Estradiol can be given in the form of a patch that is applied directly to the skin.
How to apply and press the estrogen patch:
Remove the old patch before applying a new one. Remove half the backing and apply the open half of the patch to your skin. Remove the remaining backing strip and press down the rest of the patch. Press the patch with the palm of your hand for 10 seconds to ensure it is firmly stuck.
Where to apply the estrogen patch:
- Apply the estrogen patch to clean, dry, cool skin as soon as you open the protective pouch.
- Stick the estrogen patch onto a hairless area of skin below the waist, avoiding folds of skin.
- Keep the estrogen patch covered, out of direct sunlight.
- It can be worn under loose areas of clothing.
DO NOT:
- Apply the patch on the same area of skin twice in a row.
- Apply on or near the breasts.
- Put it on top of cuts, spots or anywhere the skin is irritated.
- Use cream, moisturizer, or talcum powder before applying the patch.
- Wear the patch under tight clothing, elasticated areas, or a tight waistband.
Everyday activities—Patients using estrogen patch can:
- Have a bath or shower as normal. Care should be taken not to scrub too hard on and around the patch as this can loosen the edges.
- Go swimming. The patch will not be affected.
- Exercise and play sports.
Changing the estrogen patches:
Estradot must be changed approximately twice a week (about every 3½ days) to give the body a steady supply of hormones. Climara must be changed once a week. To help remember this, plan to change the patch on the same days of the week. You can put a reminder on a calendar or on your phone.
Removing an estrogen patch:
- Peel an edge of the patch smoothly away from the skin.
- Fold the used estrogen patch in half so that the sticky side sticks to itself.
- Dispose of the estrogen patch in with the household garbage, safely out of the reach of children and pets.
- Do not flush the used patches down the toilet.
- When the estrogen patch is removed some glue may remain on the skin. It will disappear with time; baby oil can be used to remove the remaining adhesive.
What to do if an estrogen patch falls off?
A new estrogen patch should be applied. If the patch has fallen off after the patient has just had a bath or shower, they should wait until the skin cools before a new patch is applied. The prescribing doctor should be contacted if more estrogen patches are needed. If a patch is not changed as usual, another patch should be applied as soon as possible.
