psmnonna, that’s a big step forward - it takes courage to sort through different opinions and make the choice that feels right. The better sleep you’re noticing is likely thanks to the micronized progesterone, and you may also find some urogenital benefits along the way, though breast tenderness can show up too (it goes away after a few months).
For cardiovascular health, I’ve found cardiologists the best at weighing risks. In my case, even with mild cad (cac 38), two cardiologists didn’t hesitate to give me the green light since my ldl-c is well under 50 (on a statin) and I don’t have a family history. In your shoes, I’d keep a close eye on ldl-c and if possible, consider Lp(a) and ApoB testing for a fuller picture.
For bone benefits, tracking bone turnover markers can be reassuring. My CTX has stayed 110–130 after six months on HRT, showing a good antiresorptive effect of estrogen (same low dose as yours), even though my blood estradiol level barely moved (from 18 to 21).
And of course, im sure you’ll continue with annual mammograms as a precaution.
Now the only thing left is mending PR with your endos 😉 I’m cheering you on in this new chapter and here to share experiences.
@mayblin
Thank you for the cheers! I am definitely going to watch all things cholesterol closely. My most recent and surprising bloodwork showed ldl was in the slightly elevated levels, but hdl was high so offset the total leaving me in the clear....for now. I will ask about Lp-a and ApoB before my next blood tests.
Unfortunately, I have no beginning point of reference for CTX or P1NP scores. I had never heard of those tests before joining here. Which was after I had already started Tymlos. None of the endos or the rheumatologist I see do those tests. At my last dexa at the University of Iowa, I asked the tech if they had a REMS capable machine and she asked what REMS was. So never had that to see what my bone strength is either.
Like I read here once on a post....it's like steering a boat in the dark without a compass.
Just doing whatever I can to stay afloat!