I went into menopause due to surgery and tried several Hormone Replacements including estrogen patches that didn't work. I just started on the bi-est and progesterone therapy and it's working great. I never thought the hot flashes and night sweats would go away but they did and now I don't cry over every little thing. The doctor said I wasn't getting any progesterone and that was causing my bouts of crying and depression. It's not that expensive (my insurance co won't pay for it) but it's worth every penny. I'm not sure about the period part as I haven't had one in about 4 years due to my surgery.

For everything you need to know, read Lane Lenard PhD. and Dr. Jonathan V. WrightÂs new book, Stay Young & Sexy with Bio-Identical Hormone Replacement; it slams Wyeth and the FDA for hypocrisy regarding stance on Premarin® and Provera®. Special attention should be given to the fact that the progestin component of the HRT, medroxyprogesterone acetate, which is branded under the name Provera, is NOT the same thing as bio-identical or natural progesterone, produced by a human body. The two are vastly different chemicals. Provera has an additional medroxy acetate chemical group added to the original progesterone molecule. This changed the activity of progesterone into something that is not natural and, as the WHI study showed, has caused numerous side effects. Prometrium, made by Solvay Pharmaceuticals, contains the hormone progesterone. It is structurally identical to the progesterone made naturally in the body. In fact, Prometrium is the only hormone replacement therapy medication with bio-identical progesterone that has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). It is sold in caps. But the OTC hormone creams bypass the liver which is preferable

About a 1 1/2 months ago my doctor increased my bi-est cream to 2.4 (2 clicks in the am and 2 clicks in the pm), progesterone pills (200 mg) 1 at night remained the same. I was also taking DHEA 10 mgs in the am. My DHEA level was extreemly high. All other levels were within normal range. My hair started thining, weight gain in the stomach/hips and internal itching from scalp to legs. Took a saliva test and doctor took me off the DHEA. Hair still looks thin, itching has continued and the weight has not come off. (side note - I exercise 4 to 5 times per week). Went to see a dermatologist. He said hair loss has stopped even though my hair still looks thin and he gave me pills for the itching. I believe the hair loss/thinning, weight gain and most of all the itching is due to the bi-est. I have only had one ovary removed. Can you shed some light as my doctor is not listening to me. Monica

Jan, I admit I haven't read every single post but most of them. I've read enough to see myself in some of your postings. Have you looked up the symptoms of progesterone overload/overdose? Has your dr checked your progesterone level? You probably have multiple issues going on that need addressed...WHERE TO START? I hope you can find a Dr or naturopath(sp?) that has all the answers. Bless your heart. Hormones rule! Srsly, they rule our bodies! I just have two little pieces of advice. Your anxiety level and depression aren't helping. They're exacerbating your symptoms and your ability to focus and heal and to even find someone to help. Have you considered having your dr prescribe something like Celexa to help with your anxiety and depression? Just till you can find some help and get some relief. My daughter rarely sees a traditional Dr for herself, her husband or the children. They all go to an iridoligist. I have been utterly amazed at what she has done for them and issues she has alleviated. I have to share this even tho it isn't related to your issues. DD was having gallstone, liver and kidney stone symptoms. She already knew her system took a hit with all the paint, stain and polyurethane fumes she inhaled while they were building their house (she did all the paint, stain and poly in their all wood floor 2600sq ft house). A couple of weeks ago, she started a gallbladder and liver cleanse which was to include passing of the gallstones. I kept my mouth shut and waited till she couldn't see my face before rolling my eyes (g) The protocol included apple cider vinegar and EVOO. Other products but that's what I remember. After one week of treatment the instructions were to NOT leave the house for that day as the elimination of gallstones will begin! I will spare you the pictures but she started passing gallstones by the 1/2 cup full and it lasted over half the day. They looked like crumbled, cooked hamburger meat :o She said she's never felt better! She's now working on her kidneys but I don't know if that includes passing of stones. Her iridologist told her these areas were in distress and offered plans/products to help. I'm sure not all iridologist are created equal (as all Drs aren't) but perhaps if you could find a highly reputable one, he/she could help. Good luck!