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Hormone Gel

 

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

How it works

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

Generic names

ESTROGEN-ONLY

  • Estradiol

Common brands

ESTROGEN-ONLY

  • Divigel

  • Elestrin

  • Estrogel

Common side effects for the hormone patch

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

Precautions

​We do not recommend you use hormone treatment if you have any of the following:

  • 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.

Want more information?

Preparing yourself for menopause can be overwhelming, but we are here to help! Visit our blog for general menopause education, information about your menopause symptoms, and stories from women like you.