I started taking compounded hormones when I went through menopause about 14 years ago. I felt the benefits immediately - greatly reduced mood swings, no more hot/cold flashes, increased muscle strength, and firmer skin. They are expensive, so I tried regular hormones for a while to see if I could save money. A few days after taking the "regular" hormones, I had to go off of them, because I felt like I'd been hit by a truck. I went back to compounded hormones and I'm still on them and will be for as long as I can. Quality of life is important. Don't take that away from me.