Each Vagifem tablet contains 10 micrograms of estradiol (as estradiol hemihydrate) as the active ingredient. The inactive ingredients include hypromellose, lactose monohydrate, maize starch, magnesium stearate, and gelatin. The applicator is made from polyethylene. If you have a known allergy to lactose, gelatin, or any of the other listed excipients, discuss this with your clinician before starting treatment.

Does Vagifem cause weight gain?

There is no evidence that Vagifem causes weight gain. Local oestrogen does not affect metabolism or body fat distribution like systemic HRT.

How long does Vagifem take to work?

After 12 weeks of treatment in clinical trials, women experienced significant improvements in vaginal symptoms. Some women notice improvements sooner, but consistent use is important for full benefits.

Vagifem for prolapse, does it help?

Vagifem does not reverse prolapse, but it strengthens and improves vaginal tissue elasticity, which may help with mild prolapse symptoms and support pelvic floor health.

Is Vagifem suitable for vegans?

Vagifem (vaginal tablets) is generally not considered suitable for strict vegans because it contains gelatin, an animal-derived ingredient. While it is a localized estrogen for treating menopause symptoms, vegans looking for animal-free, low-dose vaginal estrogen alternatives might consider oestriol vaginal cream

Does Vagifem damage condoms?

Vagifem (estradiol vaginal tablets) is generally considered unlikely to damage latex condoms, as it is not oil-based

Is Vagifem better than a vaginal oestrogen cream?

Both pessaries and creams are effective, and the choice depends on what feels most comfortable for you.Pessaries deliver a precise dose directly into the vagina using a single-use applicatorCreams cover a larger surface area and can be used externally as well as internallyYour clinician can help you decide which form suits your needs and preferences.

Vagifem 10mcg: vaginal oestrogen tablets

Menopause

Home/HRT Treatments/

Vagifem

Everything you need to know about Vagifem: what it treats, how it works, how to use it, what to expect from side effects, and how it compares to other vaginal treatments.

Medically reviewed by

Katy Jackson, Clinical Director - Women's Health

GPHC, BSC, MSC

Updated 28 May 2026

Medically reviewed by Katy Jackson, Clinical Director - Women's Health

What is Vagifem?

Vagifem is a localised oestrogen treatment delivered via a small pessary inserted directly into the vagina. It contains estradiol, a body-identical oestrogen, and is used to manage vaginal and urinary symptoms of menopause, including vaginal dryness, itching and irritation, painful intercourse (dyspareunia), recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs), urinary urgency or frequency, and mild pelvic organ prolapse symptoms. Because it acts locally rather than systemically, it is suitable for a broader range of women, including those who cannot or prefer not to use systemic HRT.

Benefits of Vagifem

Vagifem provides direct, targeted relief for the genitourinary symptoms of menopause, which affect a significant number of women yet are often undertreated. Unlike systemic HRT, the benefits here are focused precisely where they are needed, in the vaginal and urethral tissues. Many women begin to notice an improvement in comfort within the first few weeks of use, with more significant changes in tissue health building over the following months. Clinical trial data shows meaningful improvements in vaginal symptoms after 12 weeks of consistent use.

Symptoms this treatment addresses:

Vaginal dryness
Vaginal soreness or irritation
Pain or discomfort during sex (dyspareunia)
Vaginal itching
Urinary urgency or frequency
Recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs)
Discomfort when urinating
Mild pelvic organ prolapse symptoms

1 Restores vaginal moisture

2 Supports bladder health

3 Helps with mild prolapse symptoms

4 Can be used long-term

5 Easy to apply

6 Minimal systemic absorption

How to use Vagifem

Instructions for use

Vagifem side effects

Most women tolerate Vagifem well, as it works locally with minimal absorption into the bloodstream. However, like all medications, it can cause side effects, particularly in the first few weeks of use.

Understanding Vagifem

Next steps

If you're experiencing vaginal dryness, discomfort or urinary symptoms related to menopause and wondering whether Vagifem might be right for you, book a consultation with one of our specialist clinicians. They'll review your symptoms, discuss your medical history and work with you to create a personalised treatment plan that addresses your specific needs.

Remember that vaginal atrophy is a chronic condition that can be effectively managed with the right treatment. Our clinicians are here to support you with regular reviews to ensure your treatment continues to work well for you.

This page is provided for reference purposes only. Always follow the advice and guidance of your prescribing doctor regarding your medication and prescriptions. Do not make any changes to your medication regimen without consulting your healthcare provider.

£145£99one off price

If you choose to start treatment after your appointment, this is billed separately.

How to get started

Answer a few questions

This is so we can best match you to a specialist who can help with any conditions and medical history.

Have your appointment

A deep, supportive conversation focused entirely on you. You’ll leave with clarity, clear next steps, and a personalised treatment plan.

Start your treatment plan

Your doctor will build a plan around you. If treatment is included, it’s delivered to your door in 2 working days, with support throughout.

Trusted by over 200,000 women in the UK for their healthcare

We have helped women take control of their health, and get back to being their best self.

^¹

Private care, affordable costs

We believe expert care should be accessible, without compromising on quality.

Voy	vs	Other clinics
Appointment price £99 (£145 RRP) One-time cost	vs	Appointment price £250-£350 - Each appointment
Targeted treatments Scientifically proven & tailored to your individual needs	vs	One size fits all Limited, generic treatments that neglect individual needs
Personalised plans From £79 per month	vs	Personalised plans Not available
Unlimited free support Easy and responsive 24/5 access to your care team, unlimited video check-ins with your doctors, monitoring blood test	vs	No support No guidance post prescription
Plan adjustments Your doctor will monitor your progress and adjust your treatment to maximise results	vs	No customisation Limited monitoring and adjustment of doses, so improvement may take longer

Meet our team of specialists

Our team is trained in perimenopause, menopause, and hormone health, with years of experience helping women

Dr Deepali Misra-SharpDoctor

Every woman’s journey is unique. My approach combines advanced expertise with compassion, offering tailored support that helps women navigate perimenopause and menopause with clarity, confidence, and renewed energy — so they can reclaim the best version of themselves.

Menopause Specialist

7083112

Dr Sarah WilsonDoctor

It’s a privilege to spend time with patients to understand their unique treatment needs and priorities and together create a management plan to address them.

Menopause specialist

GMC 6111052

Dr Cathy ArchibaldDoctor

Taking an individual approach is key to providing the best care plan for each woman and empowering personal choice.

Menopause specialist

GMC 4312576

Dr Kamilah Vidale-EllisDoctor

I am passionate about supporting women through every stage of menopause with empathy and evidence-based care, helping them feel heard and understood.

Menopause specialist

GMC 7410345

Learn more about menopause

Symptoms

References

^¹

Novo Nordisk A/S. Vagifem 10 microgram vaginal tablets — Summary of Product Characteristics. Electronic Medicines Compendium (emc). Available at: https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc

^²

National Institute for Health and Care Excellence. Menopause: diagnosis and management. NICE guideline NG23. Updated 2024. Available at: https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/ng23

^³

Simon, James, et al. "Effective Treatment of Vaginal Atrophy with an Ultra-Low-Dose Estradiol Vaginal Tablet." Obstetrics and Gynecology, vol. 112, no. 5, Nov. 2008, pp. 1053–60. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18978105/

Don't wait to get help.

Vagifem

What is Vagifem?

Benefits of Vagifem

How to use Vagifem

Vagifem side effects

Understanding Vagifem

Next steps

How to get started

Trusted by over 200,000 women in the UK for their healthcare

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Private care, affordable costs

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