Estrogen is a female sex hormone that is created by the ovaries. Estrogen is imperative for many functions in the body. Estradiol transdermal patches are helpful in treating some indicators of menopause. Symptoms might include:

  • Vaginal dryness, irritation or burning
  • Hot flashes

These symptoms are caused by less estrogen. It is useful to avoid postmenopausal osteoporosis and treat ovarian disorders.

Using Transdermal Estradiol

You can use the transdermal estradiol patch to treat symptom in and around the vagina. The products can be applied inside the vagina. The hormone from the gel, spray or patch is absorbed through your skin and enters your body. The patch may be used by women who are unable to generate enough estrogen. Some of these products can be used after menopause to avoid osteoporosis.

How to Use Estradiol Patch

You must follow all the directions mentioned on your prescription label. You should not use this medication in larger or smaller amount than recommended. Estradiol patch is available with patient instructions for effective and safe use. You must follow the directions carefully and if you have any questions talk to your doctor.

  1. Your skin must be dry and clean before applying the patch
  2. Apply the patch on your stomach or buttocks
  3. Keep in mind to choose a new spot within the when applying new patch
  4. Do not apply the patch on a skin that is oily or damaged
  5. You should not apply the skin patch to your breasts
  6. The transdermal estrogen patch must not be applied where the patch can be rubbed off
  7. In case the patch falls off, you must try to stick back into place
  8. If the patch doesn’t stick, apply a new one on different area

When You Should Not Use Estradiol

You must not use estradiol if you have any following circumstances:

  • vaginal bleeding
  • Heart attack or stroke
  • Liver disease
  • Bleeding disorder
  • History of breast cancer or ovarian cancer
  • Blood clot
  • Pregnant

Side Effects of Transdermal Estrogen

Common side effects are:

  • Redness of skin
  • Irritation of skin
  • Abdominal pain
  • Breast tenderness
  • Weight changes
  • Headache
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Bloating

If these side effects are persistence or worsen, you must consult a doctor.

Some of the serious side effects are:

  • Mood changes
  • Vaginal irritation or itching
  • Breast lumps
  • Increased urination
  • Severe stomach or abdominal pain
  • Bleeding like spotting or prolonged
  • Odor
  • Dark urine
  • Chest jaw or left arm pain
  • Weakness on one side of the body
  • Slurred speech
  • Unusual sweating
  • Numbness in the arms or legs
  • Dizziness
  • Difficulty in breathing

By using estradiol the risk of getting a problem that may result into uterine cancer. Your doctor might advise you a progestin so the risk is lowered. If you have any unusual vaginal bleeding, report to your doctor.

Estradiol must not be used to avoid heart disease or dementia. The reason is that these medicines might increase the risk of developing such problems. If you use transdermal estrogen for longer periods of time, you might increase the risk of blood clot or breast cancer.

DISCLAIMER: The medical information on this site is provided as an information resource only, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. This information is not intended to be patient education, does not create any patient-physician relationship, and should not be used as a substitute for professional diagnosis and treatment.