Understanding Oestrogel Side Effects

Oestrogel Pump is a type of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) that is used to treat menopause symptoms. It contains the active ingredient estradiol, a man-made version of the hormone oestrogen, and can begin to encourage signs of improvement in just a few weeks.

If you’re going through menopause and researching potential treatments, some of the most important elements to understand are the medication’s side effects and how to manage them. This is so you can make a more informed decision about which option best suits your circumstances.

Join us as we explore potential Oestrogel side effects and answer some of the most frequently asked questions regarding the treatment. 

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What are the Side Effects of Oestrogel?

Estradiol, the active ingredient in Oestrogel, addresses menopause symptoms by compensating for declining oestrogen levels. However, at least 5% of women experience side effects linked to this sudden change in hormone levels.

Oestrogel side effects are usually mild and may include headaches, nausea, and breast tenderness. They often improve within a few weeks of treatment and, in the meantime, can be managed with home remedies and over-the-counter medicines. More rarely, Oestrogel can cause more serious medical complications that require urgent medical attention.

Common Oestrogel Pump Side Effects

The most common Oestrogel side effects, thought to affect up to 10% of users, include:

• Headaches
• Nausea
• Breast tenderness
• Abdominal pain
• Changes in menstrual periods
• Abnormal vaginal bleeding
• Vaginal discharge or itching
• Weight gain
• Hair loss

Most users find they can manage these symptoms with lifestyle adjustments and over-the-counter remedies. However, you should always report severe or persistent side effects to your prescribing clinician.

Uncommon Side Effects of Oestrogel Pump

Around 1% of Oestrogel users will experience less common side effects, such as:

• Depression
• Mood swings
• Migraines
• Vertigo
• Flatulence
• Vomiting
• Itching
• Vaginal yeast infections (such as thrush)
• Vaginal inflammation (causing discharge, itching, and pain)
• Increased volume of the uterus
• Feeling weak

If you experience any of these side effects on Oestrogel, reach out to your doctor for advice. They may recommend over-the-counter treatments to relieve your symptoms or adjust your dosage.

Oestrogel Pump

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Rated 2.0 out of 5 based on 1 reviews

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• Prevents osteoporosis
• Dispatched via a next-day delivery

• Discreet delivery next working day
• Online prescription - No doctor visit

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Rare Oestrogel Gel Side Effects

Rarely, Oestrogel can cause more serious side effects. These affect around 0.1% of users and include:

• Anaphylaxis (a severe allergic reaction)
• Glucose intolerance (which may affect blood sugar levels)
• In cases of epilepsy, worsening symptoms
• High blood pressure
• Changes in liver function
• Changes in libido
• Acne
• Bone pain

Anaphylaxis can be life-threatening, and you should seek immediate medical attention if you suspect you are having an allergic reaction. Call an ambulance if you experience:

• Swelling of the lips, mouth, throat, and tongue
• Rapid breathing or difficulty breathing
• Tightness in the throat that makes it hard to swallow
• Skin, lips, tongue, or palms turning pale or grey
• Confusion, drowsiness, or dizziness

It’s important to note that the above may not constitute a full list of potential Oestrogel side effects. More information can be found within the Patient Information Leaflet. 

Is Oestrogel Safe to Use?

The Oestrogel Pump is not suitable for everyone; it should not be used by those who are pregnant or breastfeeding. You should also not use Oestrogel if you have:

• Allergies to any ingredient in the gel
• Known or suspected breast cancer
• A history of blood clots or a blood-clotting disorder
• Unexplained vaginal bleeding

You can still use Oestrogel Pump if you have certain medical conditions, but your doctor will need to be aware of them. Tell your doctor before using Oestrogel Pump if you have:

• Diabetes
• Gallstones
• Migraines
• Endometriosis
• Asthma
• Epilepsy

Never take a new medication without consulting your doctor or a prescriber, who will ensure that Oestrogel is suitable for you.

Oestrogen Gel Side Effects: How Long Do They Last?

The duration of side effects from Oestrogel Pump varies from person to person. Mild side effects usually subside once your body becomes accustomed to regular treatment, typically within a few days to a few weeks.

Some people don’t experience any side effects from Oestrogel, and most people who do have only mild symptoms. If your side effects persist, worsen, or impact your daily life, consult your doctor. If you notice any serious or rare side effects, call 999 or go to A&E straight away.

How to Manage Oestrogel Side Effects

Most Oestrogel side effects are mild and can be managed at home with lifestyle adjustments and over-the-counter remedies. Below are some practical tips for navigating some of the most common side effects of Oestrogel Pump:

• Headaches: Oestrogel-induced headaches usually resolve after a few days of treatment. In the meantime, over-the-counter painkillers like paracetamol and ibuprofen may help. If you have severe headaches or headaches that persist after 1 week of Oestrogel, contact your doctor for advice.
• Breast Pain & Tenderness: Consider wearing a supportive bra and reducing caffeine and smoking. Taking evening primrose oil and B vitamins may also help relieve breast pain, and applying anti-inflammatory gels or creams, as well as hot or cold compresses, may provide short-term relief.
• Vaginal Itching: Over-the-counter creams may help to relieve vaginal itching caused by Oestrogel. Talk to a doctor if this symptom persists or interferes with your daily life.
• Menstrual Changes: Keep a menstrual diary and discuss any changes with your doctor or a clinician. Vaginal bleeding is common in the first 6 months after starting HRT, but it may require medical investigation if it continues after 6 months.
• Painful Periods: Over-the-counter painkillers (such as paracetamol and ibuprofen), heat, and gentle exercise may help reduce period pain. If you experience severe menstrual pain on Oestrogel, seek medical advice.

