who trusted them. Sharing our ideas and solutions I think is a great thing and enjoy hearing how everyone deals with things on their own terms. Joyce |
User: colojd
Member since: 05-03-2002 Total posts: 83 |
From: Longblades
Date: 08-09-2005, 09:32 AM (105 of 105)
| I was on Lupron for seven years, 3.75 mg once a month injection. DH did the injection for me. For me it was a god send and I am very grateful for it gave me my life back. I had no, absolutely no, side effects other than the good ones I was hoping for. Lupron is very controversial though and I would just caution anyone reading some of the many websites on it to do their research and realize that unhappy people tend to complain but those for whom it was a success had no reason to report on a site. I only got on one of the sites myself because I was afraid of going OFF it. |
User: Longblades
Member since: 07-14-2005 Total posts: 182 |
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