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How to use patches – menopausal hormone therapy

On this page, you can find out how to use menopausal hormone therapy patches, including step-by-step instructions and tips for safe and effective use.
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  • Last updated:
    May 7 2026
  • Last reviewed:
    May 7 2026
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What are MHT patches?

Menopausal hormone therapy (MHT) is used to treat menopausal symptoms. There are different types of MHT, including MHT patches.

MHT patches are also called transdermal patches. Transdermal means the medicine is absorbed through the skin.

MHT patches are thin patches that stick to the skin and slowly release hormones into your body.

In Australia, patches are available as:

  • oestrogen-only patches
  • combined oestrogen + progestogen patches.

If you’ve had surgery to remove your uterus (a hysterectomy), oestrogen-only patches might be the only form of MHT you need. If you still have a uterus, you will also need another hormone called progestogen. This reduces the risk of endometrial cancer (cancer of the uterus).

Patches come in different strengths in individually sealed sachets. Your doctor will prescribe the right strength for you.

Patches are usually replaced twice a week.

You can get packs containing enough patches for several weeks.

How to use MHT patches

Before you start

It’s important to know which type of patch you need to use:

  • oestrogen-only patch
  • combined oestrogen + progestogen patch.

Talk to your doctor about when to use them. Learn more about how to take MHT.

1. Prepare your skin

Choose an area of non hairy skin on the belly (lower abdomen), buttocks or upper thigh. Clean and dry this area.

Do not apply moisturiser, oils or sunscreen to the area first, as this can affect hormone absorption.

 

2. Open the patch

Open the patch sachet just before use. Do not cut the patch.

Carefully peel off one side of the backing from the crease line.

3. Apply the patch

Without touching the sticky side of the patch, apply it to your skin. Then peel off the rest of the backing.

Press down on the applied patch firmly, especially around the edges, for 10 to 30 seconds to ensure good contact with the skin.

4. Change the patch

Wear a patch each day and change it twice per week.

To help keep hormone levels steady, change the patches on the same days of each week. For example, change your patch every Monday and Thursday.

5. Throw away the patch

When changing your patch, peel off the old one and fold it in half with the sticky sides together.

Place the old patch in household rubbish where children and pets can’t get it. Do not put it in the toilet, as it may still contain hormones which can damage the environment.

This information is based on commonly used medicines in Australia. Always follow medicine instructions and advice of your doctor, pharmacist or health professional.

Funded by the Australian Government through the Quality Use of Diagnostics, Therapeutics and Pathology Program.

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