Lupus and menopause treatments

[Nomad21]

Has anyone taken low dose oestrogen cream to relieve menopause symptoms? I have lupus but not currently medicated. Previously long term chloroquine. Any advice on possible menopause treatments appreciated. Thanks

[Jmiller623]

Hi Nomad. I do not use HRT and am premenopausal but I can give you some advice based on experience with treating post menopausal women with HRT.

The most common topical gel that I’ve seen is 0.06% Estrogel with 0.75 mg estradiol per pump. You put it between your wrist and elbow on your forearm. Just make sure to limit contact with pets and children directly after application.

I’ve found more people use oral options of Estrace, Premarin, Prempro which come in all types of dosages. Also know that low dose formulations are great for bone health but rarely relieve menopausal symptoms.

Make sure to discuss with your rheumatologist as HRT in lupus can increase clot risk esp in those with aPL. Hope you find answers and relief from your symptoms soon. ❤️xx

[MrsMarigold]

Hello Nomad21. I’ve been on HRT for 10 years. Currently I take 1 and 1/2 estrogenAnd 100 mg progesterone. I have lupus

And I actually think my hormones help. I

Started on bio identical creams but eventually my body stopped absorbing them. I hope you find what works. Titters

[lind126]

Hi Nomad21,

I have been discussing this last week with both my rheumatologist and gynecologist and they insisted that I should not take any form of HRT treatment because risks outweigh benefits. They recommended a herbal alternative which I hope will work. I wake up soaked in sweat, my brain seems to be on strike and to top it all, I am irritable and sometimes not a very pleasant person to be with. My rheumatologist is a kind woman and at least showed sympathy, the gynecologist, a young woman, told me to suck it up.

These were their reasons:

there is some evidence that HRT can induce flares and increase lupus activity significantly and in my own case chronic kidney disease which can already put strain on my heart is an added risk.

With all the treatments out there I think each case needs to be discussed individually with a doctor and followed up closely.

Hooe you can find something that works for you!

🤞

[Cottar]

I use a pessary periodically which was recommended by a gynaecologist. She told me that this was topical and wouldn’t go through my bloodstream.

[Hidden]

Note I have Stills Disease.I’m 57 and use HRT patches ( that’s all I was offered) but they have most definitely resolved menopausal problems for me. I’m osteoporotic due to steroid treatment ages 17 -22 without redress for calcium loss, I’m not sure they knew back in the 1970’s. I take vitamin D , eat healthy veggie diet, greens, future, nuts, seeds, diary and exercise as my joints allow. Since joining this forum I’m amazed at the range of HRT treatments, but it works for me. I really hope your recommendation treatment works for you 😅

[Wrenmuzz]

My rheumatologist told me to not even think of menopause meds but that was a few years ago so things may have changed.