Perimenopausal and on HRT before hysterectomy - does it help post-op?
I'm in perimenopause and because I had crazy night sweats, insufferable insomnia, skyrocketing anxiety, whiplash mood swings and overwhelming bouts of rage, my confidence plummeted so deep that I quit what had been my "dream job" because I was crying daily. In my distress, my gyno prescribed me HRT (transdermal estradiol patches + progesterone), even though I still had regular periods. Bless her. It helped so much - I feel capable again.
I have a hysterectomy scheduled in 10 days (uterus, cervix, tubes, and maybe left ovary, TBD during surgery). I'm nervous about ovarian failure and being thrown into surgical menopause. I'm already pretty close (I'm 5 years into peri with 3 years to go to hit when my mom went into menopause) already so maybe the transition wouldn't be too bad. My gyno did say the the HRT should help smooth the transition if it does happen, but I just can't go back to where I was. I absolutely lost myself and it was debilitating. Has anyone else in peri had a hysterectomy while already on HRT and did it help? Especially if you either had your ovaries removed or experienced ovarian failure? TBH this is one of my biggest fears around it. Peri has been monstrous - I'm also ADHD which may be why it's been particularly bad for me. I'd love to hear stories/ experiences.