Question 50
Doctor N,
I take cholesterol medication and was wondering if by being on estrogen, (I'm on vivelle patch .l0 mg) it would possibly lower my cholesterol without taking the cholesterol medicine? I've heard this was a possibility. Also, My hrt patch is effective in treating my menopausal symptoms, but as far as my libido, I can't say that it's improved it at all. I feel good, my energy level seems normal, at times I don't rest well. Any comments on this?
Reply:
Hi,
HRT does have a beneficial affect in that it improves your lipid profile. This is particularly true of transdermal estrogen replacement, such as the patch as this does not raise triglyceride levels as oral estrogen may. You will need to discuss this with your Dr. Whether the HRT is effective enough in its ability to lower your lipid levels to a level that is reasonable for you, depends on a number of variables, including your previous lipid levels, lifestyle and heredity.
Relative to your diminished libido, you may need to add some testosterone to your HRT regimen. If you have not, read the section of the web site, Sex & Libido With HRT, as this may provide some insight.
Dr N