“After a month on HRT, I started to feel like myself again.”

“About four years ago, my diabetes nurse called to say I could get NHS funding for a hybrid closed loop system. I’d been self-funding my CGM at the time, so it was brilliant news.  

However, I spent the first year feeling disillusioned and convinced it wasn’t right for me. I couldn’t get my blood glucose levels stable.  

I talked through what was happening with my diabetes nurse and the HCL rep. The problem was, I was self-correcting and making things worse. HCL works on an algorithm that needs time to learn, so they told me to relax and let the system do its job. Over time, I started to see the difference.  

It’s an amazing bit of kit, but the one thing I always tell people thinking of moving to a pump or HCL system is that it’s not a magic wand, it takes work. Now, I wouldn’t be without it. 

Making it part of everyday life

My HCL is a tube system, and I know a lot of people don’t like the idea of being attached to something. But within a couple of months, I’d completely forgotten it was there. I keep it in a belt pump tucked away, it never catches or wakes me up. It’s comfortable, reliable and just becomes part of you.  

My blood glucose levels are far more stable now, with fewer hypos and hypers. It’s given me a level playing field to work from. This is the closest I’ve ever felt to being non-diabetic.  

Living better with HCL

Because my blood glucose stays stable and in range with HCL, I get much better sleep. Poor sleep with type 1 can throw you off for the whole day – it’s like partying all night and then having to go to work the next day. With HCL, I wake up refreshed and my levels are steadier the next day too.  

It’s also adaptable depending on your day. You can set up different duplicate profiles. For example, one for active days and another for quieter weekends. That flexibility, and the fact the system adapts with you, makes life so much easier. 

HCL is brilliant for all women, menopausal or not. It’s great for when you’re dealing with shifting hormone levels. 

When menopause hit

Around three years ago, I started getting menopause symptoms. I’d go four months without a period, I was tired all the time and had brain fog that felt like I was trying to punch my way through my job every day.   

My blood glucose levels were also very unpredictable. I’d hit a wall of insulin resistance and correction doses weren’t touching the sides. It really affected my mood and confidence.  

I spent a frustrating year fumbling around, so I thought I’d go to my GP. I was apprehensive because I was expecting resistance to HRT. Thankfully, the GP started me on HRT without any hesitation. I could’ve cried with relief because she was so receptive to me trying it. 

The difference HRT made

I started with progesterone tablets and an oestrogen gel. A private test later showed my testosterone was low, so I now also use a testosterone gel prescribed on the NHS.  

After a month on HRT, I started to feel like myself again. My symptoms eased and the insulin spikes settled. The gel can feel inconvenient at first with the drying time, but it quickly becomes a habit. I see HRT as an important part of my care routine. 

Now my blood glucose levels are more stable and I’m more relaxed. I’ve been on HRT for about three years, and I haven’t looked back. Plus my family say I’m a much nicer person to live with!

Finding the right support

When you’re living with type 1, especially during menopause, it can feel like wading through mud. Seeing the right person at your GP surgery makes a huge difference, so mention both when booking to get someone who understands.  

I’m part of a WhatsApp group for women with type 1 going through menopause. That peer support has been a lifeline.  

Before HRT,  I suffered anxiety and low moods, and each day I couldn’t predict if I was going to fight fluctuating glucose levels. Managing that alongside work and parenting was exhausting. So, if you’re offered something that might help – HRT, HCL, whatever it is – seize the opportunity with both hands. Anything that eases the load is worth giving a go.