HRT Gels vs Sprays: What Works Best? Menopause Doctor Naomi Potter

Is It Hot In Here? Midlife Podcast

April 20, 2026 14 mins

About

In this week’s episode, Dr Naomi Potter breaks down everything you need to know about HRT gels and sprays — two of the most commonly prescribed forms of transdermal oestrogen. Whether you're interested in trying Lenzetto Spray or Estradiol gel, this episode will be massively helpful for you.


If you’ve ever felt confused about HRT dosing, absorption, or which option to choose, this episode will give you clear, practical answers.


💬 Topics include:


• HRT gels vs sprays: key differences explained

• How to apply oestrogen gel correctly (and common mistakes)

• Why absorption varies between women

• What to do if your HRT isn’t working

• How to safely adjust your dose

• The benefits of transdermal HRT (lower clot risk)

• How long you can stay on HRT

• Practical tips to fit HRT into your daily routine


Follow Is It Hot In Here? podcast on Instagram at @podcast_naomipotter


Follow Dr Naomi Potter below:

Naomi’s Instagram: @dr_naomipotter

Naomi’s TikTok: @dr_naomipotter


More info and menopause support at: https://www.menopausecare.co.uk/


00:00 – Intro: HRT Gels vs Sprays Explained

00:35 – HRT Gel: How It Works & How To Use It

02:43 – Where & When To Apply Gel (Key Tips)

05:52 – Why Choose Gel? (Pros & Practicalities)

06:39 – HRT Spray (Lenzetto): What It Is & How It Works

07:32 – Spray vs Gel: Dosing & Key Differences

08:49 – Spray Pros & Cons (Absorption & Ease)

10:01 – When To Replace Your Spray (Important!)

10:46 – How Long Can You Stay On HRT?

11:32 – Switching Between Gel & Spray

12:35 – Why Transdermal HRT Is Safer


#hrt #menopause #perimenopause

Information

Episode

25

Date

April 20, 2026

Length

14 mins
  • HRT Gels vs Sprays: What Works Best? Menopause Doctor Naomi Potter

    In this week’s episode, Dr Naomi Potter breaks down everything you need to know about HRT gels and sprays — two of the most commonly prescribed forms of transdermal oestrogen. Whether you're interested in trying Lenzetto Spray or Estradiol gel, this episode will be massively helpful for you. If you’ve ever felt confused about HRT […]

  • Rewind Time: Kelly Holmes Opens Up About Body Changes & HRT Fears

    Today we're revisiting our very first episode of Is It Hot In Here? podcast, where Dr Naomi was joined by Dame Kelly Holmes. Kelly opened up about feeling weaker than ever once perimenopause hit – she went from a Gold medalist athlete to not even able to do a single push up. And with that came […]

  • Zoe Lyons Opens Up About Relationship Breakdowns, HRT Scares & Her Midlife Crisis

    Menopause or midlife crisis? In this week’s episode, Dr Naomi Potter is joined by comedian Zoe Lyons for a funny, raw and surprisingly moving conversation about what menopause can really do to your mind, confidence, work and relationships. Zoe opens up about the hot flushes that hit out of nowhere, the depression and rage that […]

  • How To Deal With Dismissed Menopause Symptoms – Dr Naomi Potter & Jane James

    Think it’s anxiety, stress or depression? It could be perimenopause. In this episode, Dr Naomi Potter is joined by Jane James, menopause mentor at Menopause Care, to talk about the symptoms women often miss, what to do if your GP isn’t helping, and how to know when HRT might be right for you. Jane also […]

  • Is My HRT Actually Working? 5 Signs You're On The Wrong Dose – With Dr Naomi Potter

    How do you know if your HRT dose is right? In this week’s episode, Dr Naomi Potter explains how to tell whether your HRT is actually working – and why finding the right dose is rarely as simple as 'more or less'. Naomi breaks down the biggest signs that your Hormone Replacement Therapy may need […]

  • The Truth About Weight Loss Injections In Menopause (GLP-1)

