Estriol Cream, approved in Australia in 1992, is a prescription treatment for women experiencing mild to moderate vaginal dryness and hot flashes. Estriol is the trade-name for hydroxytoluene, an ingredient found in many prescription and over-the-counter medications and dietary supplements. Estriol is not the same as estrogen, which is a hormone that regulates menstruation. Nor does Estriol Cream have the same effect on menopause symptoms such as hot flashes and night sweats as does estradiol, the hormonal replacement therapy commonly used in women.

Estriol is not interchangeable with oestrogen. Estriol Cream is intended to be used as a lubricant in the vagina and bladder. Oestrogen is a hormone that, among other things, causes the lining of the vagina to produce vaginal lubrication. Estriol Cream is not absorbed into the blood stream, so it has no calories and no cholesterol associated with it. Estriol Cream can be used by post-menopausal women, but its use is contraindicated for women who are pregnant or expect to become pregnant. Estriol may also be irritating to some people.
It’s possible Estriol may have side effects and should be used cautiously by women whose skin absorbs synthetic estrogens (estrogens). Some Estriol users have reported experiencing breast tenderness. Breast tenderness can also occur if you take a new oral drug containing estrogens, called an estrogen replacement therapy (ERT). If you discontinued using Estriol Cream, it could be a good idea to wait until your body gets back into the rhythm it was in before you stopped using Estriol Cream. Estriol is a fairly new prescription medication, so there isn’t much data available yet about how long-term exposure to Estriol cream will affect you.
Estriol can interact with other medications you might be taking, especially prescription drugs. Some medications that are commonly taken to treat symptoms of menopause include estrogen replacement therapy, testosterone oral sprays, and anti-testosterone Cyproterone Acids. It’s important that you discuss any and all treatment plans with your doctor or pharmacist. A common side effect of Estriol use is vaginal dryness. If you’ve used Estriol Cream and vaginal dryness continues, you should contact your doctor immediately to find out if another product is better suited for your needs.
Some people experience vaginal bleeding with Estriol use. This side effect usually goes away within a few weeks, however, other side effects include a burning sensation when the cream touches the vagina. This side effect is called “sensation,” and is not serious. Abstain from sexual intercourse while the cream is in the vagina to avoid irritation.
Estriol cream isn’t right for everyone. You should always consult your doctor before using Estriol Cream. The cream has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration, but you should always ask your doctor or pharmacist first. Your doctor will be able to evaluate your health, determine whether or not the benefits outweigh the potential risks, and guide you in choosing the best treatment option for your menopause symptoms.