Me, in the bathroom, holding two patch boxes: “Is it this one? Did I change it on Tuesday or was that last Tuesday? What day is it?”
The moment
Sequential HRT sounds simple on paper. In real life, with brain fog, it can feel like a pub quiz you did not revise for. Which phase am I in? When did I last change it? Why is there a sticky square on my hip from three patches ago?
Why it is confusing
- Sequential (cyclical) HRT is usually for women who still have periods. You take oestrogen every day and add progestogen for the last 10 to 14 days of each monthly cycle, so there are two phases to keep track of.
- You should usually have a bleed at the end of each progestogen phase. The NHS says to speak to your doctor if you do not.
- Continuous combined HRT is different. It is usually for after menopause, and you take both hormones every day with no break.
- Patch timings depend on the brand. The NHS says you usually change a patch every few days, but each brand is different, so always check your leaflet.
Try this
- Set phone reminders for every patch change and every phase switch.
- Mark a calendar with two colours, one for each phase.
- Keep the boxes apart, labelled “Phase 1” and “Phase 2”, so you cannot grab the wrong one half-asleep.
- Apply to clean, dry skin with no moisturiser, and peel off slowly to avoid marks.
- If you miss a change or mix them up, check the leaflet or ask your pharmacist. Do not guess.
Track it
Our HRT patch tracker is on its way: a simple two-colour calendar so you always know which week you are in. Join the club to get it first.
This post explains how sequential HRT generally works. Your prescription is specific to you, so always follow your GP, nurse or pharmacist.
Sources: NHS: Types of HRT; NHS: Treatment. This post is personal experience and general information, not medical advice.
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