I'm 34 and just had a hysterectomy. My doctor says I should take Estrace hormones. What do you think?

I am a 34 year old woman, my total abdominal hysterectomy was performed 6 weeks ago. I saw my surgeon today (who is fantastic but very old school I am learnin ) he said "No restrictions just listen to your body, and here is your hormones (2mg Estrace 1X per day ) I'll see you in 6 months". I have to be honest, I am not ok with all of this, I accepted losing my ovaries and uterus. I accepted the 11" scar down my belly. However, I can't see how a doctor can just hand over a medication without testing my hormone levels, finding out what they are, where they are, and what I need to be a healthy & happy 34 year old woman. I have done research on Bioidentical hormones, and I KNOW they are for me. I tried to find a doctor in my area and have been directed to different "clinic" type places, and I want a doctor that isn't associated with an "organization". For women like me, how do we find doctors who are willing to listen, and what should we expect after a surgery this radical, my body is a bit "haywire". I feel very confused and alone.. Thank You for your time

Answer

Actually, what he is offering sounds reasonable. With the ovaries out, one can be sure the estrogen will be low, and the tests would add little. And at 34 you need the estrogen. The estrace is bioidentical, though I prefer the second type of estrogen your body needs (called Estradiol) also be added. If sleep or anxiety are a problem, I would consider adding the prescription bioidentical progesterone called prometrium 100 mg at bedtime as well. So in this case, I think he is doing better than most doctors;-) For a doctor familiar with the complete bioidentical hormone regimen, see the ABIHM organization.

L&B Dr T