r/Hypothyroidism • u/Dense_Reputation3560 • 2d ago

Discussion Hrt

For those that have tried the estradiol patch and gel which one gave you the least side effect. I am mostly concerned weight gain

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u/Bitch__Wolf 2d ago

I use topical, the patch was too low dose for me. As for weight, the most weight I've ever gained was the year before I started HRT. Low estrogen, low testosterone, low DHEA will cause weight gain and the inability to lose it. So the estrogen, testosterone, progesterone and DHEA took the weight off in less than three months.

It's not like birth control which totally messes with EVERYTHING.

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u/Dense_Reputation3560 2d ago

Thank you! Do you also take thyroid hormone?

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u/Bitch__Wolf 2d ago

Yes I’ve had Hashimoto's for almost 20 years. Though your dose will likely go up on HRT. I was on 125mcg before HRT and now am on 171mcg. So you gotta make sure you’re testing your thyroid every 6 weeks while you find the right dose of HRT.

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u/Dense_Reputation3560 2d ago

Are you on Levo? I just got on Armour

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u/Bitch__Wolf 2d ago

I’m on brand name Synthroid, generic levothyroxine doesn’t work for me at all.

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u/CoachCecilia_CBHW 1d ago

I'm on the patch and haven't gained anything from it. I did have headaches when I started, so my doctor lowered my dose for a few months, then brought it back up.

From what I see with my coaching clients, the estrogen itself rarely causes the weight gain. Most of it comes from the years before HRT, when estrogen drops, sleep gets worse, and muscle slowly goes. A lot of women actually find the weight easier to manage once they're sleeping again.

What helps the most:
• Lift weights 2 or 3 times a week. Muscle is what keeps your metabolism up after 40.
• Eat protein at every meal, especially breakfast.
• Get your thyroid rechecked a few weeks after starting, like Bitch__Wolf said. If your thyroid dose needs adjusting, that shows up as tiredness and weight creep too.

Patch or gel comes down to what your skin tolerates and what fits your routine. Your doctor will help you pick.