What changed as you got closer to your target E level?

[NerissaGrace]

I have been on oral estradiol for about seven months. The first few months my estrogen levels didn't go up much, but have started to improve since my endocrinologist switched me from patches to pill and I started to take the pills sublingually. I'm up to about 73 now. (My T level is pretty much zero at this point).

I have noticed some changes, to be sure. My body hair grows back lighter and thinner (although it's already being removed via electrolysis), and there has been some modest breast growth. I yearn for the emotional calm many women talk about here, though I am in touch with my feelings at least a little bit more. No real change in skin thickness, upper body strength, etc.

I know 200 is an arbitrary goal, and it's different for everyone. My question is, as you got closer to whatever your ideal range was, did you notice more changes, either physically or emotionally, that were not as prevalent as before? All of our journeys differ but I'd be interested to learn from the experiences of others.

Grace

[Rikigirl]

I found that once T was low the changes started to be better! Once my endo put me on Progesterone things really got better again with breast and nipple growth. This happened at 12 months after Estradiol patches and Spiro. I hope you achieve your goals!

[KayXo]

I have been on oral estradiol for about seven months. The first few months my estrogen levels didn't go up much, but have started to improve since my endocrinologist switched me from patches to pill and I started to take the pills sublingually. I'm up to about 73 now. (My T level is pretty much zero at this point).

Levels fluctuate, especially sublingually, where levels may drop 5-10 fold within only a few hours. Could be 73 at point A and 600 at point B, like an hour after you take your pills sublingually. Instead, I think, what matters most, is your actual emotional and physical response. That will give you a much better idea of where you're at, if the dose and regimen is effective for YOU.

I have noticed some changes, to be sure.

Good.

My question is, as you got closer to whatever your ideal range was, did you notice more changes, either physically or emotionally, that were not as prevalent as before? All of our journeys differ but I'd be interested to learn from the experiences of others.

Increased breast growth and fat deposition in female areas, when on oral E2. Also, became more emotionally instable and had drier skin. On injectables, where my levels were significantly higher, decreased breast growth but continued fat redistribution, feeling more stable emotionally and calm, skin smoother, softer, more elastic and younger looking, better looking hair, significantly decreased body hair growth. I also take progesterone.