Guide to Oestrogel Transdermal HRT on the NHS

What is Oestrogel?

Oestrogel is a brand name for a transdermal oestrogen hormone replacement therapy (HRT) medication. It is a gel that is applied to the skin, typically on the arms or thighs. Transdermal HRT works by delivering oestrogen directly through the skin into the bloodstream.

Why is Oestrogel Used?

Oestrogel is used to treat symptoms of oestrogen deficiency in women who have gone through menopause or had their ovaries removed. These symptoms may include:

• Hot flushes
• Night sweats
• Vaginal dryness
• Mood swings
• Difficulty sleeping
• Loss of bone density

How to Use Oestrogel

Oestrogel is typically applied once a day, at the same time each day. The dose of Oestrogel will vary depending on the individual woman's needs. It is important to follow the instructions on the prescription label carefully.

To apply Oestrogel:

1. Wash your hands thoroughly before using the gel.
2. Apply a pea-sized amount of gel to the inner surface of one arm or thigh.
3. Rub the gel into the skin until it is completely absorbed.
4. Wash your hands after applying the gel.

It is important to avoid getting Oestrogel on your face, breasts, or mucous membranes. If you do, wash it off immediately with soap and water.

Side Effects of Oestrogel

The most common side effects of Oestrogel include:

• Breast tenderness
• Nausea
• Headache
• Mood swings
• Bloating
• Vaginal bleeding

These side effects usually go away within a few weeks of starting treatment. If you experience any severe side effects, you should contact your doctor immediately.

Risks of Oestrogel

Oestrogel is generally safe and effective, but there are some risks associated with its use. These risks include:

• Blood clots
• Stroke
• Heart disease
• Breast cancer
• Endometrial cancer

The risk of these side effects is small, but it is important to be aware of them before starting treatment.

Who Should Not Use Oestrogel?

Oestrogel should not be used by women who have:

• A history of breast cancer
• A history of blood clots
• A history of stroke
• A history of heart disease
• A history of endometrial cancer
• Severe liver disease

Tips for Using Oestrogel

Here are some tips for using Oestrogel:

• Use Oestrogel at the same time each day to help maintain consistent oestrogen levels in your body.
• Apply Oestrogel to a clean, dry area of skin.
• Rub the gel into the skin until it is completely absorbed.
• Avoid getting Oestrogel on your face, breasts, or mucous membranes. If you do, wash it off immediately with soap and water.
• If you miss a dose of Oestrogel, apply it as soon as possible. If you miss more than one dose, call your doctor.
• Store Oestrogel at room temperature, away from heat and light.

Benefits of Oestrogel

Oestrogel can provide a number of benefits for women who are experiencing symptoms of oestrogen deficiency. These benefits include:

• Reduced hot flushes and night sweats
• Improved sleep quality
• Reduced vaginal dryness
• Improved mood
• Increased bone density
• Reduced risk of heart disease and stroke

Call to Action

If you are a woman who is experiencing symptoms of oestrogen deficiency, talk to your doctor about whether Oestrogel is right for you. Oestrogel is a safe and effective treatment that can help you improve your quality of life.

Additional Information

• The NHS website has more information about Oestrogel, including a video on how to apply the gel.
• The British Menopause Society has a fact sheet on Oestrogel.
• The Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists has a patient information leaflet on Oestrogel.

Tables

Table 1: Common Side Effects of Oestrogel

Table 2: Risks of Oestrogel

Table 3: Benefits of Oestrogel