Hormone Replacement

Pellet Insertion Care Instructions for Women 

❖ You should leave the bandage on for 24 hours, then take a shower, remove the bandage, and wash the wound with soap and water only.

❖ Do not apply any lotion, cream, or gels to the wound for 3 days.

❖ You should avoid vigorous physical activity for 72 hours (about 3 days) following the insertion of the pellets, longer if the area is tender or red.

❖ No tub baths, hot tubs, or swimming pools for 3 days.

❖The insertion site may be uncomfortable for up to 2-3 weeks. This is normal.

❖ If there is itching or redness you may take Benadryl 25-50 mg every 6 hours for relief.

❖ For discomfort you may take over the counter strength Tylenol or Motrin as directed on the container.

❖ You may experience bruising, swelling, and/or redness of the insertion site which may last from a few days to 3 weeks, this is normal.

❖ You may notice some pinkish or slightly bloody discoloration of the outer bandage, this is normal. If you experience heavy bleeding from the incision site apply firm pressure to the area for 5-10 minutes. If the bleeding does not subside or the dressing becomes completely soaked with blood contact our office or text Nina’s phone for assistance.

❖ Contact the office if you notice any extreme or increasing redness, swelling, heat or pus draining from the incision site. This may indicate an infection that might warrant treatment with antibiotics. Please call at (617)308-2883 or text at (617) 579-8440 during business hours or text Nina’s phone (after business hours) if you experience any problems or have concerns about your incision site.

Reminders: Remember to go for your post‐insertion blood work 6 weeks after your 1st pellet insertion. Schedule your next pellet insertion when you begin feeling symptoms that your hormone levels are falling, typically this occurs 4-6 months after an insertion.

Side effects of the hormones: If you develop vaginal bleeding, spotting, severe cramps, or extreme fatigue, contact us immediately. If you develop clitoral enlargement, experience hair loss (male patterned baldness), acne, oily skin, or facial hair, please let us know at your next appointment. In general, pellet implants are extremely safe and effective. If you are having side effects that concern you, please do not hesitate to contact us.