The Daily Insight
general /

What are the benefits of using Ovestin cream?

Ovestin belongs to a group of medicines called Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT). It is used to relieve menopausal symptoms in the vagina such as dryness or irritation. In medical terms this is known as ‘vaginal atrophy’. It is caused by a drop in the levels of oestrogen in your body.

How long does it take for Ovestin cream to work?

How long does Ovestin Cream take to work? When women are initially prescribed Ovestin Cream for vaginal dryness, most commonly they will apply the treatment once a day for 2 – 3 weeks. Most women will see noticeable improvements to their condition within this time.

Is Ovestin cream safe to use?

Every woman is at a small risk of getting endometrial cancer (cancer of the lining of the womb), whether or not HRT is used. The risk of cancer of the lining of the womb increases with the duration of treatment. Breakthrough bleeding or spotting may occur during the first few months of using Ovestin.

Which is stronger vagifem or Ovestin?

Vagifem contains estradiol (the main oestrogen in our bodies), whereas the other two are estriol – with the Ovestin being 10x the strength of the estriol meaning you use less.

Can you use Ovestin every day?

Your doctor may ask you to stop using Ovestin every 2 to 3 months for 4 weeks to check the need for further treatment. For vulvo-vaginal complaints associated with menopause: initially one dose of cream per day for 3 weeks. later you may only need one dose of cream twice a week.

Is there an alternative to Ovestin?

Other options include the non-hormonal drugs clonidine, venlafaxine and gabapentin, or lifestyle measures such as avoiding spicy foods, alcohol and hot places.

Can I use Ovestin externally?

Ovestin cream- for internal and external use, comes with a reusable applicator.

Can I stop using Ovestin?

Each dose of cream contains 0.5 mg estriol. However your doctor may well prescribe different quantities for other conditions. Your doctor may ask you to stop using Ovestin every 2 to 3 months for 4 weeks to check the need for further treatment.

Can Ovestin be used externally?

Is estriol cream the same as Ovestin?

Estriol is a form of oestrogen that is produced naturally by the body. Ovestin (0.1%) or Gynest (0.001%) are two brands of Estriol cream. Estriol cream can usually be used by women who can’t or don’t want to use HRT tablets or patches.

How long can you use Ovestin for?

You insert the cream daily before going to bed for 2 to 3 weeks, then reduce to twice a week. Symptoms will usually return when you stop using the cream. You can keep using it for as long as you need to, but you should have a check up with your doctor at least once a year.

How long should you use Ovestin for?

Ovestin therapy should be given for at least 1.5 months. In positive effect the duration of the treatment is not limited.

What is the difference between Ovestin and Gynest?

There is nothing actually that is 15 times weaker: Ovestin is 0.1 % estriol and Gynest is 0.01%. Many women find the latter doesn’t work nearly so well.

What is the difference between Ovestin and estriol cream?

Ovestin (0.1%) or Gynest (0.001%) are two brands of Estriol cream. Estriol cream can usually be used by women who can’t or don’t want to use HRT tablets or patches. Estriol cream is only available on prescription. What is estriol cream used for? Estriol cream is used to relieve vaginal dryness, itching or irritation associated with the menopause.

Where can I find information about the use of Ovestin?

You will find information that is up to date about the use of Ovestin on the website of the Chelsea and Westminster menopause clinic which is led by consultant Nick Panay. Local vaginal estrogens e.g. Vagifem pessaries, Estring vaginal ring, Ortho-gynest vaginal cream and Ovestin vaginal cream will effectively treat atrophic vaginal symptoms.

Does Ovestin make sex painful?

Lots if oil based lube made gentle sex discomfort free. However, a few months ago sex began to hurt so I relented and tried ovestin, expecting it to sting, burn or make me swell up. To my surprise and delight I had no bad reactions to it and it had returned my vagina to a younger version of itself (and sex is wonderful).