Hormone replacement therapy, (HRT) patches are medicated sticky patches that can be applied to the skin to help treat menopausal symptoms such as depression, irritability, brain fog, migraines, hot flushes, joint pain, vaginal dryness, and incontinence. 

“Their continuous hormone secretion guarantees stable levels, and they are convenient to use [far more than other forms of HRT therapy] with less frequent administration,” says women’s wellness specialist, Dr Aman Bhinder.

While used by around 13 per cent of Australian women, Australia is currently facing a shortage of HRT patches, a shortage that is said to be caused by manufacturing issues expected to continue throughout 2024. This shortage already is and will continue to impact many women across the country for the foreseeable future.

One of these is a 52-year-old Sunshine Coast woman, Liz Keller, who has been spending her weekends driving to pharmacies looking for one with HRT patches in stock. 

“It was an issue the second I was prescribed patches......I was told they are near impossible, and no one knows exactly when they are coming in,” she says. “I went to Brisbane to get mine and I only have two left. I have tried everywhere on the Coast and as far as Gympie and while working on the Gold Coast I tried up to five different chemists.

I was just told this morning there are only two left in all of Queensland and that is a 17-hour drive away, in Cairns,” a ddsKeller. 

Now without many options, Keller is having to consider other treatments, the concern with this, she explains, is that many women have found others subpar.

“Some of my other friends have just gone without as they don't like the other options such as the pills and creams. I am beyond nervous now; something has to be done,” she says.

One of the greatest concerns is medical, how the absence of patches will allow menopausal symptoms to return.

“Women who were previously symptom-free on HRT patches are now having menopausal symptoms return, impacting on their professional, personal, and daily lives,” Dr Bhinder says.

Another concern, Dr Bhinder explains, is if a woman abruptly stops HRT treatment.

“There are several hazards and negative consequences that might occur if a woman stops taking her HRT patches suddenly and is unable to replenish her prescription. 

"Menopausal symptoms such intense hot flashes, nocturnal sweats, dry vagina, pain, mood swings, anxiety, despair, and disturbed sleep return as the immediate result. Significant disruptions to everyday living and general well-being may result from these symptoms,” she says.

In addition, there's a chance of cardiovascular problems including heart disease, osteoporosis and fractures because of the reduced bone density. Some women may also struggle with cognitive problems including memory loss and difficulty focusing. 

While significant, the effects aren’t just medical, says Dr Bhinder. 

“For women, getting access to HRT patches isn't just a medical problem; it has social, economic, and mental aspects as well.

"Financial safety is affected by high medication costs and less work output due to symptoms that aren't handled. Women may not get help because of social shame and a lack of knowledge about menopause and HRT. 

"Symptoms like sadness and anxiety that aren't handled can hurt your mental health and self-esteem. Overall, making it easier for women to get HRT patches is important for better their health and quality of life,” she says.

The good news is that there are also alternative treatments to HRT – ranging from lifestyle adjustments to medical intervention.

Lifestyle treatment

Lifestyle adjustments that can help to replace HRT include:

• Modalities of change in behaviour, regular exercise, a balanced diet, and stress-reducing yoga or meditation practices will help symptoms be much reduced.
• Herbal supplements including black cohosh.
• Prescription medications including non-hormonal prescription pharmaceuticals such as antidepressants or anti-seizure meds (these are assessed and prescribed on a case-by-case basis, under the supervision of a doctor).

Modern/ technological treatments

Additionally, there are modern techniques that have proved successful amongst some women.

“Several cutting-edge modern treatments have shown promise in treating symptoms and enhancing general vaginal health,” says Dr Bhinder.

Radiofrequency (RF) treatments including Empower RF, or non-invasive non-surgical treatments that have less downtime and risk than surgery can relieve menopausal vaginal dryness, laxity, and pain.

“RF radiation boosts collagen and elastin synthesis, elastin tissue flexibility, improved laxity, and sexual enjoyment. 

By consulting with a qualified specialist, women can explore this innovative treatment option and receive personalised care tailored to their specific needs. It provides regulated RF energy to vaginal tissues,” she says. 

Before undergoing any alternative treatments, Dr Bhinder recommends speaking with your doctor first and always seeking treatment from a qualified and skilled practitioner in vaginal health RF treatments.