If you experience side effects for an extended period or are unsure how to manage them effectively, contact your doctor or the nearest GP. You can also discuss your side effects with our medical team.

Oestrogel Pump

Rated 2.0 out of 5 based on 1 reviews

Rated 2.0 out of 5 based on 1 reviews

• Easy to use pump
• Prevents osteoporosis
• Dispatched via a next-day delivery

• Discreet delivery next working day
• Online prescription - No doctor visit

Prices from £24.99 Review More Prices

Start Order More Info

Get Started

Start Order More info

Oestrogen Gel Side Effects: Frequently Asked Questions

Oestrogen gel is a type of oestrogen-only HRT that can address a variety of menopause symptoms, including hot flashes, mood changes, and vaginal irritation. However, like all medications, Oestrogel can cause side effects, and understanding them is key to making informed choices about your healthcare. We’ll address some common queries about the impact of Oestrogel on energy levels, weight, and digestion here, along with the effects of taking too much.

Can Oestrogel Make You Tired?

Some people who take Oestrogel Pump may feel weak, tired, or drowsy. Fatigue is also a common symptom of menopause, and can arise from sleep disturbances caused by night sweats and insomnia. HRT-related fatigue often improves after a few weeks of treatment, as your body adjusts to the changes in hormone levels.

However, weakness and fatigue accompanied by shortness of breath or severe pain in the chest or legs could indicate a serious medical issue requiring urgent treatment.

Does Oestrogel Cause Weight Gain?

There is little evidence that HRT causes weight gain. Many women experience significant changes in body composition during menopause, which may result from a combination of age-related factors and changing hormone levels. The correlation between women starting Oestrogel and gaining weight is likely, therefore, due to the coincidence of entering the menopausal transition and beginning HRT therapy.

Some research suggests that oestrogen HRT may actually promote healthy weight maintenance. This is because oestrogen acts as an appetite suppressant, helping to reduce food and, therefore, calorie intake.

Is an Upset Stomach a Side Effect of Oestrogel?

Oestrogel can cause a variety of gastrointestinal symptoms, including wind (flatulence), nausea, bloating, diarrhoea, and stomach discomfort. These side effects are usually temporary and resolve in the days and weeks after starting treatment.

Many Oestrogel users find they can manage these symptoms at home with dietary adjustments (such as avoiding rich or spicy foods), drinking plenty of fluids, and using Oestrogel only after eating. However, you should speak to your doctor about symptoms that don’t improve, are severe, or cause distress.

What are the Signs of Too Much Oestrogel?

Taking more Oestrogel than you should can lead to oestrogen overdose. Symptoms of this commonly include:

• Breast tenderness
• Nausea
• Vaginal bleeding
• Discoloured urine
• Drowsiness
• Mood changes
• Fluid retention
• Skin rash

The effects of oestrogen overdose typically disappear when you stop using Oestrogel, or when you reduce your dose. However, you should always seek medical advice if you suspect you have taken too much Oestrogel.

Essential Menopause Support from Prescription Doctor

Menopause is a highly significant period in any woman’s life, and can impact both physical and mental health. It can also be a potentially embarrassing condition that may discourage some people from seeking the relief they require. This is where Prescription Doctor can help.

Since our founding in 2013, we’ve made it our mission to take the hassle out of obtaining healthcare services and products. With us, there’s no need to wait a considerable length of time for an appointment, nor arrange a potentially anxiety-inducing face-to-face meeting.

Our brief online medical questionnaire can be completed at any time from the comfort of your home. Simply fill in the required information, and our specialist clinicians will review your details to determine whether your chosen medication is suitable for your circumstances. If the request is approved, our General Pharmaceutical Council-registered pharmacy will dispatch the treatment in plain packaging for complete confidentiality. Orders approved before 3pm on a weekday are also eligible for swift next-day delivery to your chosen address.

We’re here to support you throughout your menopause journey, so you can contact us whenever you have a question about your treatment. Our clinicians will also regularly check in with you to monitor progress and ensure everything is working as expected.

In addition, you can find further information about Oestrogel on our website, including how to use the pump and how long it lasts. We also cover important details about other menopause treatments and the condition itself.

Take the first steps to relieving your menopause symptoms today and request a consultation with Prescription Doctor. 

Authored By

Kate Latham

Medical Content Writer

Kate has been a scientific content writer since 2017. With a BSc in Biology and a background in cancer research, she is adept at identifying the latest findings in medical research and utilising these

Published on: 04/09/2023 Re-Published on: 30/01/2026

Reviewed By

Mohamed Imran Lakhi

MPharm - Lead Pharmacist

Imran Lakhi is the superintendent pharmacist and founder at Prescription Doctor. He has been at the core of our team.

Reviewed on: 30/01/2026