What Is Vagifem Used For?

Vagifem is a local vaginal hormone replacement therapy medication used to treat menopausal changes in and around the vagina. It comes in a tablet containing Estradiol, which restores the levels of estrogen in the vagina.

During and after menopause, many women experience vaginal atrophy, which is when vaginal tissues get thinner and irritated more easily. Vaginal atrophy can lead to dryness, itchiness, and discomfort, which can then lead to painful intercourse. The root cause of vaginal atrophy is a decline in estrogen levels.

While over-the-counter (OTC) gels, ointments, and inserts may temporarily relieve dryness and discomfort, Vagifem can alleviate the dryness that causes these symptoms.

Once the Vagifem tablet is inserted as directed, it slowly dissolves in the vaginal tissues, releasing the estrogen directly where it is needed (very little reaches the bloodstream). Over time, vaginal tissues can thicken and become supple and moist.

Conditions Treated by Vagifem

In their 40s, many women start to experience irregular menstrual cycles, sleep problems, minor hot flashes, and vaginal dryness. This transition is known as perimenopause. After 12 consecutive months without a period, a woman officially reaches menopause.

If you are bothered by the hot flashes, mood changes, restless sleep, and vaginal atrophy that often accompany menopause, your physician may prescribe an oral or transdermal estrogen and progesterone. While the symptoms of menopause decrease and disappear over time, vaginal dryness, itchiness, and discomfort may remain. Vagifem is ideal for treating the symptoms of vaginal irritation and dryness directly at the affected area.

Vagifem should provide relief from vaginal atrophy after the first two weeks of use.

What to Know Before Using Vagifem

• Do not use Vagifem if you are pregnant or may be pregnant.
• Inform your doctor of other medical conditions or allergies you have. Tell your doctor if you are taking any OTC or Rx drugs, including herbal remedies and vitamin or dietary supplements.
• To reduce any health risks from estrogen hormone therapy, your doctor should recommend the lowest Vagifem dose available and it should only be used short-term.
• The risk of blood clots, heart attack, or stroke is increased if you have diabetes, hypertension, high cholesterol, or smoke while taking hormones.
• Ask your doctor to explain how to use the plunger properly.
• Grapefruit and grapefruit juice may interact with Vagifem.

Possible Vagifem Side Effects

As with all prescription drugs, there are potential side effects of using Vagifem.

Some people may experience:

• Weight gain
• Back pain
• Headache
• Vaginal discharge