How To Stop Hrt Patches Falling Off

What if my HRT patch keeps coming off?

If a patch falls off, just put it back on a different area. If the patch does not stick completely, put on a new patch but continue to follow your original schedule for changing your patch. If problems persist, it might help to change to a different patch, size of patch, or change to gel or spray.

Why won t my HRT patches stick?

HRT patches keep falling off! ); $dispatch(‘mobile-search-menu-opened’) }, closeMobileSearch() } x-show=open x-on:open-mobile-search.window=openMobileSearch() x-cloak=> Please or to access all these features Top Bottom Mumsnet doesn’t verify the qualifications of users. If you have medical concerns, please consult a healthcare professional. Even qualified doctors can’t diagnose over the internet, so keep that in mind when seeking or offering advice. Mumsnet doesn’t verify the qualifications of users. If you have medical concerns, please consult a healthcare professional. Even qualified doctors can’t diagnose over the internet, so keep that in mind when seeking or offering advice. awonderfuladventure · 15/04/2022 14:29 I was on the gel and loved it but can’t get it for love or money and have been given patches which I hate! Supposed to change them twice a week but they fall off after a day! What am I doing wrong? Put it on my thigh just below the knicker line. Help please any professional patch wearers! OP posts: elver · 15/04/2022 14:31 I put mine on my upper arm after loosing several! Apparently a quick blast with a hairdryer helps them stick. Also make sure wherever you put them is clean & dry. awonderfuladventure · 15/04/2022 14:34 I might have to try my arm next and the hairdryer trick. Am finding it a right pain in the arse. The gel was so easy. OP posts: canyon2000 · 17/04/2022 08:39 I thought patches were only supposed to be put on below the waist? I put mine on my bum and put a waterproof dressing over it to keep it on. DogsandBoysmeanMud · 17/04/2022 08:42 I swapped to the sachets of gel. More fiddly but much less volume. Love them!! Make sure you get the right dose conversion mythological · 17/04/2022 08:48 I put mine on my upper thigh – I shave and exfoliate the thigh area and make sure that it is very dry and then put a Tegaderm over it. Never comes off. CharityShopChic · 17/04/2022 08:50 I think it depends on the brand of patches.

I have Evorel which are SO stick they don’t move at all and leave sticky black residue all over your skin. A friend who is on a different brand has to use surgical tape to keep them on properly. MarthanotMarfa · 17/04/2022 09:00 Put them on skin which is under your underwear. Otherwise leggings/jeans rub them off JustforToast · 17/04/2022 09:03 I use a Tegaderm over the patch too and that is effective Metheven · 17/04/2022 09:08 I use the Evorel patches, and they are definitely not as sticky as they used to be.

I put a plaster over them now to keep them on. TinaWeymouthsBass · 17/04/2022 11:37 @awonderfuladventure You absolutely should not be putting patches on your arms, they must go below the waist, putting patches on your arm will give you a greatly increased risk of breast cancer.

I find they stick best on my bum or hip. JoanThursday · 17/04/2022 11:42 I had problems when I first started using patches (evorel). Tegaderm is great at keeping them in place. But then I started changing my technique for putting them on. Rather than slapping them on, I sort of slowly roll them smoothing the patch down as I go – a bit like slowly taking a plaster off in reverse.

I also switched to putting them on in the evening, rather than after my hot shower in the morning. TheFeistyFeminist · 17/04/2022 14:36 I switched to Evorel for a dosage change and find they do stick much more effectively. I also find putting my whole palm flat over it when I put it on helps it warm up and adhere better. Towards the buttock below the waistline works well for me. RosieSun · 18/04/2022 09:59 I had Evorel at first. I got these to stick well on mid-upper thigh by shaving area, drying, wiping with surgical spirit, warming the patch and firming down well for 30seconds after applying. I now have Estraderm and they are dreadful. They are huge (granted it’s a higher dose but even still they are gigantic!) and don’t stick well. I have had to resort to buying tape from the chemist and run it around all 4 sides to keep them on. Good luck! awonderfuladventure · 18/04/2022 13:26 Thanks for all the tips, I won’t put it on my arm. I hate the patches, hope I can get gel again soon. Deux · 19/04/2022 13:19 @MarthanotMarfa Put them on skin which is under your underwear. Otherwise leggings/jeans rub them off This is what my consultant told me to do, make sure covered by knickers. Anyone struggling with the size of patches, then Estradot are the smallest, they’re like micro patches. Wordlewobble · 19/04/2022 13:29 When its patch change day I don’t moisturise the area after my morning shower and also I change my patch on an evening rather than just after a shower. I use Evorel and have had no problems with patches coming off. SuperBlondie28 · 19/04/2022 18:57 Evorel user here. I stick them below knicker line. I have trouble getting them OFF!! Quite painful. Really pulls on my little hairs 😕 spacefruit · 05/05/2022 09:26 Have been wearing them for a month now and if anything I have the opposite trouble ! I put them on my upper thigh or bum cheek and they stay very put and are actually quite hard to remove and I’m left with residue marks! Are you using moisturiser which could maybe stop them sticking so well? DrRuthGalloway · 05/05/2022 09:30 Estradot don’t fall off. They are the only ones I will use. Badlifeday · 05/05/2022 17:32 hate hate hate the everol patches. Left residue, so they stuck, but they would roll up in the middle and I was never sure I was getting the actual benefit of them. If I stuck tegaderm over them I would get a painful rash. i was so happy to switch to gel! pharmacist said today they couldn’t fill my prescription but gave me no advice on what to actually do. I assume I shouldn’t keep taking progesterone if I run out of oestrogen! Dontsayyouloveme · 05/05/2022 17:37 Hated the patches, always peeling off, causing red marks on my skin, sticky glue residue! Plus I didn’t absorb the oestrogen as well so had bleeds every two weeks. Now on the Sandrena gel which takes ages to dry but is SO much better! ShirleyJackson · 05/05/2022 17:37 Those Korean exfoliating wash cloths are the best thing to use to get the sticky black glue off, I’ve found. Peterpiperpickedwrongagain · 05/05/2022 17:39 Love my Evorel patches. I’ve never had one fall off. Don’t stick them on after a bath/shower when skin is warm. It’s better to put one on before bathing rather than after. I stick mine on my hips, they don’t get covered by underwear and have never rubbed off. I don’t use body lotion in the area. @elver they say they must be applied below the waist! WhereIsMyGlasses · 05/05/2022 23:41 I find evorel sticks well, if anything too well but I always get a black rim of fluff from clothes around it so it’s really obvious marriednotdead · 07/05/2022 21:06 Definitely put them on below the waist, mine go on alternate bum cheeks. Everol very sticky but won’t survive a jacuzzi! Remove the residue with baby oil on a cotton wool pad. Please create an account To comment on this thread you need to create a Mumsnet account. 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Can you put plasters over HRT patches?

