One of the benefits of using an estrogen patch is that some women find it more convenient than creams or pills. Creams and pills need to be used or taken daily, but the patch offers a “set it and forget it” approach because it only needs to be changed once or twice a week. The transdermal system also delivers estrogen directly into the bloodstream, bypassing the liver and providing a steady stream of hormones.

Estrogen patches are a transdermal form of menopause hormone therapy (MHT). The patches work by delivering a continuous, low dose of estradiol (a form of estrogen) through the skin for direct absorption into the bloodstream. This method provides consistent 24/7 hormone delivery for ongoing relief from menopausal symptoms.

Many women begin to notice improvements in mood and sleep within a few weeks of starting the patch. However, every woman’s experience is different, and it can take up to three months to feel the full benefits.

As hormone levels begin to reach a steady state in the blood, you can expect to feel significant relief from hot flashes and night sweats. Many women also report feeling more rested due to improved sleep as well as having more stable moods.

You may experience mild side effects as your body adjusts to the medication, including redness or irritation at the application site, breast tenderness, headaches, or nausea. Some women worry about weight gain, but studies show that MHT doesn’t typically cause significant weight gain.

The patch should be applied to a clean, dry, and hairless area of skin on the lower abdomen, upper buttocks, or outer part of the upper thigh. Placing it below the waist allows for greater absorption because these areas of the body have more fatty tissue. Rotating the application site with each new patch will also help reduce the risk of skin irritation.

Estrogen patches are typically changed either once or twice a week.

Yes, the estrogen patch is waterproof, so you can swim with it on. Wearing the patch under your bathing suit can help keep it from falling off. You can also bathe or shower while wearing the patch. Just be mindful not to scrub the area too harshly. Although it’s uncommon, estrogen patches don’t always stick well in saunas. A different form of MHT is better suited for women who frequently use saunas.

If your estrogen patch falls off, try to adhere it to the same spot or reapply to a new area of clean, dry skin. If it still doesn't stick, apply a new patch.

Winona’s Estrogen Patch is available in five different doses: 0.025 mg, 0.0375 mg, 0.05 mg, 0.075 mg, and 0.1 mg.

You may need a different dose if menopausal symptoms do not improve after four to six weeks of using the Estrogen Patch. However, it can take up to three months to feel the full effects of the medication. It's important to discuss any persistent symptoms with your Winona physician, who can determine if a dose adjustment is right for you.

If you’re perimenopausal and still have your uterus, you’ll likely continue to experience scheduled bleeding, similar to a period. If you’re postmenopausal, you’ll no longer get periods. While it’s common for some women to experience breakthrough bleeding when starting HRT, any unexpected bleeding should always be discussed with your physician.

Yes, Winona’s Estrogen Patch contains bioidentical estradiol, meaning it has the same molecular structure as the estrogen naturally produced by your body.

Patches containing estrogen are not available over the counter (OTC). Products sold OTC are typically herbal supplements, not medications. A prescription from a doctor is required to get a transdermal estrogen patch, which is a proven, effective medication.

Current guidelines from The Menopause Society state that it’s safe for most women with no health risks to continue HRT treatment for as long as it helps relieve their symptoms. For some women, symptoms naturally resolve during their postmenopausal years, and they may choose to stop treatment. The decision for how long to stay on an estrogen patch is a personal one to be made between you and your doctor.

Yes, estradiol patches have an expiration date printed on the packaging. Patches should not be used after they have expired because their effectiveness and safety can no longer be guaranteed. To safely dispose of expired estrogen patches, fold the adhesive sides of the patch together and place it inside a secure bag or container to keep out of reach of children and pets before throwing it in the trash.

You can get your prescription by completing our online onboarding process. This starts with a free intake where you'll answer questions about your health and symptoms. A board-certified doctor will then review your information to determine if you are a candidate for treatment and, if so, will issue a prescription for Estrogen Patches.

Once your prescription is issued, there’s a 24-hour review period before the pharmacy begins processing your order. The pharmacy typically prepares your medication within 1–3 business days, followed by shipping, which takes another 1–3 business days. On average, most patients receive their Estrogen Patches within about 5 business days.

Your Estrogen Patches are delivered directly to your door. Standard shipping is free on all prescriptions. If you need your medication sooner, expedited options are available at checkout, including USPS Priority (2–3 business days) or FedEx Overnight for an additional fee.

While Winona is currently unable to bill insurance companies directly, you can use your HSA (Health Savings Account) or FSA (Flexible Spending Account) card to pay for your Estrogen Patches at checkout. You’ll also have access to receipts and documentation that you can use to submit and file a claim with your insurance provider for possible reimbursement.

Yes, Winona’s Estrogen Patch is approved by the FDA.

Your treatment is personalized, and ongoing care is included. If you feel your dosage needs adjustment, you can discuss this with your doctor anytime via messaging in the secure Patient Portal. Adjustments are free, and your doctor will work with you to find the right dosage for your needs.

Your Winona subscription includes unlimited, 24/7 messaging with your board-certified doctor. You can ask questions about your Estrogen Patches, discuss your symptoms, or request dosage adjustments at any time through the secure Patient Portal.

Your treatment is set up as a subscription, so Estrogen Patch refills are automatically processed and shipped based on your treatment schedule — that way, you never run out. You can manage your subscription, change your shipping date, or cancel at any time.