    Can weight loss injections help with menopause weight gain?In this week’s episode, Dr Naomi Potter is joined by menopause specialist Dr Kari Nightingale to unpack one of the biggest topics in women’s health right now: GLP-1 weight loss medications. They discuss why weight can become so much harder to manage in perimenopause and menopause, how […]

  • Is Bleeding In Menopause Normal? Doctor Naomi Potter Explains

    Bleeding during menopause? Find out wehn this is normal – and when you should see a doctor. Unexpected bleeding in menopause can feel frightening, but it's actually more common than you may think and often nothing to worry about. To clear any confusion, in this episode, menopause specialist Dr Naomi Potter explains the key differences […]

  • Caroline Hirons' Secret To Surviving Skincare In Menopause

    Today we’re revealing the ultimate skincare routine for menopausal women. And the good news? It’s super simple! If your skin has become dry, extra sensitive, or you’re suffering from acne during midlife, this could be down to menopause. But there are things that can help – and for this week’s episode, we’re joined by THE […]

  • An Honest Guide To HRT Patches – With Menopause Doctor Naomi Potter

    Are HRT patches safe – and why do they sometimes stop working? In this week’s episode, menopause doctor Dr Naomi Potter breaks down everything you need to know about HRT patches — how they work, how to use them properly, and why so many women get confused or frightened by the information leaflet. If you’ve […]

  • Am I Losing My Mind?! Or Is This Perimenopause? With Desiree Burch

    Brain fog in menopause – who else can relate?In this episode, Dr Naomi Potter is joined by comedian, voice actor and presenter Desiree Burch. You might know Desiree from competing on the gameshow Taskmaster, the narrator for Netflix's dating show Too Hot to Handle, or from her current standup comedy tour The Golden Wrath.Desiree opens […]

  • More Than The Traitors! Harriet Tyce Opens Up About Sobriety, Reinvention, And Witch Trial

    What happens when you stop drinking in midlife – and everything starts to change? In this episode, Dr Naomi Potter is joined by acclaimed crime author, former criminal barrister and The Traitors star Harriet Tyce. Harriet opens up about the turning points that led her to quit alcohol, why it became the “bedrock” for feeling […]

  • More Than The Traitors! Harriet Tyce Opens Up About Sobriety, Reinvention & Witch Trial

    What happens when you stop drinking in midlife – and everything starts to change? In this episode, Dr Naomi Potter is joined by acclaimed crime author, former criminal barrister and The Traitors star Harriet Tyce. Harriet opens up about the turning points that led her to quit alcohol, why it became the “bedrock” for feeling […]

  • Menopause Is FULL Of Fake News – How To Spot It

    The internet is full of menopause advice. But how much of it can you actually trust? In this solo episode, Dr Naomi Potter explores the growing world of menopause misinformation online – from social media 'experts' to AI-generated health advice and even deepfakes. She explains why menopause care is never one-size-fits-all, and why personalised medical […]

  • 8 Celebs Open Up About Nightmarish Perimenopause Diagnoses

    For years, these women were told they were depressed. Anxious. Burnt out. Even bipolar. In this powerful compilation episode of Is It Hot In Here?, we share eight moments from past celebrity guests where the penny finally dropped — the real cause of their symptoms wasn’t a psychiatric disorder, stress, or personal failure… it was […]

  • 9 Surprising Menopause Symptoms (and what to do about them)

    Nobody warns you about half of the symptoms that come with menopause. In this solo episode, Dr Naomi Potter talks through some of the more surprising, and often unspoken, symptoms women experience during perimenopause and menopause. The ones that don’t always make it onto the usual checklists, but regularly show up in clinic. From itchy […]

  • Testosterone For Women: The Science, New Products And Answering Your Questions

    Is testosterone something every menopausal woman needs, or is it being overhyped? In this highly requested episode, Dr Naomi Potter is joined once again by menopause specialist Dr Liz Andrew to answer your real-life questions about testosterone in menopause. No trends, no fear-mongering – just clear, evidence-based answers to the things women are genuinely worried […]

  • 7 Things You Need To Know About Post-Menopause

    Dr Naomi Potter breaks down everything women need to know about post-menopause – a stage that’s often misunderstood, under-discussed, and wrongly assumed to be symptom-free. Naomi explains what’s normal, what’s not, and how to feel supported and informed once periods have stopped. She also tackles some of the biggest questions women ask in clinic about […]

