What is vaginal oestrogen therapy done with?

Oestradiol is a form of oestrogen. Applied inside the vagina, it acts mainly on the local tissues, which may have become thinner, drier, or more easily irritated after oestrogen levels change. A clinician chooses the form and schedule with you. The treatment is different from whole-body hormone therapy because its intended action is local.

Follow the prescribed instructions for the applicator, tablet, ring, or cream, and wash your hands before and after use. Do not add extra doses when one is missed without checking the instructions. Tell the prescriber about unexplained vaginal bleeding, a history of hormone-sensitive cancer, blood clots, liver disease, or medicines you take, because these details can affect whether local oestrogen is suitable.

Contact a clinician promptly for new or unexplained vaginal bleeding, severe pelvic pain, marked swelling, or a possible allergic reaction. Arrange a review if burning, discharge, or irritation continues, or if symptoms do not improve as expected; another cause may need assessment.

Ask which form of oestradiol fits your symptoms, when improvement should be assessed, and whether you need a follow-up examination. You can also ask what to do after a missed dose and whether any current medicine or medical history changes the plan.