Community Research Menopause - Symptoms, Discussion, and Solutions

[HarleyGuy]

Understanding Menopause: Symptoms, HRT/TRT, and Helpful Supplements​

Menopause is a natural stage in a woman’s life, typically occurring between ages 45 and 55 when menstrual cycles permanently stop due to (sometimes severly) declining hormone level, particularly estrogen and progesterone. While it’s a normal biological process, the symptoms can significantly impact daily life and mood.

This article will include a summary of the general symptoms of menopause including common medical and supplement intervention. It will conclude with an HRT/TRT/Supplement stack that is currently working wonders for HarleyGirl (the authors better half!). Her bloodwork will be posted which was drawn on 16Mar2026 with adjustments to her menopause stack moving forward including symptom relief both now and moving forward.

Common Symptoms of Menopause​

Menopause affects each woman differently, but some of the most common symptoms include:

• Hot flashes and night sweats – Sudden feelings of heat, often accompanied by sweating and flushing
• Irregular periods – Cycles become unpredictable before stopping completely
• Mood changes – Increased irritability, anxiety, or risk of depression
• Sleep disturbances – Difficulty falling or staying asleep
• Vaginal dryness – Leading to discomfort during intercourse
• Decreased libido – Reduced sexual desire
• Brain fog – Trouble concentrating or remembering things
• Weight gain and slowed metabolism
• Joint and Muscular discomfort - Most commonly reported in the hips

These symptoms are largely driven by hormonal fluctuations, particularly declining estrogen levels.

Medications for Menopause Symptoms​

Several medical treatments can help manage menopause symptoms effectively:

1. Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)​

Hormone therapy is one of the most effective treatments for moderate to severe symptoms.

Estrogen:

• Helps reduce hot flashes, night sweats, and vaginal dryness
• May also help prevent bone loss

Progesterone:

• Endometrial protection: for women with a uterus taking estrogen, progesterone is vital to prevent endometrial hyperplasia (overgrowth of the uterine lining), reducing the risk of uterine cancer.
• Improved sleep and mood: Progesterone has a calming effect, often reducing anxiety and improving sleep quality, particularly when taken at bedtime. Better sleep can mean better mood!

2. Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT)​

How can TRT can help with menopause symptoms?

Low libido (most evidence-backed benefit):

• This is where TRT is most effective and commonly prescribed.
• Can improve sexual desire and arousal
• May increase frequency of satisfying sexual activity
• Often used when estrogen therapy alone doesn’t help

**This condition is sometimes diagnosed as Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder (HSDO) and is identified in studies showing how menopause affects intimacy in relationships.

Energy and fatigue:​

• TRT has been reported to increased energy levels and reduced feelings of exhaustion

Mood and mental clarity:​

• TRT has been reported to help with low mood or mild depressive symptoms including 'brain fog' or difficulty concentrating

Muscle mass and strength

• TRT can help maintain lean muscle and support strength and physical performance

**This may be especially helpful as muscle naturally declines with age.

Supplements That May Help​

Many women turn to natural supplements for symptom relief. While results vary, some commonly used options include:

1. Phytoestrogens​

Plant-based compounds that mimic estrogen in the body.

• Found in soy products and supplements
• May help reduce mild hot flashes

2. Black Cohosh

A popular herbal remedy:

• May help with hot flashes and mood symptoms
• Evidence is mixed, and long-term safety is still being studied

3. Vitamin D and Calcium​

Important for bone health:

• Help prevent osteoporosis, which becomes more common after menopause

4. Omega-3 Fatty Acids​

• May support mood and heart health
• Found in fish oil supplements

5. Magnesium​

• May help improve sleep and reduce anxiety

Lifestyle Strategies That Make a Difference​

In addition to medications and supplements, lifestyle changes can significantly improve symptoms:

• Maintain a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
• Exercise regularly to support mood, weight, and bone health
• Practice stress-reduction techniques like yoga or meditation
• Limit caffeine and alcohol, which can trigger hot flashes
• Keep your sleeping environment cool and comfortable

HarleyGirl's Symptoms and Menopause Stack Solution:​

Symptoms pre-stack:

• Hot flashes and night sweats – Waking up sweating nightly, constant changing of bed sheets. Overwhelming feeling of being overheated daily either outside or in the home
• Mood changes – Increased irritability, anxiety, and short temperdness
• Sleep disturbances – Difficulty falling and then staying asleep each night
• Brain fog – Trouble concentrating or remembering things
• Joint and Muscular discomfort - Waking up with sore hips every morningfrom sleeping, particularly on one side

The Stack (started 12Jan2026) :

• TestE 7.5mg/week (see bloods - this is to be reduced in half)
• Estrogen 3.75mg/day (= 3 pumps of 0.06% estradiol gel every day)
• GLOW 10iu powered by Biogenix Pharma @biogenix 6.2mg/day (1mg BPC-157/1.2mg TB-500/4mg GHK-Cu) in AM
• 1g black cohosh/day (at night as it also helps with sleep)
• 2g red clover/day (at night too as it's a mild sedative)
• 5g creatine/day
• 1 multivitamin/day
• Probiotics (30+ billion - one with each meal)
• Psyllium Husk 5g/day
• N2Guard 3caps/day (lipid profile has improved drastically including ALT/AST). You can obtain N2Guard here: Get N2Guard

Results (as at 16Mar2026):

• Hot flashes and night sweats – Only momentary and infrequent hot flashes reported once or twice a week
• Mood changes – Mood stabilized
• Sleep disturbances – Once or twice weekly sleep disturbances but overall big improvement
• Brain fog – In remission
• Joint and Muscular discomfort - Hip pain is In remission (KLOW pinned directly into hips)

Final Thoughts:

HarleyGirl's TestE is to be cut in half (see bloods) although she is reporting that she feels better than she ever has! The intention of this community research is to have a reliable place for female members to land who fall into this category, and have a safe place to discuss both symptoms and solutions of menopause, regardless of the detail or otherwise hesitant nature to discuss some of the symptoms. EVO is judgement free and the intent is for this to help all female members when they arrive at this often difficult fork in the road.

Thanks for reading,
HarleyGuy




References:

• https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s12889-024-19280-5?
• https://journals.lww.com/menopausej...rceived_efficacy_of_complementary_and.6.aspx?
• https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11379379/
• https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12037939/
• **https://journals.lww.com/menopausej...rceived_efficacy_of_complementary_and.6.aspx?
  • **"Hormone therapy (HT) is the most effective treatment of VMS. It reduces frequency and severity by 75% and improves health-related quality of life. However, HT use has been in decline since 2002, ... This decline has been associated with increasing use of complementary and alternative medicines (CAMs) for relief of menopausal symptoms. CAMs are a “diverse group of medical and health care systems, practices and products that are not generally considered to be part of conventional medicine."

Female loggers: @Sheshredz @Panda22 @Iron_rose1 @Alice_In_Ironland @ifbbpromusclegirl @Katsumi @RoidRageWife @MrsOhdamnsBOSS @Jigglybuff @RogueCherry @_bubbles @Mrs-RedNeck @queenbee87
Mods/Podcast VIP's: @BeMe @Farmboy @Eddie Haskell@LevButlerov@Mobster@Noah Wixx @Npcclassicphysique champ@Pigsy@s.gentz@toddthelineman@Allupfromhere @Dreamer @Freki @waggat @Yuri @rizzlekdizzle @MarkNV @floridaman1984 @kcates @MarshMonsta @Wheels85 @TAGII @Jigglybuff @R.AP @Pat7x @SPOONMAN366 @RoySimpson @PrinceDaddy @stevesmi @Coolguy @liftedlivingwithlegacy @3xCharm @waggat @Kopite67 @madcap71 @Ohdamn @Swcc @Mr.liftz @waggat @Iron_rose1 @BigVelvetG @Demon_throne @codezz @Farmboy @Bigdan85 @Kopite67 @Nasser1997o2 @b1ak @Corn Gromwell @satxbber @BIGRED_ @rayray01 @fatboy999 @Lipster

 

[Freki]

Understanding Menopause: Symptoms, HRT/TRT, and Helpful Supplements​

View attachment 200127​

Menopause is a natural stage in a woman’s life, typically occurring between ages 45 and 55 when menstrual cycles permanently stop due to (sometimes severly) declining hormone level, particularly estrogen and progesterone. While it’s a normal biological process, the symptoms can significantly impact daily life and mood.

This article will include a summary of the general symptoms of menopause including common medical and supplement intervention. It will conclude with an HRT/TRT/Supplement stack that is currently working wonders for HarleyGirl (the authors better half!). Her bloodwork will be posted which was drawn on 16Mar2026 with adjustments to her menopause stack moving forward including symptom relief both now and moving forward.

Common Symptoms of Menopause​

Menopause affects each woman differently, but some of the most common symptoms include:

• Hot flashes and night sweats – Sudden feelings of heat, often accompanied by sweating and flushing
• Irregular periods – Cycles become unpredictable before stopping completely
• Mood changes – Increased irritability, anxiety, or risk of depression
• Sleep disturbances – Difficulty falling or staying asleep
• Vaginal dryness – Leading to discomfort during intercourse
• Decreased libido – Reduced sexual desire
• Brain fog – Trouble concentrating or remembering things
• Weight gain and slowed metabolism
• Joint and Muscular discomfort - Most commonly reported in the hips

These symptoms are largely driven by hormonal fluctuations, particularly declining estrogen levels.

Medications for Menopause Symptoms​

Several medical treatments can help manage menopause symptoms effectively:

1. Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)​

Hormone therapy is one of the most effective treatments for moderate to severe symptoms.

Estrogen:

• Helps reduce hot flashes, night sweats, and vaginal dryness
• May also help prevent bone loss

Progesterone:

• Endometrial protection: for women with a uterus taking estrogen, progesterone is vital to prevent endometrial hyperplasia (overgrowth of the uterine lining), reducing the risk of uterine cancer.
• Improved sleep and mood: Progesterone has a calming effect, often reducing anxiety and improving sleep quality, particularly when taken at bedtime. Better sleep can mean better mood!

2. Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT)​

How can TRT can help with menopause symptoms?

Low libido (most evidence-backed benefit):

• This is where TRT is most effective and commonly prescribed.
• Can improve sexual desire and arousal
• May increase frequency of satisfying sexual activity
• Often used when estrogen therapy alone doesn’t help

**This condition is sometimes diagnosed as Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder (HSDO) and is identified in studies showing how menopause affects intimacy in relationships.

Energy and fatigue:​

• TRT has been reported to increased energy levels and reduced feelings of exhaustion

Mood and mental clarity:​

• TRT has been reported to help with low mood or mild depressive symptoms including 'brain fog' or difficulty concentrating

Muscle mass and strength

• TRT can help maintain lean muscle and support strength and physical performance

**This may be especially helpful as muscle naturally declines with age.

Supplements That May Help​

Many women turn to natural supplements for symptom relief. While results vary, some commonly used options include:

1. Phytoestrogens​

Plant-based compounds that mimic estrogen in the body.

