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Daisychain1's latest comments
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12th Nov 2015Daisychain1 commented on:
Have you tried HRT?I started HRT when I was 49, following a full hysterectomy, including removal of my ovaries. My female GP and I had a chat about the pro's and con's, particularly as my elder sister had been diagnosed and recovered from breast cancer some years earlier at 38. I felt that I was made fully aware of the small increase in risk of breast cancer, but the physical symptoms of the menopause were ruining my life. I made an informed choice and used HRT patches for five years. Never felt as well and life was great. During that time however, after 17 years, my sister was diagnosed with another primary tumour in the same breast, which is very rare. She survived, albeit requiring a mastectomy. Unfortunately, last year I was also diagnosed with breast cancer. After having a lumpectomy, and the tissue being tested, it was discovered that the cancer cells reacted strongly to oestrogen. Had to come off HRT immediately. Made a good recovery from the bc, but within weeks felt as if I had aged ten years!! Taking supplements and running regularly, but still suffer from aching joints and the dreaded flushes are back. Taking antidepressants for the flushes ( which is indicated at a certain dose), and Zopiclone (sleeping tablets) at night. Only way I can sleep through the night sweats. If I could turn the clock back, would I take HRT again? Too right I would. I feel as long as any woman makes an informed choice, then that is her right. I will probably never know if the HRT contributed to having breast cancer, but what I do know, is that you need to balance that small risk with quality of life. Particularly when we are all having to hold down jobs until well into our 60's.