The Difference Between Estrogen Pills and Patches

Nofar Marali is a 21-year-old transgender woman from Israel who creates content about her transition and transgender-related topics. After taking estrogen pills for five years, she recently switched to estrogen patches.

In this article, Nofar shares her experiences with both methods and explains why she now prefers patches. So, let’s explore the difference between estrogen pills and patches.

 

Why Nofar Switched from Pills to Patches

Nofar started taking estrogen pills when she began her transition five years ago. Pills were convenient, cheap, and effective for her at first. However, her doctor later advised switching to patches for better long-term health.

Initially, Nofar resisted changing methods, believing the pills were more powerful. However, after researching, she realized patches can be equally effective when dosed properly while being safer on the body.

Pills strain the digestive system over time. Patches deliver estrogen through the skin, working more naturally.

After 5 years on pills, Nofar switched to patches for her health.

 

Comparing Nofar's Experiences

Here's how the two estrogen methods were compared for Nofar after 2 months on patches:

  • Convenience: Pills are quicker to take daily. Patches require changing every 3-4 days.
  • Comfort: Patches felt uncomfortable at first. But Nofar adjusted within a few weeks.
  • Effectiveness: There is no difference in feminization. Breast growth, soft skin, and fat redistribution remained the same.
  • Mood stability: No issues with emotional changes when switching.
  • Health: Nofar feels better without pills upsetting her digestion.

Overall, patches give Nofar the same effects with improved long-term health.

 

Applying and Switching Patch Locations

Nofar applies two estrogen patches to her lower back/upper buttocks. She recommends:

  • Switching locations every 3-4 days to prevent skin irritation.
  • Applying firmly so edges stick well and won't peel off.
  • Take care when dressing and showering not to peel them prematurely.
  • Marking a calendar to remember when to swap them.

 

Why Nofar Doesn't Recommend Injections

Research shows that injected estrogen causes fluctuating hormones and side effects. Due to concerns about potential mood swings, Nofar has not tried injections.

Experts say to keep injection doses low. There's no evidence that injections work better than patches or pills.

 

Nofar's Recommendation

After 5 years on pills and 2 months on patches, Nofar highly recommends trying estrogen patches for optimal health and feminization. She's glad she switched to a method that's safer long-term.

Though less convenient, patches provide the same effects without straining her digestion like pills did. Nofar's transition now feels more balanced.