Symptoms it treats
1. Hot flashes (all brands)
2. Night sweats (all brands)
3. Vaginal dryness (most brands)
Overview
Hormone gels are used to treat menopause symptoms and are a good option for women who want to take hormones topically (through the skin). The packaging (tube vs. single-use packets) of vaginal gels and location of placement varies depending on the brand.
Types
Estrogen
Effort
Apply once a week
FDA Approved?
Yes
Hormone gels work by delivering hormones through the skin. Each medication has its own instructions on where to put the gel. Some medications want you to put the gel on your calves or upper thighs, and others want you to put it on your arms.
Helpful tips:
Pick the same time each day to apply the gel
Wash your hands after applying the gel! Make sure you don't get the gel on another person
Wait until the gel is completely dry before dressing
Wait 1 hour before swimming or bathing
ESTROGEN-ONLY
Estradiol
ESTROGEN-ONLY
Divigel
Elestrin
Estrogel
1. Headaches
2. Vaginal spotting
3. Bloating
4. Stomach cramps
5. Painful or tender breasts
6. Hair loss
7. Yeast infection
8. Redness around the patch
9. Fluid retention
10. Nausea and/or vomiting
11. Stuffy or dry nose and sneezing
Unusual vaginal bleeding
Personal history of certain cancers such as breast cancer or uterine cancer
Personal history of blood clots in the legs or lungs
Bleeding disorder
History of stroke or heart attack
Liver problems
Serious reactions to estrogen medicines
Some antibiotics and medications may make the gel less effective, make sure you inform your doctor about all of the medications you are taking. If you have a uterus you may have a higher risk of developing endometrial cancer after 1 year of taking estrogen-only medication. Talk to your doctor about other medicines you can take to protect yourself.
