*Welcome to the OutUK series looking at gay men and their health brought to you in association with the NHS* website.**
	Each week we'll tackle a different topic in our A to Z of Gay Health. We'll have features and advice on everything from relationships, sexual health, mental and physical conditions and how to stay fit. You can follow any of links provided below for more information direct from the NHS website, or see this week's feature L: Laxatives.

Who Can And Cannot Take Or Use Oestrogen Tablets Patches Gel And Spray

NHS medicines information on who can take or use oestrogen tablets, patches, gel and spray and who may not be able to take or use them.

Who can take oestrogen tablets, patches, gel and spray

If you're approaching the menopause and have symptoms (perimenopause) or have already gone through the menopause (post-menopause) you can usually take oestrogen tablets, patches, gel and spray.

Unless you've had a hysterectomy to remove your womb you'll need to take oestrogen with progestogen.

Who may not be able to take oestrogen tablets, patches, gel and spray

Oestrogen tablets, patches, gel and spray are not suitable for everyone. To make sure they're safe for you, tell a doctor or specialist nurse if you:

have ever had an allergic reaction to oestrogen or any of the ingredients in the tablet, patch, gel or spray, or to any other medicine
have ever had breast cancer, are having tests for breast cancer, or are considered high risk due to family history
have ever had any other type of cancer
have vaginal bleeding with no known cause
have ever had a blood clot in a vein (thrombosis), such as in the legs (deep vein thrombosis) or the lungs (pulmonary embolism)
have thrombophilia, a condition that increases the risk of blood clots
have ever had angina or a heart attack
have liver problems
are pregnant or breastfeeding
have a rare inherited condition called porphyria
have diabetes
have high blood pressure
have migraines or severe headaches

OutUK's A to Z of Gay Health continues and you can read this week's feature L: Laxatives. We have covered many subjects in this series and you can catch up with all of our Previous A to Z Features. If you want to find out more about this particular topic you can visit the Original article on the NHS website. If you are worried by any aspect of your health make sure you go and see your doctor or book an appointment at your local clinic.
Photos: LightFieldStudios and one of VladOrlov, Stockcube, darak77, ajr_images or rawpixel.com.