Estrogen
What are compounded estrogen?
Estrogens are naturally occurring female hormones made by the ovaries. These compounded estrogens are derived from wild yams.
Who should not take estrogen?
Do not start taking estrogens if you:
• Experience unusual vaginal bleeding
• Have had a stroke or heart attack in the past year.
• Currently have or have had liver problems.
• Currently, I have or have certain cancers.
• Currently, I have or have had blood clots.
• Think you may be pregnant.
How should I take estrogens?
Start at the lowest dose possible and discuss its efficacy with your healthcare provider. Meet with them every 3-6 months to change your dose if necessary. Continue your therapy at the lowest possible dose for the shortest length of time. Estrogens should be taken at the same time each day.
Estrogens can be compounded into various preparations:
• Oral
• Sublingual
• Topical
• Vaginal
What are the common side effects of estrogen?
• Headaches
• Breast pain
• Irregular vaginal bleeding
• Abdominal cramps, bloating
• Nauseas & vomiting
• Hair loss
• High blood pressure
• Liver problems
• High blood sugar
• Fluid retention
What can I do to lower the chances of serious side effects with estrogens?
Talk with your healthcare provider regularly about whether you should continue estrogen therapy. If you have a uterus, discuss whether the addition of progesterone is right for you. This is generally recommended for women with a uterus to reduce the chance of uterine cancer. See your healthcare provider immediately if you experience vaginal bleeding while on estrogens. Schedule a yearly breast exam and mammogram. If you have high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, are overweight, or use tobacco, there is a higher risk of heart disease with estrogens.