Putting a plaster over your HRT patch is a good way to keep it in place but be sure to read the instructions and precautions on the HRT product as some types advise against this or advise that the plaster only cover the edges of the patch.

Why does my estrogen patch keep falling off?

What should I watch for while using this medication? – Visit your care team for regular checks on your progress. You will need a regular breast and pelvic exam and Pap smear while on this medication. You should also discuss the need for regular mammograms with your care team, and follow his or her guidelines for these tests.

This medication can make your body retain fluid, making your fingers, hands, or ankles swell. Your blood pressure can go up. Contact your care team if you feel you are retaining fluid. If you have any reason to think you are pregnant, stop taking this medication right away and contact your care team. Smoking increases the risk of getting a blood clot or having a stroke while you are taking this medication, especially if you are more than 35 years old.

You are strongly advised not to smoke. If you wear contact lenses and notice visual changes, or if the lenses begin to feel uncomfortable, consult your eye care specialist. This medication can increase the risk of developing a condition (endometrial hyperplasia) that may lead to cancer of the lining of the uterus.

Taking progestins, another hormone medication, with this medication lowers the risk of developing this condition. Therefore, if your uterus has not been removed (by a hysterectomy), your care team may prescribe a progestin for you to take together with your estrogen. You should know, however, that taking estrogens with progestins may have additional health risks.

You should discuss the use of estrogens and progestins with your care team to determine the benefits and risks for you. If you are going to need surgery, an MRI, CT scan, or other procedure, tell your care team that you are using this medication. You may need to remove the patch before the procedure.

Can I put tape over my estradiol patch?

Estradiol 84 HR Transdermal Patch 0.00313 mg/HR This medicine is used for the following purposes:

• bone strength
• endocrine disorder
• menopausal symptoms

DO NOT take this medicine by mouth. Avoid placing the patch near the breast. Keep the medicine at room temperature. Avoid heat and direct light. This patch should not be cut. Wash your hands before and after handling this medicine. Remove old patch before applying new one. Change the location of the new patch.

• Remove the plastic liner that protects the sticky side of the patch before applying to the skin.
• Be sure the area of skin is clean and dry before putting on a new patch.
• Apply the patch to a clean, dry, hairless area.

Do not shave the hair. It irritates the skin. If needed, use scissors to cut the hair close to the skin. Do not use soap, oils, or alcohol on the area of the skin before applying the patch. Use only water and gently pat dry. Do not rub the skin. Press the patch firmly for a few seconds to make sure it stays in place.

If the patch does not stick, speak with your doctor or pharmacist. Do not cover the patch with bandage or tape unless instructed by your doctor or pharmacist. If the edges of the patch begin to peel up you may tape the edges down with first aid tape. Do not cover the entire patch. After removing the patch, fold it together and discard it out of reach of children and pets.

Use a patch disposal unit to seal close the used patch before putting it into the trash. Avoid getting the medicine in the eyes, nose, or mouth. Wash the medicine off your fingers after applying it. Do not dispose of a used patch by flushing it into the toilet.

• To avoid irritating your skin, use a different location for a new patch.
• Put the patch on a different area each time.
• Wait at least one week before using the same location again.
• Apply the patch only to normal looking skin.
• Avoid areas of the skin that are red, have scrapes, or damaged.
• You can bathe, swim or shower while wearing the patch.

Clothing may be worn over the patch. This medicine may cause dark patches to appear on your face. Avoid sunlight and use sunscreen lotion to minimize further darkening of these skin patches. Avoid prolonged or excessive sunlight exposure. Use sunscreen lotion with SPF 15 or higher.

Please tell your doctor and pharmacist about all the medicines you take. Include both prescription and over-the-counter medicines. Also tell them about any vitamins, herbal medicines, or anything else you take for your health. If your symptoms do not improve or they worsen while on this medicine, contact your doctor.

This medicine may affect your blood sugar levels. If you have diabetes, talk to your doctor before changing the dose of your diabetes medicine. It is very important that you follow your doctor’s instructions for all blood tests. Do not use more than 1 patch at any one time.

1. Some patients taking this medicine have experienced serious side effects.
2. Please speak with your doctor to understand the risks and benefits associated with this medicine.
3. This medicine is associated with an increased risk for serious blood clots.
4. Speak with your doctor about the benefits and risks from using this medicine.

Tell your doctor and pharmacist if you ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine. Symptoms of an allergic reaction can include trouble breathing, skin rash, itching, swelling, or severe dizziness. Do not use the medication any more than instructed. Avoid smoking while on this medicine.

• Smoking may increase your risk for stroke, heart attack, blood clots, high blood pressure, and other diseases of the heart and blood vessels.
• Ask your doctor to show you how to perform a self breast examination.
• You should check your breasts once a month and report any changes to your doctor.
• Talk to your doctor about getting a complete physical exam every year while on this medicine.

Tell the doctor or pharmacist if you are pregnant, planning to be pregnant, or breastfeeding. Do not use this medicine if you are pregnant. If you become pregnant while on this medicine, contact your doctor immediately. Ask your pharmacist if this medicine can interact with any of your other medicines.

Be sure to tell them about all the medicines you take. Please tell all your doctors and dentists that you are on this medicine before they provide care. If you forget to take a dose on time, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, do not take the missed dose. Return to your normal dosing schedule.

