Connect
HRT for daughter who is nonverbal autistic, epileptic?
I have a 49 year old daughter non verbal , epileptic who underwent sigmoidectomy last year and hasn't had good post op period.. On med for epilepsy, Lamictal, Seroquel for behavior, Buspar added years ago for anxiety, hypothyroid, Progestin as we had to dc estrogen pill dues to high BP but last year in hospital bp too low and taken off her BP medication
Now with recent news about estrogen im wondering if Dr should add estrogen back as her behavior has become very unmanageable and we have done many tests to rule out other issues, no UTI, CT scan of abdomen ok,
We can't test hormones while she's on progestin ( she was originally put on the bc pills to stop periods as with her autism her self care wasn't happening..
Just curious if any opinions about the estrogen during her , 50's? Maybe help?
Thank you
Like
Helpful
HugInterested in more discussions like this? Go to the Women's Health Support Group.
Connect
It would seem that a consistent level of estrogen would be beneficial for both epilepsy and behavior. The slow drop in estrogen during perimenopause could affect both.
I have a 65 year old disabled sister (similar behavior to Down Syndrome) who WAS on oral contraceptives to prevent pregnancy (a sign of the times, now they use progestin).
My life experiences lead me to think that menopause, and perimenopause, would be difficult for an adult with autism. I’ve worked with children with autism and changes in their health can trigger unwanted behavior. Menopausal side effects would surely do the same. Depending on the type of seizure activity, high or low estrogen can cause problems. It seems that a consistent level of estrogen, perhaps low level, is most helpful.
Considering recent reviews of the safety of estrogen, if I were you, it is something I’d pursue with the doctor. Some doctors start estrogen during perimenopause. I’m not sure what the side effects would be of easing off progestin. Lots to consider. Bless you for all the years of care and love you’ve given your daughter!
There is an Autism group here on Mayo Clinic Connect. And I’m pretty sure there are adults with autism in the group. They may have menopause experience that would be helpful!
Best of luck as you work to figure this out!
-
Like -
Helpful -
Hug
1 ReactionCan anyone give me advice on purchasing OTC for vaginal atrophy? Hormones not an option. I have a seizure risk on lamotrigine ER 100mg daily. Seizure free 11 plus years. Tried vsginal hrt. No help. Tried intrarosa . No help. I use coconut oil primarily plus OTC moisturizers. Also use hydrocortisone cream and benadryl cream. I have IBS as well with constipation. Makes pain worse. I manage this with probiotic supplement prebiotic fiber docusate dietary change. It does help. Increased fiber too. No more milk. No more caffeine. Before I invest money in OTC supplements on Amazon - topical- please help with advice. My gut microbiome was part of all this so I improved it by prescriptions dose changes under medical supervision plus the dietary changes. I do have pelvic floor dysfunction had some therapy in the past not helpful and cost prohibitive I am leaning toward hyaluronic acid but all advice appreciated. The pain has become excruciating.
Also. Any pelvic floor exercises I can do myself? What about abdominal massage. Thank you. This condition is close to being impossible to get help with.
@triciaot Thank you!
We have cardio tomorrow to see if long qt is issue, then need neurologist input to see if Seroquel needs change
Then can ask PCP about doing estrogen, with epilepsy, cardiac issues( high, then low BP during abdominal surgery, long hospital stay)
We can't change but one thing at a time to know if it's working..
It's just a lot for someone with profound autism
Thank you for your excellent suggestions!
-
Like -
Helpful -
Hug
1 Reaction