Ovestin is a vaginal cream that contains the bioidentical hormone estriol. It is prescribed to treat symptoms such as vaginal dryness and recurrent fungal and urinary tract infections. Estriol is a naturally occurring hormone in the body that supports the health of the vaginal lining and helps to relieve symptoms. Ovestin is a form of hormone replacement therapy and is only available with a prescription.
Hormone replacement therapy
Ovestin vaginal cream
Vaginal cream (with applicator)
In short
- For vaginal dryness and recurrent fungal and urinary tract infections
- May assist with urinary incontinence and vaginal discharge
- Vaginal cream containing the bioidentical hormone estriol
- Prescription-only medication
What is Ovestin?
What can you expect from Ovestin?
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.
When should I use Ovestin?
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.
Possible side effects of Ovestin
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.
Risks of hormone therapy
The use of medication containing hormones can carry risks; however, this does not apply to vaginal hormone therapy. Vaginal administration of hormone therapy is entirely safe and free from risk because the hormones are minimally absorbed into the bloodstream. Studies indicate no increased risk of thrombosis, strokes, or cancer.
For a complete list of side effects, refer to the package leaflet.
Scientific sources
Menopause hormone therapy and urinary symptoms: a systematic review - PubMed
Vaginal Estrogen Therapy Use and Survival in Females With Breast Cancer - PubMed
2016 IMS Recommendations on women's midlife health and menopause hormone therapy - PubMed
Management of unscheduled bleeding on hormone replacement therapy (HRT) - British Menopause Society
Rethinking Menopausal Hormone Therapy: For Whom, What, When, and How Long? - PubMed
Hormone Therapy in Menopause: Concepts, Controversies, and Approach to Treatment - PubMed
Updates in Hormone Replacement Therapy for Survivors of Gynecologic Cancers - PMC
Oestrogen-based therapies for menopausal symptoms - PubMed
The 2022 hormone therapy position statement of The North American Menopause Society - PubMed
Hormone Therapy in Menopause - PubMed
Hormoonsuppletietherapie en het risico op veneuze trombo-embolie | Stichting Geneesmiddelenbulletin
Medically reviewed by
Dr. Erik KnauffRegistration number:: 89059736001
Patient Information Leaflet
Read the patient information leaflet carefully before using Ovestin vaginal cream.
Ovestin vaginal cream helps with
Frequently asked questions
Will my treatment be covered?
This depends on your health insurance provider. We recommend you check with your own insurance company. Supplements are not usually covered.
What is a consultation and how does it work?
During the consultation, you will complete a comprehensive medical questionnaire. You can also state your preferred type of treatment. Based on your answers, a doctor will prepare a treatment plan for you within 48 hours. If you approve this plan, a pharmacy will dispatch the products to your home within 3 days.
How long will it take to receive my order?
Our partner pharmacies will dispatch your order within 3 days. You can then typically start your treatment straight away.
Are there delivery charges?
For prescription medicines, delivery is included in the price. For over-the-counter products, there is a delivery charge of £4.21. We offer free delivery on orders over £40. If your order includes both, delivery is free.
Can I change, cancel or return my order?
Unfortunately, once an order has been placed, it cannot be changed. If you have ordered the wrong product, or wish to change or cancel your order, please contact our customer service team immediately. Over-the-counter products can only be cancelled if they have not yet been prepared or dispatched by the pharmacy. Prescription medicines can be cancelled if they have not yet been assessed by a doctor. Returns are only accepted for over-the-counter products in their original unopened and undamaged packaging, within 14 days of dispatch.