Do not take 2 doses of this medicine at one time.

1. Patch should be removed before having an MRI scan to avoid serious burns.
2. Do not start or stop any other medicines without first speaking to your doctor or pharmacist.
3. Do not share this medicine with anyone who has not been prescribed this medicine.
4. Call your doctor if you have a skin reaction that does not improve within 2 days of removing the patch.

The following is a list of some common side effects from this medicine. Please speak with your doctor about what you should do if you experience these or other side effects.

• bloating
• breast pain or swelling
• depression or feeling sad
• headaches
• brown colored patches on the face
• nausea
• skin irritation such as redness, itching, rash, or burning
• skin irritation where medicine is applied
• stomach upset or abdominal pain
• vomiting
• weight gain

Call your doctor or get medical help right away if you notice any of these more serious side effects:

• increased risk of a blood clot
• breast lumps
• increased risk of cancer
• chest pain
• changes in memory, mood, or thinking
• swelling of the legs, feet, and hands
• fainting
• severe or persistent headache
• jaw pain
• sudden leg pain, swelling, warmth or redness
• symptoms of liver damage (such as yellowing of skin or eyes, dark urine, unusual tiredness or weakness; severe stomach or back pain)
• shortness of breath
• symptoms of stroke (such as one-sided weakness, slurred speech, confusion)
• thirst
• increased urinary frequency
• cramping of the uterus or bleeding from the vagina
• vaginal bleeding or spotting between periods
• vaginal itching or discharge
• blurring or changes of vision
• severe or persistent vomiting

A few people may have an allergic reaction to this medicine. Symptoms can include difficulty breathing, skin rash, itching, swelling, or severe dizziness. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical help quickly. Please speak with your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist if you have any questions about this medicine.

• IMPORTANT NOTE: This document tells you briefly how to take your medicine, but it does not tell you all there is to know about it.Your doctor or pharmacist may give you other documents about your medicine.
• Please talk to them if you have any questions.Always follow their advice.
• There is a more complete description of this medicine available in English.Scan this code on your smartphone or tablet or use the web address below.

You can also ask your pharmacist for a printout. If you have any questions, please ask your pharmacist. © 2021 First Databank, Inc. : Estradiol 84 HR Transdermal Patch 0.00313 mg/HR

Where is the best place to stick an HRT patch?

Using and Changing Evorel ® Evorel 50 ® and Evorel® Contipatches. Information placed on this digital platform is not intended as a substitute for consultation with your healthcare professional. Please consult your doctor or nurse for further information.

If you have a medical query about a Consilient Health medicine, please contact Consilient Health at or, For all other queries, please contact our Irish office at Tel:, Fax: +353 (0)1 2698919 or Copyright ©2021 Consilient Health Ltd. All rights reserved. The information on this website is intended for patients who have been prescribed Evorel or Evorel Conti that reside in the Republic of Ireland only.

IE-EVC-11j | Date of preparation: January 2021 : Using and Changing Evorel ® Evorel 50 ® and Evorel® Contipatches.

How do I get my estrogen patch to stay on?

Estrogen patches stick best when placed on clean, dry skin on a relatively flat area that doesn’t tend to sweat heaps or have a tons of dense hair. It’s also best to avoid any bony or bendy areas like an elbow or a knee.

Can I stick my HRT patch on my thigh?

The patch must be applied to an area of skin that is BELOW the waist. Ideal areas are the thigh or bottom. Make sure you choose a different area of skin whenever you change the patch. Make sure your skin is clean and dry before applying the patch.

Why wont my patches stay on?

Why do my iron on patches keep falling off? – One of the most common problems with iron on patches is that they eventually fall off. This happens because the adhesive on the back of the patch starts to wear down over time and becomes less effective. In some cases, you may also need to remove any residues left from the adhesive before applying a new patch.

Iron on patches may not stick to the fabric if they are applied at a temperature that is too low or if the heat level during washing is too high. High-speed washes can cause the adhesive to loosen and fall off of the patch, especially when using harsh detergents or hot water temperatures. Many school supplies, such as pencils and paper, contain natural oils which can weaken iron on patches’ adhesive properties over time. If your patch does not have enough heat Applied when it is sewn onto your garment, it will be less likely to adhere properly in cold weather conditions or after being washed in cold water.

Do you put on weight with HRT patches?

Weight gain and HRT – There’s little evidence that most types of HRT make you put on weight. You may gain some weight during the menopause and as you get older, but this often happens whether you take HRT or not. Exercising regularly and eating a balanced diet should help you to manage your weight,

How do you keep patches from falling off your skin?

Take care of loose patches – If the patch loosens or falls off, refer to your doctor’s instructions or the label instructions. In general, for a loose patch, you can use the palm of your hand to press the patch back onto the skin. If one edge of the patch becomes loose, use tape or a sticky adhesive film to secure the loose edge.

Do estrogen patches fall off?

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.

Does estrogen patch make you look younger?

Estrogen’s Effects on the Skin – Estrogen may impact the look of your skin in many ways, Researchers are still studying the reasons why estrogen may prevent some signs of skin aging. Estrogen may affect skin cell production, collagen production, hydration, and thickness of your skin. All these factors can affect the appearance of your skin.

What if my estradiol patch will not stay on?

Proper Use – Drug information provided by: Merative, Micromedex ® It is very important that you use this medicine only as directed by your doctor. Do not use more of it, do not use it more often, and do not use it for a longer time than your doctor ordered.

• To do so may cause unwanted side effects.
• This medicine is for use on the skin only.
• Do not get it in your eyes, nose, mouth, breast, or vagina.
• Do not use it on skin areas that have cuts, scrapes, or burns.
• If it does get on these areas, rinse it off right away with water.
• This medicine comes with a patient information insert.

