The active ingredient is estriol at a concentration of 1mg per gram of cream (0.1%). Inactive ingredients vary by brand, Gynest and Ovestin have slightly different formulations, and some contain excipients such as cetyl alcohol that may cause local reactions in sensitive individuals. Check the specific product leaflet or ask your pharmacist if you have known ingredient sensitivities.

Yes, Estriol is a form of local hormone replacement therapy (HRT). However, unlike systemic HRT (such as patches, gels, or tablets), Estriol works locally in the vaginal and vulval area with minimal absorption into the bloodstream. This makes it suitable for women who cannot take systemic HRT or who only experience vaginal and urinary symptoms.

Estriol can be used long-term, often for many years, as long as it continues to provide symptom relief and you are monitored by your healthcare provider. Because it is a low-dose local treatment with minimal systemic absorption, it does not carry the same long-term risks as systemic HRT. Your doctor will review your treatment regularly to ensure it remains appropriate for you.

Estriol cream contains estriol, whilst Vagifem and Vagirux contain estradiol. Both are effective forms of vaginal oestrogen, but they differ in their formulation and application:

• Estriol cream can be applied internally and externally, covering a larger surface area. This makes it particularly useful for external vulval symptoms as well as internal vaginal symptoms.
• Vagifem/Vagirux (estradiol pessaries) are inserted internally only and deliver a precise dose directly into the vagina.

Estradiol is generally considered slightly more potent than estriol, but both are highly effective. Your doctor will help determine which is most appropriate for your symptoms and preferences.

This is a decision that should be made in consultation with your oncologist and menopause specialist. Historically, vaginal oestrogen was avoided after breast cancer, but recent evidence suggests that low-dose vaginal oestrogen like Estriol may be safe for many women, particularly when systemic absorption is minimal. Your healthcare team will assess your individual circumstances, including the type of breast cancer you had and your current treatment, to help you make an informed decision.

There is no single "best" option—it depends on your symptoms, preferences, and lifestyle.

• Estriol cream offers flexible application (internal and external) and is ideal for women with external vulval symptoms or those who prefer a cream format.
• Oestrogen tablets (pessaries) like Vagifem or Vagirux deliver a precise dose internally and are less messy. They are convenient if you only have internal vaginal symptoms.
• Oestrogen rings (like Estring) are inserted once every three months and release a continuous dose, which some women find more convenient.

Your doctor will help you choose the option that best suits your needs.

Yes, Estriol cream is considered suitable for vegans.

It is a plant-based estrogen (estriol) and does not contain animal-derived ingredients.

Estriol vaginal cream can *weaken latex condoms* because it is usually oil-based, increasing the risk of condom breakage and reducing protection against pregnancy and STIs. For this reason, latex condoms should *not be relied on for up to 24 hours after using estriol cream* (check the product leaflet).

If condoms are needed, consider *non-latex condoms* (such as polyurethane or polyisoprene), or use estriol cream *after sex rather than before*. Alternative estriol formulations, such as pessaries or vaginal tablets, may also be more suitable for people who regularly use condoms.

Both contain estriol (Estriol 0.1% cream) or estradiol (Vagifem), but Vagifem (pessary form) delivers a slightly higher dose per application. Estradiol is generally considered more potent than estriol. The choice depends on personal preference and symptoms.

• Creams cover a larger surface area and can be used externally.
• Pessaries deliver a precise dose directly into the vagina.

Both are effective, and the choice depends on what feels most comfortable for you.

No, Estriol 0.1% cream is not designed for facial use. If you are looking for oestrogen-based skin treatments, discuss options with your doctor.

There is no evidence that Estriol 0.1% cream causes weight gain. As a local oestrogen, it does not affect metabolism or body fat distribution like systemic HRT.