Estrogen Patches - A Convenient Option For Menopausal WomenSome unfortunate women have to deal with menopause symptoms that hinder their
day to day activities. Menopause can be such an uncomfortable process that finding
relief of any kind becomes a desire that cannot be ignored. Fortunately, there
are a number of good treatment options available to menopausal women today. Estrogen
patches, for instance, are used successfully by some women in order to remove
or diminish symptoms such as hot flushes, excessive sweating, vaginal dryness,
vaginal itching or irritation, mood swings and depression. Combined with proper diet, exercise and regular intake of supplements like calcium or vitamins, an estrogen patch serves as a menopause relief product that is used transdermally. This is better than oral medication as it does not bring potential harm or damage to the liver. Patches are packed individually and are stored in a protective layer with a special adhesive on one side. Women use the patch by sticking it onto the skin, like a band-aid. The best place to apply an estrogen patch is the lower abdomen area or buttocks. Doctors advise against putting an estrogen patch on the breast area. An estrogen patch works without restricting a woman from her usual routine. She can still go swimming, bathe or perspire from rigorous sports activity with a patch attached to her. The application of an estrogen patch must be done in alternating areas. A woman should not put the patch on the same area two applications in succession, for it to work effectively. Some patches are replaceable weekly, others bi-weekly. Never put on more than the number prescribed. Side Effects Of Estrogen Patches Some documented side effects of using estrogen patches include:
If a woman experiences abnormal vaginal bleeding, it could be a sign that one should discontinue estrogen patch therapy immediately. And if a woman is a breast cancer patient or has been diagnosed with a liver disease, she should not use the patch. Estrogen contains strong components that may induce blood clots or a heart attack. Therefore, before even considering this treatment, have yourself thoroughly examined by your doctor, especially when you come from a family with a history of dangerous ailments. Any unusual symptom you may develop while undergoing estrogen patch therapy must immediately be communicated to the doctor. Estrogen patch therapy must not take longer than one year in administration, and you should be regularly visiting your doctor for check-ups and examinations at least every three weeks while in therapy. A regular check-up will ensure that you are not at any health risk since estrogen treatments may be a contributing cause of breast or endometrial cancer. What To Avoid When Under Estrogen Patch Therapy Certain types of drugs are not compatible with an estrogen treatment. Before anything, you must ask your doctor if it is advisable to proceed with using the patches and let him know what medications you are taking. Drinking alcohol or liquor is also not advisable. Even grapefruit juice can bring adverse effects to your treatment. Also, inform your doctor if you are (lucky enough to be) breastfeeding as this is also not compatible with estrogen treatment. |