Read and follow the instructions in the insert carefully. Ask your doctor if you have any questions. Wash your hands with soap and water before and after using this medicine. To use the patch:

Wash your hands with soap and water before and after you use this medicine. Carefully tear open the pouch when you are ready to put the patch on your skin. Do not cut it. Peel off the backing from the patch and apply the patch to a clean, dry, and hair-free area of the lower stomach or upper buttock area. This area must be free of powder, oil, or lotion for the patch to stick on to your skin. Press the patch firmly in place with your hand for about 10 seconds. Do not apply the patch on the breast or over any skin folds. Do not apply the patch on oily, broken, burned, or irritated skin, or areas with skin conditions (eg, birth marks, tattoos). Avoid applying the patch on the waistline or other places where tight clothing may rub it off. Wear the patch at all times until it is time to put on a new patch. Do not expose it to the sun for long periods of time. When replacing your patch, make sure to apply the new patch to a different area of your lower abdomen. Wait at least 1 week before applying a patch to the same area. When changing a patch, slowly peel it off from your skin. If you have any patch adhesive left on your skin, allow it to dry for 15 minutes and gently rub the sticky area with oil or lotion to remove it. It is best to change your patch on the same days of each week to help you remember. You may take a bath, shower, or swim while using this medicine. Doing so will not affect the patch. If a patch falls off, just put it back on a different area. If the patch does not stick completely, put on a new patch but continue to follow your original schedule for changing your patch. To throw away a used patch: Fold the patch in half with the sticky side together and place it in a sturdy child-proof container. Throw this container in the trash away from children and pets. Do not flush the patch down the toilet.

To use the spray:

The spray form of this medicine comes in an applicator that delivers a measured amount of estradiol to the skin with each spray. When using a new spray applicator, prime the pump by holding the spray upright and pumping 3 times. Priming is only necessary the first time you use a new spray applicator. Do not prime again. Apply the medicine to clean, dry, and unbroken skin on the inside of the forearm between the elbow and the wrist. Do not apply the medicine directly to your breasts or in or around the vagina. Allow the medicine to dry for at least 2 minutes before dressing, and at least 1 hour before washing. If your doctor tells you to increase your dose, move the applicator to an area of the skin next to your previous application site, before applying the second or third spray. Do not rub Evamist® spray into your skin. Do not allow your child to touch the area of the arm where the medicine was sprayed. If you cannot avoid being close with your child, wear clothes with long sleeves to cover the application site. If your child comes in direct contact with the arm where the medicine was sprayed, wash your child’s skin right away with soap and water. Do not allow your pets to lick or touch the arm where the medicine was sprayed. Always place the protective cover back on the applicator of the spray. Do not use the applicator for more than 75 sprays. Apply sunscreen at least 1 hour before applying Evamist®.

To use the gel:

The gel form of this medicine comes in a pump. Each time you press the pump you will get the same amount of medication. You may need to prime the pump by pumping 3 times (EstroGel®) or 10 times (Elestrin™) the first time you use it. Follow the patient instructions for the container you use. After you prime the pump, do not press the pump more than 1 time each time you use it. Apply the gel to clean, dry, and unbroken skin. Spread the gel as thinly as possible over the entire area on the inside and outside of your upper arm and shoulder area. Do not apply the medicine directly to your breasts or in or around your vagina. Do not allow others to come in contact with the area of skin where you applied the gel for at least 1 hour after you use the medicine. Do not allow others to apply the gel for you. Allow the medicine to dry for at least 5 minutes before you dress. Apply sunscreen at least 25 minutes after using the gel. Avoid applying sunscreen on the same application site for 7 days or more.

The gel and spray contain alcohol and are flammable. Avoid using it near an open flame or while smoking.

What not to do while on estradiol?

Overview of Feminizing Hormone Therapy UCSF Transgender Care UCSF Health System University of California – San Francisco July, 2020 Hi, I’m Dr. Maddie Deutsch, Associate Professor of Clinical Family & Community Medicine at the University of California – San Francisco (UCSF), and Medical Director for UCSF Transgender Care.

1. In this document I will review various aspects of feminizing hormone theray, including, choices, risks, and unknowns associated with feminizing hormone therapy.
2. As you prepare to begin treatment, now is a great time to think through what your goals are.
3. Do you want to get started right away on a path to the maximum degree of medically appropriate feminizing effects? Or, do you want to begin at a lower dose and allow things to progress more slowly? Perhaps you are seeking less-than-maximal effects and would like to remain on a low dose for the long term.

Thinking about your goals will help you communicate more effectively with your medical provider as you work together to map out your care plan. Many people are eager for hormonal changes to take place rapidly – which is totally understandable. It is important to remember that the extent of, and rate at which your changes take place, depend on many factors.

These factors primarily include your genetics and the age at which you start taking hormones. Consider the effects of hormone therapy as a second puberty, and puberty normally takes years for the full effects to be seen. Taking higher doses of hormones will not necessarily bring about faster changes, but it could endanger your health.

And because everyone is different, your medicines or dosages may vary widely from those of your friends, or what you may have seen on YouTube, or read in books or in online forums. Use caution when reading about hormone regimens that promise specific, rapid, or drastic effects.

While it is possible to make adjustments in medications and dosing to achieve certain specific goals, in large part the way your body changes in response to hormones is more dependent on genetics and the age at which you start, rather than the specific dose, route, frequency, or types of medications you are taking.

While I will speak about the approach to hormone therapy in transgender women, my comments are also applicable to and inclusive of non-binary people who were assigned male at birth and considering femininzing hormone therapy. There are four areas where you can expect changes to occur as your hormone therapy progresses.

Physical, emotional, sexual, and reproductive. The first is physical. The first changes you will probably notice are that your skin will become a bit drier and thinner. Your pores will become smaller and there will be less oil production. You may become more prone to bruising or cuts and in the first few weeks you’ll notice that the odors of your sweat and urine will change.

It’s also likely that you’ll sweat less. When you touch things, they may “feel different” and you may perceive pain and temperature differently. Probably within a few weeks you’ll begin to develop small “buds” beneath your nipples. These may be slightly painful, especially to the touch and the right and left side may be uneven.

This is the normal course of breast development and whatever pain you experience will diminish significantly over the course of several months. It’s important to note that breast development varies from person to person. Not everyone develops at the same rate and most transgender women who begin hormone therapy after puberty, even after many years of treatment, can only expect to develop an “A” cup or perhaps a small “B” cup.

