Follow-Up:
I used to have the menopausal symptoms you have mentioned. I am at high risk for HRT because my mom had breast cancer 10 years ago and a mastectomy; therefore I am petrified to put too much estrogen into my body. I was on tri-est, which I was told was the mildest, however there is no actual data on the amounts, so a gynecologist who I have been seeing for vulva skin irritation (which turned out to be hormonal from menopause) put me on Premarin vaginal cream for a week along with a progesterone cream that is especially for lubrication and elasticity of the vaginal area. This gynecologist feels the best estrogen for me to be on is Estrogel, which is a pump that most women use two pumps a day, he told me to use just one. You just rub into your inner arm or legs. I am to continue with the progesterone cream I mentioned since it is helping, he said it would take up to 3 months at least for me to have pain free intercourse. I have also been taking "Meno" (has black cohosh, etc.) and I take evening primrose (500 mg. 3 times a day). I don't want to jinx myself by saying this, but I can't remember the last time I had a hot flash or night sweats. I have great confidence in this gynecologist because he was referred by the urogynecologist who did my bladder/vaginal lift and ovaries removal last October. He is an older guy and really knows his stuff. I don't know where you live, but I'm sure you can find these items I mentioned. Good luck. Dianne