Each Estradot patch contains estradiol as the active ingredient, in a matrix adhesive system applied to a transparent backing film. The patch delivers estradiol continuously through the skin at a rate of 25mcg, 50mcg, 75mcg, or 100mcg per 24 hours depending on the strength. If you have known sensitivity to adhesive patches or any excipients in the formulation, discuss this with your clinician before starting treatment.

Yes, Estradot is a well-established and effective HRT option. It provides consistent hormone delivery through the skin, which many women find convenient and well-tolerated. The patch format means you don't need to remember daily medication, and it bypasses the digestive system, which may reduce certain side effects associated with oral HRT.

Estradot is popular because:

• The patches are small and discreet
• They stick well, even during exercise and showering
• Twice-weekly application is convenient
• Provides steady hormone levels throughout the day
• Available in multiple strengths for flexible dosing
• Bypasses the liver, which may reduce certain risks

Many women notice early improvements in symptoms within days to weeks of starting Estradot. Full benefits are typically seen within three months of consistent use. If symptoms are partially improved but not well controlled at three months, your clinician may adjust your dose. If there has been no improvement at all, they may check your oestrogen levels with a blood test, as absorption can vary between individuals.

If you’re unsure whether your treatment is working as expected, here are the signs your HRT isn’t working.

All strengths are changed twice weekly (every three to four days):

• 25mcg — low dose; suitable for women needing a minimal starting dose or stepping down
• 50mcg — moderate dose; the standard starting point for most women
• 75mcg — moderate to high dose; used when 50mcg is insufficient to control symptoms
• 100mcg — high dose; the maximum standard dose. Note that higher progestogen doses are needed alongside this strength if you have a uterus

Your clinician will work with you to find the lowest effective dose for your symptoms.

No, please do not change your patch strength without speaking to your clinician first. If you feel your current dose is not controlling your symptoms adequately, raise this at your review.

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.

There are currently intermittent shortages of Estradot patches in the UK, particularly the 75mcg and 100mcg strengths. If your usual strength is unavailable, your clinician may recommend switching to an alternative patch brand (such as Evorel or FemSeven), using two lower-dose patches to achieve your prescribed dose, or temporarily switching to oestrogen gel or spray. Speak to your clinician if you are having difficulty accessing your usual dose.

Estradot patches can be cut in half, but this is off-label and should only be done if your doctor or nurse has specifically recommended it for you. Where possible, it is preferable to change to a higher or lower strength patch instead.

The manufacturer advises against cutting the patches, as this may affect how well the patch sticks and therefore could lead to less predictable dosing. However, in practice, off-label cutting of patches is sometimes used, particularly during medication shortages.

There is no direct link between Estradot and weight gain. However, some women may notice changes in body composition and metabolism when going through menopause. When starting HRT, some women also experience fluid retention which can feel like weight gain but will eventually settle.

Menopause itself can lead to weight redistribution, particularly around the abdomen, but this can be due to hormonal changes. Some women find that HRT helps them maintain a stable weight. If you have concerns about weight changes while using Estradot, speak with your doctor to ensure your treatment is right for you.

Whether bleeding is expected depends on the progestogen regimen used alongside Estradot. On a sequential regimen, a regular withdrawal bleed is expected. On a continuous combined regimen, bleeding should stop over time, though irregular spotting is common in the first few months. If you are postmenopausal and experience unexpected bleeding at any point, contact your clinician, it should always be assessed.