As with all other women, the breasts of transgender women vary in size and shape and will sometimes be uneven with each other. It is usually a good idea to wait until you have been on hormones for at least a year before pursuing breast augmentation surgery.

Your body will begin to redistribute your weight. Fat will collect around your hips and thighs and the muscles in your arms and legs will become less defined and have a smoother appearance as the fat just below your skin becomes a bit thicker. Hormones may not have a significant effect on the fat in your abdomen, also known as your “gut”.

You can also expect your muscle mass and strength to decrease. To maintain muscle tone, and for your general health, I recommend you exercise. Overall, you may gain or lose weight once you begin hormone therapy, depending on your diet, lifestyle, genetics and muscle mass.

Your eyes and face will begin to develop a more feminine appearance as the fat under the skin increases and shifts. Because it can take two or more years for these changes to fully develop, it is a good idea to delay a decision on seeking facial feminization surgery until you have been on hormone therapy for at least 1 year.

What won’t change is your bone structure, including the bones of your face as well as your hips, arms, hands, legs and feet. The hair on your body, including your chest, back and arms, will decrease in thickness and grow at a slower rate. But it may not go away all together, and some may choose to pursue electrolysis or laser treatment.

• Remember that all cisgender women also have some body hair.
• Your facial hair may thin a bit and grow slower but it will rarely go away entirely without electrolysis or laser treatments.
• If you have had any scalp balding, hormone therapy will usually stop it, however the extent to which it will grow back is variable.

Some people may notice minor changes in shoe size or height. This is not due to bony changes, but due to changes in the ligaments and muscles of your feet and spinal column. Feminizing hormone therapy does not have any effect on voice pitch or character.

For those of you seeking to modify your speaking voice, I recommend you consult with a speech and language specialist who has expertise in this area. Emotional state changes The second area of impact of hormone therapy is on your emotional state Your overall emotional state may or may not change, this varies from person to person.

Puberty is a roller coaster of emotions, and the second puberty that you will experience during your transition is no exception. You may find that you have access to a wider range of emotions or feelings, or have different interests, tastes or pastimes, or behave differently in relationships with other people.

• For most people, things usually settle down after a period time.
• I encourage you to take the time to learn new things about yourself, and sit with new or unfamiliar feelings and emotions while you explore and familiarize yourself with them.
• While psychotherapy is not for everyone, many people find that working with a therapist while in transition can help you to explore these new thoughts and feelings, get to know your new body and self, and help you with things like coming out to family, friends, or coworkers, and developing a greater level of self-love and acceptance.

Sexual changes The third area of impact of hormone therapy is sexual in nature. Soon after beginning hormone treatment, you will notice a decrease in the number of erections you have; and when you do have one, you may lose the ability to penetrate, because it won’t be as firm or last as long.

• You will, however, still have erotic sensations and be able to orgasm.
• For those who are concerned about reduced erections, medications such as slidenafil (Viagra) may be helpful.
• You may find that you get erotic pleasure from different sex acts and different parts of your body.
• Your orgasms may feel like more of a “whole body” experience and last longer, but with less peak intensity.

You may experience ejaculation of a small amount of clear or white fluid, or perhaps no fluid. Don’t be afraid to explore and experiment with your new sexuality through masturbation and with sex toys such dildos and vibrators. Involve your sexual partner if you have one.

Though your testicles will shrink to less than half their original size, most experts agree that the amount of scrotal skin available for future genital surgery won’t be affected. Reproductive system changes The fourth area of impact of hormone therapy is on the reproductive system. The impact of feminizing hormone therapy on fertility is unclear.

While some data suggest that stopping hormones for 3-6 months can allow sperm counts to return, it is best to assume that within a few months of starting hormone therapy you could permanently and irreversibly lose the ability to create sperm. Some people may maintain a sperm count on hormone therapy, or have their sperm count return after stopping hormone therapy, but it is best to assume that won’t be the case for you.

If there is any chance you may want to parent a child from your own sperm, speak with your medical provider about preserving your sperm in a sperm bank. This process generally takes 2-4 weeks and costs roughly $2000-$3000. It is best to store your sperm before beginning treatment, to avoid any risk of reduced sperm count due to hormone therapy that could impact your ability to conceive a child.

Storing sperm in advance also avoids the stress of having to stop hormones at a later time to allow testosterone levels and sperm counts to come up; often this involves a return of some masculine characteristics during the time off of hormones. On the flip side, because feminizing hormone therapy does not always lower sperm count, If you are sexually active with someone who is able to become pregnant, you should always continue to use a birth control method to prevent unwanted pregnancy.

Risks The risk of things like blood clots, heart attacks, strokes, diabetes, and cancer as a result of hormone therapy are minimal, but may be elevated, especially for those with co-existing health conditions or starting hormone therapy after age 50. Generally, the size of any increase in risk for those in good health is small, and may be offset by improvements in quality of life and reductions in stress levels once they taking hormone therapy has begun.

The biggest increase in risk when taking estrogen is when it is combined with cigarette smoking. In this case there is an increased risk of blood clots, and probably strokes and heart attacks. For those with an elevated risk of these conditions, or over the age of 50, forms of estrogen that are delivered through the skin, such as a patch, are generally the safest option.

There is not much scientific evidence regarding the risks of cancer in transgender women. We believe the risk of prostate cancer will go down, but we can’t be sure. The risk of breast cancer may increase slightly, but will still be at less of a risk than a non-transgender female. Since there is not a lot of research on the use of estrogen for feminizing treatment, there may be other unknown risks, especially for those who have used estrogen for many years.

In particular for those trans women over the age of 50, it might be appropriate to use testosterone blockers only, or with a lower dose of estrogen. Since most non-transgender women go through menopause with declining estrogen levels at age 50, this approach is similar to the natural female life course, and may be of particular value in those with other health risks.

If your testicles are removed through an orchiectomy or vaginoplasty, you will be able to stop taking testosterone blockers, and may be able to take a lower dose of hormones, but should remain on at least a minimal dose hormones until a minimum age of 50. This will help prevent a potentially severe weakening of the bones, otherwise known as osteoporosis, which can result in serious and disabling bone fractures.

