I have been on oestrogen only HRT since having a hysterectomy 10 years ago. I have always felt brilliant and led a full and active life. I can't stay on HRT forever (although I would love to) and so I have very gradually reduced the HRT dosage over the years. I am now down to 25 micrograms and I feel terrible. I ache all over and I am so stiff that I feel 90 years old. I can't even put my socks on without experiencing pain! I've had to give up so much that I am feeling old before my time. My doctor has put me on an exercise programme and I walk loads but I'm getting tired very quickly. I am taking Glucosamine and Omega 3.

Unfortunately, coming off HRT can be really awful and it can take the body a while to rebalance itself.

Menopause-like symptoms such as joint pain, fatigue, and flushes are very common.

Firstly, looking after yourself well and daily relaxation is paramount to helping the body re-adjust and doing too much at this time can be counter productive, for the time being you may find Yoga or swimming better that walking.

You could try Devils Claw for the joint pain and I would also suggest a good female multi-vitamin, your body's nutritional needs at this time can be really high so extra vitamins are very important.

Acupuncture can also be really good for balancing whilst coming off HRT so it is worth looking into as well.

Eileen Durward