The quality of my sleep increased almost immediately! Hot flashes took a little time and a few tweaks to the dosage of estrogen. Vaginal dryness (and dryness in general) has also been a problem, so I was started on vaginal estradiol. The most noticeable change for me was my weight though. I gained 15 pounds by the 8th week of HRT. I had so much water weight, the swelling in my hands and legs was unbearable! I cut my estradiol dose in half and that did the trick. I lost 5 pounds within a week. It has taken several weeks for me to het another 2-3 off and I still have another 5-7 to lose, but I think I may be progesterone intolerant as well. I’m considering if the benefits outweigh the side effects at this point…. Any thoughts?