While gender affirming hormone therapy usually results in an improvement in mood, some people may experience mood swings or a worsening of anxiety, depression, or other mental health conditions as a result of the shifts associated with starting a second puberty.

1. If you have any mental health conditions it is recommended you remain in discussion with a mental health providers as you begin hormone therapy.
2. Other medical conditions may be impacted by gender affirming hormone therapy, though research is lacking.
3. These include autoimmune conditions, which can sometimes improve or worsen with hormone shifts, and migraines, which often have a hormonal component.

Ask your medical provider if you have further questions about the risks, health monitoring needs, and other long term considerations when taking hormone therapy. Modern, healthy approaches to estrogen therapy have no risk of causing liver injury. However, in some cases, the flow of bile from the liver through the gallbladder may be slowed which can lead to an increased risk of gallstones.

The degree of this increased risk is small. Many of the effects of hormone therapy are reversible, if you stop taking them. The degree to which they can be reversed depends on how long you have been taking them. Some breast growth, and possibly reduced or absent fertility are not reversible. Treatments Feminizing hormone therapy may include three different kinds of medicines: Estrogen, testosterone blockers, and progesterones.

Estrogen Estrogen is the primary “female” hormone. It is involved in many of the physical and emotional changes seen in transition. Estrogen may be given as a pill, by injection, or by a number of skin preparations such as a gel, spray or a patch. Pills are convenient, cheap and effective, but are less safe if you smoke or are older than 35.

Patches can be very effective and safe, but they need to be worn at all times. In a small number of cases they can cause some skin irritation. Many trans women are interested in estrogen through injection. Estrogen injections tend to cause very high and fluctuating estrogen levels which can cause mood swings, weight gain, hot flashes, anxiety or migraines.

Additionally, little is known about the effects of these high levels over the long term. If injections are used, it should be at a low dose and with an understanding that there may be uncomfortable side effects, and that switching off of injections to other forms may cause mood swings or hot flashes.

1. Some trans women have encountered difficulties obtaining a consistent supply of injected estrogen due to ongoing problems with the supplier.
2. Realistically, there is no evidence that injections lead to more rapid or a greater degree of feminization.
3. In my practice, I generally avoid prescribing injections unless under very specific circumstances.

Contrary to what many may have heard, you can achieve the maximum effect of your transition with doses of estrogen that result in your blood levels being similar to those of a pre-menopausal, cisgender woman. Taking high doses does not necessarily make changes happen quicker.

1. It could, however, endanger your health.
2. You may encounter claims of complicated and at times questionable dosing regimens, or intensive monitoring of various blood tests, that make promises of drastic, almost magical effects.
3. High doses of estrogens or other complicated hormonal regimens are not given to cisgender women who are seeking more exaggerated feminine features.

In reality, beyond getting your hormone levels into the somewhat wide range of levels seen in pre-menopausal non-transgender women, there is no evidence at this time to support higher doses or complex regimens over straightforward and appropriate dosing schemes, as recommended by the Endocrine Society and our own UCSF Transgender Care Guidelines.

The bottom line is that the primary predictor of feminizing effects is likely the lack of testosterone rather than levels of estrogen. Blood tests for estradiol, the most important estrogen in the body, and testosterone will be performed periodically to insure your treatment is aligned with your goals.

Testosterone blockers Testosterone blockers are also known as anti-androgens. Androgens are the class of hormones that cause male or masculine features. There are a number of medicines that can block testosterone. Spironolactone is the most commonly used anti-androgen in feminizing hormone therapy.

Spironolactone works by both blocking the production of and action of testosterone. Spironolactone can cause you to urinate excessively and feel dizzy or lightheaded, especially when you first start taking it. It’s important to remain well hydrated when taking this medication. Potassium levels should be monitored while taking this medication, though elevated potassium levels with spironolactone is very rare and usually only in people with kidney disease or taking certain kinds of blood pressure medication.

For people with no history of kidney disease or high potassium levels, there is no need to reduce the amount of potassium in your diet when taking spironolactone. Contrary to what you may read in chat groups or hear from others, spironolactone is a widely used, safe medication that is well tolerated by most.

• If spironolactone is not tolerable to you, it can be stopped and all of the side effects will resolve; none are permanent.
• Your medical provider will monitor your blood testosterone level while taking spironolactone to help guide dosing and meet your goals.
• Spironolactone is taken as a pill, usually twice per day.

A family of medications known as gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) analogs, such as leuprolide, brand name Lupron, may be used in cases where spironolactone is not appropriate or well tolerated. These medications work at your pituitary gland, and cause it to shut down the signals being sent to your testicles that tell them to make testosterone.

1. These medications are very effective and well tolerated, but can be expensive, and not all insurance plans cover their use.
2. In addition to monitoring your blood testosterone levels while taking this medication, your provider will monitor other tests to insure this medication is being dosed appropriately.

In adults, GnRH analogs are most commonly injected, and sometimes taken as a nasal spray. Depending on insurance requirements, in-office injections by a nurse may be necessary. Bicalutamide is an anti-androgen that some transgender and non-binary people ask about.

This medication is typically used in the treatment of prostate cancer. This medication blocks the action of testosterone in cells, but does not block the production of testosterone. Because of this, testosterone levels in the body remain high, and measuring blood testosterone level is not useful for tailoring treatment.

This makes it difficult to monitor whether this medication is being optimally dosed. Because bicalutamide has a risk of liver injury and because spironolactone and GnRH analogs like leuprolide are so safe and effective, bicalutamide is not recommended for use as part of a feminizing hormone regimen.

Finasteride and dutasteride are medicines which prevent the production of dihydrotestosterone, a specific form of testosterone that has action on the skin, hair, and prostate. These medicines are weaker testosterone blockers than spironolactone but have few side effects, and may be useful for those who can not tolerate spironolactone and are unable to use GnRH analogs.

