Description
Oestrogel Pump-Pack is a topical hormone replacement therapy (HRT) gel containing estradiol, a naturally occurring form of estrogen. It is designed to help women manage symptoms of menopause caused by declining estrogen levels, such as hot flushes, night sweats, mood changes and vaginal dryness.
The gel is applied to the skin once daily, where the medication is absorbed into the bloodstream and eases hormonal imbalance during menopause.
How It Is Used
- Application: The prescribed amount of gel is applied once a day to clean, dry skin on the arms, shoulders or inner thighs.
- Priming: Before first use, the pump needs to be primed to ensure correct dosing.
- Drying Time: Allow the gel to dry completely before putting on clothes to minimise transfer.
- Hygiene: Wash hands after applying the gel to reduce the chance of transferring hormone to others.
Common Side Effects
Like all medications, Oestrogel can cause side effects. These may include:
- Tender or swollen breasts
- Headache or nausea
- Skin redness or irritation at the application site
- Spotting or irregular vaginal bleeding
- Mild mood changes
Most side effects are mild and often improve as the body adjusts.
Important Cautions
Before using Oestrogel, keep in mind:
- Use it only for menopause symptoms that significantly affect daily life.
- Be aware of signs like unusual vaginal bleeding or persistent headaches — these should be discussed with a healthcare professional.
- Avoid skin contact with others at the application site until the gel has dried.
- Follow instructions on rotation of application sites to reduce skin irritation.
Contraindications — When Not to Use
Oestrogel should not be used if you have:
- A history of breast cancer or other hormone-dependent cancers
- Undiagnosed genital bleeding
- A history of blood clots or clotting disorders
- Recent heart attack or stroke
- Severe liver disease
- Known allergy to estradiol or gel ingredients
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding
In these situations, estrogen therapy can be harmful.
Risks and Potential Harms
While many women benefit from HRT, there are some risks to consider:
- There is a risk of blood clots, which may be lower than with oral estrogen but still present.
- Long-term estrogen use is linked with an increased chance of certain cancers, especially if progestogen is not added in women with an intact uterus.
- Cardiovascular risks like stroke or heart disease may increase depending on age and medical history.
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