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What is Estriol Cream?
Estriol Cream is a first-line treatment designed to help women and people assigned female at birth who are peri- or postmenopausal and experiencing symptoms like vaginal dryness, itching, or discomfort during sex. It contains a gentle form of oestrogen that works locally to ease these symptoms.
Active Ingredient
- Estriol 1mg per gram
How It Works
The natural decline in oestrogen during menopause or after ovary removal can cause vaginal tissues to become thin, dry, and sore [1]. Estriol Cream delivers oestrogen directly to the affected area. It can be applied inside the vagina or to the vulval and perianal regions. This helps rebuild natural moisture, reduce irritation, and improve comfort during sex.
Typical Results
Most women feel relief within 1–2 weeks. After 3–4 weeks of regular use, many report significantly less dryness and discomfort. After 4 weeks, most people can reduce their dose and still control these symptoms.
Key Benefits
- Works exactly where it’s needed with very little hormone entering the rest of the body
- Helps soothe dryness, itching, and discomfort
- Supports healthy vaginal tissues and improves comfort during sex
- Simple and easy to use at home
- Usually used twice a week after the first month or so
Available Dosages and Strengths
Estriol Cream is a white cream, available in a 15g tube with an applicator. Each tube provides approximately 15 to 30 doses depending on frequency of use. The cream contains 1mg of estriol per gram.
For more detailed information, see the Directions for Use section and always read the Patient Information Leaflet included with your medication.
What is Estriol Cream and what does it do?
Estriol Cream is a local hormone treatment used to relieve vaginal symptoms caused by reduced oestrogen levels during and after menopause. These can include dryness, soreness, itching, and pain during sex.
Unlike systemic HRT, Estriol Cream works directly at the site of symptoms.
How does Estriol Cream work?
Estriol is a naturally occurring oestrogen. When applied inside the vagina, it binds to local cells, helping tissues regain thickness, strength, and natural moisture. This restores balance, reduces irritation, and helps protect against infections.
What to expect when starting treatment
- Weeks 1–2: Dryness and itching begin to ease. Sex may become more comfortable. Some mild side effects (e.g., discharge or irritation) may occur but usually settle.
- Weeks 3–4: Vaginal tissues become stronger and better hydrated. Discomfort typically reduces further.
- Week 5 and beyond: You may switch to a maintenance schedule of a couple of doses per week.
Estriol 1mg Cream reviews
How to use Estriol 1mg Cream
Dosage
- Initial dose: One full applicator daily for 2–3 weeks
- Maintenance dose: 2–3 times per week as directed by a healthcare provider
How to apply
- Wash your hands thoroughly before and after use.
- Fill the applicator with cream from the tube.
- Assume a comfortable position (lying down or standing with one leg raised).
- Insert the applicator into the vagina gently and fully.
- Press the plunger to release the cream.
- Remove and clean the applicator.
You may also apply a small amount of cream externally to the vulva or perianal area using a clean fingertip, if advised.
Side effects of Estriol 1mg Cream
Overview
Common side effects (may affect up to 1 in 10 people):
- Mild vaginal discharge
- Irritation, burning, or itching
Uncommon or rare:
- Vaginal thrush
- Rash
- Nausea
Side effects with unknown frequency:
- Spotting or light bleeding
- Breast tenderness
Serious side effects from vaginal oestrogen are rare, as it works mainly in the vaginal area.
Stop using Estriol Cream and seek medical help if you experience:
- High blood pressure
- Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)
- Severe headaches
- Signs of a blood clot (like leg swelling, redness, or pain)
- Any other serious symptoms listed in the leaflet
Always read the Patient Information Leaflet that comes with your medicine. It contains full details on side effects, usage, and safety.
For further support, contact our Healthcare Advisors on 01295 262925 or email [email protected].
Warnings and Precautions
Let us know before starting Estriol Cream if you have or have had any of the following:
- Uterine fibroids
- Endometriosis or thickened womb lining
- Increased risk of blood clots
- Family history of breast or oestrogen-sensitive cancer
- Liver issues
- High blood pressure
- Gallstones
- Migraines or epilepsy
- Lupus (SLE), asthma, or otosclerosis
- Diabetes
- Heart or kidney problems
- Hereditary angioedema
Also, tell us if you're on Hepatitis C treatments like Ombitasvir/Paritaprevir/Ritonavir with or without Dasabuvir, as they may affect liver test results when combined with oestrogen-based medication.
New developments in the management of vulvovaginal atrophy [3] suggests that Estriol is a safe and effective option for managing symptoms of vulvovaginal atrophy when used as directed. It may also be suitable for women with a history of breast cancer.
It can be considered a first-choice hormonal treatment, particularly for women who can’t use other hormone treatments. However, always consult your specialist team before starting any hormonal treatment if you have a personal or family history of hormone-sensitive cancers.
