Frequently Asked Questions
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Q. Can Oestrogel be taken in hand luggage on aeroplanes?

Oestrogel contains approximately 100ml of gel and is considered a liquid. The following recommendation is provided on the UK government website (www.Gov.uk). You’re allowed to carry essential medicines of more than 100ml in your hand luggage, including liquid dietary foodstuffs and inhalers. You’ll need supporting documentation from a relevant medical professional (for example a letter from your doctor or a copy of your prescription). Airport staff might need to open the containers to screen the liquids at the security point. However, airports may differ and we would recommend that the patient checks with them in advance of the flight.

Q. Why is Oestrogel only applied to a certain area?

Oestrogel is only applied to certain areas to obtain an optimal rate of absorption. The correct dose of gel should be dispensed and applied to clean, dry, intact areas of skin (e.g. on the arms and shoulders, or inner thighs). The area of application should be as large as possible and at least 750cm2. One metered dose or pump actuation from the dispenser, or half the prescribed standard dose, should be applied to each outer arm and shoulder of both arms or the mid-inner thigh of both legs. Oestrogel should NOT be applied on or near the breasts or on the vulval region due to its alcohol content.

Q. Is Oestrogel a body-identical HRT?

Oestrogel contains estradiol which is identical in molecular structure to the estradiol women make naturally in their bodies.

Q. Do I need a progestogen as well?

If you still have your womb your doctor should prescribe progesterone for you as well. This may be in the form of a soft capsule, a pill or a hormonal intrauterine device. This is needed because the oestrogen you are replacing causes the lining of your womb to grow as it did when you had your periods. Taking progesterone causes the lining of the womb to shed, preventing problems caused by the build-up of the womb lining.

Reporting Side Effects

If you get any side effects, talk to your doctor, pharmacist or nurse. This includes any possible side effects not listed in the package leaflet. You can also report side effects directly via the Yellow Card Scheme at: www.mhra.gov.uk/yellowcard or search for MHRA Yellow Card in the Google Play or Apple App Store. By reporting side effects you can help provide more information on the safety of this medicine.