How to Taper Off of Synthetic Estrogen

Loretta Lanphier, ND, CN, HHP, CH

·         It is recommended that you taper off your estrogen over a 3-6 month period.

·         If you are on estrogen and you begin to use Oasis Serene, you should cut your estrogen dose in half the first month, cut it again the second month then again the third month.  Example:  If you take one pill (estrogen) every day, the first month you should take one pill every other day.  The second month, take one pill every third day.  The third month, take one pill every fourth day.

·         You may choose to taper of your estrogen over six months.  If so, take one pill every other day for two months, one pill every third day for two months and one pill every fourth day for two months. (If using a patch, substitute it above.)

·         If taking a synthetic progestin (Provera, etc.), discontinue it when you start using Oasis Serene. Provera is the synthetic form of natural progesterone and is taken up by the same receptor sites.  (The synthetic will overpower the natural). 

·         If you are on a combination pill of estrogen and progestin (PremPro, PremPhase, etc.), you need to get a prescription for an estrogen only pill to use during your tapering process.

·         Never go cold turkey off your estrogen.  Always taper off according to the recommended regimen.

·         When you have tapered off your estrogen over a three-month period, you may choose to test your hormone levels through a saliva test. Most women do not need supplemental estrogen, however, a small percentage of women do benefit from bioidentical estrogen supplementation.  Women still produce estrogen after menopause according to Dr. Jerrilynn C. Prior.  There is a 40-60% reduction in the amount produced.  After menopause, estrogen is produced in the fat and muscle cells. 

·         According to Dr. John Lee:  As you reduce your dependence on the synthetic estrogen, you will be making your own by using natural progesterone.  This will take some time.  If hot flashes are still occurring, you may want to try using a plant form of estrogen.  These are called phytoestrogens.  They can give you the benefits of the estrogen hormone without raising your levels.  These types of products are available in most local health food stores.  If you have a history of breast or reproductive cancers, check with your healthcare provider before taking any type of estrogen.