u/Ok_Leadership_2512

TL:DR Why alternate HRT gel between thighs and arms?

I've been prescribed a low dose HRT gel. When in the Drs surgery discussing the differences between the patches and the gels the DR mimed squirting 2x pumps onto the hands, rubbing them together and spreading the substance onto the outer thighs.

On receiving the prescription and reading the instructions I find it's one pump per hand alternating between inner thigh and shoulder / outer arm, avoiding genitals/boobs.

I get the avoiding genitals/boobs and this isn't a criticism of the DR, she mimed how simple it was to apply not the specifics.

Does anyone know the science/ logic behind 1. alternating and 2. inner thigh over outer given that they are closer to the genitals and presumably at higher risk of transfer.

As I said, this is a simple curiosity as I can't find any explanation on the packaging or insert.

Can anyone recommend ways to deal with indigestion and constipation? I had a total hysterectomy with bilateral salpingectomy (they left my ovaries in place) almost 3 years ago and have been on Oestradol gel for about 8 weeks now. For the last 6 months or so I've been getting really unpleasant indigestion and just lately I've had dreadful constipation.

I drink 2l water daily am relatively active - usually run 2x per week, pilates 2x per week and walk everywhere. Drinking coffee or eating porridge usually does the trick whenever I've had issues in the past (I am slightly intolerant to hot dairy products) but lately they've just caused gut cramps without the 'relief'.

My diet is pretty good - all freshly made, no ultra processed foods: smoothies with full fat greek yoghurt, fruit, nuts and seeds, black tea and coffee, lots of green leafy veg etc.

I'm in the UK if you're recomending over the counter purchases.