estrogen cream side effects women

Common side effects may include:

• headache;
• pelvic pain;
• flushing (warmth, redness, or tingly feeling);
• breast pain; or
• vaginal itching or discharge, changes in your menstrual periods, breakthrough bleeding.

What are the most common estrogen cream side effects?

• Feeling faint, dizzy, or lightheaded
• feeling of warmth or heat
• flushing or redness of the skin, especially on the face and neck
• headache
• sweating

What are the benefits of estrogen cream?

Estrogen therapy, with or without progesterone, is consistently effective in relieving menopausal symptoms. Estrogen therapy is also beneficial for preventing some estrogen deficiency symptoms. The benefits of taking estrogen are clear in some of the conditions arising from menopause, but results are mixed in some.

Why to use estrogen cream?

These lifestyle changes for managing estrogen loss include:

• Eat a balanced diet. Foods rich in calcium and vitamin D can boost bone health and help prevent osteoporosis.
• Consider a calcium supplement. Estrogen and calcium need each other to help build bone strength. ...
• Lift weights. Strength training is a highly effective way to build bone strength and reduce your risk of osteoporosis. ...

Should I be using an estrogen cream?

Using an estrogen cream for up to one year has been shown safe and effective for alleviating vaginal or urinary symptoms of menopause without increasing the risk of endometrial hyperplasia, which is a risk factor for endometrial cancer. 3

What does estrogen cream do for a woman?

Using or applying an estrogen relieves or lessens: Dryness and soreness in the vagina. Itching, redness, or soreness of the vulva. Feeling an urge to urinate more often then is needed or experiencing pain while urinating.Feb 1, 2022

How long does it take for estrogen cream to work in females?

Vaginal atrophy can be treated with topical estrogen including Estrace Vaginal Cream and it can take 3 to 4 weeks to reach its maximum effect. Atrophic vaginitis is an inflammation or irritation of the vagina caused by thinning and shrinking of the tissues of the vagina and decreased lubrication of the vaginal walls.Apr 5, 2021

Should women use estrogen cream?

Although estrogen replacement had been linked to an increased risk of cardiovascular disease and cancers, a landmark new study demonstrates no rise in risk for women using topical estrogen for relief of genitourinary syndrome.Mar 12, 2019

What are the side effects of a woman taking estrogen?

The main side effects of taking oestrogen include:bloating.breast tenderness or swelling.swelling in other parts of the body.feeling sick.leg cramps.headaches.indigestion.vaginal bleeding.

Where do you rub estrogen cream?

Carefully spread the cream onto the top wall of the vagina just underneath the urethral area (see Figure 2, yellow highlighted area). As the cream is spread, some may be gently inserted into the vagina: however, it is not necessary to push the cream high into the vagina.

What are the risks of using estrogen cream?

Side EffectsBreast pain.enlarged breasts.itching of the vagina or genitals.stinging or redness of the genital area.thick, white vaginal discharge without odor or with a mild odor.Feb 1, 2022

What is the best time of day to apply estrogen cream?

Estradiol emulsion should be applied in the morning. Estradiol gel may be applied at any time of day, but should be applied at around the same time of day every day. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand.Jun 15, 2016

What are the symptoms of low estrogen?

What are the symptoms of low estrogen levels?Dry skin.Tender breasts.Weak or brittle bones.Trouble concentrating.Moodiness and irritability.Vaginal dryness or atrophy.Hot flashes and night sweats.Irregular periods or no periods (amenorrhea).More items...•Feb 8, 2022

How long should you use estrogen cream?

High-strength estradiol creams (100 micrograms/gram) applied inside the vagina should only be used for a single treatment period of a maximum of 4 weeks.Apr 10, 2019

How does estrogen make you feel?

Bloating, swelling of arms or legs, and breast tenderness are the usual physical symptoms. Feeling overly emotional, experiencing depression, anger and irritability, or having anxiety and social withdrawal may be present.Jul 23, 2019

What happens when you start taking estrogen?

The first changes you will probably notice are that your skin will become a bit drier and thinner. Your pores will become smaller and there will be less oil production. You may become more prone to bruising or cuts and in the first few weeks you'll notice that the odors of your sweat and urine will change.

Can taking estrogen cause weight gain?

Estrogen promotes the storage of fat for healthy reproductive years. When estrogen is balanced, the right amount of fat helps carry out female reproductive functions. However, when there's too little or too much estrogen, weight gain often results.

