What is Estradiol?
Estradiol is an HRT patch that’s applied to your skin to increase estrogen levels. During menopause, your estrogen levels begin to drop, causing symptoms such as hot flushes, joint pain, vaginal dryness, and mood swings. Taking HRT can elevate your estrogen levels to help relieve your symptoms.
How does Estradiol work?
Estradiol is a type of estrogen, the primary hormone responsible for menopause. When your estrogen levels drop during menopause, it causes many symptoms like night sweats and hot flushes. Taking estrogen can help increase your estrogen levels, which can alleviate your symptoms.[1]
What doses of Estradiol are there?
Estradiol is available in five doses:
- 0.025 mg
- 0.0375 mg
- 0.05 mg
- 0.075 mg
- 0.1 mg
You’ll typically start on the lowest dose of 0.025 mg. If your symptoms don’t improve, let your doctor know, and they’ll increase your dose until they find one that works best for you.
Will I get side effects with Estradiol?
Yes, there’s a chance of getting side effects with Estradiol, but not everyone will get them. Common side effects include:
- Skin pain or irritation
- Breast discomfort
- Breakthrough bleeding
- Redness or discoloration
The side effects should subside as your body adjusts to the treatment, but if they persist or worsen, let your doctor know.
There’s also a risk of serious side effects, including breast cancer, ovarian cancer, and blood clots. The risk is lower if you take estrogen-only versus combined HRT. Your doctor will try to minimize these risks by selecting the right HRT and dose for you.
For a full list of side effects, check the package leaflet that comes with your medicine.
How does Estradiol compare with estrogen?
Estradiol is a type of hormone called estrogen. It’s one of the most potent and common forms of estrogens in your reproductive system.[1] Low levels of estrogen can cause severe symptoms, such as night sweats, fragile bones, and joint pain.
Does Estradiol cause weight gain?
There’s a possibility of gaining weight, although it isn’t listed as a side effect. Some people may gain weight, which is typically caused by water retention when taking HRT. While others lose weight due to a process called lipid oxidation, in which fat stores are broken down.[2]
Estradiol is an important hormone for regulating body weight, so some people might find their weight returns to premenopausal levels as their hormones stabilize.[3]
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