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Originally Posted by lnt1103
I'm not even 30 yet so I have a bit on this one, but I would also be concerned as a Type 1 diabetic that the hormones would be risky. Risks of blood clot, etc in diabetics is the very reason that by doctor's orders I'm on an IUD instead of BCPs. Thoughts on that angle from the pros?
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There are risks and discussion of HRT use needs to be addressed based on each individuals medical history. I had no contraindication re: stroke, etc. The heart benefits are good. Much different than many women at about 40 y/o; Premature Ovarian Failure sends you into sudden menopause early on in life. No great sex, exercize, etc. helps with the symptoms & the sad part is I did not even care. The HRT made a life change for me; felt initially I had been hit against a brick wall & the physical symptoms subsided within about 4 months of being on Estrogen/Progestin/Testosterone mixture.
If you cannot take the BCP for the reasons you have given, you would not be a candidate for HRT now. What the future holds? Not certain since new meds are always being developed. Another non-candidate is; a family history of Estrogen sensitive breast tumors. However, I really feel a serious discussion is in order with a woman's Gyn as to the risks & benefits when the time is nearing.
If one still has their ovaries, despite a hysterectomy, the symptoms of Menopause are a gradual onset. Some practitioners debate the necessity of Progestin in those who have a hysterectomy. I personally believe if you normally have the hormones throughout your life you should attempt to keep them as you get older.
Some women have more difficulty with menopause v. the next woman. I recall years ago, going through one period of time where the hot flashes were awful & then they just let up with no apparent cause and did not return until I was 40. Sex drive has always been high, I never had any +/- physical changes due to increased sex. Only time it hit a all time low, meaning not looking at the good looking guy in front of me [while I am single], I knew something was really wrong. Went to the Gyn to find I had no traceable estrogen in any lab work. Estrogen is the precursor for testosterone; keeps your libido good!
I believe women should really discuss this with their physician's & there are a great amount of benefits to be had--always with any medication there is a risk. But the choice is does the benefit outweigh the risks? Even with health issues, I would look at it if the hot flashes, etc. began. I look at the health benefits as well, not just maintaining a good libido.