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Estring is a form of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) designed to treat vaginal dryness, irritation, and discomfort associated with menopause.
Estring is available by prescription and can be conveniently ordered online from our pharmacy. Complete a quick online consultation to have Estring discreetly delivered to your door.
Estring is a small, flexible vaginal ring used for hormone replacement therapy (HRT) to treat symptoms of vaginal atrophy associated with menopause, such as dryness, irritation, itching, pain during intercourse, a burning sensation and frequent urinary discomfort. It contains a low dose of estradiol, a form of oestrogen, which is gradually released over a period of 90 days.
Once inserted into the vagina, Estring works locally by delivering oestrogen directly to the vaginal tissues, helping to restore moisture and elasticity without significantly increasing oestrogen levels in the rest of the body. It's commonly prescribed to postmenopausal women seeking relief from these specific symptoms while minimising systemic hormone exposure.
Since it works locally, Estring minimises the risk of systemic side effects that might occur with oral or transdermal hormone replacement therapy.
There are several alternatives to Estring for treating menopausal vaginal symptoms. These alternatives include other forms of localized hormone replacement therapy (HRT)and non-hormonal treatments:
Vagifem is a localised oestrogen therapy in the form of small vaginal tablets. Like Estring, it delivers estradiol directly to the vaginal tissue to help restore moisture and thickness. The tablets are inserted into the vagina using an applicator, typically administered daily for the first two weeks, then twice a week for maintenance.
Vaginal oestrogen creams provide localised oestrogen therapy to treat vaginal atrophy. They are applied directly to the vaginal tissue using an applicator, offering flexible dosing depending on symptom severity. Creams can be more customisable but may require more frequent application than Estring.
Replens is a non-hormonal vaginal moisturiser that helps alleviate dryness without the use of oestrogen. It is applied several times a week and provides temporary relief by hydrating and soothing the vaginal tissue.
Senshio is an oral medication that treats pain during intercourse (dyspareunia) caused by vaginal atrophy. It is a selective oestrogen receptor modulator (SERM) that mimics oestrogen's effects on the vaginal tissue without being a hormone itself.
Intrarosa is a vaginal insert that contains prasterone (DHEA), a hormone precursor that is converted into estrogen and testosterone in the vaginal tissues. It helps relieve moderate to severe pain during intercourse due to vaginal atrophy.
To insert Estring vaginal delivery system into your vagina
It is important to know what is in any new medication or treatment you decide to use, especially if you have any known allergies.
Each Estring Vaginal Ring contains:
Each Estring ring is made of: Silicone elastomer Q7-4735 A, Silicone elastomer Q7-4735 B, Silicone Fluid, Barium sulfate
You can find the full list of ingredients in the Estring Patient Information Leaflet. You must read this thoroughly before using Estring.
While these side effects are typically mild and manageable, it's important to monitor symptoms and consult a healthcare provider if they persist or worsen.
Before using Estring, there are several important warnings and precautions to consider:
Any abnormal or undiagnosed vaginal bleeding should be investigated before starting Estring. Vaginal bleeding after menopause could indicate a serious condition, such as cancer, and should not be overlooked.
Some women may experience an allergic reaction or sensitivity to the materials in Estring or the hormone itself, leading to swelling, itching, or difficulty breathing. If signs of an allergic reaction occur, discontinue use and seek medical attention.
Women with a history of hormone-dependent tumours such as breast cancer, ovarian cancer, or certain uterine cancers should generally avoid oestrogen therapies, including Estring, unless prescribed by their healthcare provider for specific reasons.
Estring is not for use during pregnancy and should not be used by women who are pregnant or breastfeeding, as it can harm the fetus or nursing infant.
Before starting Estring, it’s important to discuss your full medical history and current medications with your doctor to ensure it's safe for you. Regular follow-ups may also be necessary to monitor for any adverse effects or complications.
We think accessing healthcare should be easy. Whether we’re fulfilling NHS prescriptions or helping people find the right treatments, we aim to offer our customers dependable, economical and convenient access to medicines with a personal and discreet service.
Visit our Vaginal Dryness page for treatments, advice and FAQs.
