I had a partial hysterectomy when I was 38 about 5 years ago. About a year ago I started having having hot flashes, night sweats, and insomnia, so my doctor suggested estradiol. I took that for about 4 months, and it did help. Then, I went to my family doctor (a male) and when I told him I was taking it, I could tell by his reaction he disapproved. This is an OBGYN vs. Family Doctor. So, we talked some about it. He told me I could take it on and off as needed and it would be ok. Hmmm, not too sure about this, but I quit taking it. (At the time I thought I might be having a reaction to it) That was 4 months ago and I got along great! Now, all of a sudden the hot flashes are coming back with a vengence! I thought I would try to get through it, but we are having 105 degree temperatures with no relief in sight.
So, I am considering going back on it. My fam. doctor's wife is a breast cancer survivor so that may part of why he is against HRT. My biggest fear from it however, is weight gain.