Disclaimer: This is general health information only and is not a substitute for advice from your GP or healthcare professional.
1. What is Estrogel?
Estrogel is a topical oestrogen (oestradiol) gel used as part of menopausal hormone therapy. It helps relieve menopausal symptoms such as hot flushes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, sleep disturbance, and mood changes.
2. How does Estrogel work?
Estrogel delivers oestradiol through the skin into the bloodstream, replacing the oestrogen that naturally declines during menopause. This helps reduce menopause-related symptoms.
3. How is Estrogel used?
Estrogel is usually applied once daily to clean, dry skin, commonly on the arms or thighs. It should be allowed to dry before dressing, and hands should be washed after application.
4. What is Prometrium?
Prometrium contains micronised progesterone, a hormone used with oestrogen therapy in women who still have a uterus. It helps protect the lining of the uterus from overgrowth caused by oestrogen.
5. Why is Prometrium needed with Estrogel?
Using oestrogen alone can increase the risk of thickening of the uterine lining and endometrial cancer. Prometrium reduces this risk and makes hormone therapy safer for women with a uterus.
6. How is Prometrium taken?
Prometrium is usually taken by mouth, either daily or for part of the month, depending on whether a continuous or cyclical hormone regimen is prescribed. Some women may be advised to use it vaginally.
7. What are common side effects?
Estrogel may cause breast tenderness, bloating, headache, or nausea. Prometrium can cause sleepiness, dizziness, or mood changes, particularly when first started.
8. Who should not use Estrogel or Prometrium?
These medicines may not be suitable for women with a history of breast cancer, unexplained vaginal bleeding, blood clots, severe liver disease, or hormone-sensitive cancers. A medical review is essential before starting treatment.
9. How long can Estrogel and Prometrium be used?
Duration of treatment is individualised. Many women use hormone therapy for symptom control with regular review to ensure benefits continue to outweigh risks.
10. Do these treatments replace lifestyle measures?
No. Estrogel and Prometrium work best alongside healthy lifestyle measures, including regular exercise, balanced diet, weight management, stress reduction, and avoiding smoking.
