When to start using patches

[OhBeAFineGuyKissMe]

I will be starting on patches (2 different types so double prescription charge) soon. I think I need to wait until after my next period and who knows when that will be.

I haven't been tracking my periods as no chance of getting pregnant and they happen when they happen. All phone period trackers seems to be based around a regular cycle and fertility and just not helpful. (Any menopause app suggestions welcome)

My question is if you don't know when your period is due do you just have to wait before starting hrt?

Will my cycle become regular? It used to be 26 days on the dot but now anything from 2-6 weeks.

If it doesn't become regular does that change how you use the patches?

The Balance app has been recommended to me but I've never actually tried it yet.
I can't give advice on timing because I didn't start my HRT until my periods had stopped.
Can help with the prescription charges though! https://www.theguardian.com/society/2023/apr/01/government-slashes-cost-of-hormone-replacement-therapy-prescriptions-in-england

It's not at all the same as oral contraceptives which need you to start on cycle day 1.

I'm no expert but I just started it as and when I got it.

I had very irregular periods and the doctor said if my period hadn't arrived within a few weeks to just start the patches anyway.

(My period still hasn't arrived one year on)

Just start as soon as you get the patches. Your period is irrelevant.

BTW did you know that you can now make a heavily discounted annual prescription prepayment and get all your HRT without further payment? It just started this week, I think. If you get other meds as well it's better to get the regular prepayment. Look on the NHS website.

I still have periods and blood tests show I’m peri menopausal with low oestrogen levels. Ive been having awful symptoms of hot flushes, night sweats, massive headaches, achy bones and muscles, brain fog, lethargy and increased heart rate. I have just been prescribed Utrogestan 100mg (take 2 at bedtime) for 12 days each cycle and Estraderm mx25 patches (apply twice weekly).
I’ve got home with my prescription and I’m confused of how to take them together. It says to apply a patch within 5 days of my next bleed so is day one of my cycle considered to be the first day I apply the patch or the first day of my period. If I apply the patch on the first day of my period then is day 15 considered to be 15 days after my period starts or 15 days after I apply the first patch? I’m so worried I’m going to do it wrong and it won’t be of any benefit. TIA

I found all this so confusing I just worked on the 1st of each month as the first day of my cycle. Checked with the GP and she said that was fine.

I want to get started but waiting for my period to start. It has been 5 weeks and the longest I have gone is 6 weeks so should be soon. Going away at the weekend so bound to be then when it is totally inconvenient.

I can’t take oral oestrogen due to history of blood clots so have to stick to patches.