Ovestin vaginal cream

Ovestin acts locally within the vagina to help restore the vaginal lining. It is applied directly into the vagina using the applicator provided, helping the vaginal lining to regain its suppleness and moisture. Most women notice an improvement in their symptoms within a few weeks. This medication is intended for long-term use in cases of persistent symptoms following menopause. It works exclusively at the site of application and is minimally absorbed into the rest of the body.

Ovestin is usually applied daily for the first two weeks and then less frequently for maintenance (twice a week). The cream is administered vaginally using the applicator provided. Please note that Ovestin is designed solely for vaginal use and is not suitable for other applications.

The package leaflet contains comprehensive information about this product. Ensure you read the leaflet before using the product.

For which symptoms is Ovestin vaginal cream used?

• Vaginal dryness
• Recurrent fungal and urinary tract infections

It may also assist with:

• Urinary incontinence
• Vaginal discharge

Do not use Ovestin if you:

• Are allergic to estriol or any of the other ingredients
• Are pregnant or breastfeeding
• Have untreated vaginal bleeding
• Have a history of breast cancer or another hormone-sensitive tumour
• Have or have had a blood clot, liver disease, or heart attack

If you are taking other medications that may affect hormones, consult your prescribing doctor.

Common (affecting fewer than 1 in 10 women):

• Itching, irritation, or discharge in the vagina

Uncommon (affecting fewer than 1 in 100 women):

• Pain or discomfort during application
• Breast tenderness

Rare (affecting fewer than 1 in 1,000 women):

• Allergic reactions (such as rash, swelling, or difficulty breathing)

In rare cases, these side effects may result in severe symptoms, such as an allergic reaction. Always contact a doctor immediately if this occurs.

For a complete list of side effects, refer to the package leaflet.

Oral and transdermal hormone therapy may carry certain risks, such as an increased risk of breast cancer, particularly with long-term use or for women who commence treatment later in menopause. However, for vaginal creams, there is no evidence of these risks, as this medication works locally and does not enter the bloodstream.

• Hormonal Treatments and Vaginal Moisturizers for Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause : A Systematic Review - PubMed
• The 2020 genitourinary syndrome of menopause position statement of The North American Menopause Society - PubMed
• Menopause hormone therapy and urinary symptoms: a systematic review - PubMed
• Vulvovaginal estrogen therapy for urinary symptoms in postmenopausal women: a review and meta-analysis - PubMed
• Vaginal estrogen use in breast cancer survivors: a systematic review and meta-analysis of recurrence and mortality risks - PubMed
• Vaginal Estrogen Therapy Use and Survival in Females With Breast Cancer - PubMed
• Safety of Vaginal Estrogen Therapy for Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause in Women With a History of Breast Cancer - PubMed
• Vaginal estrogen use in breast cancer survivors: a systematic review and meta-analysis of recurrence and mortality risks - American Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology