Managing Bleeding on HRT Patches During Menopause

Different HRT Patches Available

Key Varieties: There is a diverse range of HRT (Hormone Replacement Therapy) patches available on the market, each designed to cater to specific therapeutic needs and preferences. These patches can significantly influence bodily responses, including variations in bleeding patterns. Understanding the different types available can help you choose the most suitable option for your health needs.
Learn more about HRT types here

• Single-hormone patches: These patches contain only oestrogen and are suitable for women who have undergone a hysterectomy. Patches come in different doses and help manage symptoms of menopause effectively without the need for additional hormones that those with a uterus would require. Oestrogen only patches can be used with an appropriate progestogen to keep the womb lining thin (for example a Mirena, or micronised proegsterone) if you have not had a hysterectomy.
• Combined patches: These include both oestrogen and a progestogen, making them ideal for women who still have their uterus. The combination of hormones helps in managing menopausal symptoms while reducing the risk of endometrial hyperplasia (thickening of the womb lining), which can occur if oestrogen is taken alone.

Incorporating the correct type of HRT patch as part of your health regime can play a role in managing symptoms associated with menopause and ensuring overall wellbeing. It is essential to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the most appropriate type based on your medical history and individual health requirements.

Why Does Bleeding Occur with HRT Patches?

Understanding the Causes: It’s essential to comprehend the underlying factors that lead to bleeding when using HRT patches to manage it effectively.

Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) patches are commonly utilised to alleviate symptoms associated with menopause, such as hot flushes and night sweats. However, one of the side effects that some women may experience while using these patches is bleeding. This can be concerning, but understanding why it occurs can help in effectively managing this issue.

• Expected Bleeding: When sequential HRT is used (eg. Evorel Sequi or Femseven Sequi) there is a scheduled monthly withdrawal bleed as a consequence of the changes of hormones in the patches. This type of HRT is usually started if it is within 1 year of your last menstrual period when you start HRT.
• Hormonal Imbalance: As the body endeavours to adjust to the new levels of hormones delivered by the patches, a hormonal imbalance can occur temporarily. This is often the primary reason for bleeding as the body adapts to HRT. If continuous combined HRT is taken in the perimenopause, the hormones in the HRT are not sufficient to stop the natural hormone fluctuations of the perimenopause. See here for more information on different type of HRT and an explanation of sequential and continuous combined HRT.
• Pathological conditions: For example, disorders of the vulval, vagina, cervix and endometrium (womb lining) or pelvis can cause bleeding – for example abnormal womb lining thickening, infection or polyps of the cervix or womb lining.

Should you experience persistent bleeding while using HRT patches, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare professional to ensure appropriate management and adjustment of your treatment if necessary.

Seeking Professional Advice

Guidance: Seek the advice of a healthcare professional if you encounter unexpected or substantial bleeding while using HRT patches.

• Occasional spotting or light bleeding in the first 3 months after starting HRT can be typical, however, continuous, heavy or severe bleeding should prompt a visit to your GP.
• Early consultation is important as it helps to eliminate the possibility of other severe conditions such as endometrial hyperplasia or cancer.

It is always better to be safe and get a professional opinion rather than waiting for the situation to possibly worsen. Understanding the nuances of how your body is reacting to hormone replacement therapy is vital, and any significant changes should be addressed promptly. Healthcare providers can offer comprehensive advice and conduct necessary tests to ascertain the cause of the bleeding, ensuring that any underlying health issues are addressed swiftly.

Reference: NHS, Hormone Replacement Therapy, NHS Choices

How to Manage and Prevent Bleeding

Effective Strategies: There are several methods to effectively manage or even prevent bleeding that may occur as a result of using hormone replacement therapy (HRT) patches.

• It is helpful to regularly monitor bleeding patterns to promptly detect any changes including unscheduled bleeding, bleeding after sex or heavier or prolonged bleeding. See a doctor if changes occur as further investigation may be indicated.
• Should there be significant changes in bleeding patterns, adjusting the dosage or type of HRT patch might be necessary. However, such adjustments should always be done under the strict guidance of a healthcare professional to ensure safety and efficacy.
• Make sure that the patches are sticking, not causing skin irritation and change on time (read the leaflet in the patch box for detailed information on how to use them).

By adhering to these strategies, individuals can maintain better control over their symptoms and potentially reduce the inconvenience caused by unexpected bleeding. These adjustments not only improve comfort but also enhance the overall effectiveness of the hormone therapy.

Wrapping Up

Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) patches are widely recognised as a potent method for alleviating symptoms associated with menopause. However, it is important to be aware that these patches can sometimes lead to unexpected bleeding. By staying informed and proactive, you can navigate through this period with greater ease and confidence. Always speak to a healthcare professional about any unscheduled, or changes of, bleeding.

This article was created using several editorial tools, including AI, as part of the process. Human editors reviewed this content before publication.