What happens if you take estrogen with progestin?

unexpected or excess milk flow from the breasts. Also, many women who are taking estrogens with a progestin (another female hormone) will start having monthly vaginal bleeding, similar to menstrual periods, again.

What does it mean when your breasts are hoarse?

hoarseness. increased breast size (in females and males) irritation of the skin. itching of the skin. joint pain, stiffness, or swelling. rash. redness of the skin. shortness of breath. swelling of the eyelids, face, lips, hands, or feet.

Does hysterectomy cause hair loss?

This effect will continue for as long as the medicine is taken. However, monthly bleeding will not occur in women who have had the uterus removed by surgery (total hysterectomy). This medicine may cause loss or thinning of the scalp hair in some people. Other side effects not listed may also occur in some patients.

Can estrogen cause breast cancer?

Although the incidence is low, the use of estrogens may increase you chance of getting cancer of the breast. Breast cancer has been reported in men taking estrogens. Along with its needed effects, a medicine may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Is it safe to take estrogen for less than 1 year?

When estrogens are used in low doses for less than 1 year, there is less risk. The risk is also reduced if a progestin (another female hormone) is added to, or replaces part of, your estrogen dose. If the uterus has been removed by surgery (total hysterectomy), there is no risk of endometrial cancer. Although the incidence is low, the use of ...

How to use estrogen cream?

To use vaginal estrogen cream, you need to be able to insert it into your vaginal canal. Follow these steps to get your applicator filled with the correct dosage: Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water. Remove the cap from the tube of vaginal cream.

How to remove estrogen cream from vagina?

Remove the applicator from your vagina. You need to clean your applicator after each use. Simply pull the plunger to remove it from the applicator barrel. Use mild soap and warm water to clean the applicator barrel and plunger.

What causes dryness and burning in the vagina?

Vulvovaginal atrophy, which includes dryness, itching, burning, and atrophic vulvovaginitis — When estrogen levels drop during menopause, it can cause the vaginal area to become less lubricated, dry, thin, and atrophic. Estrogen increases the production of normal lubrication.

What is the best treatment for hormonal issues?

Another potential treatment for hormonal issues is a vaginal estrogen cream. Read on to discover how it works, how to use it, and any side effects you should watch out for.

Why does my vagina hurt during menopause?

Vaginal itching. Vaginal burning. Pain during sex due to lack of natural vaginal lubrication.

Why does my vagina burn?

This can also cause itching and a burning sensation because your tissues are now more sensitive to fabric , friction, and urination.

Where are estrogen receptors found?

Estrogen receptors are found in the urethral and bladder epithelial lining , as well as in some of the surrounding muscles and ligaments. That is why low estrogen levels can result in urinary problems such as increased frequency, urgency, incontinence, dysuria, and urinary tract infections.

What are the side effects of a syringe?

Call your doctor or get medical help if any of these side effects or any other side effects bother you or do not go away: Headache. Hair loss . Tender breasts. Upset stomach or throwing up. Stomach pain or cramps. Bloating . Back pain . Diarrhea .

What are the symptoms of an allergic reaction?

Signs of an allergic reaction, like rash; hives; itching; red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin with or without fever; wheezing; tightness in the chest or throat; trouble breathing, swallowing, or talking; unusual hoarseness; or swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat.

What causes a lump in the breast?

A lump in the breast, breast pain or soreness, or nipple discharge. Depression or other mood changes. Memory problems or loss. Eyesight changes or loss, bulging eyes, or change in how contact lenses feel. This drug may cause you to swell or keep fluid in your body.

Can you have a bad side effect from taking a drug?

WARNING/CAUTION: Even though it may be rare, some people may have very bad and sometimes deadly side effects when taking a drug. Tell your doctor or get medical help right away if you have any of the following signs or symptoms that may be related to a very bad side effect: Signs of an allergic reaction, like rash; hives; itching; red, swollen, ...

Can estrogen cause uterine cancer?

Estrogens may raise the chance of uterine cancer. Progestins may lower this chance. A warning sign for cancer of the uterus is vaginal bleeding. Report any vaginal bleeding to the doctor.

What is Estrace cream?

Estrace (estradiol) vaginal cream is a preparation of estrogen , a female hormone, for topical application to the vaginal area used to treat certain symptoms of menopause such as dryness , burning, and itching of the vaginal area and urgency or irritation with urination. Common side effects of Estrace Vaginal Cream include nausea, vomiting, bloating, stomach pain, breast tenderness, headache, weight changes vaginal itching or discharge, mood changes, breast lumps, spotting or breakthrough bleeding, dark areas of the skin on the face ( melasma ), or problems wearing contact lenses. Overdosage of estrogen may cause nausea and vomiting, and withdrawal bleeding may occur in females.