• Found in soy products and supplements
• May help reduce mild hot flashes

2. Black Cohosh

A popular herbal remedy:

• May help with hot flashes and mood symptoms
• Evidence is mixed, and long-term safety is still being studied

3. Vitamin D and Calcium​

Important for bone health:

• Help prevent osteoporosis, which becomes more common after menopause

4. Omega-3 Fatty Acids​

• May support mood and heart health
• Found in fish oil supplements

5. Magnesium​

• May help improve sleep and reduce anxiety

Lifestyle Strategies That Make a Difference​

In addition to medications and supplements, lifestyle changes can significantly improve symptoms:

• Maintain a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
• Exercise regularly to support mood, weight, and bone health
• Practice stress-reduction techniques like yoga or meditation
• Limit caffeine and alcohol, which can trigger hot flashes
• Keep your sleeping environment cool and comfortable

HarleyGirl's Symptoms and Menopause Stack Solution:​

Symptoms pre-stack:

• Hot flashes and night sweats – Waking up sweating nightly, constant changing of bed sheets. Overwhelming feeling of being overheated daily either outside or in the home
• Mood changes – Increased irritability, anxiety, and short temperdness
• Sleep disturbances – Difficulty falling and then staying asleep each night
• Brain fog – Trouble concentrating or remembering things
• Joint and Muscular discomfort - Waking up with sore hips every morningfrom sleeping, particularly on one side

The Stack (started 12Jan2026) :

• TestE 7.5mg/week (see bloods - this is to be reduced in half)
• Estrogen 3.75mg/day (= 3 pumps of 0.06% estradiol gel every day)
• GLOW 10iu powered by Biogenix Pharma @biogenix 6.2mg/day (1mg BPC-157/1.2mg TB-500/4mg GHK-Cu) in AM
• 1g black cohosh/day (at night as it also helps with sleep)
• 2g red clover/day (at night too as it's a mild sedative)
• 5g creatine/day
• 1 multivitamin/day
• Probiotics (30+ billion - one with each meal)
• Psyllium Husk 5g/day
• N2Guard 3caps/day (lipid profile has improved drastically including ALT/AST). You can obtain N2Guard here: Get N2Guard

Results (as at 16Mar2026):

• Hot flashes and night sweats – Only momentary and infrequent hot flashes reported once or twice a week
• Mood changes – Mood stabilized
• Sleep disturbances – Once or twice weekly sleep disturbances but overall big improvement
• Brain fog – In remission
• Joint and Muscular discomfort - Hip pain is In remission (KLOW pinned directly into hips)

Final Thoughts:

HarleyGirl's TestE is to be cut in half (see bloods) although she is reporting that she feels better than she ever has! The intention of this community research is to have a reliable place for female members to land who fall into this category, and have a safe place to discuss both symptoms and solutions of menopause, regardless of the detail or otherwise hesitant nature to discuss some of the symptoms. EVO is judgement free and the intent is for this to help all female members when they arrive at this often difficult fork in the road.

Thanks for reading,
HarleyGuy




References:

• https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s12889-024-19280-5?
• https://journals.lww.com/menopausej...rceived_efficacy_of_complementary_and.6.aspx?
• https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11379379/
• https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12037939/
• **https://journals.lww.com/menopausej...rceived_efficacy_of_complementary_and.6.aspx?
  • **"Hormone therapy (HT) is the most effective treatment of VMS. It reduces frequency and severity by 75% and improves health-related quality of life. However, HT use has been in decline since 2002, ... This decline has been associated with increasing use of complementary and alternative medicines (CAMs) for relief of menopausal symptoms. CAMs are a “diverse group of medical and health care systems, practices and products that are not generally considered to be part of conventional medicine."

Female loggers: @Sheshredz @Panda22 @Iron_rose1 @Alice_In_Ironland @ifbbpromusclegirl @Katsumi @RoidRageWife @MrsOhdamnsBOSS @Jigglybuff @RogueCherry @_bubbles @Mrs-RedNeck @queenbee87
Mods/Podcast VIP's: @BeMe @Farmboy @Eddie Haskell@LevButlerov@Mobster@Noah Wixx @Npcclassicphysique champ@Pigsy@s.gentz@toddthelineman@Allupfromhere @Dreamer @Freki @waggat @Yuri @rizzlekdizzle @MarkNV @floridaman1984 @kcates @MarshMonsta @Wheels85 @TAGII @Jigglybuff @R.AP @Pat7x @SPOONMAN366 @RoySimpson @PrinceDaddy @stevesmi @Coolguy @liftedlivingwithlegacy @3xCharm @waggat @Kopite67 @madcap71 @Ohdamn @Swcc @Mr.liftz @waggat @Iron_rose1 @BigVelvetG @Demon_throne @codezz @Farmboy @Bigdan85 @Kopite67 @Nasser1997o2 @b1ak @Corn Gromwell @satxbber @BIGRED_ @rayray01 @fatboy999 @Lipster

Good write up @HarleyGuy

 

[Allupfromhere]

Solid work @HarleyGuy great one for new and existing female members to chime in on

 

[Freki]

HarleyGirl's TestE is to be cut in half (see bloods) although she is reporting that she feels better than she ever has!

Test is high yes but i cant see her SHBG levels in the tests, Really need to see Free Androgen Index FAI to determine how much testosterone to administer.

 

[rizzlekdizzle]

Geez peri menopause has been my life (my wife’s life more obviously) the last couple of years and it has been much more of a struggle for me than I would be proud to admit.

 

[rayray01]

Great Episode!! @Iron_rose1

 

[Kopite67]

Understanding Menopause: Symptoms, HRT/TRT, and Helpful Supplements​

View attachment 200127​

Menopause is a natural stage in a woman’s life, typically occurring between ages 45 and 55 when menstrual cycles permanently stop due to (sometimes severly) declining hormone level, particularly estrogen and progesterone. While it’s a normal biological process, the symptoms can significantly impact daily life and mood.

This article will include a summary of the general symptoms of menopause including common medical and supplement intervention. It will conclude with an HRT/TRT/Supplement stack that is currently working wonders for HarleyGirl (the authors better half!). Her bloodwork will be posted which was drawn on 16Mar2026 with adjustments to her menopause stack moving forward including symptom relief both now and moving forward.

Common Symptoms of Menopause​

Menopause affects each woman differently, but some of the most common symptoms include:

• Hot flashes and night sweats – Sudden feelings of heat, often accompanied by sweating and flushing
• Irregular periods – Cycles become unpredictable before stopping completely
• Mood changes – Increased irritability, anxiety, or risk of depression
• Sleep disturbances – Difficulty falling or staying asleep
• Vaginal dryness – Leading to discomfort during intercourse
• Decreased libido – Reduced sexual desire
• Brain fog – Trouble concentrating or remembering things
• Weight gain and slowed metabolism
• Joint and Muscular discomfort - Most commonly reported in the hips

These symptoms are largely driven by hormonal fluctuations, particularly declining estrogen levels.

Medications for Menopause Symptoms​

Several medical treatments can help manage menopause symptoms effectively:

1. Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)​

Hormone therapy is one of the most effective treatments for moderate to severe symptoms.

Estrogen:

• Helps reduce hot flashes, night sweats, and vaginal dryness
• May also help prevent bone loss

Progesterone:

• Endometrial protection: for women with a uterus taking estrogen, progesterone is vital to prevent endometrial hyperplasia (overgrowth of the uterine lining), reducing the risk of uterine cancer.
• Improved sleep and mood: Progesterone has a calming effect, often reducing anxiety and improving sleep quality, particularly when taken at bedtime. Better sleep can mean better mood!

2. Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT)​

How can TRT can help with menopause symptoms?

Low libido (most evidence-backed benefit):

• This is where TRT is most effective and commonly prescribed.
• Can improve sexual desire and arousal
• May increase frequency of satisfying sexual activity
• Often used when estrogen therapy alone doesn’t help

**This condition is sometimes diagnosed as Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder (HSDO) and is identified in studies showing how menopause affects intimacy in relationships.

Energy and fatigue:​

• TRT has been reported to increased energy levels and reduced feelings of exhaustion

Mood and mental clarity:​

• TRT has been reported to help with low mood or mild depressive symptoms including 'brain fog' or difficulty concentrating

Muscle mass and strength

• TRT can help maintain lean muscle and support strength and physical performance

**This may be especially helpful as muscle naturally declines with age.

Supplements That May Help​

Many women turn to natural supplements for symptom relief. While results vary, some commonly used options include:

1. Phytoestrogens​

Plant-based compounds that mimic estrogen in the body.

• Found in soy products and supplements
• May help reduce mild hot flashes

2. Black Cohosh

A popular herbal remedy:

• May help with hot flashes and mood symptoms
• Evidence is mixed, and long-term safety is still being studied

3. Vitamin D and Calcium​

Important for bone health:

• Help prevent osteoporosis, which becomes more common after menopause

4. Omega-3 Fatty Acids​

• May support mood and heart health
• Found in fish oil supplements

5. Magnesium​

• May help improve sleep and reduce anxiety

Lifestyle Strategies That Make a Difference​

In addition to medications and supplements, lifestyle changes can significantly improve symptoms:

• Maintain a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
• Exercise regularly to support mood, weight, and bone health
• Practice stress-reduction techniques like yoga or meditation
• Limit caffeine and alcohol, which can trigger hot flashes
• Keep your sleeping environment cool and comfortable

HarleyGirl's Symptoms and Menopause Stack Solution:​

Symptoms pre-stack:

• Hot flashes and night sweats – Waking up sweating nightly, constant changing of bed sheets. Overwhelming feeling of being overheated daily either outside or in the home
• Mood changes – Increased irritability, anxiety, and short temperdness
• Sleep disturbances – Difficulty falling and then staying asleep each night
• Brain fog – Trouble concentrating or remembering things
• Joint and Muscular discomfort - Waking up with sore hips every morningfrom sleeping, particularly on one side

The Stack (started 12Jan2026) :

• TestE 7.5mg/week (see bloods - this is to be reduced in half)
• Estrogen 3.75mg/day (= 3 pumps of 0.06% estradiol gel every day)
• GLOW 10iu powered by Biogenix Pharma @biogenix 6.2mg/day (1mg BPC-157/1.2mg TB-500/4mg GHK-Cu) in AM
• 1g black cohosh/day (at night as it also helps with sleep)
• 2g red clover/day (at night too as it's a mild sedative)
• 5g creatine/day
• 1 multivitamin/day
• Probiotics (30+ billion - one with each meal)
• Psyllium Husk 5g/day
• N2Guard 3caps/day (lipid profile has improved drastically including ALT/AST). You can obtain N2Guard here: Get N2Guard

Results (as at 16Mar2026):

• Hot flashes and night sweats – Only momentary and infrequent hot flashes reported once or twice a week
• Mood changes – Mood stabilized
• Sleep disturbances – Once or twice weekly sleep disturbances but overall big improvement
• Brain fog – In remission
• Joint and Muscular discomfort - Hip pain is In remission (KLOW pinned directly into hips)

Final Thoughts:

HarleyGirl's TestE is to be cut in half (see bloods) although she is reporting that she feels better than she ever has! The intention of this community research is to have a reliable place for female members to land who fall into this category, and have a safe place to discuss both symptoms and solutions of menopause, regardless of the detail or otherwise hesitant nature to discuss some of the symptoms. EVO is judgement free and the intent is for this to help all female members when they arrive at this often difficult fork in the road.

