Estradiol is a form of estrogen, a female sex hormone produced by the ovaries. The hormone from the patch, gel, and spray is absorbed through your skin into your body. Estrogen is necessary for many processes in the body. Estradiol transdermal gel, patch, and spray are used to treat certain symptoms of menopause such as hot flashes, and vaginal dryness, burning, and irritation. This medicine is also used to prevent postmenopausal osteoporosis, or to treat ovarian disorders.