HRT

Hi, 40+ momma here with 11 week old, but I have not navigated HRT....

Thanks Natacha, I hope you’re all doing ok!

I am on HRT. I don’t co-sleep. My kids are a bit older. I am using patches. I wear them on my stomach and they are covered by clothes. I don’t think you would need to worry too much about transfer from the patch. I have been on them for almost a year and have rarely had one come off when I wasn’t trying to remove them. In the summer, I cover the patch with a waterproof bandaid to keep it more secure with the extra sweating 😅 you could probably switch the location of where you apply it too.

I’m about to start trying HRT in the next couple months, with a 3 year old and also co-sleeping. It hasn’t even occurred to me around co-sleeping being an issue (I’ve just had to stop breastfeeding before trying for it though)

I’m not sure it necessarily is, but the nurse recommended I wear pjs (long trousers) as I use transdermal Oestrogen. Looking for research I could only find something which referenced transdermal applications around pets. Currently, I’m showering before bed but still co-sleeping. Wondering about patches…

Safety Considerations for Patches and Co-Sleeping
Placement Location: Apply your patch to the lower abdomen, upper buttocks, or hip. Avoid placing it on your arms or upper body where a child's face or hands might rub against it during sleep. [1, 2]

Clothing Barrier: Wear snug pajamas, undershirts, or underwear that fully cover the patch. This extra layer stops direct skin-to-skin contact. [1, 2]

Check the Adhesive: Check the edges of the patch before you go to bed. If a patch is loose or lifting, it can transfer adhesive residue or stick to your child's skin.

Preventing Choking or Ingestion: If a patch falls off in the bed, a child could find it, touch the sticky side, or put it in their mouth. Always check the sheets if a patch goes missing.

Disposal Safety: When you remove an old patch, fold it in half with the sticky sides together. Throw it immediately into a secure, child-proof trash can. [1, 2]

I think if I was in your position, I would cover it with a bandage. That way you can be sure it’s covered and secure and less chance of it coming off unexpectedly.