Thanks for reading,
HarleyGuy




References:

• https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s12889-024-19280-5?
• https://journals.lww.com/menopausej...rceived_efficacy_of_complementary_and.6.aspx?
• https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11379379/
• https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12037939/
• **https://journals.lww.com/menopausej...rceived_efficacy_of_complementary_and.6.aspx?
  • **"Hormone therapy (HT) is the most effective treatment of VMS. It reduces frequency and severity by 75% and improves health-related quality of life. However, HT use has been in decline since 2002, ... This decline has been associated with increasing use of complementary and alternative medicines (CAMs) for relief of menopausal symptoms. CAMs are a “diverse group of medical and health care systems, practices and products that are not generally considered to be part of conventional medicine."

Female loggers: @Sheshredz @Panda22 @Iron_rose1 @Alice_In_Ironland @ifbbpromusclegirl @Katsumi @RoidRageWife @MrsOhdamnsBOSS @Jigglybuff @RogueCherry @_bubbles @Mrs-RedNeck @queenbee87
Mods/Podcast VIP's: @BeMe @Farmboy @Eddie Haskell@LevButlerov@Mobster@Noah Wixx @Npcclassicphysique champ@Pigsy@s.gentz@toddthelineman@Allupfromhere @Dreamer @Freki @waggat @Yuri @rizzlekdizzle @MarkNV @floridaman1984 @kcates @MarshMonsta @Wheels85 @TAGII @Jigglybuff @R.AP @Pat7x @SPOONMAN366 @RoySimpson @PrinceDaddy @stevesmi @Coolguy @liftedlivingwithlegacy @3xCharm @waggat @Kopite67 @madcap71 @Ohdamn @Swcc @Mr.liftz @waggat @Iron_rose1 @BigVelvetG @Demon_throne @codezz @Farmboy @Bigdan85 @Kopite67 @Nasser1997o2 @b1ak @Corn Gromwell @satxbber @BIGRED_ @rayray01 @fatboy999 @Lipster

This is awesome brother. Will be showing MrsKopite67 this afternoon. Thanks for doing this really stellar piece of work

 

[Coolguy]

It's amazing how a little test can help boost women's moods as well.
Definitely something that should be more discussed for sure.
Good write up @HarleyGuy

 

[waggat]

Understanding Menopause: Symptoms, HRT/TRT, and Helpful Supplements​

View attachment 200127​

Menopause is a natural stage in a woman’s life, typically occurring between ages 45 and 55 when menstrual cycles permanently stop due to (sometimes severly) declining hormone level, particularly estrogen and progesterone. While it’s a normal biological process, the symptoms can significantly impact daily life and mood.

This article will include a summary of the general symptoms of menopause including common medical and supplement intervention. It will conclude with an HRT/TRT/Supplement stack that is currently working wonders for HarleyGirl (the authors better half!). Her bloodwork will be posted which was drawn on 16Mar2026 with adjustments to her menopause stack moving forward including symptom relief both now and moving forward.

Common Symptoms of Menopause​

Menopause affects each woman differently, but some of the most common symptoms include:

• Hot flashes and night sweats – Sudden feelings of heat, often accompanied by sweating and flushing
• Irregular periods – Cycles become unpredictable before stopping completely
• Mood changes – Increased irritability, anxiety, or risk of depression
• Sleep disturbances – Difficulty falling or staying asleep
• Vaginal dryness – Leading to discomfort during intercourse
• Decreased libido – Reduced sexual desire
• Brain fog – Trouble concentrating or remembering things
• Weight gain and slowed metabolism
• Joint and Muscular discomfort - Most commonly reported in the hips

These symptoms are largely driven by hormonal fluctuations, particularly declining estrogen levels.

Medications for Menopause Symptoms​

Several medical treatments can help manage menopause symptoms effectively:

1. Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)​

Hormone therapy is one of the most effective treatments for moderate to severe symptoms.

Estrogen:

• Helps reduce hot flashes, night sweats, and vaginal dryness
• May also help prevent bone loss

Progesterone:

• Endometrial protection: for women with a uterus taking estrogen, progesterone is vital to prevent endometrial hyperplasia (overgrowth of the uterine lining), reducing the risk of uterine cancer.
• Improved sleep and mood: Progesterone has a calming effect, often reducing anxiety and improving sleep quality, particularly when taken at bedtime. Better sleep can mean better mood!

2. Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT)​

How can TRT can help with menopause symptoms?

Low libido (most evidence-backed benefit):

• This is where TRT is most effective and commonly prescribed.
• Can improve sexual desire and arousal
• May increase frequency of satisfying sexual activity
• Often used when estrogen therapy alone doesn’t help

**This condition is sometimes diagnosed as Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder (HSDO) and is identified in studies showing how menopause affects intimacy in relationships.

Energy and fatigue:​

• TRT has been reported to increased energy levels and reduced feelings of exhaustion

Mood and mental clarity:​

• TRT has been reported to help with low mood or mild depressive symptoms including 'brain fog' or difficulty concentrating

Muscle mass and strength

• TRT can help maintain lean muscle and support strength and physical performance

**This may be especially helpful as muscle naturally declines with age.

Supplements That May Help​

Many women turn to natural supplements for symptom relief. While results vary, some commonly used options include:

1. Phytoestrogens​

Plant-based compounds that mimic estrogen in the body.

• Found in soy products and supplements
• May help reduce mild hot flashes

2. Black Cohosh

A popular herbal remedy:

• May help with hot flashes and mood symptoms
• Evidence is mixed, and long-term safety is still being studied

3. Vitamin D and Calcium​

Important for bone health:

• Help prevent osteoporosis, which becomes more common after menopause

4. Omega-3 Fatty Acids​

• May support mood and heart health
• Found in fish oil supplements

5. Magnesium​

• May help improve sleep and reduce anxiety

Lifestyle Strategies That Make a Difference​

In addition to medications and supplements, lifestyle changes can significantly improve symptoms:

• Maintain a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
• Exercise regularly to support mood, weight, and bone health
• Practice stress-reduction techniques like yoga or meditation
• Limit caffeine and alcohol, which can trigger hot flashes
• Keep your sleeping environment cool and comfortable

HarleyGirl's Symptoms and Menopause Stack Solution:​

Symptoms pre-stack:

• Hot flashes and night sweats – Waking up sweating nightly, constant changing of bed sheets. Overwhelming feeling of being overheated daily either outside or in the home
• Mood changes – Increased irritability, anxiety, and short temperdness
• Sleep disturbances – Difficulty falling and then staying asleep each night
• Brain fog – Trouble concentrating or remembering things
• Joint and Muscular discomfort - Waking up with sore hips every morningfrom sleeping, particularly on one side

The Stack (started 12Jan2026) :

• TestE 7.5mg/week (see bloods - this is to be reduced in half)
• Estrogen 3.75mg/day (= 3 pumps of 0.06% estradiol gel every day)
• GLOW 10iu powered by Biogenix Pharma @biogenix 6.2mg/day (1mg BPC-157/1.2mg TB-500/4mg GHK-Cu) in AM
• 1g black cohosh/day (at night as it also helps with sleep)
• 2g red clover/day (at night too as it's a mild sedative)
• 5g creatine/day
• 1 multivitamin/day
• Probiotics (30+ billion - one with each meal)
• Psyllium Husk 5g/day
• N2Guard 3caps/day (lipid profile has improved drastically including ALT/AST). You can obtain N2Guard here: Get N2Guard

Results (as at 16Mar2026):

• Hot flashes and night sweats – Only momentary and infrequent hot flashes reported once or twice a week
• Mood changes – Mood stabilized
• Sleep disturbances – Once or twice weekly sleep disturbances but overall big improvement
• Brain fog – In remission
• Joint and Muscular discomfort - Hip pain is In remission (KLOW pinned directly into hips)

Final Thoughts:

HarleyGirl's TestE is to be cut in half (see bloods) although she is reporting that she feels better than she ever has! The intention of this community research is to have a reliable place for female members to land who fall into this category, and have a safe place to discuss both symptoms and solutions of menopause, regardless of the detail or otherwise hesitant nature to discuss some of the symptoms. EVO is judgement free and the intent is for this to help all female members when they arrive at this often difficult fork in the road.

Thanks for reading,
HarleyGuy




References:

• https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s12889-024-19280-5?
• https://journals.lww.com/menopausej...rceived_efficacy_of_complementary_and.6.aspx?
• https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11379379/
• https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12037939/
• **https://journals.lww.com/menopausej...rceived_efficacy_of_complementary_and.6.aspx?
  • **"Hormone therapy (HT) is the most effective treatment of VMS. It reduces frequency and severity by 75% and improves health-related quality of life. However, HT use has been in decline since 2002, ... This decline has been associated with increasing use of complementary and alternative medicines (CAMs) for relief of menopausal symptoms. CAMs are a “diverse group of medical and health care systems, practices and products that are not generally considered to be part of conventional medicine."

Female loggers: @Sheshredz @Panda22 @Iron_rose1 @Alice_In_Ironland @ifbbpromusclegirl @Katsumi @RoidRageWife @MrsOhdamnsBOSS @Jigglybuff @RogueCherry @_bubbles @Mrs-RedNeck @queenbee87
Mods/Podcast VIP's: @BeMe @Farmboy @Eddie Haskell@LevButlerov@Mobster@Noah Wixx @Npcclassicphysique champ@Pigsy@s.gentz@toddthelineman@Allupfromhere @Dreamer @Freki @waggat @Yuri @rizzlekdizzle @MarkNV @floridaman1984 @kcates @MarshMonsta @Wheels85 @TAGII @Jigglybuff @R.AP @Pat7x @SPOONMAN366 @RoySimpson @PrinceDaddy @stevesmi @Coolguy @liftedlivingwithlegacy @3xCharm @waggat @Kopite67 @madcap71 @Ohdamn @Swcc @Mr.liftz @waggat @Iron_rose1 @BigVelvetG @Demon_throne @codezz @Farmboy @Bigdan85 @Kopite67 @Nasser1997o2 @b1ak @Corn Gromwell @satxbber @BIGRED_ @rayray01 @fatboy999 @Lipster

Awesome topic to look into and awesome write up as well mate!

 

[G-Merc 80]

Great write up, this is where i would love to see some sources have Test Cream as I know my wife would not inject herself but would consider a cream application

 

[liftedlivingwithlegacy]

Understanding Menopause: Symptoms, HRT/TRT, and Helpful Supplements​

View attachment 200127​

Menopause is a natural stage in a woman’s life, typically occurring between ages 45 and 55 when menstrual cycles permanently stop due to (sometimes severly) declining hormone level, particularly estrogen and progesterone. While it’s a normal biological process, the symptoms can significantly impact daily life and mood.

This article will include a summary of the general symptoms of menopause including common medical and supplement intervention. It will conclude with an HRT/TRT/Supplement stack that is currently working wonders for HarleyGirl (the authors better half!). Her bloodwork will be posted which was drawn on 16Mar2026 with adjustments to her menopause stack moving forward including symptom relief both now and moving forward.

Common Symptoms of Menopause​

Menopause affects each woman differently, but some of the most common symptoms include:

• Hot flashes and night sweats – Sudden feelings of heat, often accompanied by sweating and flushing
• Irregular periods – Cycles become unpredictable before stopping completely
• Mood changes – Increased irritability, anxiety, or risk of depression
• Sleep disturbances – Difficulty falling or staying asleep
• Vaginal dryness – Leading to discomfort during intercourse
• Decreased libido – Reduced sexual desire
• Brain fog – Trouble concentrating or remembering things
• Weight gain and slowed metabolism
• Joint and Muscular discomfort - Most commonly reported in the hips

These symptoms are largely driven by hormonal fluctuations, particularly declining estrogen levels.

