Let's take a minute to talk about your medication. 

This is estradiol, and you should take it as directed by your doctor, at the same time each day. 

Estradiol contains hormones called estrogens. It can help improve problems from menopause, like hot flashes, vaginal dryness and thinning bones. Estradiol has other uses, too, like replacing estrogen in women who don't make enough naturally. 

It's usually well-tolerated, but some side effects can occur, like headaches, breast pain, fluid retention, and vaginal spotting. You may also have an upset stomach, nausea or hair loss. These effects are normal if they are mild and should go away. If these or other side effects become reasons you want to stop taking this medicine, please talk to your doctor or pharmacist. 

As with all medicines, rare but serious side effects can occur. Estradiol can cause conditions like heart attacks, stroke, blood clots, or dementia. It can also cause cancer of the breast, uterus or ovaries. To reduce the risk of these happening, your doctor should prescribe the lowest dose that helps you. You should work with your doctor to take it for the shortest amount of time necessary to ease your symptoms.  

If you notice any unusual changes to your body, you should call your doctor right away. It's important to know that if you have a uterus, you should ask your doctor if a 'progestin' medicine is right for you to also take. 

For best results, read the 'Patient Information' leaflet for full information.