HRT patches, how to make them stick!

[Brambledoggy]

Does anyone have any tips as to where best location for HRT patches to go? My GP says anywhere below the waist, so it’s been put (first time today) just above pubic area, but it seems to wrinkle and fold, especially when I sit down, presumably reducing its effectiveness. Tips welcome for a first time user. Swallowing a Progesterone pill not so much of an issue!

[Gummybearx]

I find sticking them on my back undies line or anywhere undies sit around bottom cheeks/small of back so that they dont get rubbed off by clothes. I got the advice by a friend who had been using them. Ive only had the odd one or two that have come loose and i use micropore to hold them in place which seems to stay til I need to change it when its due.

[Brambledoggy in reply to Gummybearx]

Thank you. Yes, I’m going to try that. I think it’s trial and error till you find what works for you. Appreciate the reply.

[Billycasper]

I usually put them on top of the buttock alternating left to right each time. That was the advice from some research about best absorption area that appeared on The Balance App. I also rub/hold my palm over it for a little while to warm the stickiness up. I’ve never had one fall off yet. I use Everol 75mg.

[Brambledoggy in reply to Billycasper]

Mine are Estradot and tiny so that’s a good tip to try and make them stick. Can’t believe modern technology and that such a small thing “should” have such a big impact.

[Pinklady31]

In addition to the 2 other comments I also place the HRT patches on my upper outer thighs.

[Brambledoggy in reply to Pinklady31]

Yes, I guess they’re easier to see there too. I keep getting a mirror out to check it’s still around. I’m sure I’ll get used to it all in time. Only my second day. Fingers crossed.

[Pinklady31]

Sorry, I’ve now got images of you chasing yourself round in circles trying to see the patch on your bum! 🤣 .

I only have this image, as I have done it and even I found it funny whilst I did it!

Do you have to change the patches every 3 days? What patches are you on?

I’ve had a few supply issues with them so have been on 3 different types so far. I’m currently on Estradot 100mg, they are my favourite brand. X

[Brambledoggy in reply to Pinklady31]

50mg.

[Brambledoggy]

Every Thursday and every Sunday to change them. I’ve a history of debilitating endometriosis and a horrid gynaecology history so was TERRIFIED of trying HRT and put it off for nearly two years. My menopause symptoms were so bad I bit the bullet, paid to go private and have a 2 hour in depth consultation. She was lovely, no pressure at all but I’ve decided to give it a go. I’m still scared stiff of the patches reactivating my endo lesions but she’s started me on the lowest dose together with progesterone tablets every night so continuous for me. They are called Estradot. Easy to lose!

[Wales99]

i’m guessing you have Evorel or Estraderm patches. I had so much trouble getting them to stick. On advice from a Menopause Website I bought Tegaderm Film Dressings on Amazon. They worked really well.

[Brambledoggy in reply to Wales99]

Thanks for the tip. I’ll look into them. I have a Latex allergy which might be an issue down the line. I use Estradot. They are tiny. The one I put on on Thursday seems to still be in place! Fingers crossed.

[M33R4]

I stick mine on the top most part of my bum, below my trouser line. I then alternate to other side with my next dose and so on. Evorel and Estradot patches have strong glue which don't come off unless you rub really hard.

I had a friend who just could not use patches as they would never stick. She changed to tablets.

Other alternatives are gel or spray although the doses your body is absorbing can vary with those.