Medications for Menopause Symptoms​

Several medical treatments can help manage menopause symptoms effectively:

1. Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)​

Hormone therapy is one of the most effective treatments for moderate to severe symptoms.

Estrogen:

• Helps reduce hot flashes, night sweats, and vaginal dryness
• May also help prevent bone loss

Progesterone:

• Endometrial protection: for women with a uterus taking estrogen, progesterone is vital to prevent endometrial hyperplasia (overgrowth of the uterine lining), reducing the risk of uterine cancer.
• Improved sleep and mood: Progesterone has a calming effect, often reducing anxiety and improving sleep quality, particularly when taken at bedtime. Better sleep can mean better mood!

2. Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT)​

How can TRT can help with menopause symptoms?

Low libido (most evidence-backed benefit):

• This is where TRT is most effective and commonly prescribed.
• Can improve sexual desire and arousal
• May increase frequency of satisfying sexual activity
• Often used when estrogen therapy alone doesn’t help

**This condition is sometimes diagnosed as Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder (HSDO) and is identified in studies showing how menopause affects intimacy in relationships.

Energy and fatigue:​

• TRT has been reported to increased energy levels and reduced feelings of exhaustion

Mood and mental clarity:​

• TRT has been reported to help with low mood or mild depressive symptoms including 'brain fog' or difficulty concentrating

Muscle mass and strength

• TRT can help maintain lean muscle and support strength and physical performance

**This may be especially helpful as muscle naturally declines with age.

Supplements That May Help​

Many women turn to natural supplements for symptom relief. While results vary, some commonly used options include:

1. Phytoestrogens​

Plant-based compounds that mimic estrogen in the body.

• Found in soy products and supplements
• May help reduce mild hot flashes

2. Black Cohosh

A popular herbal remedy:

• May help with hot flashes and mood symptoms
• Evidence is mixed, and long-term safety is still being studied

3. Vitamin D and Calcium​

Important for bone health:

• Help prevent osteoporosis, which becomes more common after menopause

4. Omega-3 Fatty Acids​

• May support mood and heart health
• Found in fish oil supplements

5. Magnesium​

• May help improve sleep and reduce anxiety

Lifestyle Strategies That Make a Difference​

In addition to medications and supplements, lifestyle changes can significantly improve symptoms:

• Maintain a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
• Exercise regularly to support mood, weight, and bone health
• Practice stress-reduction techniques like yoga or meditation
• Limit caffeine and alcohol, which can trigger hot flashes
• Keep your sleeping environment cool and comfortable

HarleyGirl's Symptoms and Menopause Stack Solution:​

Symptoms pre-stack:

• Hot flashes and night sweats – Waking up sweating nightly, constant changing of bed sheets. Overwhelming feeling of being overheated daily either outside or in the home
• Mood changes – Increased irritability, anxiety, and short temperdness
• Sleep disturbances – Difficulty falling and then staying asleep each night
• Brain fog – Trouble concentrating or remembering things
• Joint and Muscular discomfort - Waking up with sore hips every morningfrom sleeping, particularly on one side

The Stack (started 12Jan2026) :

• TestE 7.5mg/week (see bloods - this is to be reduced in half)
• Estrogen 3.75mg/day (= 3 pumps of 0.06% estradiol gel every day)
• GLOW 10iu powered by Biogenix Pharma @biogenix 6.2mg/day (1mg BPC-157/1.2mg TB-500/4mg GHK-Cu) in AM
• 1g black cohosh/day (at night as it also helps with sleep)
• 2g red clover/day (at night too as it's a mild sedative)
• 5g creatine/day
• 1 multivitamin/day
• Probiotics (30+ billion - one with each meal)
• Psyllium Husk 5g/day
• N2Guard 3caps/day (lipid profile has improved drastically including ALT/AST). You can obtain N2Guard here: Get N2Guard

Results (as at 16Mar2026):

• Hot flashes and night sweats – Only momentary and infrequent hot flashes reported once or twice a week
• Mood changes – Mood stabilized
• Sleep disturbances – Once or twice weekly sleep disturbances but overall big improvement
• Brain fog – In remission
• Joint and Muscular discomfort - Hip pain is In remission (KLOW pinned directly into hips)

Final Thoughts:

HarleyGirl's TestE is to be cut in half (see bloods) although she is reporting that she feels better than she ever has! The intention of this community research is to have a reliable place for female members to land who fall into this category, and have a safe place to discuss both symptoms and solutions of menopause, regardless of the detail or otherwise hesitant nature to discuss some of the symptoms. EVO is judgement free and the intent is for this to help all female members when they arrive at this often difficult fork in the road.

Thanks for reading,
HarleyGuy




References:

• https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s12889-024-19280-5?
• https://journals.lww.com/menopausej...rceived_efficacy_of_complementary_and.6.aspx?
• https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11379379/
• https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12037939/
• **https://journals.lww.com/menopausej...rceived_efficacy_of_complementary_and.6.aspx?
  • **"Hormone therapy (HT) is the most effective treatment of VMS. It reduces frequency and severity by 75% and improves health-related quality of life. However, HT use has been in decline since 2002, ... This decline has been associated with increasing use of complementary and alternative medicines (CAMs) for relief of menopausal symptoms. CAMs are a “diverse group of medical and health care systems, practices and products that are not generally considered to be part of conventional medicine."

Female loggers: @Sheshredz @Panda22 @Iron_rose1 @Alice_In_Ironland @ifbbpromusclegirl @Katsumi @RoidRageWife @MrsOhdamnsBOSS @Jigglybuff @RogueCherry @_bubbles @Mrs-RedNeck @queenbee87
Mods/Podcast VIP's: @BeMe @Farmboy @Eddie Haskell@LevButlerov@Mobster@Noah Wixx @Npcclassicphysique champ@Pigsy@s.gentz@toddthelineman@Allupfromhere @Dreamer @Freki @waggat @Yuri @rizzlekdizzle @MarkNV @floridaman1984 @kcates @MarshMonsta @Wheels85 @TAGII @Jigglybuff @R.AP @Pat7x @SPOONMAN366 @RoySimpson @PrinceDaddy @stevesmi @Coolguy @liftedlivingwithlegacy @3xCharm @waggat @Kopite67 @madcap71 @Ohdamn @Swcc @Mr.liftz @waggat @Iron_rose1 @BigVelvetG @Demon_throne @codezz @Farmboy @Bigdan85 @Kopite67 @Nasser1997o2 @b1ak @Corn Gromwell @satxbber @BIGRED_ @rayray01 @fatboy999 @Lipster

Hell an interested in this thread as i’m starting to train females 3 of which are post menopause!

 

[HarleyGuy]

Good write up @HarleyGuy

Solid work @HarleyGuy great one for new and existing female members to chime in on

Great Episode!! @Iron_rose1

This is awesome brother. Will be showing MrsKopite67 this afternoon. Thanks for doing this really stellar piece of work

Good write up @HarleyGuy

Awesome topic to look into and awesome write up as well mate!

Great write up

Thanks for all the love boys! I'm hoping we get some EVO sisters on board with this to point newcomers to it that fall into this category. TRT isn't just for gym bros and middle aged men after all.

 

[HarleyGuy]

Test is high yes but i cant see her SHBG levels in the tests, Really need to see Free Androgen Index FAI to determine how much testosterone to administer.

Agreed! Next bloodwork will be much more comprehensive.

 

[HarleyGuy]

Geez peri menopause has been my life (my wife’s life more obviously) the last couple of years and it has been much more of a struggle for me than I would be proud to admit.

It really is, on both the man and the woman. If taught me patience and was probably a glimpse into about a 10% experience of what women go through with Tren'd out boyfriends .

This stack was really life changing for her after struggling for a year.

 

[HarleyGuy]

This is awesome brother. Will be showing MrsKopite67 this afternoon. Thanks for doing this really stellar piece of work

Let us know what she thought of it brother.

 

[HarleyGuy]

Great write up, this is where i would love to see some sources have Test Cream as I know my wife would not inject herself but would consider a cream application

I'm sure if you reach out to @Pigsy or @Allupfromhere they may be able to help you out with this.

 

[HarleyGuy]

Hell an interested in this thread as i’m starting to train females 3 of which are post menopause!

Thanks for the interest bro. I think a good start would be to see if they're comfortable sharing their bloodwork with you (and us) and we can go from there. There are definite solutions as seen above just with my own partner as an example.

 

[willipede]

Nice write up, and very interesting the roles hormones play in different sets

How would DHEAs fit into all this?

 

[rizzlekdizzle]

Androfemme test gel can be prescribed by a GP

 

[HarleyGuy]

Nice write up, and very interesting the roles hormones play in different sets

How would DHEAs fit into all this?

Excellent question!

DHEA would act as a precursor to both estrogen and testosterone. Oral DHEA supplementation is hit or miss in studies as to it's efficacy for the general symptoms identified in the article but it has been shown to help with some. They do have an "intrarosa" administration method of DHEA (just look that up - it's a vaginal suppository) which is the one form of DHEA supplementation that has been clinically shown to help greatly with the side effect that can make intercourse painful for menopausal women.

In a nutshell, oral DHEA would be a 'first kick at the cat' using oral supplementation if she didn't want to go straight for the exogenous HRT/TRT route, be that via creams or pinning.

 

[HarleyGuy]

Androfemme test gel can be prescribed by a GP

100% the test gel/cream is an option. I found however that until we started pinning TestE her Total T levels were all over the place from one bloodwork to the next. The gel was worse than the cream for consistent T levels whereas the pinning gave the most consistent results. As it turns out we are going to go down to 3.75mg/week and retest in about 8-10 weeks as this has been two blood tests where she came back too much above range when pinning 7.5mg/week.

Next bloods as well we are going to get much more comprehensive bloodwork including SHBG and FreeT with e2 and progesterone amongst others.

 

[Kopite67]

Let us know what she thought of it brother.

She found it very interesting and has obvious questions. First was the Test E is it IM?

 

[HarleyGuy]

She found it very interesting and has obvious questions. First was the Test E is it IM?

Yes... let her know that HarleyGirl doesn't feel a thing when I pin her. I use a 25g 1" pin and I go delt or glute and rotate sites over 4 weeks.
Many will be sorta gun shy about the idea of IM but once you've done it once (and dart it in fast) she'll see it's very easy with such low volume of oil being injected and with proper site selection she will feel nothing.

You can check any site injection for her you want to try here: https://trtinjections.com/

 

[LevButlerov]

Understanding Menopause: Symptoms, HRT/TRT, and Helpful Supplements​

View attachment 200127​

Menopause is a natural stage in a woman’s life, typically occurring between ages 45 and 55 when menstrual cycles permanently stop due to (sometimes severly) declining hormone level, particularly estrogen and progesterone. While it’s a normal biological process, the symptoms can significantly impact daily life and mood.

This article will include a summary of the general symptoms of menopause including common medical and supplement intervention. It will conclude with an HRT/TRT/Supplement stack that is currently working wonders for HarleyGirl (the authors better half!). Her bloodwork will be posted which was drawn on 16Mar2026 with adjustments to her menopause stack moving forward including symptom relief both now and moving forward.

