Utrogestan is no longer on the Scottish Formulary available for NHS prescriptions, making it difficult for GP practices to prescribe. However, it is available via private prescription. Body-identical and Bio-identical progesterone have been shown in large studies not to increase the risk of breast cancer (Ref 1), making them a safer option compared to patches, oral combined pills and the Mirena coil. Body-identical hormones are standard dose pharmaceutical medicines such as:
- Utrogestan which is a progesterone capsule.
- Sandrena or Oestrogel, which are estradiol gels.
These products have the same structure as your own natural hormones and numerous studies show them to have very low side effects. They work on more receptors around your body which is especially important to improving your mood.
Patient Journey
The service starts with an initial 30 minute consultation by video link from the comfort of your own home. Prior to your appointment you need to complete a very detailed online medical history form. Then by understanding your symptoms and my knowledge I will start you on your HRT journey by prescribing suitable products to obtain from a specialist pharmacist. No blood test is necessary.
I will then see you by video link for a 15 minute review every 6 weeks until we are both satisfied that you are getting the best symptom relief. Once this is achieved you simply need to request a repeat prescription using an online form until your 6 month review. All video consultations and reviews are held on Mondays.
You pay the pharmacist directly when ordering your prescription and the items are shipped to your home. Products typically cost between £0.75 - £1.50 per day.