A decline in hormone levels during menopause, especially estrogen, can lead to a range of symptoms, like hot flashes. Various studies show that hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can provide these essential hormones externally, helping to alleviate symptoms.
HRT is available in different forms, including tablets, body creams, and patches, with each type offering its own unique benefits. This article will discuss the estrogen patch, exploring how it works, its major benefits, and why it may be a suitable option for women managing menopausal symptoms.
What is an estrogen patch?
Estrogen patches are small adhesives that stick to the skin and gradually release estrogen for direct skin absorption. Patches are classified as transdermal HRT, as the hormones in the patch reach the bloodstream through the skin and are then distributed throughout the body.
Patches usually need to be changed once or twice a week and are a preferred method of hormone replacement for many women. Like other forms of HRT, patches can help reduce hot flashes and night sweats, manage mood swings, support sleep, and prevent menopausal brain fog.(1)
Benefits of an Estrogen Patch
These are six major benefits of using an estrogen patch:
1. Easy Medication Delivery
The estrogen patch is easy to apply and can be left for a period of time, eliminating the need to remember to take a daily pill. It provides a steady and consistent delivery of estrogen to manage menopausal symptoms throughout the day.
2. Better Estrogen Delivery
A 2017 study found that women using the estrogen patch had an estrogen ratio nearly identical to their levels before menopause. At the same dose, women using the patch had twice the amount of free estradiol in their blood compared to those taking the pill.(2)
3. Direct Hormone Absorption
Estrogen absorption through the skin allows the hormone to bypass the gastrointestinal tract. With oral estrogen tablets, the liver and intestines break down part of the hormone before it can enter the bloodstream.
The estradiol patch bypasses first-pass metabolism in the liver, allowing the hormone to be distributed more quickly to the rest of the body. This method is also seen to lower the risk of developing gallbladder disease or affecting liver function.(1)(3)
4. Fewer Risks
Patches deliver lower doses of estrogen through the skin compared to oral estradiol pills or tablets. This delivery method reduces the risk of blood clots in the legs or lungs, high blood pressure, and migraines for those prone to them.(1)(3)
5. Lower Risk of Postmenopausal Osteoporosis
Postmenopausal women may experience loss of bone density (osteoporosis), which often does not cause any symptoms for many years. Over time, osteoporosis can cause bones to become thin and weak, increasing the risk of fractures.
Estrogen patches can support bone health and reduce the risk of osteoporosis. However, it’s important to note that while HRT can be effective in improving bone density, it’s not recommended solely for this purpose.(3)
6. Protective Effect on the Brain
Data from the KEEPS (Kronos Early Estrogen Prevention Study) indicated that estrogen delivered through the skin can improve sleep and memory. In the study, women using the estrogen patch scored higher on memory tests than those taking oral estrogen or a placebo. They also showed less shrinkage in the brain's outer layer in brain scans and were less likely to have amyloid deposits, which are associated with Alzheimer’s disease.(5)
