Estradiol is a form of estrogen, a female sex hormone the regulates many processes in the body. Estradiol vaginal (local) is used to treat certain symptoms of menopause such as dryness, burning, and itching of the vaginal area. Estradiol vaginal also reduces urgency or irritation of urination. Estradiol vaginal (local) may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

The health and medical information provided here is for general purposes only and is not a substitute for the expertise and judgment of your physician, or other health care professional. It should not be understood to indicate that the use of this medicine is safe, appropriate or effective for you. Always consult your health care professional before using this, or any other, drug.

Some estradiol products placed directly into the vagina are used for "local" treatment of vaginal menopause symptoms involving the secretions and surrounding tissues of the vagina. Other vaginal estradiol products are used for treating menopause symptoms affecting the vagina as well as other parts of the body (such as hot flashes). This type of vaginal estradiol has "systemic" effects, meaning that it can affect parts of the body other than where the medicine is placed or applied.
The information in this leaflet is specific to estradiol vaginal products that are used for local treatment of symptoms.
Do not use this medication if you have any of the following conditions: a history of stroke or blood clot, circulation problems, a hormone-related cancer such as breast or uterine cancer, or abnormal vaginal bleeding. This medication can cause birth defects in an unborn baby. Do not use if you are pregnant. Use an effective form of birth control, and tell your doctor if you become pregnant during treatment.
Estradiol increases your risk of developing endometrial hyperplasia, a condition that may lead to cancer of the uterus. Taking progestins while using estradiol may lower this risk. If your uterus has not been removed, your doctor may prescribe a progestin for you to take while you are using estradiol vaginal.
Long-term estradiol treatment may increase your risk of breast cancer, heart attack, or stroke. Talk with your doctor about your individual risks before using estradiol long-term. Your doctor should check your progress on a regular basis (every 3 to 6 months) to determine whether you should continue this treatment.
Have regular physical exams and self-examine your breasts for lumps on a monthly basis while using estradiol.

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. Call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects:
chest pain or heavy feeling, pain spreading to the arm or shoulder, nausea, sweating, general ill feeling;
sudden numbness or weakness, especially on one side of the body;
sudden headache, confusion, problems with vision, speech, or balance;
pain, swelling, warmth, or redness in one or both legs;
abnormal vaginal bleeding;
pain, swelling, or tenderness in your stomach;
jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes); or
a lump in your breast.
Less serious side effects may include:
nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite;
swollen breasts;
acne or skin color changes;
decreased sex drive, impotence, or difficulty having an orgasm;
migraine headaches or dizziness;
vaginal pain, dryness, or discomfort;
swelling of your ankles or feet;
depression; or
changes in your menstrual periods, break-through bleeding.

Some estradiol products placed directly into the vagina are used for "local" treatment of vaginal menopause symptoms involving the secretions and surrounding tissues of the vagina. Other vaginal estradiol products are used for treating menopause symptoms affecting the vagina as well as other parts of the body (such as hot flashes). This type of vaginal estradiol has "systemic" effects, meaning that it can affect parts of the body other than where the medicine is placed or applied.
The information in this leaflet is specific to estradiol vaginal products that are used for local treatment of symptoms.
Use exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended. Follow the directions on your prescription label.
To use the estradiol vaginal ring:
Squeeze the sides of the ring together and insert it into the vagina as far as possible. You should not be able to feel the ring once it is in place. If you can feel it, use a finger to push it in farther. It is not possible for the ring to go too far in or become lost.
Leave the ring in place for 90 days. If the ring ever falls out, rinse it with warm water and reinsert it. If it slides down into the lower part of the vagina, use a finger to push it in farther. After 90 days, remove the ring. Your doctor may want you to replace it with a new ring.
The ring does not need to be removed during sexual intercourse. Neither partner should be able to feel the ring when it is in place. If the ring is bothersome, you may remove it, rinse it with warm water, and reinsert it after intercourse.
To remove the ring, loop a finger through the ring and gently pull it from the vagina.
To use the estradiol vaginal cream:
Using the marked applicator provided, measure the prescribed dose of cream.
Lie on your back with your knees drawn up, sit, or stand in a position that allows you comfortable access to the vaginal area. Gently insert the applicator deep into your vagina and press in the plunger to empty the cream from the applicator into the vagina.
Take apart the applicator and wash it with mild soap and warm water. Allow the applicator to dry completely before using it again.
To use the estradiol vaginal tablets:
Each vaginal tablet is supplied in a disposable applicator.
Lie on your back with your knees drawn up, sit, or stand in a position that allows you comfortable access to the vaginal area. Gently insert the applicator deep into your vagina and press in the plunger to empty the tablet into the vagina.
Throw the applicator away.
Have regular physical exams and self-examine your breasts for lumps on a monthly basis while using estradiol vaginal.
Store this medication at room temperature away from moisture and heat.