  • Menopause Is Changing In 2026 – You Heard It Here First…

    What major menopause changes are coming in 2026 – and how will they affect you? In this week’s episode, Dr Naomi Potter is joined by fellow menopause specialist Dr Liz Andrew from the Menopause Care team to break down the biggest updates shaping menopause care in 2026. Together, they unpack what it really means for […]

  • BEST OF: Unforgettable Menopause Moments (even with brain fog)

    The Best of Is It Hot In Here? 2025: The Moments You Loved Most Missed an episode this year — or want to relive the moments everyone’s been talking about? In this special compilation episode, Dr Naomi Potter looks back at some of the most powerful, honest and popular conversations from Is It Hot In […]

  • Take My Advice! Getting Through Christmas With Menopause

    Does Christmas feel overwhelming instead of joyful during menopause? In this festive solo episode, Dr Naomi Potter talks honestly about why Christmas can feel especially hard during perimenopause and menopause. We're breaking down how you can protect your energy, mood, and wellbeing during the most pressured time of year. From navigating family dynamics and emotional […]

  • Menopause & Parenting: How To Cope When Both Feel Impossible

    Struggling to juggle menopause symptoms and family life? You’re not alone. In this special compilation episode, Dr Naomi Potter brings together powerful moments from past guests who’ve shared the realities of parenting through perimenopause and menopause. If you've ever found yourself losing your temper amid menopausal rage, or you're unsure how to communicate to your […]

  • Why Am I So Anxious In Menopause? Causes & Treatments Revealed By Dr Naomi Potter

    Why does menopause make so many women feel anxious and overwhelmed? In this week’s solo episode, Dr Naomi Potter breaks down the science behind menopause-related anxiety – and what you can do to feel calm and in control again. From understanding why hormonal shifts can trigger anxiety, to recognising when something else might be going […]

  • Your Hair & Skin Survival Guide In Menopause – With Dermatologist Dr Archana Rao

    What can we do about hair and skin changes in menopause? In this week’s episode, dermatologist Dr Archana Rao joins Dr Naomi Potter to break down the real science behind menopausal skin and hair changes. Archana is THE expert when it comes to hair and skin specifically in menopause, so you're in perfect hands! From […]

  • Your Emergency Toolkit: When You Hit Rock Bottom In Menopause – Dr Naomi Potter

    When Menopause Feels Overwhelming: Understanding the Mental Health Impact Viewer discretion: this episode does contain mention of suicide. Today, Dr Naomi Potter tackles one of the most misunderstood – and under-discussed – aspects of menopause: the severe emotional distress many women experience. Naomi explains why hormonal changes can push women to emotional breaking points, what […]

  • Kate Lawler Opens Up About Menopause Struggles (fear of HRT, symptoms & marriage)

    Feel like you've lost yourself in menopause? Don't worry, getting back on track doesn't need to be a gruelling task. In this deeply honest conversation, broadcaster, Big Brother winner, and fellow podcaster Kate Lawler joins Dr Naomi Potter to talk about the emotional and physical toll of menopause. Kate opens up candidly about her fear […]

  • The Tamsen Show podcast image

    Estrogen Down There? Here's Everything You Need to Know

    So you’ve heard about hot flashes and night sweats. Maybe you’ve even heard about brain fog. But nobody sat you down and said: by the way, the tissue of your entire pelvic region is completely dependent on estrogen to stay healthy. And when it drops, everything changes. And most women have no idea, because no […]

  • Eps 407: Why You Might Gain Weight on HRT (And What To Do)

    Did you start HRT… and suddenly feel like you’re gaining weight? If that’s been your experience, you’re not alone and it doesn’t mean HRT is the problem. Many women are told to expect weight gain, but that’s not how it’s supposed to work. In this episode, we break down why it happens and what’s actually […]

