My troubles with "one size fits all" synthetic hormones began in my twenties when I began taking birth control pills. For the four years before my third child was born and for the next two years after, I always had a yeast infection. No matter what medicines were given to me, the yeast infections always came right back. This affected my ability to enjoy sex. I felt awful all the time and I lost my joy of life.
My doctor suggested I quit using birth control pills. Within a few months of stopping the pills, and with no other medications, the yeast cleared and I was able to live a normal life. Until menopause. Within a few months of starting a popular synthetic hormone replacement, the yeast was back. For the next 10 years I suffered, and again lost my joy of life.
Then I began to hear about bio-identical hormones and compounding pharmacies. I changed doctors and began working with one who was familiar with these products. It took a while, but with my doctor and compounding pharmacist working together, changing something here, adjusting something there, they finally found just the right combination and methods that fit my body. I have been yeast free for 12 years. I am 74 and other than my compounded bio-identical hormones, I take no other prescription medication. I am healthy. I camp, hike and kayak. I have joy. My hormones, made especially for me, help keep me that way!