Women in the UK have been warned that shortages of Hormone Replacement Treatment (HRT) could continue for weeks. Around two million women in England aged 40 and above regularly rely on HRT to manage symptoms triggered by menopause, according to the NHS. It works to replace or top up falling levels of hormones – primarily oestrogen and progesterone – and is vital for women contending with menopause symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, brain fog, mood swings, anxiety, and vaginal dryness.
Products affected and timeline
In a recent statement shared by the Department of Health and Social Care, officials revealed that a number of HRT products are currently out of stock – with FemSeven Conti patches and Estradot patches flagged as two of the medications most affected by the supply issue. According to multiple reports, these two major patch brands are experiencing the worst disruption. While pharmacies are hopeful that FemSeven Conti patches will be back on shelves by the end of November, access to Estradot is expected to remain limited until January 2027.
To try and minimise impact, the Department of Health has approved for Estradot to be put under serious shortage protocols (SSPs) – emergency regulatory measures in the UK that allow pharmacists to supply specified alternative medicines without needing to contact the original prescriber.
Expert warnings and ongoing issues
Dr Louise Newson, physician and hormone specialist, tells Metro that the Estradot shortage is indeed very 'worrying'. 'For many women hormones are an essential treatment that helps ease symptoms and protect their long-term health, so it's worrying that women are still struggling to get their HRT.'
As experts point out, this isn't the first time the UK has faced HRT shortages. In fact, supply chain disruption driven by surging consumer demand has been an issue since 2024. 'Manufacturers and the government need to work together on a lasting solution,' Dr Louise shares. 'No woman should have to ring round pharmacies to find her medicine.'
Guidance for affected women
If you find yourself running low on your medication, Dr Louise shares the following guidance:
- Don't stop your treatment. Keep using your current supply while you investigate options.
- Order repeat prescriptions early, but avoid stockpiling, as this can make shortages worse.
- Ask your pharmacist whether an SSP covers your product and what alternatives they can offer.
- Talk to your clinician about switching to a similar product, such as another brand of patch or an estradiol gel. Absorption varies between products, so your dose may need adjusting.
- Don't borrow from friends or buy online, as you may not get the right product.
If you're ever concerned about your treatment, the best step forward is always to consult a professional.