It is unclear if there is any added benefit to taking one of these medicines once your testosterone levels have been reduced into the female range through the use of other blockers. Progesterone Progesterone is a hormone present in cisgender women that is involved in maintaining balance in the uterine lining and supporting pregnancy.

1. Though it’s commonly believed to have a number of benefits, including: improved mood and libido, enhanced energy, and better breast development and body fat redistribution, there is very little scientific evidence to support these claims.
2. Nevertheless, some say they experience some or all of these benefits from progesterone.

Progesterone may also be useful as a partial blocker of testosterone production in cases where other blockers can not be used or have not been effective. Progesterone should be used with caution as it can cause mood symptoms such as anxiety, depression, or irritability, and can cause weight gain.

Progesterone can have a negative impact on blood cholesterol, though this is usually of minimal significance unless there is a pre-existing and poorly controlled cholesterol or cardiac condition. Progesterone is usually taken as a pill. Generally, progesterone would be added to a regimen after hormone levels have been stabilized after the initial startup period on estrogen and testosterone.

Final thoughts Please remember that all of the changes associated with the puberty you’re about to experience can take years to develop. Starting hormone therapy in your 40s, 50s, or beyond may bring less drastic changes than one might see when beginning transition at a younger age, due to the accumulated lifetime exposure to testosterone, and declining responsiveness to hormone effects as one approaches the age of menopause.

• Taking higher doses won’t result in faster or more dramatic changes, however they can result in more side effects or complications.
• Now that you have learned about the effects of feminizing hormone therapy, medication options, and risks, the next step will be to speak with your provider about what approach is best for you.

I am so happy you’ve chosen to trust UCSF Transgender Care with providing for your health and gender transition. Please visit transcare.ucsf.edu for more information about our program and services. I wish you all the best as you begin this exciting new life phase of self-realization.

How do you get transdermal patches to stick?

Proper Use – Drug information provided by: Merative, Micromedex ® Use this medicine only as directed by your doctor. Do not use more of it, do not use it more often, and do not use it for a longer time than your doctor ordered. This is especially important for elderly patients, who may be more sensitive to the effects of pain medicines.

1. If too much of this medicine is used for a long time, it may become habit-forming (causing mental or physical dependence) or cause an overdose.
2. The fentanyl skin patch is only used for opioid-tolerant patients.
3. A patient is opioid-tolerant if oral narcotics have already been used for severe pain.
4. Check with your doctor if you have questions about this.

It is very important that you understand the rules of the Opioid Analgesic REMS program to prevent addiction, abuse, and misuse of fentanyl. This medicine should also come with a Medication Guide and patient instructions. Read and follow these instructions carefully.

Read it again each time you refill your prescription in case there is new information. Ask your doctor if you have any questions. You will receive the Ionsys® patch while you are in a hospital. A nurse or other trained health professional will give you this medicine after surgery. You will be taught how to use this medicine in the hospital, but the patch will be removed by your healthcare provider before you leave the hospital.

Do not leave the hospital with the patch on your skin. To use the Duragesic® patch:

Use this medicine exactly as directed by your doctor. It will work only if it has been applied correctly. This medicine should only be used on skin that is not irritated or injured. Do not put the patch in your mouth, chew it, or swallow it. Fentanyl skin patches are packaged in sealed pouches. Do not remove the patch from the sealed pouch until you are ready to apply it. When handling the skin patch, be careful not to touch the adhesive (sticky) surface with your hand. The adhesive part of the system contains some fentanyl, which can be absorbed into your body too fast through the skin of your hand. If any of the medicine does get on your hand, rinse the area right away with a lot of clear water. Do not use soap or other cleansers. Be careful not to tear the patch or make any holes in it. Damage to a patch may allow fentanyl to pass into your skin too quickly. This can cause an overdose. Apply the patch to a dry, flat skin area on your upper arm, chest, or back. Choose a place where the skin is not very oily and is free of scars, cuts, burns, or irritation. Do not apply this medicine to areas that have received radiation treatment. The patch will stay in place better if it is applied to an area with little or no hair. If you need to apply the patch to a hairy area, you may first clip the hair with scissors, but do not shave it off. If you need to clean the area before applying the medicine, use only plain water. Do not use soaps, other cleansers, lotions, or anything that contains oils or alcohol. Be sure that the skin is completely dry before applying the medicine. Remove the liner covering the sticky side of the skin patch. Then press the patch firmly in place, using the palm of your hand, for a minimum of 30 seconds. Make sure that the entire adhesive surface is attached to your skin, especially around the edges. If the patch becomes loose, tape the edges with first aid tape. If the patch falls off after applying it, throw it away and apply a new patch in a different area. If you need to apply more than 1 patch at a time, place the patches far enough apart so that the edges do not touch or overlap each other. Wash your hands with a lot of clear water after applying the medicine. Do not use soap or other cleansers. Remove the patch after 3 days (72 hours), or as directed by your doctor. Choose a different place on your skin to apply the next patch. If possible, use a place on the other side of your body. Wait at least 3 days before using the first area again.

In young children or persons with decreased mental alertness, the Duragesic® patch should be put on the upper back to decrease the chance that the patch will be removed and placed in the mouth. After a Duragesic® patch is applied, fentanyl passes into the skin a little at a time.

• A certain amount of the medicine must build up in the skin before it is absorbed into the body.
• Up to a full day (24 hours) may pass before the first dose begins to work.
• Your doctor may need to adjust the dose during the first few weeks before finding the amount that works best for you.
• Even if you feel that the medicine is not working, do not increase the amount of fentanyl skin patch that you apply.

Instead, check first with your doctor. You will probably need to take a faster-acting narcotic by mouth to relieve pain during the first few days of using fentanyl skin patch. You may also need another narcotic while your dose of fentanyl is being adjusted, and to relieve any “breakthrough” pain that occurs later on.

Be sure you do not take more of the other narcotic, and do not take it more often than directed. Taking 2 narcotics together can increase the chance of serious side effects. Grapefruit and grapefruit juice may increase the effects of fentanyl skin patch by increasing the amount of the medicine in your body.

You should not consume grapefruit products while you are using this medicine.