Common Symptoms of Menopause​

Menopause affects each woman differently, but some of the most common symptoms include:

• Hot flashes and night sweats – Sudden feelings of heat, often accompanied by sweating and flushing
• Irregular periods – Cycles become unpredictable before stopping completely
• Mood changes – Increased irritability, anxiety, or risk of depression
• Sleep disturbances – Difficulty falling or staying asleep
• Vaginal dryness – Leading to discomfort during intercourse
• Decreased libido – Reduced sexual desire
• Brain fog – Trouble concentrating or remembering things
• Weight gain and slowed metabolism
• Joint and Muscular discomfort - Most commonly reported in the hips

These symptoms are largely driven by hormonal fluctuations, particularly declining estrogen levels.

Medications for Menopause Symptoms​

Several medical treatments can help manage menopause symptoms effectively:

1. Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)​

Hormone therapy is one of the most effective treatments for moderate to severe symptoms.

Estrogen:

• Helps reduce hot flashes, night sweats, and vaginal dryness
• May also help prevent bone loss

Progesterone:

• Endometrial protection: for women with a uterus taking estrogen, progesterone is vital to prevent endometrial hyperplasia (overgrowth of the uterine lining), reducing the risk of uterine cancer.
• Improved sleep and mood: Progesterone has a calming effect, often reducing anxiety and improving sleep quality, particularly when taken at bedtime. Better sleep can mean better mood!

2. Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT)​

How can TRT can help with menopause symptoms?

Low libido (most evidence-backed benefit):

• This is where TRT is most effective and commonly prescribed.
• Can improve sexual desire and arousal
• May increase frequency of satisfying sexual activity
• Often used when estrogen therapy alone doesn’t help

**This condition is sometimes diagnosed as Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder (HSDO) and is identified in studies showing how menopause affects intimacy in relationships.

Energy and fatigue:​

• TRT has been reported to increased energy levels and reduced feelings of exhaustion

Mood and mental clarity:​

• TRT has been reported to help with low mood or mild depressive symptoms including 'brain fog' or difficulty concentrating

Muscle mass and strength

• TRT can help maintain lean muscle and support strength and physical performance

**This may be especially helpful as muscle naturally declines with age.

Supplements That May Help​

Many women turn to natural supplements for symptom relief. While results vary, some commonly used options include:

1. Phytoestrogens​

Plant-based compounds that mimic estrogen in the body.

• Found in soy products and supplements
• May help reduce mild hot flashes

2. Black Cohosh

A popular herbal remedy:

• May help with hot flashes and mood symptoms
• Evidence is mixed, and long-term safety is still being studied

3. Vitamin D and Calcium​

Important for bone health:

• Help prevent osteoporosis, which becomes more common after menopause

4. Omega-3 Fatty Acids​

• May support mood and heart health
• Found in fish oil supplements

5. Magnesium​

• May help improve sleep and reduce anxiety

Lifestyle Strategies That Make a Difference​

In addition to medications and supplements, lifestyle changes can significantly improve symptoms:

• Maintain a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
• Exercise regularly to support mood, weight, and bone health
• Practice stress-reduction techniques like yoga or meditation
• Limit caffeine and alcohol, which can trigger hot flashes
• Keep your sleeping environment cool and comfortable

HarleyGirl's Symptoms and Menopause Stack Solution:​

Symptoms pre-stack:

• Hot flashes and night sweats – Waking up sweating nightly, constant changing of bed sheets. Overwhelming feeling of being overheated daily either outside or in the home
• Mood changes – Increased irritability, anxiety, and short temperdness
• Sleep disturbances – Difficulty falling and then staying asleep each night
• Brain fog – Trouble concentrating or remembering things
• Joint and Muscular discomfort - Waking up with sore hips every morningfrom sleeping, particularly on one side

The Stack (started 12Jan2026) :

• TestE 7.5mg/week (see bloods - this is to be reduced in half)
• Estrogen 3.75mg/day (= 3 pumps of 0.06% estradiol gel every day)
• GLOW 10iu powered by Biogenix Pharma @biogenix 6.2mg/day (1mg BPC-157/1.2mg TB-500/4mg GHK-Cu) in AM
• 1g black cohosh/day (at night as it also helps with sleep)
• 2g red clover/day (at night too as it's a mild sedative)
• 5g creatine/day
• 1 multivitamin/day
• Probiotics (30+ billion - one with each meal)
• Psyllium Husk 5g/day
• N2Guard 3caps/day (lipid profile has improved drastically including ALT/AST). You can obtain N2Guard here: Get N2Guard

Results (as at 16Mar2026):

• Hot flashes and night sweats – Only momentary and infrequent hot flashes reported once or twice a week
• Mood changes – Mood stabilized
• Sleep disturbances – Once or twice weekly sleep disturbances but overall big improvement
• Brain fog – In remission
• Joint and Muscular discomfort - Hip pain is In remission (KLOW pinned directly into hips)

Final Thoughts:

HarleyGirl's TestE is to be cut in half (see bloods) although she is reporting that she feels better than she ever has! The intention of this community research is to have a reliable place for female members to land who fall into this category, and have a safe place to discuss both symptoms and solutions of menopause, regardless of the detail or otherwise hesitant nature to discuss some of the symptoms. EVO is judgement free and the intent is for this to help all female members when they arrive at this often difficult fork in the road.

Thanks for reading,
HarleyGuy




References:

• https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s12889-024-19280-5?
• https://journals.lww.com/menopausej...rceived_efficacy_of_complementary_and.6.aspx?
• https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11379379/
• https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12037939/
• **https://journals.lww.com/menopausej...rceived_efficacy_of_complementary_and.6.aspx?
  • **"Hormone therapy (HT) is the most effective treatment of VMS. It reduces frequency and severity by 75% and improves health-related quality of life. However, HT use has been in decline since 2002, ... This decline has been associated with increasing use of complementary and alternative medicines (CAMs) for relief of menopausal symptoms. CAMs are a “diverse group of medical and health care systems, practices and products that are not generally considered to be part of conventional medicine."

Female loggers: @Sheshredz @Panda22 @Iron_rose1 @Alice_In_Ironland @ifbbpromusclegirl @Katsumi @RoidRageWife @MrsOhdamnsBOSS @Jigglybuff @RogueCherry @_bubbles @Mrs-RedNeck @queenbee87
Mods/Podcast VIP's: @BeMe @Farmboy @Eddie Haskell@LevButlerov@Mobster@Noah Wixx @Npcclassicphysique champ@Pigsy@s.gentz@toddthelineman@Allupfromhere @Dreamer @Freki @waggat @Yuri @rizzlekdizzle @MarkNV @floridaman1984 @kcates @MarshMonsta @Wheels85 @TAGII @Jigglybuff @R.AP @Pat7x @SPOONMAN366 @RoySimpson @PrinceDaddy @stevesmi @Coolguy @liftedlivingwithlegacy @3xCharm @waggat @Kopite67 @madcap71 @Ohdamn @Swcc @Mr.liftz @waggat @Iron_rose1 @BigVelvetG @Demon_throne @codezz @Farmboy @Bigdan85 @Kopite67 @Nasser1997o2 @b1ak @Corn Gromwell @satxbber @BIGRED_ @rayray01 @fatboy999 @Lipster

awesome menopause article @HarleyGuy this is long overdue, good share too.

Her bloods look decent overall but she does look mildly anemic with RBC 3.94, hemoglobin 117 and platelets 145, so I would not assume pure iron deficiency yet from CBC alone, this is what I did think when I originally saw the bloods (iron deficiency).
Testosterone is a bit high for female range at 3.9 so cutting the Test E in half makes sense, HDL is low at 0.89 so keep cardio in, and for iron support push more red meat, liver if she likes the taste, egg yolks, spinach, then add sublingual iron supplement. Try to get that in range.

I'm not sure, how much red meat does she usually eat? i know shes anti fish

if you can add to her stack about 50mgs iron ed with vitamin C higher dose, Calcium and sublingual b12 this would be a good start also check how much folate shes taking in as well.

 

[HarleyGuy]

for iron support push more red meat, liver if she likes the taste, egg yolks, spinach, then add sublingual iron supplement. Try to get that in range.

She's upstairs eating a striploin steak I made for her on the BBQ as we speak! Sublingual iron, great idea!

I'm not sure, how much red meat does she usually eat? i know shes anti fish

Ha, you remember that man you are The Entity, ya she's super anti seafood and thinks it's 'gross' LOL. I'll make her a steak 3x week moving forward. If I don't BBQ it she won't make herself one so I'm on it.

if you can add to her stack about 50mgs iron ed with vitamin C higher dose, Calcium and sublingual b12 this would be a good start also check how much folate shes taking in as well.

Great advice! I'm on it. I have injectable b12 pharma grade here I could do 500mcg/week IM as well and have given her this before too.

 

[LevButlerov]

She's upstairs eating a striploin steak I made for her on the BBQ as we speak! Sublingual iron, great idea!

perfect keep her on the steak at least 1x/day or 3x/week if she refuses @HarleyGuy

Ha, you remember that man you are The Entity, ya she's super anti seafood and thinks it's 'gross' LOL. I'll make her a steak 3x week moving forward. If I don't BBQ it she won't make herself one so I'm on it.

yes I remember she's anti fish lol

Great advice! I'm on it. I have injectable b12 pharma grade here I could do 500mcg/week IM as well and have given her this before too.

I would go with sublingual b12 to start no need to pin her

 

[HarleyGuy]

perfect keep her on the steak at least 1x/day or 3x/week if she refuses @HarleyGuy

yes I remember she's anti fish lol

I would go with sublingual b12 to start no need to pin her

Yessir! I'm on it thank you! Great advice.

 

[LevButlerov]

Yessir! I'm on it thank you! Great advice.

EVO family love and support her way @HarleyGuy

 

[Ccbarbelle]

Understanding Menopause: Symptoms, HRT/TRT, and Helpful Supplements​

View attachment 200127​

Menopause is a natural stage in a woman’s life, typically occurring between ages 45 and 55 when menstrual cycles permanently stop due to (sometimes severly) declining hormone level, particularly estrogen and progesterone. While it’s a normal biological process, the symptoms can significantly impact daily life and mood.

This article will include a summary of the general symptoms of menopause including common medical and supplement intervention. It will conclude with an HRT/TRT/Supplement stack that is currently working wonders for HarleyGirl (the authors better half!). Her bloodwork will be posted which was drawn on 16Mar2026 with adjustments to her menopause stack moving forward including symptom relief both now and moving forward.

Common Symptoms of Menopause​

Menopause affects each woman differently, but some of the most common symptoms include:

• Hot flashes and night sweats – Sudden feelings of heat, often accompanied by sweating and flushing
• Irregular periods – Cycles become unpredictable before stopping completely
• Mood changes – Increased irritability, anxiety, or risk of depression
• Sleep disturbances – Difficulty falling or staying asleep
• Vaginal dryness – Leading to discomfort during intercourse
• Decreased libido – Reduced sexual desire
• Brain fog – Trouble concentrating or remembering things
• Weight gain and slowed metabolism
• Joint and Muscular discomfort - Most commonly reported in the hips

These symptoms are largely driven by hormonal fluctuations, particularly declining estrogen levels.

Medications for Menopause Symptoms​

Several medical treatments can help manage menopause symptoms effectively:

1. Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)​

Hormone therapy is one of the most effective treatments for moderate to severe symptoms.

Estrogen:

• Helps reduce hot flashes, night sweats, and vaginal dryness
• May also help prevent bone loss

Progesterone:

• Endometrial protection: for women with a uterus taking estrogen, progesterone is vital to prevent endometrial hyperplasia (overgrowth of the uterine lining), reducing the risk of uterine cancer.
• Improved sleep and mood: Progesterone has a calming effect, often reducing anxiety and improving sleep quality, particularly when taken at bedtime. Better sleep can mean better mood!

2. Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT)​

How can TRT can help with menopause symptoms?

Low libido (most evidence-backed benefit):

• This is where TRT is most effective and commonly prescribed.
• Can improve sexual desire and arousal
• May increase frequency of satisfying sexual activity
• Often used when estrogen therapy alone doesn’t help

**This condition is sometimes diagnosed as Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder (HSDO) and is identified in studies showing how menopause affects intimacy in relationships.

Energy and fatigue:​

• TRT has been reported to increased energy levels and reduced feelings of exhaustion

Mood and mental clarity:​

• TRT has been reported to help with low mood or mild depressive symptoms including 'brain fog' or difficulty concentrating

Muscle mass and strength

• TRT can help maintain lean muscle and support strength and physical performance

**This may be especially helpful as muscle naturally declines with age.

Supplements That May Help​

Many women turn to natural supplements for symptom relief. While results vary, some commonly used options include:

1. Phytoestrogens​

Plant-based compounds that mimic estrogen in the body.

• Found in soy products and supplements
• May help reduce mild hot flashes

2. Black Cohosh

A popular herbal remedy:

• May help with hot flashes and mood symptoms
• Evidence is mixed, and long-term safety is still being studied

3. Vitamin D and Calcium​

Important for bone health:

• Help prevent osteoporosis, which becomes more common after menopause

4. Omega-3 Fatty Acids​

• May support mood and heart health
• Found in fish oil supplements

5. Magnesium​

• May help improve sleep and reduce anxiety

Lifestyle Strategies That Make a Difference​

In addition to medications and supplements, lifestyle changes can significantly improve symptoms:

• Maintain a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
• Exercise regularly to support mood, weight, and bone health
• Practice stress-reduction techniques like yoga or meditation
• Limit caffeine and alcohol, which can trigger hot flashes
• Keep your sleeping environment cool and comfortable

HarleyGirl's Symptoms and Menopause Stack Solution:​

Symptoms pre-stack:

• Hot flashes and night sweats – Waking up sweating nightly, constant changing of bed sheets. Overwhelming feeling of being overheated daily either outside or in the home
• Mood changes – Increased irritability, anxiety, and short temperdness
• Sleep disturbances – Difficulty falling and then staying asleep each night
• Brain fog – Trouble concentrating or remembering things
• Joint and Muscular discomfort - Waking up with sore hips every morningfrom sleeping, particularly on one side

The Stack (started 12Jan2026) :

• TestE 7.5mg/week (see bloods - this is to be reduced in half)
• Estrogen 3.75mg/day (= 3 pumps of 0.06% estradiol gel every day)
• GLOW 10iu powered by Biogenix Pharma @biogenix 6.2mg/day (1mg BPC-157/1.2mg TB-500/4mg GHK-Cu) in AM
• 1g black cohosh/day (at night as it also helps with sleep)
• 2g red clover/day (at night too as it's a mild sedative)
• 5g creatine/day
• 1 multivitamin/day
• Probiotics (30+ billion - one with each meal)
• Psyllium Husk 5g/day
• N2Guard 3caps/day (lipid profile has improved drastically including ALT/AST). You can obtain N2Guard here: Get N2Guard

Results (as at 16Mar2026):

• Hot flashes and night sweats – Only momentary and infrequent hot flashes reported once or twice a week
• Mood changes – Mood stabilized
• Sleep disturbances – Once or twice weekly sleep disturbances but overall big improvement
• Brain fog – In remission
• Joint and Muscular discomfort - Hip pain is In remission (KLOW pinned directly into hips)

Final Thoughts:

HarleyGirl's TestE is to be cut in half (see bloods) although she is reporting that she feels better than she ever has! The intention of this community research is to have a reliable place for female members to land who fall into this category, and have a safe place to discuss both symptoms and solutions of menopause, regardless of the detail or otherwise hesitant nature to discuss some of the symptoms. EVO is judgement free and the intent is for this to help all female members when they arrive at this often difficult fork in the road.

Thanks for reading,
HarleyGuy




References:

• https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s12889-024-19280-5?
• https://journals.lww.com/menopausej...rceived_efficacy_of_complementary_and.6.aspx?
• https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11379379/
• https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12037939/
• **https://journals.lww.com/menopausej...rceived_efficacy_of_complementary_and.6.aspx?
  • **"Hormone therapy (HT) is the most effective treatment of VMS. It reduces frequency and severity by 75% and improves health-related quality of life. However, HT use has been in decline since 2002, ... This decline has been associated with increasing use of complementary and alternative medicines (CAMs) for relief of menopausal symptoms. CAMs are a “diverse group of medical and health care systems, practices and products that are not generally considered to be part of conventional medicine."

Female loggers: @Sheshredz @Panda22 @Iron_rose1 @Alice_In_Ironland @ifbbpromusclegirl @Katsumi @RoidRageWife @MrsOhdamnsBOSS @Jigglybuff @RogueCherry @_bubbles @Mrs-RedNeck @queenbee87
Mods/Podcast VIP's: @BeMe @Farmboy @Eddie Haskell@LevButlerov@Mobster@Noah Wixx @Npcclassicphysique champ@Pigsy@s.gentz@toddthelineman@Allupfromhere @Dreamer @Freki @waggat @Yuri @rizzlekdizzle @MarkNV @floridaman1984 @kcates @MarshMonsta @Wheels85 @TAGII @Jigglybuff @R.AP @Pat7x @SPOONMAN366 @RoySimpson @PrinceDaddy @stevesmi @Coolguy @liftedlivingwithlegacy @3xCharm @waggat @Kopite67 @madcap71 @Ohdamn @Swcc @Mr.liftz @waggat @Iron_rose1 @BigVelvetG @Demon_throne @codezz @Farmboy @Bigdan85 @Kopite67 @Nasser1997o2 @b1ak @Corn Gromwell @satxbber @BIGRED_ @rayray01 @fatboy999 @Lipster

I see there is no progesterone here? I assume she must not have a uterus?

 

[Freki]

I see there is no progesterone here? I assume she must not have a uterus?

Progesterone:

• Endometrial protection: for women with a uterus taking estrogen, progesterone is vital to prevent endometrial hyperplasia (overgrowth of the uterine lining), reducing the risk of uterine cancer.
• Improved sleep and mood: Progesterone has a calming effect, often reducing anxiety and improving sleep quality, particularly when taken at bedtime. Better sleep can mean better mood!

 

[LevButlerov]

I see there is no progesterone here? I assume she must not have a uterus?

Seems there is progesterone in the system @Ccbarbelle as @Freki pointed out @HarleyGuy

Progesterone:

• Endometrial protection: for women with a uterus taking estrogen, progesterone is vital to prevent endometrial hyperplasia (overgrowth of the uterine lining), reducing the risk of uterine cancer.
• Improved sleep and mood: Progesterone has a calming effect, often reducing anxiety and improving sleep quality, particularly when taken at bedtime. Better sleep can mean better mood!

 

[HarleyGuy]

I see there is no progesterone here? I assume she must not have a uterus?

Ahhh very good catch @Ccbarbelle and correct she has no uterus. She had such bad endometriosis her whole life that she had a hysterectomy after her twins were born.

 

[Ccbarbelle]

Ahhh very good catch @Ccbarbelle and correct she has no uterus. She had such bad endometriosis her whole life that she had a hysterectomy after her twins were born.

Thanks for the update, it is critical women with a uterus do not take estrogen without progesterone so I wanted to be sure! A lot of people do not know this - including doctors

 

[Ccbarbelle]

Seems there is progesterone in the system @Ccbarbelle as @Freki pointed out @HarleyGuy

I think he is quoting the benefits of progesterone here, but he did not list it in her protocol which is why I asked.

 

[Ccbarbelle]

re: iron supplementation due to low levels in labs, mine were rock bottom low on labs but a hair tissue test showed my tissues were absolutely saturated with iron.

 

[Kingofspades712]

Understanding Menopause: Symptoms, HRT/TRT, and Helpful Supplements​

View attachment 200127​

Menopause is a natural stage in a woman’s life, typically occurring between ages 45 and 55 when menstrual cycles permanently stop due to (sometimes severly) declining hormone level, particularly estrogen and progesterone. While it’s a normal biological process, the symptoms can significantly impact daily life and mood.

This article will include a summary of the general symptoms of menopause including common medical and supplement intervention. It will conclude with an HRT/TRT/Supplement stack that is currently working wonders for HarleyGirl (the authors better half!). Her bloodwork will be posted which was drawn on 16Mar2026 with adjustments to her menopause stack moving forward including symptom relief both now and moving forward.

Common Symptoms of Menopause​

Menopause affects each woman differently, but some of the most common symptoms include:

• Hot flashes and night sweats – Sudden feelings of heat, often accompanied by sweating and flushing
• Irregular periods – Cycles become unpredictable before stopping completely
• Mood changes – Increased irritability, anxiety, or risk of depression
• Sleep disturbances – Difficulty falling or staying asleep
• Vaginal dryness – Leading to discomfort during intercourse
• Decreased libido – Reduced sexual desire
• Brain fog – Trouble concentrating or remembering things
• Weight gain and slowed metabolism
• Joint and Muscular discomfort - Most commonly reported in the hips

These symptoms are largely driven by hormonal fluctuations, particularly declining estrogen levels.

Medications for Menopause Symptoms​

Several medical treatments can help manage menopause symptoms effectively:

1. Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)​

Hormone therapy is one of the most effective treatments for moderate to severe symptoms.

Estrogen:

• Helps reduce hot flashes, night sweats, and vaginal dryness
• May also help prevent bone loss

Progesterone:

• Endometrial protection: for women with a uterus taking estrogen, progesterone is vital to prevent endometrial hyperplasia (overgrowth of the uterine lining), reducing the risk of uterine cancer.
• Improved sleep and mood: Progesterone has a calming effect, often reducing anxiety and improving sleep quality, particularly when taken at bedtime. Better sleep can mean better mood!

2. Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT)​

How can TRT can help with menopause symptoms?

Low libido (most evidence-backed benefit):

• This is where TRT is most effective and commonly prescribed.
• Can improve sexual desire and arousal
• May increase frequency of satisfying sexual activity
• Often used when estrogen therapy alone doesn’t help

**This condition is sometimes diagnosed as Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder (HSDO) and is identified in studies showing how menopause affects intimacy in relationships.

Energy and fatigue:​

• TRT has been reported to increased energy levels and reduced feelings of exhaustion

Mood and mental clarity:​

• TRT has been reported to help with low mood or mild depressive symptoms including 'brain fog' or difficulty concentrating

Muscle mass and strength

• TRT can help maintain lean muscle and support strength and physical performance

**This may be especially helpful as muscle naturally declines with age.

Supplements That May Help​

Many women turn to natural supplements for symptom relief. While results vary, some commonly used options include:

1. Phytoestrogens​

Plant-based compounds that mimic estrogen in the body.

