How much does delivery method matter?

[SaintAlia]

So my doctor has given me my HRT meds as regular pills, to swallow.

I've seen people mention patches, injections, subligual, etc. I know people have personal preferences. I was wondering if there is a specific reason to use one versus the others, or if some have better results than others.

My first endo (who started me on the meds before I switched because he couldn't read blood work) said that some people prefer injecting because they feel more of a rush, but it causes more fluctuating levels of hormones and the pills cause more steady increases. My new endo has continued with the same meds, but increased the dosage.

I was wondering what all your thoughts were, whether fact or anecdotal experience. Thank you!

[Devlyn]

The idea is that the doctor tailors the meds to the patient. I'm on patches due to needle phobia,  and concerns about my liver. Patches deliver steady levels, and I like that because I don't want to be all over the place.

Hugs, Devlyn

[KayXo]

I felt better on injections vs oral.

[Dayta]

Because of some medical complications, the only method available to me is sublingual. So I don't worry about other methods, and am perfectly happy with my progress.  I am a bit relieved that I don't have to use injections.  I don't have a problems with needles, per se, but having to accommodate them in my schedule, not to mention traveling, seems to be an opportunity for problems. 

Erin

[Devlyn]

Because of some medical complications, the only method available to me is sublingual. So I don't worry about other methods, and am perfectly happy with my progress.  I am a bit relieved that I don't have to use injections.  I don't have a problems with needles, per se, but having to accommodate them in my schedule, not to mention traveling, seems to be an opportunity for problems. 

Erin

^^^^ That, too. 

It hasn't been mentioned, but implants are an option for some people.

Hugs, Devlyn

[Dani]

In the long run, it makes no difference. For safety sake use bio-identical hormones. Let your physician tailor your dose to your individual needs.

[Harley Quinn]

I chose to go with injections for the simple fact that I hate having to remember to take pills all the time.  Injections for me are merely once a week.  If they were offered, I'd go with pellets for the 4 to 6 month duration between implants.

[AnonyMs]

I found patches and gel didn't work very well on me, with low blood levels. My endo said that happens with some people.

[KayXo]

Patches and gels were designed for post-menopausal women so even at the maximum strength, this can still be too low and insufficient for some of us. Several patches need to be worn, in some, to yield effective results, same with gel where some need to literally bathe in it for significant changes to occur.

[SaintAlia]

Thank you all for your input! You folks seem very informed, which is lovely!