Ovestin

Ovestin is a vaginal estrogen cream intended to supply estriol, a naturally occurring estrogen. Estriol has a selective action on the cervix, vagina, and vulva. Ovestin is used in compounded hormone replacement medications approved to treat symptoms of hormone deficiency in menopause.

Ovestin vaginal cream contains the active ingredient estriol, which is one of the naturally occurring forms of the primary female sex hormone estrogen (sometimes referred to as oestrogen) that is naturally found in the body.

Estrogens work by binding to estrogen receptors in the body. Estrogen receptor alpha (ERα) is primarily found in the vagina, breast tissue, and ovaries. Estriol can be used as hormone replacement therapy (HRT) for women after menopause, specifically targeting ERα receptors.

Ovaries gradually produce lower levels of estrogen with the onset of menopause, resulting in a decline of estrogen in the blood. Estrogen deficiency often affects the labia and the vagina’s delicate lining and can cause dryness, inflammation or itching and vaginal atrophy or thinning. The distressing symptoms may include an increased susceptibility to vaginal or urinary infections and uncomfortable or painful intercourse.

As an effective treatment, Ovestin is applied directly to the vagina in the form of vaginal cream.

Studies have shown that when it comes to treating the vaginal symptoms of menopause like dryness and itching, creams applied directly to the affected area are more effective than any other estrogen therapy forms. They also have the advantage that they can relieve vaginal symptoms without exposing the entire body to high doses of estrogen and be a safe way for women who cannot take other therapies.