Estrogen Patch---Opinions/Info Needed

[valentine64]

I'm confused about the estrogen patch. My ob/gyn gave me some samples of Vivelle-Dot patches, which deliver 0.075 mg/day. He gave me these because I mentioned that I have experienced minor problems in between my monthly cycles. Those problems include moodiness, fatigue, extreme urges to eat everything in sight(!), slight vag. dryness. I'm 44, so I don't know if these are the beginnings of peri-menopause.
Anyway, after reading the leaflets on these patches, I am alarmed to find out the side effects--even though this dose is supposed to be a low dose--like breast cancer, uterine cancer, strokes, blood clots, etc.. Of course, the leaflet says these side effects are rare, but I don't want to take chances if these are possible hazards. Would it do any good for me to use the patch just for a day or two between my cycles? My doctor recommended using them in between cycles, but he didn't say how long to use them. What experiences/knowledge do you have of estrogen patches or supplements?
Thanks so much in advance!
Valerie

 

[caseysmomgo]

I had to have a hysterectomy 3 yrs ago and went into instant menopause and went on the Vivelle Dot patch for menopausal symptoms. At the time, my gyn and my gp both said I could stay on it indefinitely with no problems, but I decided a year ago to go off of it due to being scared of possible side effects. I cleaned up my diet and upped the exercise, and I hardly have any hot flashes, etc any more.

I didn't have any side effects (that I know of) while on the patch, but I had done some reading about it and if you're doing any hormone replacement therapy, it's one of the "better" ones, if there is such a thing... but I was skeptical the whole time I was on it as I hate taking any kind of drug, etc... so I'm glad I made the decision to stop using it. I haven't heard of it being used while you're still having periods, so I really can't comment on that...

Lately I'm of the opinion that the less drugs you take, the better, but that's just my humble opinion. Sorry this wasn't very helpful... I hope you get some good answers and some relief for your problems.

 

[valentine64]

Thank you for your input. I was thinking along the same lines--the less drugs, the better. I think I'm just going to have to do the best I can with the food cravings and tiredness. It only happens one or two days a month, so I'll try to wait it out. Thanks again!
Valerie

 

[chefling]

I would also agree that the less drugs the better however keep in mind that the patch you are considering is still a much less dose than birth control pills.

Not to discount the possible dangers just to put it in perspective.