• Found in soy products and supplements
• May help reduce mild hot flashes

2. Black Cohosh

A popular herbal remedy:

• May help with hot flashes and mood symptoms
• Evidence is mixed, and long-term safety is still being studied

3. Vitamin D and Calcium​

Important for bone health:

• Help prevent osteoporosis, which becomes more common after menopause

4. Omega-3 Fatty Acids​

• May support mood and heart health
• Found in fish oil supplements

5. Magnesium​

• May help improve sleep and reduce anxiety

Lifestyle Strategies That Make a Difference​

In addition to medications and supplements, lifestyle changes can significantly improve symptoms:

• Maintain a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
• Exercise regularly to support mood, weight, and bone health
• Practice stress-reduction techniques like yoga or meditation
• Limit caffeine and alcohol, which can trigger hot flashes
• Keep your sleeping environment cool and comfortable

HarleyGirl's Symptoms and Menopause Stack Solution:​

Symptoms pre-stack:

• Hot flashes and night sweats – Waking up sweating nightly, constant changing of bed sheets. Overwhelming feeling of being overheated daily either outside or in the home
• Mood changes – Increased irritability, anxiety, and short temperdness
• Sleep disturbances – Difficulty falling and then staying asleep each night
• Brain fog – Trouble concentrating or remembering things
• Joint and Muscular discomfort - Waking up with sore hips every morningfrom sleeping, particularly on one side

The Stack (started 12Jan2026) :

• TestE 7.5mg/week (see bloods - this is to be reduced in half)
• Estrogen 3.75mg/day (= 3 pumps of 0.06% estradiol gel every day)
• GLOW 10iu powered by Biogenix Pharma @biogenix 6.2mg/day (1mg BPC-157/1.2mg TB-500/4mg GHK-Cu) in AM
• 1g black cohosh/day (at night as it also helps with sleep)
• 2g red clover/day (at night too as it's a mild sedative)
• 5g creatine/day
• 1 multivitamin/day
• Probiotics (30+ billion - one with each meal)
• Psyllium Husk 5g/day
• N2Guard 3caps/day (lipid profile has improved drastically including ALT/AST). You can obtain N2Guard here: Get N2Guard

Results (as at 16Mar2026):

• Hot flashes and night sweats – Only momentary and infrequent hot flashes reported once or twice a week
• Mood changes – Mood stabilized
• Sleep disturbances – Once or twice weekly sleep disturbances but overall big improvement
• Brain fog – In remission
• Joint and Muscular discomfort - Hip pain is In remission (KLOW pinned directly into hips)

Final Thoughts:

HarleyGirl's TestE is to be cut in half (see bloods) although she is reporting that she feels better than she ever has! The intention of this community research is to have a reliable place for female members to land who fall into this category, and have a safe place to discuss both symptoms and solutions of menopause, regardless of the detail or otherwise hesitant nature to discuss some of the symptoms. EVO is judgement free and the intent is for this to help all female members when they arrive at this often difficult fork in the road.

Thanks for reading,
HarleyGuy




References:

• https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s12889-024-19280-5?
• https://journals.lww.com/menopausej...rceived_efficacy_of_complementary_and.6.aspx?
• https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11379379/
• https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12037939/
• **https://journals.lww.com/menopausej...rceived_efficacy_of_complementary_and.6.aspx?
  • **"Hormone therapy (HT) is the most effective treatment of VMS. It reduces frequency and severity by 75% and improves health-related quality of life. However, HT use has been in decline since 2002, ... This decline has been associated with increasing use of complementary and alternative medicines (CAMs) for relief of menopausal symptoms. CAMs are a “diverse group of medical and health care systems, practices and products that are not generally considered to be part of conventional medicine."

Female loggers: @Sheshredz @Panda22 @Iron_rose1 @Alice_In_Ironland @ifbbpromusclegirl @Katsumi @RoidRageWife @MrsOhdamnsBOSS @Jigglybuff @RogueCherry @_bubbles @Mrs-RedNeck @queenbee87
Mods/Podcast VIP's: @BeMe @Farmboy @Eddie Haskell@LevButlerov@Mobster@Noah Wixx @Npcclassicphysique champ@Pigsy@s.gentz@toddthelineman@Allupfromhere @Dreamer @Freki @waggat @Yuri @rizzlekdizzle @MarkNV @floridaman1984 @kcates @MarshMonsta @Wheels85 @TAGII @Jigglybuff @R.AP @Pat7x @SPOONMAN366 @RoySimpson @PrinceDaddy @stevesmi @Coolguy @liftedlivingwithlegacy @3xCharm @waggat @Kopite67 @madcap71 @Ohdamn @Swcc @Mr.liftz @waggat @Iron_rose1 @BigVelvetG @Demon_throne @codezz @Farmboy @Bigdan85 @Kopite67 @Nasser1997o2 @b1ak @Corn Gromwell @satxbber @BIGRED_ @rayray01 @fatboy999 @Lipster

This is fucking awesome bro. Thank you and your wife for sharing this!

 

[LevButlerov]

I think he is quoting the benefits of progesterone here, but he did not list it in her protocol which is why I asked.

for sure progesterone is a benefit sister

 

[HarleyGuy]

This is fucking awesome bro. Thank you and your wife for sharing this!

Awesome bro thanks for the feedback! I'm glad this Community Research is coming back to life to help our members. Thanks for appreciating and reading it.

 

[HarleyGuy]

re: iron supplementation due to low levels in labs, mine were rock bottom low on labs but a hair tissue test showed my tissues were absolutely saturated with iron.

Man this is interesting. HarleyGirl has had low iron in her labs but never thought of the hair test.

Her platelets are quite low too but labs for everything else is fine.

 

[Mobster]

For the sake of accuracy. Menopause is nature working (as is puberty). We live longer than we did as cavemen etc and so they were far less likely to deal with it. It's natures way of stopping us having kids when we're too old. It's somewhat cruel of nature to not align male and females at the same time.

I recall just how bad it was for my, then, 40 year old mother.

Now, that said, we're all about enhancing what we have. Ergo means and methods of smoothing the ride, bringing back the libido and so on are all to the good

 

[HarleyGuy]

For the sake of accuracy. Menopause is nature working (as is puberty). We live longer than we did as cavemen etc and so they were far less likely to deal with it. It's natures way of stopping us having kids when we're too old. It's somewhat cruel of nature to not align male and females at the same time.

I recall just how bad it was for my, then, 40 year old mother.

Now, that said, we're all about enhancing what we have. Ergo means and methods of smoothing the ride, bringing back the libido and so on are all to the good

Well said! And yes not cool of nature to not align it LOL

 

[Photographer]

Yes... let her know that HarleyGirl doesn't feel a thing when I pin her. I use a 25g 1" pin and I go delt or glute and rotate sites over 4 weeks.
Many will be sorta gun shy about the idea of IM but once you've done it once (and dart it in fast) she'll see it's very easy with such low volume of oil being injected and with proper site selection she will feel nothing.

You can check any site injection for her you want to try here: https://trtinjections.com/

I have started FemTest today @HarleyGuy . I pinned it Sub-Q in my outer thigh. Is this a good option, or would it definitely need to be pinned IM for better/faster results?

 

[Ccbarbelle]

I'm sure if you reach out to @Pigsy or @Allupfromhere they may be able to help you out with this.

I would be very cautious with cream unless you know for certain she will not struggle with conversion to DHT. I find in my clients creams are highly unpredictable, hard to control, have too much nuance like hydration, thyroid issues etc that affect absorption. They see hair shedding as a main concern. I refused cream adamantly and went to injections I use an insulin needle it is the tiniest little amount. A lot of women who insist on creams need to consider Dutasteride

 

[Ccbarbelle]

I have started FemTest today @HarleyGuy . I pinned it Sub-Q in my outer thigh. Is this a good option, or would it definitely need to be pinned IM for better/faster results?

hi..not harleyguy but I'll chime in, I pin subQ and have for a year. I also inject my friends and their levels are all great. One of them had zero change with cream and went too high on injx so we had to scale it back.

 

[Ccbarbelle]

I'd just like to chime in here, perimenopause is fucking brutal. I do my very best to maintain my health and I still suffer out of the blue with symptoms. Today I am in such a bad mood I wish I could walk away from myself. Like I don't even want to spend the day with me LOL...and there is no reason for it....

 

[HarleyGuy]

I have started FemTest today @HarleyGuy . I pinned it Sub-Q in my outer thigh. Is this a good option, or would it definitely need to be pinned IM for better/faster results?

I wrote back in your log as well @Photographer but subQ is totally fine for females who are injecting low concentration and lower volume. If anything subQ can be arguably better in females to mitigate any spike in T levels that may come from IM depending on the ester half life.

 

[HarleyGuy]

I'd just like to chime in here, perimenopause is fucking brutal. I do my very best to maintain my health and I still suffer out of the blue with symptoms. Today I am in such a bad mood I wish I could walk away from myself. Like I don't even want to spend the day with me LOL...and there is no reason for it....

Like being perpetually "hangry"

 

[Ccbarbelle]

Like being perpetually "hangry"

It’s embarrassing lol. Luckily I’ve seemed to come around

 

[HarleyGuy]

It’s embarrassing lol. Luckily I’ve seemed to come around

haha deep breaths!

 

[Photographer]

hi..not harleyguy but I'll chime in, I pin subQ and have for a year. I also inject my friends and their levels are all great. One of them had zero change with cream and went too high on injx so we had to scale it back.

Hi Sister,
Thanks for that info, I am not a fan of creams either. I just don't think they do the job, to me creams would treat topical stuff, like dry skin, and creeping skin, (feels like bugs crawling over your body) which as we know could also be a symptom of the menopausal spectrum. I think I'll be sticking with the SubQ injections. Going IM is a little daunting for me.

 

[Photographer]

I wrote back in your log as well @Photographer but subQ is totally fine for females who are injecting low concentration and lower volume. If anything subQ can be arguably better in females to mitigate any spike in T levels that may come from IM depending on the ester half life.

Thank you @HarleyGuy , yeah I think I'll definitely be sticking with SubQ.

 

[Photographer]

I wrote back in your log as well @Photographer but subQ is totally fine for females who are injecting low concentration and lower volume. If anything subQ can be arguably better in females to mitigate any spike in T levels that may come from IM depending on the ester half life.

Thank you @HarleyGuy

 

[Ccbarbelle]

Hi Sister,
Thanks for that info, I am not a fan of creams either. I just don't think they do the job, to me creams would treat topical stuff, like dry skin, and creeping skin, (feels like bugs crawling over your body) which as we know could also be a symptom of the menopausal spectrum. I think I'll be sticking with the SubQ injections. Going IM is a little daunting for me.

I do bi-est cream as I’m not at a high enough dose to be taking inj estrogen but when I hit full meno I’ll go that route for now the cream is such a tiny amt and it’s working well so far. I just don’t want the fear of DHT conversion from test cream

 

[Photographer]

I do bi-est cream as I’m not at a high enough dose to be taking inj estrogen but when I hit full meno I’ll go that route for now the cream is such a tiny amt and it’s working well so far. I just don’t want the fear of DHT conversion from test cream

Completely understand, and what works for one doesn't necessarily work for another. Unfortunately, it's all trial and error. Which is frustrating when one is going through menopause.

 

[HarleyGuy]

Thank you @HarleyGuy , yeah I think I'll definitely be sticking with SubQ.

My pleasure. SubQ definitely the lesser invasive option if you can pull it off.

 

[HarleyGuy]

@Photographer @Ccbarbelle
What has sleep been like for you both during this? My lady HarleyGirl suffered from horrible sleep issues.

Have you tried these and what do you think of them?

