Ask the Nurse - August 2010

Q: “My estrogen cream does not seem to be absorbing. Any ideas on how to better absorb?”

A: Great question! Often times, when someone is not absorbing the cream well (needing to use much larger amounts than normal to get the effects); I start with asking, “How are you applying the cream?” You should always exfoliate the arm skin first. You can do this daily in the bath/shower with a loofah or washcloth. Exfoliate after washing, as many body washes contain oils that interfere with absorption.
Secondly; starting with dry arm, apply the cream by spreading a thin layer over a large area of the inner arm (think about mid forearm all the way up through bicep). Make sure to alternate arms with each dose.
Geri

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EVENTS:
Bio-Identical Hormone Replacement Symposium
Chicago, IL
October 8 – 10, 2010

Featured as the “Key Note Speaker”, Dr. Mahmud will be presenting the following topics: Do hormones cause breast cancer? How to screen for breast cancer and what to watch for to prevent cancer.