Women commonly use vaginal estrogen during perimenopause and menopause. If you have vasomotor symptoms (night sweats, hot flashes, and flushes), sexual dysfunction, or lower urinary tract infections, vaginal estrogen may be a treatment option for you.

There are three main vaginal estrogen products in the United States. These include cream, ring, and tablet. All three products deliver a low dose of hormone to the local vaginal tissue. The lowest rates of estrogen absorption by the body are found in the ring and the tablet.

However, if you currently have breast cancer or have had a history of breast cancer, nonhormonal methods should be the first line of treatment. Nonhormonal methods include moisturizers, lubricants, and topical anesthetics. If you are unresponsive, then vaginal estrogen may be used. However, vaginal estrogen should be used at a low dose and for a limited period of time until symptoms are improved. It is important to speak with both your oncologist and obgyn before using vaginal estrogen