Estrogen FAQs

How are the Estrogen patches used?

Estradot patches are changed TWICE a week (e.g. Mondays and Thursdays). They can be placed anywhere on the lower abdomen (below the waistline).

Climara patches are changed ONCE a week. They can be placed on the lower abdomen (below the waistline) or on the buttocks.

The patch stays on during showering and bathing and you can go swimming, do exercise and use spas while wearing them.

When one patch is removed, the next patch should be placed on a different area to avoid using the same area for at least one week. Sometimes the patch leaves a plaster mark behind – this can be easily removed with baby oil or eye make-up removal and a dry flannel. If the patches are not sticking on well, you can try switching to the other brand as different adhesives are used. Some women also find that wiping their skin with surgical spirit before applying the patch helps it stick better.

When is the best time of day to use Estrogen patches or tablets?

Estrogen can be taken in the morning, or the evening time, whichever suits your routine best.

Can Estrogen be taken by women who are at increased risk of clots?

Estrogen in the form of patches, creams and gels is NOT associated with an increased risk of clots. This is because the transdermal route bypasses the digestive system, which prevents the stimulation of clotting factors in the liver. Estrogen tablets are associated with a small increased risk of clot, and so are not recommended for women who are at higher risk.

Can Estrogen be taken by women who have migraines?

Migraines can often become worse in the perimenopause and menopause – HRT usually improves migraine symptoms. As there is a small increased risk of stroke in some women with migraines, it is safer to take estrogen through the skin, as a patch or gel, rather than orally as tablets.

Can certain types of Estrogen worsen low libido symptoms?

Taking estrogen as a tablet can increase levels of Sex Hormone Binding Globulin (SHBG). This binds to our testosterone leading to lower levels of it circulating in our body. The lower our testosterone, the lower our libido. Taking estrogen through the skin, as a patch or gel does not have this detrimental effect on testosterone.