During menopause, your oestrogen levels lower over time which also reduces the amount of lubrication inside the vagina, causing vaginal dryness.
Vagifem tablets contain a form of oestrogen known as estradiol. They are inserted into the vagina where they release small amounts of oestrogen regularly into the surrounding tissues. This replaces the reduced estrogen to help relieve the menopause symptoms of vaginal dryness, itching and irritation.
How long does it take for Vagifem to work?
After inserting Vagifem tablets using the applicator provided, it slowly dissolves over several hours.
You may notice improvements in symptoms of vaginal dryness as early as within 8 weeks of treatment, but it usually takes up to 12 weeks to see results after you start this treatment.
How effective is Vagifem?
National guidelines recommend that low-dose vaginal oestrogen such as Vagifem be the first choice of treatment for symptoms affecting the vagina, as these preparations can effectively control such symptoms. You may start seeing results as quickly as within 8 weeks of treatment, but it may also take up to 12 weeks.
Vagifem vaginal tablets release oestrogen in small amounts directly into the vaginal tissues so they are more effective for vaginal dryness compared to other types of HRTs like oral tablets, patches or gels which circulate in the blood. This does however mean that it has less effect on other symptoms of menopause such as hot flushes, compared to these other types of HRT.
Does Vagifem increase libido?
Vaginal dryness can cause itching and irritation which may reduce sex drive (libido).
Using Vagifem helps replace oestrogen in the vaginal tissues and restores natural lubrication, which relieves the discomfort of vaginal dryness and improves sexual experience, which may lead to improved libido.
Vagifem and bladder problems
Vaginal dryness and irritation caused by menopause can lead to bladder or urinary symptoms and cause frequent urinary infections for some. Using vaginal oestrogen tablets like Vagifem can help relieve these symptoms by restoring natural lubrication in the vagina.
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