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Everything you need to know about Estradot
Everything you need to know about Estradot
Estradot is a form of oestrogen replacement therapy used as part of Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT). It is a transdermal patch, meaning it delivers oestrogen through the skin rather than orally.
If you are considering Estradot as part of your HRT plan, here is what you need to know about how to use it, its benefits, and possible side effects.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Liz Andrew
BMS Accredited Doctor
Reviewed: 19/02/2025 Published: 21/02/2025
The basics
Key information about Estradot
Estradot contains estradiol, a body-identical oestrogen that is chemically the same as the oestrogen naturally produced by the body.
As a patch, Estradot provides a steady and continuous release of oestrogen, avoiding fluctuations that can sometimes occur with oral HRT.
Estradot is a safe and effective form of HRT for many women. Since it is absorbed through the skin, it bypasses the liver, which may reduce certain risks associated with oral oestrogen.
However, as with all HRT, the benefits and risks are highly individual and should be discussed with your doctor. Your personal medical history will help determine whether Estradot is the right option for you.
If you have a womb, Estradot should be prescribed alongside progesterone. This protects the lining of the womb and reduces the risk of endometrial thickening.
If you have experienced unexplained vaginal bleeding you should speak to your doctor before use.
If you have had a history of breast cancer, blood clots, stroke, liver disease, or untreated high blood pressure Estradot may not be suitable for you. You will need to book into an appointment with an expert to discuss your medical history.
Yes, Estradot is body identical. It contains estradiol, which has the same chemical structure as the oestrogen naturally produced by the body. This makes it a well-tolerated and effective option for many women using HRT.
There have been periods of limited availability of Estradot patches in the UK, particularly the higher-dose 75 microgram and 100 microgram patches. Availability can vary over time and between pharmacies.
If your usual Estradot strength is unavailable, speak to your prescriber or pharmacist, who can advise on the most appropriate alternative based on your individual circumstances.
We are pleased to say our partner pharmacies have Estradot patches in stock. If you are a new patient, you will need to book an appointment to access medication.
Both Evorel and Estradot are transdermal oestrogen patches used in HRT. They contain estradiol, which is body identical.
Evorel and Estradot have some differences in size, adhesion, and tolerability for sensitive skin.
The best choice depends on individual factors such as skin sensitivity, patch size, and how well it sticks to your skin. Estradot patches are smaller, which some women prefer, while Evorel may adhere better for others. It is completely up to you.
Your doctor will discuss the different HRT options available and, if appropriate, prescribe the treatment that is most suitable for you.
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Benefits of Estradot
Replacing oestrogen with Estradot can bring many benefits, and have an impact on all 40 symptoms of menopause.
- Supports bone health - reduces the risk of osteoporosis
- Provides a steady release of oestrogen - helping to maintain stable hormone levels
- Bypasses digestion - making it a gentler option for those who experience stomach issues with oral HRT
- Lower risk of blood clots - compared to oral oestrogen
You should expect to see benefits to your symptoms within the first 3 months. If you experience some improvements, but not significant reductions in your symptoms, your doctor will speak to you about adjusting the dose at your 3 month review.
If you have not experienced any improvements to your symptoms after 3 months then there may be an issue with how you absorb the oestrogen in the product. Your doctor may want to check your oestrogen levels with a blood test.
How and where to apply Estradot?
In this short clip menopause expert Dr Eloise Elphinstone explains her top tips when using Estradot
Apply directly to skin, replacing twice per week. Apply the patch to a hairless area.
It is important the patch is applied below the waist
Do not apply creams or gels before the patch, as this can affect stickiness
Rotate application sites to prevent skin irritation.
Estradot side effects
Common side effects can include:
- Skin irritation on the site which the patch is applied
- Breast tenderness or pain
- Bloating
- Abdominal pain
- Headaches
- Mood changes
Many women will experience some side effects in their first few weeks of taking HRT - as your body adjusts to having different hormone levels. Side effects often settle in the first few weeks, and should have resolved fully by your 3 month review with your clinician.
If your side effects are impacting your quality of life, or they have not settled at three months, please speak to a doctor. If your side effects are severe, or you are concerned, you should speak to a doctor.
Yes, you can try alternative transdermal forms of oestrogen (gel or spray) or you could try oral progesterone.
Estradot dosages explained
Everything you need to know about Estradot dosages
25mcg patch
Dosage level.
Provides 25mcg of estradiol. This is considered a low dose.
How often should you change your patch?
Every 3-4 days
50mcg patch
Dosage level
Provides 50mcg of estradiol. This is considered a moderate dose.
How often should you change your patch?
Every 3-4 days
75mcg patch
Dosage level
Provides 75mcg of estradiol. This is considered a moderate dose.
How often should you change your patch?
Every 3-4 days
100mcg patch
Dosage level
Provides 100mcg of estradiol. Considered a high dose
How often should you change your patch?
Every 3-4 days
Additional information
As this is a higher dose of oestrogen, higher doses of progesterone are needed, if you still have a womb.
Dr. Liz Andrew
Your dosage level of Estradot can vary depending on the individual. This should be explained clearly by your doctor before starting medication and also throughout your treatment if you are making any adjustments.
Estradot explained
Dr. Laura Cawley and Dr. Liz Andrew explain Estradot on one of our latest webinars all about HRT. You can watch the fully recorded webinar on YouTube.
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