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Postmenopausal estrogen therapy reduces the risk for osteoporosis and fractures, but women taking a standard dosage of transdermal estrogen (50 μg/day) without progestin have increased risks for endometrial hyperplasia and cancer. Investigators previously showed that low-dosage transdermal estradiol (14 μg/day) protects against bone loss (Obstet Gynecol 2004; 104:443). Now, the same research group reports on the uterine effects of low-dosage estradiol. A total of 417 postmenopausal women with uteri were randomized to receive transdermal estradiol (14 μg/day) or an identical placebo patch for 2 years. Endometrial biopsies were performed at study entry and at 1 and 2 years.
The discontinuation rate was 10% in each group; at least one follow-up…