Indications
Estring is used to manage menopausal changes in and around the vagina and can help to reduce vaginal and urinary symptoms of menopause. Estring is a vaginal ring with the generic name estradiol hemihydrate. Estring medication is classified as an estrogen derivative.
Estring is a soft, flexible ring that is used after menopause to continuously release an estrogen hormone over a period of 3 months. It is a local estrogen therapy that provides relief of moderate to severe menopausal changes in and around the vagina. Estring vaginal ring can also treat urinary symptoms like painful urination and frequent urges to urinate.
Uses and Dosage
Estring is inserted into the vagina using a gentle, pushing motion. It should be left in place for 90 days and then removed and replaced with a new ring. Use Estring exactly as your doctor has prescribed. Here are the general steps for how to use Estring:
- Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water and dry them.
- Remove the Estring from its pouch.
- Hold the ring between your thumb and index finger.
- Position yourself in a comfortable position, such as lying down or standing with one leg raised.
- Insert the ring into your vagina using a gentle, pushing motion.
- You should leave the ring in place for 90 days. After that time, you should remove it and insert a new ring.
If the ring is put in properly, you should not be able to feel it and it will not interfere with sexual intercourse. If you can feel the ring or feel slight discomfort from the ring, it may mean that the ring is not high enough. Gently push the ring higher with your finger. If the ring falls out of the vagina, rinse the ring with lukewarm water and put it back into the vagina. Contact your doctor if the ring falls out often.
Side Effect
Common Side Effects of Estring (Estradiol Hemihydrate):
- Abdominal cramps
- Bloating
- Breast pain
- Fluid retention
- Headache
- Increased vaginal discharge without bad odor
- Irregular vaginal bleeding or spotting
- Nausea
- Vaginal yeast infection
- Vomiting
Allergic Reactions of Estring (Estradiol Hemihydrate):
- Chest tightness
- Hives
- Itching
- Rash
- Swelling of the mouth, face, and throat
- Trouble breathing
- Unusual hoarseness
- Wheezing
Serious Side Effects of Estring (Estradiol Hemihydrate):
- Breast lumps
- Changes in vision
- Confusion
- Dementia
- High blood pressure
- Memory loss
- Severe headache
- Signs of blood clots
- Signs of fibroids
- Unusual vaginal bleeding
Form and Strength
Estring (Estradiol Hemihydrate) is available in the following forms and strength:
Estring: Vaginal Ring
- 2 mg
Caution
- Women with a history of high blood pressure or heart disease may not be able to use Estring, as it may increase the risk of blood clots, stroke, and heart attack.
- Estring should not be used during pregnancy or while breastfeeding, as the medication can pass into breast milk and harm a nursing infant.
- Women who are allergic to estradiol or any other ingredients in Estring should not use this medication.
- Estring may increase the risk of certain conditions, such as endometrial hyperplasia and uterine cancer, especially when used for a prolonged period of time or in high doses.
- Women with a history of gallbladder disease or jaundice should use Estring with caution, as the medication may worsen these conditions.
- Estring may increase the risk of dementia in women over the age of 65, especially when used for a prolonged period of time.
- Women who experience vaginal bleeding or spotting while using Estring should inform their healthcare provider, as this may be a sign of a more serious health condition.
- Estring should be stored at room temperature and kept out of reach of children and pets.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How do I know if Estring is right for me?
Your doctor will consider several factors such as your overall health, medical history, and current symptoms before deciding if Estring is right for you.
Can Estring be used by women who have had a hysterectomy?
Yes, Estring can be used by women who have had a hysterectomy.
How often should I have my vaginal health checked while using Estring?
Have regular pelvic exams and breast exams while using Estring to monitor your health.
How long does it take for Estring to start working?
Estring may take several weeks of treatment to start working effectively.
Can Estring be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding?
Estring is not recommended for use during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
How should I store Estring?
Estring should be stored at room temperature, away from heat and moisture.
Resources
- https://www.goodrx.com/estring/what-is
- https://labeling.pfizer.com/showlabeling.aspx?id=568
- https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2008/020472s007lbl.pdf
- https://www.estring.com/save-on-estring
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-14204/estring-vaginal/details
- https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/lookup.cfm?setid=aa530dfd-3a48-46b9-9678-a7bc48316e41
- https://www.estring.com/
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