Using Estradiol Cream
Hello there. I had Stage 1 breast cancer (lumpectomy, radiation, tamoxifen) in 2010 and have thankfully not had a recurrence. I later had a full-out hysterectomy (ovaries, fallopian, cervix, etc removed).
Ever since then I have terrible bladder issues (urgency) as well as vaginal dryness. I've been scared to even think of hormonal treatment but it has gotten so bad I asked the doctor this morning and she has okayed Estradiol Vaginal Cream twice a week, applied with fingertip, "trace amount."
I would like to know if people have any feedback on having taken this, or any tips on usage (external only? internal?) and how long it takes to have a positive effect.
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It takes courage to ask for help with this one @surfette ! It's important 🤍
Over the years I have had several doctors tell me that it is safe because anything absorbed is only in the local tissues - my cancers have been TNBC but I also have BRCA1 so I've wanted to be extra careful. I finally got the rx filled this year, after hitting my deductible, figuring it was time to give it an honest try. I have embraced it as an act of hope, an investment in my future self if that makes sense at all (I'm in treatment again and really need to believe better days are still ahead).
"Trace amount" is a bit vague, I've been advised to use a blueberry-sized amount 2x/week. Mine came with an applicator and anything left over on the applicator tip I use on the outside tissues.
I was told it can take 6 weeks before you really notice a difference. I'm terrible about using it regularly, even with the small amount used I find it a bit messy... I apply before bed (and shower in the morning) to keep this to a minimum... but because it's before bed sometimes I'm just too tired or forget!
Not sure if any of this is helpful, but I'm glad we have a place here to talk about it. Good luck!
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I've used it too. On the other 5 days I apply coconut oil outside. Drs suggestion.
Also look online for hylauronic acid suppositories. They help too. Dr was impressed with results.
There are pelvic floor exercices that help with the incontinence issue.
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Yes, I've had two rounds of costly pelvic floor therapies, and I still do the exercises but still have the issues sadly. I might consider the hylauronic if this doesn't work.
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I use it once a week - small amount vaginal application. It has definitely helped w perimenopausal symptoms! My MO said it was fine to use.
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@surfette and all — here's some good info on Vaginal Estrogen, and also other ways to Treat Vaginal Dryness.
We hope this helps!
—The Mods
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I’m brca 1 and was hesitant to use but was prescribed 1gram internally 3x a week which I’m terrible at doing.
honestly, I have found Replens works just as well and also I have used an aloe one called Good Clean Love. Also coconut oil.I also had ovaries and everything else out. I bought vaginal dilators to help atrophy but again I’m terrible at regularly using them.
Hope this helps.
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