• 1g black cohosh/day (at night as it also helps with sleep)
• 2g red clover/day (at night too as it's a mild sedative)

 

[Photographer]

@Photographer @Ccbarbelle
What has sleep been like for you both during this? My lady HarleyGirl suffered from horrible sleep issues.

Have you tried these and what do you think of them?

My sleep hasn't actually been too bad. I usually get between 6 to 8 hours a night, this includes bathroom wake up calls. I haven't heard of black cohosh, but I have heard of red clover. I personally haven't taken either. I have a friend who takes the red clover and swears by it. Not sure how often she uses it though. Hope this helps a little.

 

[HarleyGuy]

My sleep hasn't actually been too bad. I usually get between 6 to 8 hours a night, this includes bathroom wake up calls. I haven't heard of black cohosh, but I have heard of red clover. I personally haven't taken either. I have a friend who takes the red clover and swears by it. Not sure how often she uses it though. Hope this helps a little.

It did help thank you. HarleyGirl says "damn you" haha

 

[Photographer]

It did help thank you. HarleyGirl says "damn you" haha

 

[Photographer]

 

[Ccbarbelle]

@Photographer @Ccbarbelle
What has sleep been like for you both during this? My lady HarleyGirl suffered from horrible sleep issues.

Have you tried these and what do you think of them?

Progesterone takes care of it. When it started to go off again while already on progesterone I started the Bi-est as I was having other symptoms of low E. Lately my sleep has been weird because I think I’m under eating

 

[HarleyGuy]

Progesterone takes care of it. When it started to go off again while already on progesterone I started the Bi-est as I was having other symptoms of low E. Lately my sleep has been weird because I think I’m under eating

Your cals were pretty low from what I saw in your log, maybe just up the carbs a bit. I was just about to go to your log now.

 

[Lexis9784]

Understanding Menopause: Symptoms, HRT/TRT, and Helpful Supplements​

View attachment 200127​

Menopause is a natural stage in a woman’s life, typically occurring between ages 45 and 55 when menstrual cycles permanently stop due to (sometimes severly) declining hormone level, particularly estrogen and progesterone. While it’s a normal biological process, the symptoms can significantly impact daily life and mood.

This article will include a summary of the general symptoms of menopause including common medical and supplement intervention. It will conclude with an HRT/TRT/Supplement stack that is currently working wonders for HarleyGirl (the authors better half!). Her bloodwork will be posted which was drawn on 16Mar2026 with adjustments to her menopause stack moving forward including symptom relief both now and moving forward.

Common Symptoms of Menopause​

Menopause affects each woman differently, but some of the most common symptoms include:

• Hot flashes and night sweats – Sudden feelings of heat, often accompanied by sweating and flushing
• Irregular periods – Cycles become unpredictable before stopping completely
• Mood changes – Increased irritability, anxiety, or risk of depression
• Sleep disturbances – Difficulty falling or staying asleep
• Vaginal dryness – Leading to discomfort during intercourse
• Decreased libido – Reduced sexual desire
• Brain fog – Trouble concentrating or remembering things
• Weight gain and slowed metabolism
• Joint and Muscular discomfort - Most commonly reported in the hips

These symptoms are largely driven by hormonal fluctuations, particularly declining estrogen levels.

Medications for Menopause Symptoms​

Several medical treatments can help manage menopause symptoms effectively:

1. Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)​

Hormone therapy is one of the most effective treatments for moderate to severe symptoms.

Estrogen:

• Helps reduce hot flashes, night sweats, and vaginal dryness
• May also help prevent bone loss

Progesterone:

• Endometrial protection: for women with a uterus taking estrogen, progesterone is vital to prevent endometrial hyperplasia (overgrowth of the uterine lining), reducing the risk of uterine cancer.
• Improved sleep and mood: Progesterone has a calming effect, often reducing anxiety and improving sleep quality, particularly when taken at bedtime. Better sleep can mean better mood!

2. Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT)​

How can TRT can help with menopause symptoms?

Low libido (most evidence-backed benefit):

• This is where TRT is most effective and commonly prescribed.
• Can improve sexual desire and arousal
• May increase frequency of satisfying sexual activity
• Often used when estrogen therapy alone doesn’t help

**This condition is sometimes diagnosed as Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder (HSDO) and is identified in studies showing how menopause affects intimacy in relationships.

Energy and fatigue:​

• TRT has been reported to increased energy levels and reduced feelings of exhaustion

Mood and mental clarity:​

• TRT has been reported to help with low mood or mild depressive symptoms including 'brain fog' or difficulty concentrating

Muscle mass and strength

• TRT can help maintain lean muscle and support strength and physical performance

**This may be especially helpful as muscle naturally declines with age.

Supplements That May Help​

Many women turn to natural supplements for symptom relief. While results vary, some commonly used options include:

1. Phytoestrogens​

Plant-based compounds that mimic estrogen in the body.

• Found in soy products and supplements
• May help reduce mild hot flashes

2. Black Cohosh

A popular herbal remedy:

• May help with hot flashes and mood symptoms
• Evidence is mixed, and long-term safety is still being studied

3. Vitamin D and Calcium​

Important for bone health:

• Help prevent osteoporosis, which becomes more common after menopause

4. Omega-3 Fatty Acids​

• May support mood and heart health
• Found in fish oil supplements

5. Magnesium​

• May help improve sleep and reduce anxiety

Lifestyle Strategies That Make a Difference​

In addition to medications and supplements, lifestyle changes can significantly improve symptoms:

• Maintain a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
• Exercise regularly to support mood, weight, and bone health
• Practice stress-reduction techniques like yoga or meditation
• Limit caffeine and alcohol, which can trigger hot flashes
• Keep your sleeping environment cool and comfortable

HarleyGirl's Symptoms and Menopause Stack Solution:​

Symptoms pre-stack:

• Hot flashes and night sweats – Waking up sweating nightly, constant changing of bed sheets. Overwhelming feeling of being overheated daily either outside or in the home
• Mood changes – Increased irritability, anxiety, and short temperdness
• Sleep disturbances – Difficulty falling and then staying asleep each night
• Brain fog – Trouble concentrating or remembering things
• Joint and Muscular discomfort - Waking up with sore hips every morningfrom sleeping, particularly on one side

The Stack (started 12Jan2026) :

• TestE 7.5mg/week (see bloods - this is to be reduced in half)
• Estrogen 3.75mg/day (= 3 pumps of 0.06% estradiol gel every day)
• GLOW 10iu powered by Biogenix Pharma @biogenix 6.2mg/day (1mg BPC-157/1.2mg TB-500/4mg GHK-Cu) in AM
• 1g black cohosh/day (at night as it also helps with sleep)
• 2g red clover/day (at night too as it's a mild sedative)
• 5g creatine/day
• 1 multivitamin/day
• Probiotics (30+ billion - one with each meal)
• Psyllium Husk 5g/day
• N2Guard 3caps/day (lipid profile has improved drastically including ALT/AST). You can obtain N2Guard here: Get N2Guard

Results (as at 16Mar2026):

• Hot flashes and night sweats – Only momentary and infrequent hot flashes reported once or twice a week
• Mood changes – Mood stabilized
• Sleep disturbances – Once or twice weekly sleep disturbances but overall big improvement
• Brain fog – In remission
• Joint and Muscular discomfort - Hip pain is In remission (KLOW pinned directly into hips)

Final Thoughts:

HarleyGirl's TestE is to be cut in half (see bloods) although she is reporting that she feels better than she ever has! The intention of this community research is to have a reliable place for female members to land who fall into this category, and have a safe place to discuss both symptoms and solutions of menopause, regardless of the detail or otherwise hesitant nature to discuss some of the symptoms. EVO is judgement free and the intent is for this to help all female members when they arrive at this often difficult fork in the road.

Thanks for reading,
HarleyGuy




References:

• https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s12889-024-19280-5?
• https://journals.lww.com/menopausej...rceived_efficacy_of_complementary_and.6.aspx?
• https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11379379/
• https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12037939/
• **https://journals.lww.com/menopausej...rceived_efficacy_of_complementary_and.6.aspx?
  • **"Hormone therapy (HT) is the most effective treatment of VMS. It reduces frequency and severity by 75% and improves health-related quality of life. However, HT use has been in decline since 2002, ... This decline has been associated with increasing use of complementary and alternative medicines (CAMs) for relief of menopausal symptoms. CAMs are a “diverse group of medical and health care systems, practices and products that are not generally considered to be part of conventional medicine."

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Thank you so much for this @HarleyGuy!

For her Test levels is that total? I ask because I was having some peri symptoms and my dr determined my estrogen and progesterone were good, but test was very low, so she put me on Test-C. When I had labs redrawn, my total was high, but free was still within normal limits. She said as long as I was still feeling good and wasn't seeing any unwanted side effects, I was good to continue with that dosage. Night sweats, low libido, dryness, and brain fog have all been helped with the T alone. Will be doing a more comprehensive blood workup once I get back to maintenance and will make sure to post it.

 

[HarleyGuy]

Thank you so much for this @HarleyGuy!

For her Test levels is that total? I ask because I was having some peri symptoms and my dr determined my estrogen and progesterone were good, but test was very low, so she put me on Test-C. When I had labs redrawn, my total was high, but free was still within normal limits. She said as long as I was still feeling good and wasn't seeing any unwanted side effects, I was good to continue with that dosage. Night sweats, low libido, dryness, and brain fog have all been helped with the T alone. Will be doing a more comprehensive blood workup once I get back to maintenance and will make sure to post it.

Thanks a lot @Lexis9784 this was awesome feedback. I think, next to estrogen being needed for HRT the most, that Test is the next most important issue during peri and menopause.

And yes that was her total T levels. It was supposed to be 1.8 nmol/L max and she came in at just over twice this level (oops haha) but doc said as long as she's feeling good she wasn't concerned at all. Regardless I cut her dose in half and she's just about perfect now (no roid rage LOL) with the only symptoms being some daytime fatigue but sleep and hot flashes/night sweats have all been mitigated.

 

[Lexis9784]

One other thing I learned during my process is exactly how much doctor's DON'T know about women's hormone health. Originally my Dr prescribed a 50 mg injection once per month. Luckily, I had already done my own research on dosage for women and decided to break that into weekly doses or I could have had some really bad and possibly irreversible sides!

 

[LevButlerov]

One other thing I learned during my process is exactly how much doctor's DON'T know about women's hormone health. Originally my Dr prescribed a 50 mg injection once per month. Luckily, I had already done my own research on dosage for women and decided to break that into weekly doses or I could have had some really bad and possibly irreversible sides!

very well said sister female homes are very serious and need more hands on experience! @Lexis9784

 

[Photographer]

One other thing I learned during my process is exactly how much doctor's DON'T know about women's hormone health. Originally my Dr prescribed a 50 mg injection once per month. Luckily, I had already done my own research on dosage for women and decided to break that into weekly doses or I could have had some really bad and possibly irreversible sides!

It has been my experience as well

 

[HarleyGuy]

One other thing I learned during my process is exactly how much doctor's DON'T know about women's hormone health. Originally my Dr prescribed a 50 mg injection once per month. Luckily, I had already done my own research on dosage for women and decided to break that into weekly doses or I could have had some really bad and possibly irreversible sides!

It has been my experience as well

This is why you both being here on our research thread is so valued and appreciated. I personally will be pointing women in peri and in menopause to this thread in the years to come and it already has more quality info than most family docs know.