Is vaginal oestrogen therapy done with oestradiol?

Oestradiol is the active hormone in some vaginal creams, tablets, inserts, or rings. These products are designed to act mainly in the vaginal area, where lower oestrogen levels can contribute to dryness, irritation, soreness, or discomfort with sex. The exact product is selected according to symptoms, examination findings, medical history, and local availability.

Vaginal treatment is different from systemic hormone therapy, which circulates more widely through the body. Local treatment can still require a careful review if you have unexplained vaginal bleeding, a history of hormone-sensitive cancer, blood-clot concerns, or are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Use the prescribed product exactly as directed and follow the schedule given by your clinician. Do not change from a cream to a tablet, ring, or another formulation without advice. Wash your hands before and after application, and mention other vaginal medicines, lubricants, or treatments so the timing can be checked.

Arrange follow-up if symptoms do not improve, return after improving, or become troublesome. Ask whether you need a review of the diagnosis rather than simply increasing the amount used.

Seek medical advice for any unexpected vaginal bleeding, new pelvic pain, unusual discharge, sores, or a suspected allergic reaction. Urgent help is needed for severe breathing difficulty, facial swelling, chest pain, or sudden one-sided weakness.

A clinician should also review persistent burning or bleeding after starting treatment. These symptoms may have causes that need examination and should not be assumed to be a normal treatment effect.

Is oestradiol suitable for my symptoms and medical history?

Which formulation should I use, and how should it be applied?

What bleeding or other changes should prompt a review?