Last month, I wrote about the expectation of receiving estrogen patches to replace the tablets I have taken since 28-July-2011. I haven’t written about them since, primarily because I still have not received them.
When I called back as I was instructed to do, I learned that the patches were still out of stock, and weren’t anticipated to be restocked before 20-November. I’ve been understandably upset by that development. I ran out of tablets since then, and I obtained a temporary refill on those to carry me until the patches arrived.
Here’s the news: FedEx has just delivered the estradiol patches! They apparently came in earlier than expected to the mail pharmacy, and were shipped yesterday via Priority Overnight. I had been placed on a priority waiting list with the mail order pharmacy due to the shortage of my prescribed medication. I’ve (presumably) taken my last tablet this morning, and will be on a more stable delivery method beginning this evening.
I touched base with my cardiologist regarding the change, just to ensure that wouldn’t cause any issues with the 30 day heart monitor I am currently wearing. He told me that he had no issues with the change in administration method of the estrogen. He did, of course, repeat that taking estrogen at all carries cardiac risks, including formation of blood clots. I’ve been aware of that risk since before starting hormone therapy in 2011.
The thing is, the current theory is that the risk is due to oral estrogen being metabolized in the liver. Given that, changing to patch (transdermal) delivery seemingly eliminates that risk source. It’s not really his area, so I’m unconcerned that he was unaware of that. Indeed, he responded, in part, with “Like you said the changes in the hormones may actually help with your palpitations.” Apparently, he supports my change to patches. That’s a good thing in my opinion.
Ever onward. The journey continues, and for a change, it seems that one step forward will not be accompanied by two steps back. Indeed, if the patches actually improve my experience with palpitations, I think I will count that as two steps forward.
Adventures Of An Aging Trans Woman 
Leave a comment