For the treatment of menopausal symptoms, I have always preferred using the estrogen patch as opposed to oral estrogen (oral conjugated equine estrogens). With the patch, which allows a continuous delivery of estrogen, you don’t see the same fluctuations of estrogen as you do with the oral pill. The absorption through the skin bypasses the liver, lowering the risk of gallbladder disease. There is also a reduced risk of blood clots with transdermal estrogen. And with generic versions available, it is definitely more affordable as well. And now a recent study shows a moderate increase in sexual function with the transdermal estrogen patch as opposed to the oral pill. It also seems to help with lubrication and pain more than the pill. Yet another reason for me to favor the patch over the pill.
No one treatment is right for everyone. If you are experiencing menopausal symptoms, speak to your medical provider to figure out what treatment would be best for you.