What to do if side effects persist?

If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly . Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects. Tell your doctor right away ...

Can estrogen cause nausea?

Overdosage of estrogen may cause nausea and vomiting, and withdrawal bleeding may occur in females. The usual dosage range of Estrace Vaginal Cream is 2 to 4 g (marked on the applicator) daily for one or two weeks, then gradually reduced to one half initial dosage for a similar period. Estrace Vaginal Cream may interact with aromatase inhibitors, ...

Can Estrace be used for pregnant women?

Estrace Vaginal Cream may interact with aromatase inhibitors, fulvestrant, ospemifene, raloxifene, tamoxifen, toremifene, and tranexamic acid. Tell your doctor all medications and supplements you use. It is not indicated for pregnant women. If you become pregnant or think you may be pregnant while using Estrace Vaginal Cream, ...

How to use estradiol cream?

Use estradiol vaginal cream as ordered by your doctor. Read all information given to you. Follow all instructions closely. Wash your hands before use. Put into your vagina using the applicator that came with estradiol vaginal cream. Wash the applicator after use. Use estradiol vaginal cream at the same time of day.

Can a drug cause side effects?

All drugs may cause side effects. However, many people have no side effects or only have minor side effects. Call your doctor or get medical help if any of these side effects or any other side effects bother you or do not go away: Headache. Hair loss .

Can you smoke Estradiol vaginal cream?

Talk with the doctor. This medicine may affect certain lab tests. Tell all of your health care providers and lab workers that you take estradiol vaginal cream. Do not smoke. Smoking raises the chance of heart disease. Talk with your doctor. If you drink grapefruit juice or eat grapefruit often, talk with your doctor.

Can estrogen cause cancer?

Estrogens may raise the chance of uterine cancer. Progestins may lower this chance. A warning sign for cancer of the uterus is vaginal bleeding. Report any vaginal bleeding to the doctor. Do not use estrogens to prevent heart disease or dementia.

Can estrogen cause a heart attack?

Using estrogens may raise the chances of having a heart attack, a stroke, breast cancer, ovarian cancer, a blood clot, or dementia. Use estrogens with or without progestin for the shortest time needed at the lowest useful dose.

Can you take estradiol with any other drug?

Do not start, stop, or change the dose of any drug without checking with your doctor.

Can you use over the counter lubricants on your vagina?

There are a variety of over the counter moisturizers and lubricants to treat vaginal dryness, but in some cases they do not fully relieve symptoms. For women who do not experience relief from over the counter products, low-dose vaginal estrogen is an option.

Does HT help with hot flashes?

Most of the estrogen will stay in the vaginal tissue so this type of topical treatment will not help with hot flashes or osteoporosis.

Is vaginal estrogen a local treatment?

The same findings held true for women who had had a hysterectomy. Vaginal estrogen is a local treatment, which means that it is only administered to the exact place it is trying to treat, and less estrogen enters the bloodstream.

Is low dose estrogen safe?

While the NWHN has warned women about about the effects of long-term menopause hormone therapy (MHT) usage, including cancers and cardiovascular events, low-dose vaginal estrogen could be a safer, effective way to treat vaginal symptoms. Recent studies have shown that low-dose vaginal estrogen use does not have the same risks as hormone therapy.

Is estrogen safe for menopause?

As the research currently stands, it appears that vaginal estrogen is a safe and effective treatment for vaginal discomfort due to menopause, and has a much lower risk of the cancers and cardiovascular events typically associated with hormone therapy. How Safe Are Low-Dose Estrogen Vaginal Creams?

Does vaginal estrogen have the same effects as hormone therapy?

Recent studies have shown that low-dose vaginal estrogen use does not have the same risks as hormone therapy. Data from the Women’s Health Initiative Observational Study showed that for postmenopausal women who used vaginal estrogen, the risk of invasive breast cancer, colorectal cancer, endometrial cancer, stroke, ...

Is vaginal estrogen a study?

Most studies cited in vaginal estrogen recommendations are observational studies, meaning that not all risk factors are controlled for. Clinical trials are necessary to determine the exact safety risks associated with a treatment.

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Less Common Or Rare

Rare

Incidence Not Known

Less Common

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