Need a doctor who prescribes Vivelle or estradiol patches? Learn which specialists to see, how to find a provider, and what to expect at your appointment.
If you're dealing with hot flashes, night sweats, or other menopause symptoms, you may have heard about Vivelle-Dot (Estradiol transdermal patches) as a treatment option. But before you can start hormone therapy, you need a provider who can evaluate your health, write a prescription, and monitor your progress.
Finding the right doctor doesn't have to be complicated. This guide walks you through which types of providers prescribe Vivelle, how to search for one near you, and what to expect at your first appointment.
Vivelle-Dot is a prescription estrogen patch used to treat menopausal symptoms like hot flashes, vaginal dryness, and osteoporosis prevention. Several types of healthcare providers can prescribe it:
OB/GYNs are the most common prescribers of hormone replacement therapy (HRT). They specialize in women's reproductive health and are well-versed in menopause management. If you already see an OB/GYN, this is often the easiest starting point.
Some providers earn certification through the Menopause Society (formerly NAMS). These specialists focus specifically on perimenopause and menopause care. You can search for certified menopause practitioners at menopause.org.
Endocrinologists specialize in hormonal conditions. They may be particularly helpful if you have complex health needs, such as thyroid disorders alongside menopause, or if you're seeking hormone therapy for reasons beyond standard menopause treatment.
Many primary care physicians and family medicine doctors prescribe HRT, including Vivelle-Dot. If your PCP is comfortable managing hormone therapy, this can be a convenient option since they already know your medical history.
Internists who focus on adult health often prescribe estrogen therapy as well, particularly for patients they've been treating long-term.
Once you know what type of doctor to look for, here are practical ways to find one:
Start with your health insurance company's online directory. Most insurers let you filter by specialty (OB/GYN, endocrinology, family medicine) and location. This ensures the provider you choose is in-network, which keeps your costs down.
Websites like Zocdoc, Healthgrades, and Vitals let you search for doctors by specialty, location, and insurance accepted. You can read patient reviews and often book appointments online. Try searching for "menopause specialist" or "hormone therapy" in your area.
If your current doctor doesn't prescribe HRT, ask for a referral. Your PCP can refer you to an OB/GYN or endocrinologist who has experience with estradiol patches. Personal referrals from friends or family who are on HRT can also be valuable.
The Menopause Society maintains a directory of certified menopause practitioners at menopause.org/find-a-provider. These are providers who have demonstrated specialized knowledge in menopause care.
Telehealth has made it much easier to access hormone therapy. Several platforms now offer virtual consultations with providers who specialize in menopause and can prescribe Vivelle-Dot or generic Estradiol patches. This is especially helpful if you live in a rural area or have limited local options.
Popular telehealth options for HRT include Midi Health, Alloy, and Evernow, as well as general telehealth platforms where you can see an OB/GYN or endocrinologist virtually.
Whether you visit a provider in person or via telehealth, here's what typically happens:
Your doctor will review your complete medical history, including:
Depending on your situation, the provider may perform a physical exam, including a breast exam and possibly a pelvic exam. They may also order blood work to check hormone levels, thyroid function, and other relevant markers.
Your doctor will discuss the potential side effects and risks of estrogen therapy, including the small increased risk of blood clots, stroke, and certain cancers. They'll weigh these against the benefits for your specific situation. Transdermal estradiol (patches like Vivelle-Dot) is generally considered lower-risk than oral estrogen for blood clots.
Vivelle-Dot comes in five strengths: 0.025 mg/day, 0.0375 mg/day, 0.05 mg/day, 0.075 mg/day, and 0.1 mg/day. Your doctor will likely start with a low dose (often 0.0375 mg/day) and adjust based on how well your symptoms respond.
If you still have your uterus, your doctor will also prescribe a progestin along with estrogen. Taking estrogen alone without progestin increases the risk of endometrial cancer in women who haven't had a hysterectomy.
Once your doctor writes your prescription, here are a few things to keep in mind:
Estradiol patches have experienced intermittent shortages since 2024. Your pharmacy may not always have your specific strength in stock. Use Medfinder to check pharmacy availability before making the trip.
Generic Estradiol patches typically cost $30 to $80 per month without insurance, and as low as $25 to $50 with a discount card from GoodRx or SingleCare. Brand-name Vivelle-Dot is significantly more expensive at $150 to $450 per month. Check out our guide to saving money on Vivelle for more tips.
Expect a follow-up visit within 1 to 3 months after starting HRT. Your doctor will check how well your symptoms are responding, whether you're experiencing any side effects, and whether your dose needs adjustment. After that, most providers recommend check-ins every 6 to 12 months.
Finding a doctor to prescribe Vivelle-Dot is the first step toward managing menopause symptoms effectively. Whether you choose an OB/GYN, a menopause specialist, or a primary care provider, the key is finding someone who listens to your concerns, explains your options clearly, and monitors your treatment over time.
If you're struggling to find your medication once you have a prescription, Medfinder can help you locate pharmacies that have Vivelle or generic Estradiol patches in stock near you.
You focus on staying healthy. We'll handle the rest.
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