Has anyone ever heard of using the pill to help with perimenopause symptoms? I heard it helps with cramps, flow, and anxiety/moods.

The only time I was ever on it was when I had an ovarian tumor the size of a golf ball. They put me on it to see if it would help shrink it. A month later (the day after we got back from our honeymoon) I was in the hospital having a grapefruit sized tumor removed, along with the ovary! So much for that theory.

I believe the pill reduces perimenopausal discomfort by regulating hormone activity. Because boomers are such a large market for pharmaceutical companies and more of us are entering midlife, we may soon begin to see that aspect of the pill more highly publicized.

There is some evidence that we may need to experience the discomfort of perimenopause and menopause in order to prepare our bodies for post menopause. I suppose it depends on how intense the discomfort is.

Natural remedies might allow your body to chose the hormones it needs and have fewer side effects. Pharmaceuticals are synthesized and relief is generally more immediate though so if a condition requires immediate relief, pharmaceuticals are probably the best answer. Side effects have to be considered however. Some can be very serious. It's a trade off.

smile

I have a friend who is in her seventies. She takes the pill and still has periods. Why??
But at least they're regular and cramp free. ????

WHY??? is the question for sure. Why would anyone want to deal with 60!! years of mess and possible leakage, even if she doesn't have cramps??!! There are many things I miss about my younger days, and periods ain't one of them.

Birth control pills are otherwise also known as hormone replacement therapy. About two years ago an ob/gyn doc told me, "it's not as if at your age you're likely to have children. Let's take out the plumbing." And after that I would have to go on HRT and with that an increase in (breast) cancer. The doc and I went round and round with me having the last word...no. He told me I would be back within the year, crawling on my hands and knees to beg him for HRT to help with menopause symptons. Gee, haven't seen him for over 2 years now.

I started taking vitamins and natural supplements and it's been fine. The power surges are milder to non-existent and other symptons infrequent as well.

Ask yourself if there is a GOOD reason to take HRT. Usually, there's not (unless one considers helping others make boat payments - haha) and the increased health risks more than negate the inconvenience of putting up with a few side effects.

You've taken a step in the right direction...asking questions and seeking what is right for you. It could be, after time, you decide HRT is right for you...but make it YOUR decision.

As a breast cancer survivor and activist, I'm all too aware of the strong correlation between HRT and increasing breast cancer rates. Excuse my morbid sense of humor, but which would you rather have: hot flashes or chemotherapy?

I didn't have that choice (and never had HRT either.)

Phytoestrogens (plant-based) and moderate exercise are considered helpful in alleviating peri- and menopausal symptoms.

As a society, we're too eager to take the latest "miracle" pills or cures, rather than experience any inconvenience. We're too passive about our health, preferring quick fixes.

And possible complications be damned.

ABSOLUTELY! Meredithbead, you've hit the crux of it...hot flashes or chemo. Women have been going thru menopause for thousands of years. Why and when did we turn into a bunch of wimps? I know there are some who have terrible, terrible symptons. Then there's my friend who said, "I just don't want to feel bad." WHAT??? Dear God. Then she had a hyst...how do you spell that anyway? Don't know, don't care cause I plan on never having one of those either.

Meredith and Thistle,

I agree.

I say, I AM MENOPAUSAL!! HEAR ME ROAR!!

smile

Ladies, I was seriously considering going on the pill to help these perimenopausal issues. Now after listenting to you, I question myself. I guess I need to take more of the Evening Primrose stuff. Any other thoughts? I take a multi, Vitamin E, Evening Primrose Oil, and Calcium. Thanks!

Dotsie,

I can identify with the nutty symptoms of menopause. You'd think we would get a little rest at this point in life. Shucks, I've not had periods in twenty years, but because I still have ovaries, I get menopause.

Enough belly achin' from me.

Black Kohash and soy help with the symptoms some.

smile

[ February 06, 2004, 12:31 PM: Message edited by: smilinize ]

Smile, thanks. Black Kohash it will be then!