Dear fellow neurodivergent woman,

I overdosed on HRT. Not intentionally. My nurse suggested an extra patch for evening hot flashes. The effects were bizarre and unsettling. Within a week, I was anxious, insecure, and unlike myself. It coincided with the worst period in years. Then it hit me: the extra estrogen. Hours after removing the patch, the fog lifted. This is my cautionary tale about listening to your body and being wary of even small hormonal medication changes.

The Extra Patch: A Seemingly Harmless Suggestion

Overdosing on HRT is a bizarre, uncomfortable experience. My nurse recommended an extra 25mg patch to combat 7 pm hot flashes. I asked about risks. She said, "Well, there’s always a risk, but you’re on the lowest dose, and you’re still very young!, so it could be worth a try." I felt oddly emboldened by the "young" comment. Something felt intuitively wrong, but I applied the patch anyway. I can't explain why.

A Cascade of Unsettling Symptoms

The first sign was a horrendous period. My periods are now irregular (30-50 days) and manageable (post-fibroid embolisation). Days before my period (I didn't know it was coming), I felt odd, down, strange, and insecure. I called a friend, saying, "Something's wrong. I don't know what, but everything feels powerfully weird, like waking from a nightmare." I briefly considered the extra HRT.

The HRT Dilemma: Natural vs. Medical Intervention

I'm grateful for HRT and aware of its privileged access. Strong opinions exist on both sides—crucial health intervention vs. navigating menopause naturally. I’m torn. I believe in the body's innate healing, aligning with universal energy. I question medical intervention for a normal process. Yet, here I am, taking HRT.

Finding Balance, Then Losing It

Starting HRT in January changed my life positively. More energy, better mental health, no more unbearable mood swings—stability I hadn’t had in years. Could I let that go? Not an option right now. But the extra dose was too much. Each day worsened. One morning, I woke up feeling so terrible I delved into psychology textbooks, seeking answers for… I couldn't even describe it. I finally realised the HRT patch was the culprit, based on the timeline. Googling Evorel's side effects revealed mood changes, including low mood and depression. I ripped the patch off immediately.

The Aftermath: A Swift Return to Normalcy

Within two hours, I felt significantly better. Placebo or not, a weight lifted. The next day, I was back. I woke up happy, eager for the day. Later, on a river walk, I texted my friend: "Life is amazing, I'm so lucky, the earth is wonderful; everything's fine again." I’ve felt great since—as much as any middle-aged neurodivergent woman can.

Hormone Sensitivity: A Recurring Theme

My thyroid medication experience was similar. A tiny dose (some might say unnecessarily small) makes a big difference. I’m medication-sensitive, which makes sense considering my overall sensitivity.

The Importance of Open Conversation

This demonstrates hormones' power and the impact of even small amounts, especially for sensitive individuals. HRT discussions are hitting the mainstream. The more we talk, the more knowledgeable and empowered we become.

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