Estrogen Patches: Benefits, Uses & Potential Side Effects

Estrogen is the primary female sex hormone. It is included in oral contraceptives, hormonal replacement therapy (for a variety of health conditions), and in menopause treatment. The estrogen patch is a commonly prescribed medication, but research has shown that there are some negative side effects.

Menopause

• Menopause brings about some unwanted symptoms is many women, such as hot flashes, vaginal itching and burning and vaginal dryness. The estrogen patch is commonly prescribed to help minimize the side effects of menopause.

Osteoporosis

• Osteoporosis is a condition that causes bones to become more brittle. It can co-exist with menopause or occur on its own. The estrogen patch is commonly prescribed to help treat this as well, especially in cases related to menopause.

Cardiovascular

• According to Archives of Internal Medicine, though estrogen does not appear to reduce the risk of heart attack, it does appear to lower the risk of heart disease in women ages 50 to 59.

Migraines

• According to the National Headache Foundation, stabilization of hormones can help in relieving migraines.

Considerations

• Estrogen has been shown to increase your risk of endometrial cancer.