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[pepperminty]

Hi Ladies ,
 if changing type of HRT, are patches or the Gel the way to go? I am with the NHS and do not just want the cheapest option suggested etc as I know funds are tight and they are advised to be cost effective etc 

Are some patches better than others overall? Have there been any reported issues?
Is the pump action on gel's reliable - I remember reading a post that some gel pumps don't give a consistent dose?
Are there any useful tips / advice " I wish I would have known that or done that " .

PMxx

[bombsh3ll]

Taking any medical/efficacy questions out of the equation (I have never used gel) I would go for patches if you will be dealing with NHS repeat prescriptions, as at least they come in single units.

A patch is supposed to last half a week, however many GPs have the sense to realise that patients who are active and shower more than twice a week go through them more quickly.

Gel, or anything that comes as a liquid or in a tube, often tends to be prescribed in ridiculously small quantities and it can be a constant battle to obtain an adequate and reliable supply.

Also I would ask for your treatment to be prescribed generically where possible rather than brand names, then you are less likely to be left high and dry (bad pun sorry!) in the event of product shortages.

However in an ideal world if money and supply problems weren't an issue, estradot patches are hands down the best for size, absorption and adhesion.

[Dotty]

I think it’s really a personal preference. I’ve been on 4 pumps of Oestrogel for 7 years and I get 3 months supply at a time. I’ve never had problems with the pump or the changing shape of the bottles. I always get Oestrogel as that’s what’s stated on my prescription. It works fine for me  .

[chopsuey]

A patch is obviously more convenient - just stick it on and forget about it until it needs changing, whereas you have to wait for gel to dry and perhaps give a bit more thought to where you are applying it if you are using several pumps. It is also an issue if you are doing hormone monitoring blood tests, in order to avoid possible contamination if you are applying it to your arms.

I started with patches ( Evorel) but had severe skin irritation. I have been using Oestrogel for 3 and a half years and it works well for me. Yes, there are still issues with pump reliability but I get around that by weighing it. 

[pepperminty]

Thank you ladies ,

I guess that if one doesn't work I can change delivery method.

I am spending my life petrified and anxiety ridden at the moment, due to feeling so unwell. So I have to do something. It can't be any worse unless I am sensitive to Utro  .

I keep telling myself that there are lots of women out there that are fine on transdermal and utro. You just don't hear about them - unless a celebrity!

Pmxx

[sheila99]

I wouldn't ask for estradot as they're out of stock so you'll end up with evorel or estraderm.

[Dotty]

Pepperminty… I’m fine on transdermal Oestrogel and Utrogestan 😊. Most woman who are doing fine don’t come on these forums.

[pepperminty]

Thank you everyone,

yes Dotty , I must remember this that most are fine on utro and transdermal estrogen. Thank you - one should start on a positive note and try not to expect the worse!
Thanks Shiela99, I may well use gel as sometimes plasters cause irritation on me - I haven't decided yet. I have other health stuff going on which may effect what I do anyway.

PMxx