Can estrogen cream help with vaginal atrophy?
Ask the doctor
Q. Is estrogen cream effective in treating vaginal atrophy?
A. Vaginal atrophy is a change of the vagina that develops when there is a significant decrease in levels of the female hormone estrogen. Symptoms include dryness, irritation, and painful intercourse. A related condition is urogenital atrophy. The term is used when bladder symptoms such as urgency and frequency result from low estrogen.
Symptoms of vaginal and urogenital atrophy may improve with over-the-counter products such as Replens to add moisture for dryness ,and K-Y Jelly or Astroglide to help with lubrication during intercourse. If they do not provide adequate relief, vaginal estrogen is effective and safe when used properly.
Estrogen applied directly to the vagina as a cream or suppository helps maintain the lining and natural secretions. Estrogen can be absorbed into the system through the vagina. Only very low doses are required, and the amount absorbed is considered safe for most women.
An alternative way to provide estrogen is called Estring. This soft plastic ring contains estrogen. It is worn continuously in the vagina for three months and then replaced. It releases a constant low dose of estrogen directly to the vaginal tissues. There is no measurable increase in blood levels of estrogen with the Estring.
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About the Author
Howard E. LeWine, MD, Chief Medical Editor, Harvard Health Publishing; Editorial Advisory Board Member, Harvard Health Publishing
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