Can HRT reduce belly fat?

Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can affect weight loss in women – In addition to having less abdominal fat, the same study found that women undergoing HRT were almost one whole point lower on the body mass index (BMI) scale, and they had nearly 3 pounds less of fat mass.

1. In other research, estrogen has shown signs of controlling body weight.
2. And yet, more evidence suggests estrogen hormone therapy increases a woman’s resting metabolic rate, which may help slow weight gain.
3. Stillwatching what you eat and exercising go a long way in helping you manage your weight during and after HRT.

Healthy habits can help reduce the other symptoms of menopause, so grab a friend and take a walk—just get moving!

Does HRT keep your skin younger?

So, Does HRT Make You Look Younger? – Wanting to look younger is natural—after all, there’s a reason Fountain of Youth lore spans across cultures and continues to resonate with us. Age-related changes to your appearance suggest a loss of vitality. They can affect how you see yourself, how you are seen by others, and how you experience the world around you.

Often, it can feel as though you become a stranger in your own skin, as your appearance no longer reflects the way you feel inside. If you are struggling with the impact of age-related hormonal shifts, seeking the guidance of a highly trained practitioner who specializes in HRT can help counteract many of the physical changes that make you look and feel older.

By supplementing your body’s natural hormone levels, HRT can help you maintain a more youthful body composition, While this effect is particularly evident in men, research suggests that women can also benefit. HRT is also known to help women maintain softer, smoother skin, resulting in a younger look.

In addition to—and, often, as a result of—these physical changes, HRT often changes how you see yourself. In very real ways, using HRT to address symptoms of hormonal change can help you feel younger. It can give you more energy, elevate mood, and increase sex drive, It can make sex more comfortable and improve sleep in both men and women,

All of these things may help you not only feel better and more confident, they can also spur you to stay active and take better care of yourself. In other words, they can help you feel like yourself and allow you to present your best self to the world.

Can I put HRT patch on my bum?

Where is the best location for the HRT patch? – The HRT patch should be applied to a hairless area below your waist. For many people, this means applying the patch to your buttocks or thighs, although the lower abdomen is another option. Do not apply the patch on or near your breasts.

Can you come off HRT patches straight away?

How to stop – If you and your healthcare professional have decided that you should stop HRT, we suggest trying a lower dose for three to six months first (unless you have been advised to stop immediately because of a new medical condition such as breast cancer).

NICE tells us that there’s no long -term difference between stopping gradually or stopping abruptly, but weaning off HRT is less likely to cause rebound symptoms. Reducing the dose means reducing the ‘daily’ dose; oestrogen is broken down in your body quite quickly, so don’t cut down by taking your medicine on alternate days, as this will cause fluctuations in your oestrogen levels.

If you’re using patches, you can ask for a lower strength or simply cut the patch in half down the middle. If you wish to reduce your HRT even more slowly, taking a third or a quarter off your patch will work too. Pharmacists may tell you this makes the preparation unlicensed, but it works extremely well! If you’re using a gel, you can reduce the number of pumps.

If you’re using one pump only, you can squirt out a whole dose and use only half of it. If your HRT is in tablet form, there’s likely to be a low-dose formulation, or you could cut the tablet in half using a tablet cutter. A 0.5 mg strength of tablet is the lowest effective dose. These directions work very well for oestrogen-only and standard oestrogen/progestogen combinations.

If you’re stopping sequential treatment, we would recommend you finish the 28-day cycle to avoid early bleeding. If you’re taking utrogestan, simply stop taking it when you finish the oestrogen part.

How do HRT patches stay on?

How do HRT patches work? – Each patch contains a fixed dose of hormones. The HRT patch is placed on your body and delivers medication using a specialised adhesive that allows it to stay in place for three days at a time. The hormones enter your bloodstream through tiny blood vessels below the patch and then circulate throughout your body, where they get to work on relieving your symptoms.

1. Patches contain oestrogen – which is needed to relieve your menopause symptoms – and sometimes progesterone too.
2. If you still have your womb, you will need to take a patch which combines both oestrogen and progesterone.
3. This is because if used alone, oestrogen can cause abnormal thickening and even cancer of the womb lining (endometrium).

Taking progesterone alongside the oestrogen protects the womb lining and effectively removes this risk. HRT patches can be continuous or sequential, meaning that they can be used whether or not you still have periods. On continuous HRT you will have no periods.

Can I cover my HRT patch with Tegaderm?

Check out this Amazon review of 3M Tegaderm Transparent Dressing Film 4 Inch X 11 Yard I use tegaderm to keep my HRT patches on. I have tried all sorts of weekly HRT brands and they don’t want to stick for more than 12 hours or so. I did a lot of searching on the internet to arrive at this method, out of desperation.

I hope this helps someone. I bet it would work for keeping any other kind of medicine or medic patches secured. Here’s my method- I take a shower but then dry out for at least two hours. I cut a piece of tegaderm that is quite a bit bigger than the patch. I clean the skin area with alchohol wipes. I bend my back or stomach or leg whatever way I need to so that my skin is stretched as much as it can be wherever I’m applying the patch.

Then I stick on the HRT patch, and then put the tegaderm over the patch. After peeling off the top layer of plastic, make sure all the edges and corners are stuck down well. I use my hand to warm up then tegaderm so it really adheres to my skin. (I don’t really know if that part is necessary but I do it in case it helps.) I think the MOST IMPORTANT part of this is REALLY bending tonstretch your skin when applying the patch and tegaderm.

1. When I put it on my back, my husband helps me.
2. If you don’t stretch when applying them, when you do stretch and bend naturally, the tegaderm won’t really stretch enough with you and it can come loose.
3. The downside of this method is that after a week, it is REALLY sticky and it doesn’t feel great peeling it off.

I also have to use alchohol wipes or scrub to get the sticky residue off. Also, my skin under the tegaderm feels dry so I use a serious drugstore type lotion like CeraVe, Aquaphor, or Eucerin to repair the dryness. These are annoying side effects of using the tegaderm this way, but I if I want to keep patches on, it’s the only way I can get them to stay in place.