Lupus and early menopause

bebopgirl26 · Newbie Alert Joined: 06 Feb 2004 Posts: 2

Hello,

I'm new to this site but I"ve been diagnosed with SLE for 9 years. I've been in remission for 5 years. I spend 4 years on all kinds of meds, including cytoxin because of my kidneys. I found out today that at 32 years old I'm menopausal. I've been doing some research on the internet but I'm not really finding out anything. What I'm trying to find out is can a Lupus person use hormone replacement therapy without complications? I hope someone here may have gone through this and can shed some light. Or some sympathy. I dont think anyone I know quite understands what I"m going through. I feel like my life is kind of over. I dont have kids and now I can't have them. I feel lost again like I did when I was first diagnosed with SLE.
Does someone know a website that might have some info?

Thanks for listening!
Smile

Saysusie · Posted: Sun Feb 08, 2004 3:10 am Post subject:

Hi Bebop:
Welcome to our forum Laughing

In answer to your questions, women with autoimmune diseases are more likely to have symptoms of premienopause which can begin up to 10 years before the end of your menstrual cycle (and/or before the age of 40). SLE is particularly associated with early menopause, but in most cases, medication for the disease is felt to be the cause of the early menopause.
There are still unanswered questions concerning hormone replacement therapy with LUPUS patients (especially those whose disease is active). Some studies have found that HRT's have caused activation of SLE and that the estrogens can cause the disease to worsen. However, recent studies have suggested that HRT can be safe for women with Lupus.
This is an area that I would discuss thoroughly with my GYN and research diligently before delving into any type of HRT.
Personally, I have been using a HRT for many years now. I am careful to do regular breast examinations and to see my GYN yearly. So far, I have had no problems with the treatment!!
Best of luck to you!
Peace and Blessings
Saysusie

bebopgirl26 · Newbie Alert Joined: 06 Feb 2004 Posts: 2

Thanks for replying. Unfortunately I am most definately menopausal. The blood test confirmed it. My gyno is the one recommending I start HRT. So I guess for lack of any thing else to do about it I suppose I will. I 'll keep doing research though. I just want to feel safe about it.

Thanks!

Saysusie · Posted: Fri Feb 13, 2004 8:52 am Post subject:

Bebopgirl:
Yes, it is wise to feel safe. Educating yourself about HRT's and Lupus is the best way to make sure that you and your GYN are making good decisions.

Best Of Luck
Saysusie