Estradiol Vaginal (local): What Should I Discuss With My Healthcare Provider Before Using Estradiol Vaginal Local

Content provided by Cerner Multum, Inc.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before using estradiol vaginal (local)?

Do not use estradiol vaginal if you have:

• a bleeding or blood-clotting disorder;
• a history of stroke or circulation problems;
• abnormal vaginal bleeding that a doctor has not checked; or
• any type of breast, uterine, or hormone-dependent cancer.

Before using estradiol vaginal, tell your doctor if you have:

• high blood pressure, angina, or heart disease;
• high cholesterol or triglycerides;
• liver disease;
• kidney disease;
• asthma;
• epilepsy or other seizure disorder;
• migraines;
• diabetes;
• depression;
• gallbladder disease; or
• if you have had your uterus removed (hysterectomy).

If you have any of these conditions, you may not be able to use estradiol vaginal, or you may need a dosage adjustment or special tests during treatment.

Estradiol increases your risk of developing endometrial hyperplasia, a condition that may lead to cancer of the uterus. Taking progestins while using estradiol may lower this risk. If your uterus has not been removed, your doctor may prescribe a progestin for you to take while you are using estradiol vaginal.

Long-term estradiol treatment may increase your risk of stroke. Talk with your doctor about your individual risks before using estradiol long-term. Your doctor should check your progress on a regular basis (every 3 to 6 months) to determine whether you should continue this treatment.

FDA pregnancy category X. This medication can cause birth defects. Do not use estradiol vaginal if you are pregnant. Tell your doctor right away if you become pregnant during treatment. Use an effective form of birth control while you are using this medication.

Estradiol may decrease breast milk flow and have other effects on milk composition. Do not use estradiol without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

Last updated:	August 14, 2006