  • Stanford Luck Researcher: How to Manifest the Life You Want

    In today’s episode, a Stanford neuroscientist is going to teach you exactly how to manifest the life you want – by becoming a luckier person.  Dr. Tina Seelig has spent 25+ years at Stanford, where she also earned her PhD in the science of neuroplasticity, studying leadership, success, neuroscience, and luck.  She’s written 18 books, […]

  • Philippa Perry: Why everyone has an inner critic, and how to stop believing yours

    Should you give your inner critic have a name? Psychotherapist and author Philippa Perry reckons giving that nagging voice in your head a silly name is the first step to stopping it running your life. In this chat with Fearne, Philippa explains why not feeling ‘good enough’ is often less about truth and more about […]

  • 5 ways to beat bloating and improve gut health

    Midlife bloating isn’t just uncomfortable, it can dent your self-confidence, too. Liz talks about what might be causing it, and shares different ways to tackle the problem by getting your gut health back on track. Plus: lactoferrin for boosting immune health, the pro-ageing discoveries in Liz’s new book, budget-friendly skincare essentials and whether collagen supplements […]

  • HRT Gels vs Sprays: What Works Best? Menopause Doctor Naomi Potter

    In this week’s episode, Dr Naomi Potter breaks down everything you need to know about HRT gels and sprays — two of the most commonly prescribed forms of transdermal oestrogen. Whether you're interested in trying Lenzetto Spray or Estradiol gel, this episode will be massively helpful for you. If you’ve ever felt confused about HRT […]

  • Dining with Your Dog: No Kibble Needed

    Family nurse practitioner Karen Nickell introduces future Itchy and Bitchy host Dr. Keith Hnilica, a veterinary dermatologist, for a lively conversation about pet food and what animals can teach us about wellness. They dig into GLP-1 drugs for pet obesity, the links between processed kibble, gut inflammation, and skin issues, why fresh or Mediterranean-style diets […]

  • Bad hair day? It could be your hormones – with Gustav Fouché

    If you’ve noticed your hair has lost its lustre, or you’re struggling to style it, your hormones could be the culprit. Celebrity hairstylist Gustav Fouché joins Liz to explain what’s happening to our hair during midlife – and how to bring life back to your locks. They discuss how scalp care is as important as […]

  • Rewind Time: Kelly Holmes Opens Up About Body Changes & HRT Fears

    Today we're revisiting our very first episode of Is It Hot In Here? podcast, where Dr Naomi was joined by Dame Kelly Holmes. Kelly opened up about feeling weaker than ever once perimenopause hit – she went from a Gold medalist athlete to not even able to do a single push up. And with that came […]

  • The Tamsen Show podcast image

    The Most Important Career Advice ALL Women Need To Hear with Emma Grede

    Emma Grede is an entrepreneur, investor, and co-founder of Good American and Skims. In today’s episode of The Tamsen Show, Emma is sitting down with Tamsen Fadal to unpack the scarcity mindset that holds so many women back and explains how you can turn fear, failure, and discomfort into confidence, clarity, and success. If you’ve […]

  • The Tamsen Show podcast image

    One of America's Richest Self-Made Women on How to Start Before You Feel Ready

    Emma Grede is an entrepreneur, investor, and co-founder of Good American and Skims. In today’s episode of The Tamsen Show, Emma is sitting down with Tamsen Fadal to unpack the scarcity mindset that holds so many women back and explains how you can turn fear, failure, and discomfort into confidence, clarity, and success. If you’ve […]

  • Eps 406: Overwhelming Fatigue in Midlife (and Simple Ways to Feel Better) With Michelle McCoy

    In this conversation, I’m joined by Michelle McCoy, a board-certified holistic health coach who’s lived through her own experience of burnout and what she calls high-functioning fatigue. We talk about what’s really happening beneath the surface, the three types of fatigue most women miss, and the patterns like pushing through and people-pleasing that quietly keep […]

  • 58 – ADHD and the gap in hormone care for women

    What happens when a woman is finally diagnosed with ADHD, only to be blindsided by perimenopause making everything harder? In this episode, Dr Louise Newson is joined by Sarah-Jane Ayers for a powerful and deeply personal conversation about ADHD, perimenopause and the devastating impact hormonal changes can have on mental health. Sarah-Jane shares her experience […]

