Estradiol patches are designed to administer oestrogen through the skin. These patches provide a controlled and consistent release of estradiol into the bloodstream, mimicking the natural hormone fluctuations found in cisgender women. This ensures stable oestrogen levels, promoting gradual and steady feminizing effects.
Oestrogen Patch Comparison Table
| Patch Name | Typical Strengths | How Often You Change It | Patch Size | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Generic Estradiol Patch | Usually 25, 50, 75, 100 micrograms/day | Twice weekly | Medium | Widely available; similar to Evorel in format |
| Evorel | 25, 50, 75, 100 micrograms/day | Twice weekly | Larger patch | Well-known, easy to peel and apply; reliable absorption |
| Estradot | 25, 37.5, 50, 75, 100 micrograms/day | Twice weekly | Very small patch | Discreet; sticks well; good for people wanting low-visibility patches |
| Climara | 25, 50, 75, 100 micrograms/day | Once weekly | Medium-large | Convenient once-weekly patch; fewer patch changes |
How to Use Oestrogen Patches
Where to Apply
Lower stomach or buttocks are the most common areas
Avoid breasts and areas with cuts or irritation
Rotate sites to prevent skin reactions
Application Steps
Wash hands and make sure the skin is clean, dry, and free of lotions.
Peel off the backing without touching the sticky surface too much.
Apply firmly for 10–20 seconds.
Check the edges are sealed.
Wash hands afterward.
Bathing, Swimming, Exercise
Most patches stay on well. If your patch lifts often, your clinician or pharmacist can help troubleshoot.
If a Patch Falls Off
If it falls off early, apply a new one and keep the same schedule for future changes.
If you're close to the next change, put on a new one and continue normally.
Dosing
Typical Starting Doses
Many people begin with:
50 micrograms/day patch (changed twice weekly)
orClimara 50 micrograms/day (changed once weekly)
Dose is then adjusted depending on:
How you feel
Your estradiol blood levels
Benefits and Considerations
Pros:
Steady, predictable hormone release
Convenient twice-weekly or once-weekly dosing
Lower clotting risk than oral oestrogen
Easy to stop or adjust
Good option for people with sensitive stomach or migraines triggered by tablets
Things to be careful about:
Skin irritation or redness at the patch site
Patch may loosen with heat, sweating, or friction
Visible on the skin (though small patches like Estradot are very discreet)
Dose flexibility is limited to the available strengths
Side Effects
These vary from person to person and may include:
Breast tenderness
Bloating or fluid retention
Mild headaches
Nausea
Mood changes
These usually settle as your dose is stabilised. If they persist, you can switch to a different form of oestrogen.
You can read more about side effects here.
Practical Tips
Apply after a shower, not before.
Avoid moisturisers on the area beforehand – they reduce sticking.
Smooth the patch edges every day to ensure it’s still secure.
If you’re very active or sweat heavily, Estradot or Climara often adhere better.
Pack spare patches when travelling.