I finally made my way back to the GP as it had reached the point where I had to do something. (I’ve been off HRT since last year, when my previous GP suggested trying lithium instead

.) This made me feel so angry I didnt bother going back to see someone else ( which is a really silly decision on my part).
She told me I was too young to be having perimenopause symptoms. For clarity, I’m 3 months off turning 47. My periods have been all over the place for a long time, my sleep is ( and has been) awful for a long time, and I’ve recently started getting hot flushes at night (a new and horrible symptom). On top of that, I’ve developed joint pain and go through spells of intense paranoia. There are other symptoms too, but these seem to be the most prominent and I’d really hoped I could avoid the hot flushes (why I thought this may happen is anyone's guess) . No such luck though
A colleague at work suggested I try a wool duvet , has anyone else used one?

. They seem counter intuitive to me ( wool being warm and all that) but apparently they also help regulate temperature. I am reluctant to buy one on the off chance as they are quite expensive. Another tip I have been given is to use cotton bedding.
Anyway going back to my appointment last week, I asked to see the nurse this time around (she can issue prescriptions as she’s registered). I really wish I’d done this sooner, because she was brilliant. She listened to what I had to say , agreed that I am perimenopausal (woo , at last someone believes me!), and said I should be back on HRT.
We had a chat about the different options, I explained that I’ve tried both gel and tablets before but didn’t find them that helpful. In the end, we decided the best plan would be to have a Mirena coil fitted and try the gel again when i had the coil put in.
There’s a bit of a waiting list for the Mirena, so in the meantime she has given me Evorel patches. I’m still on the oestrogen patch at the moment (progesterone starts in about a week). I’m not sure if they’re helping yet though. I had a couple of days of headaches which have now stopped, but I’m also feeling quite bloated. I really hope that passes as well.
The Mirena is due to be fitted in October so i am looking forward to this being done. I have my fingers crossed that the gel and the coil work. I am also pleased that I did go back and try again. The last experience really upset me - to be told i was lying about my symptoms basically.

. Horrible woman.