Written by Lauren Lund, APRN-CNP

Reviewed by Laurianne Scott, DO, OBGYN

Last Updated on 06/09/2025

At MOBO Med SPA, we understand that menopause can bring more than just hot flashes—it can usher in bone changes, mood shifts, sleep disruption, and more menopausal symptoms. That’s why we’re proud to offer Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) which can include the use of estrogen (estradiol) patches, a gentle and effective form of HRT designed to restore balance and comfort.

 
My Estrogen is Low. Now what?

You got your labs back and your "estrogen is low." What does that mean? You may be searching for answers across Google. Let's dive in and hopefully give you some clarity.

Role of Estrogen

Estrogen's job is to regulates many bodily functions, including the menstrual cycle, bone health, and cardiovascular health. In perimenopause, hormone levels (especially estrogen and progesterone) fluctuate erratically as the function of the ovaries begin to decline. Menopause is defined as the cessation of menstrual periods for 12 consecutive months in an age appropriate female (typically in late 40s to early 50s), signaling the end of a woman's fertility. This typically also results in low estrogen levels. 

Types of Estrogen

We have 3 different major types of estrogen.

• Estrone (E1): After menopause, estrone is the only type of estrogen that your body keeps making naturally (because of this, we often don't check E1 because it doesn't give us much insight in your menopausal symptoms). Postmenopausal women usually have higher estrone levels than those who are premenopausal. Males also have estrone but in much lower amounts.
• Estradiol (E2) is the primary type of estrogen in your body during your reproductive years. It’s the most potent form of estrogen. Women have almost no estradiol (E2) after menopause. Men secrete estradiol (E2) in moderate amounts by the testes throughout life as well.
• Estriol (E3) is a type of estrogen, primarily known as the main estrogen produced during pregnancy. It's considered the weakest of the three major estrogens (estradiol, estrone, and estriol). 

Symptoms of Low Estrogen:

Symptoms of Low Estrogen are often associated with menopausal symptoms and can include but are not limited to:

• Irregular Periods
• Hot Flashes +/or Night Sweats
• Sleep Disturbances
• Mood Swings and Emotional Changes
• Vaginal Dryness and Discomfort
• Changes in Skin, Hair, and Nails
• Weight Gain and Changes in Metabolism
• Memory and Concentration Problems
• Joint and Muscle Pain
• Decreased Bone Density

What is Hormone Replacement Therapy?

Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) for women (which may include the use of testosterone, estrogen, and/or progesterone) aims to restore balanced hormone levels to alleviate menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes, mood swings, fatigue, decreased libido, vaginal dryness, bone density loss, and irregular menstrual cycles. 

Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy are hormone medications that are structurally identical to those made by your own body. Transdermal estradiol patches are a type of bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT), as well as some of the hormone options MOBO Med Spa offers such as vaginal estrogen cream, compounded testosterone cream, oral micronized progesterone, and hormone pellets.

What are Estradiol Patches?

Estrogen patches are thin, adhesive skin patches placed on areas like the lower abdomen or buttocks. They deliver estradiol—bioidentical estrogen—through your skin into the bloodstream, avoiding the digestive tract entirely. Typically worn once or twice a week, they ensure a steady hormone release— free from the peaks and troughs often seen with pills.

Types of HRT Patches

There are two main types of menopause patches:

• Estrogen patch, also called estradiol (a form of estrogen)
• Estrogen and progestin (a synthetic form of progesterone) combination patch

Why Choose Transdermal Estradiol Patches Over Pills?

Oral estrogen pills have risks that include:

• Increase in gallstones
• Increase in inflammatory markers associated with heart disease
• Increase in triglyceride levels, which lead to the increased the risk of blood clots including: Stroke, Pulmonary embolism, Deep vein thrombosis (DVT)

HRT patches offer several advantages over other forms of hormone therapy. Here’s how estradiol patches may benefit you:

• Easy dosing options: Estradiol patches come in several different dosing options 
• Reduced risk of clots: Compared to estrogen pills, estrogen transdermal patches are less likely to lead to blood clots. One study that followed 54,000 women, ages 35 and older, found that those who used estrogen patches were 30% less likely to develop blood clots than those using estrogen only pills.
• Fewer side effects: Estradiol patches bypass liver metabolism and instead allow hormones to go directly into the blood stream thus decreasing the risk of side effects.
• Convenience: Estrogen patches are great for women who forget to take pills daily. 

Benefits of Estrogen Patches for Menopause

Using transdermal estrogen patches as part of your menopause care plan can offer the following benefits:

• Relief from hot flashes and night sweats
• Improved vaginal dryness and urinary symptoms
• Enhanced mood and reduced anxiety or depression
• Bone health, reducing the risk of osteoporosis
• Brain health — early studies (e.g. KEEPS) suggest patches help retain memory‑related brain volume

How Do I Use Estrogen Patches?

1. Schedule a consult with MOBO Medical Spa to see if you're a candidate.
2. Pick up estrogen patches at your pharmacy.
3. Ensure your name and date of brith are on your prescription.
4. Read the prescription instructions.
5. Wash your hands with soap and dry your hands.
6. Placement: Apply to clean, dry skin on lower abdomen or buttocks; avoid lotions and the same site for at least a week
7. Rotation: When it's time to apply your next patch, alternate locations to preserve skin health.

Frequently Asked Questions on Estrogen Patches

What should I do if I forget my Estrogen Patch?

Missing a single swap isn’t a big deal. Apply a new patch as soon as you remember and return to your usual  estradiol patch schedule. You might experience a temporary uptick in low estrogen symptoms if you forget a patch, but you should normalize quickly once you’re back on track with your patches.

What should I do if my estrogen patch falls off?

You can try re-sticking it by cleansing the skin with an alcohol wipe then reapplying it. Some people will then apply a Tegaderm (transparent medical dressing) on top if needed. You can also wait to apply a new one when you're due for your next patch. 

Can I exercise or go in a pool with an estrogen patch on?

Transdermal patches are durable and made to withstand exercise and swimming activities. It’s perfectly okay to swim, sweat, shower, go in a sauna or jacuzzi while wearing a transdermal patch. You should always check your patch after these activities to ensure it hasn't fallen off.

What are the potential side effects of estrogen patches?

Your provider will discuss potential side effects and risks with your during your appointment; however, women using estrogen patches may experience the following side effects: 

• Breast tenderness or enlargement
• Headaches or migraines
• Nausea or vomiting
• Mood changes (e.g., irritability, depression, or anxiety)
• Bloating or water retention
• Weight gain
• Spotting or irregular bleeding
• Fatigue
• Decreased libido (sexual desire)
• Skin changes (e.g., acne, dark spots, or rash) 

Please note that side effects can be related to dosing. Aways inform your provider of any side effects.

Talk to Your Provider About Estradiol Patches

If you’re struggling with symptoms of menopause, transdermal estrogen patches may be an excellent solution. Always consult with a trusted healthcare provider to find the best treatment approach for your unique needs.

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*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

The information provided in this blog post is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. The content shared here is based on general wellness principles and is not a substitute for professional medical evaluation, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen or making changes to your current health plan. This blog does not establish a patient-provider relationship, and the opinions expressed are solely those of the author. Please seek the guidance of your physician or another qualified healthcare professional for any medical concerns you may have.