  • The 5 Top Health Lies & The Truth You Need to Feel Better Today

    If you’re confused, anxious, or overwhelmed by your health and what choices to make, this episode is for you. In this conversation, Mel sits down with Doctor Mike Varshavski, the most followed medical doctor in the world, to expose the health lies and medical misinformation that are making people sicker, more stressed, and afraid to […]

  • I don’t identify as middle aged! Fearne's talking hormones and single parenting

    What’s been going on for you this week? What are you happy about, and what’s making you not so happy? Fearne’s here with more chat about what’s putting her, Team Happy Place team, and you lot in a good mood, and what’s feeling a bit heavier. This is our space to explore what’s been on […]

  • Thursday Thoughts – Brainwash Yourself

    On today’s Thursday's Thoughts, Lucy and I are talking about brainwashing ourselves with beliefs that are actually going to serve us. Whether we know it or not, our lives are quietly being run by the subconscious beliefs that we hold – some of which are helping us, many of which are not. The good news […]

  • Jennie Garth Talks Midlife Reinvention and Choosing Herself

    I Choose Me! In this inspiring podcast episode, Jennie Garth discusses her new book I Choose Me and she opens up about midlife reinvention, overcoming limiting beliefs, and learning to prioritize herself. Jennie shares candid insights on divorce, motherhood, mental health, and rebuilding confidence, while exploring tools like radical acceptance, the “We’ll See Method,” and […]

  • The Tamsen Show podcast image

    Jennie Garth on Choosing Yourself: What 90210 Taught Her About Reinvention

    Jennie Garth is an actress, entrepreneur, author, podcast host, and cultural icon best known for her role as Kelly Taylor on Beverly Hills, 90210. In today’s episode of The Tamsen Show, she sits down with Tamsen Fadal for a vulnerable conversation about fame, imposter syndrome, and how she finally learned to love and accept herself […]

  • Afl 63 ~ Het verhaal van Jeannette Troost: van PMS naar perimenopauzale nachtmerrie (deel 1)

    Jeannette Troost veranderde van een levenslustige vrouw in een bang en ellendig vogeltje dat boven in huis een nestje voor zichzelf maakte en er niet meer uitkwam. Koptelefoon op, oogmasker, omdat iedere prikkel haar teveel was. In haar behandeling van de perimenopauze ging alles mis wat er maar mis kan gaan. In plaats van progesteron […]

  • image of woman with dark hair named Mary Claire Haver

    Plant Medicine for Menopause: What Science and Ancient Healing Say Actually Works

    In this episode of unPAUSED, Dr. Mary Claire Haver sits down with Dr. Suzanne Gilberg-Lenz, a board-certified OB-GYN, integrative medicine expert, and author with nearly 30 years of clinical experience, including training in Ayurvedic medicine spanning almost two decades. Dr. Gilberg-Lenz is the Chief Clinical Officer of Monarch, a membership-based healthcare practice built to restore […]

  • EP. 214 – The Meno Besties Roundtable: when to test hormones, the nervous system, desire at midlife and more!

    In this fun and rousing roundtable discussion, Dr. Fiona Lovely sits down with two of her favorite podcast hosts and Meno Besties: Zora Benhamou from Hack My Age and Karen Martel from The Hormone Solution. Together, they navigate a conversation on the nuances of hormone therapy, the hidden complexities of the thyroid, and the often-unspoken […]

  • 57 – Bleeding on HRT: what’s normal and what’s not

    In this episode, Dr Louise Newson is joined by consultant gynaecologist Mr Osama Naji for a reassuring and practical conversation about one of the most common concerns women have when starting HRT, bleeding. Together, they explain why bleeding can happen, when it is a normal response to changing hormones and when it may need further […]

Is It Hot In Here? Midlife Podcast

Part open-clinic, part talk show, this is the podcast for women navigating perimenopause, menopause, and midlife health. Each week, menopause Doctor Naomi Potter is joined by a new guest to explore the real-life impact of their hormonal changes. From hot flushes and anxiety, to brain fog and sleep problems, no topic is off limits. Whether […]

00:00
/
00:00