IF YOUR GUT CHANGED ON HRT
Diarrhea since starting HRT. Normal?
It's unsettling when your gut changes. The NHS lists it as a known side effect.
WHERE IT SHOWS UP
It's on the NHS side effect lists
- The NHS names diarrhea among estrogen side effects
- It appears on the NHS progestogen list too
- Combined HRT can bring some from either list
HOW COMMON
None, or mild
The NHS says it's common to have no side effects at all, or only mild ones.
HOW LONG IT LASTS
Often a few weeks
The NHS says estrogen side effects often go away after a few weeks. For progestogen, it says they usually do. Any side effects usually improve over time.
IS IT THE HRT?
It may not be the cause
The NHS points out that HRT side effects can look like menopause symptoms. So the HRT may not be what's behind it.
WHEN TO GET IT CHECKED
When to get it checked
- The NHS says to speak to a GP if side effects are severe
- Or if they carry on for longer than 3 months
Bring this to your appointment
Questions for your doctor
- Could my diarrhea be a side effect, or something else?
- How long should I wait before we review it?
- The NHS says a GP might look at dose, type or how it's taken. Is that worth discussing for me?
As slides
Sources
General information, not medical advice.