Vaginal Estrogen

Prior to my diagnosis of breast cancer, I used a weaker version of estrogen in the form of estriol. I began using this after menopause for vaginal dryness. I was reluctant to use the stronger and more commonly prescribed estrogen- estradiol. Why? Probably because it was linked to breast cancer! So much for trying to be careful.

I seem to recall that estrogen has 3 different forms - estriol, estradiol and estrone.

It was several years ago but think using estriol, rather than estradiol, was recommended by Dr. Jonathan Wright or someone similar who practices integrative medicine. I mention the estriol in case anyone wants to investigate this weaker form of estrogen to use rather than the more commonly prescribed estradiol.

One drawback with estriol cream is that it is made by a compounding pharmacy so probably will not be covered by insurance.

My oncologist advised discontinuing estriol cream which I've done. But this article is definitely food for thought and will bring to my oncologist's attention.

Thank you rylee2019 for bringing this to our attention. Who can keep up with all the research!

I have been using something called Ah Yes gel Vaginal Moisturizer since 2015. I love it and it contains no estrogen to worry about. They also carry lube in oil-based or water-based formulas. I had endometriosis years ago and wouldn't dream of using estrogen, then came BC. The website is http://www.ahyes.org.

For years before breast cancer I used Vagifem, 10mcg twice weekly. It worked great!!! MY oncologist took me off of it and then I suffered for nearly a year with what seemed to be lichen sclerosis. Honestly, I think I suffered needlesly, I go back in August to my GYN and I'm thinking of asking for RX to get back on it, but we shall see I may change my mind. I now take a women's probiotic which solved most of my issues but the dryness prevails as does the atrophy. I can't even imagine having sex again unless I get back on the vaginal estrogen.

@gigipatula
FYI, I also have lichen sclerosis and use Clobetasol Propionate for it in addition to vaginal estrogen for vaginal atrophy due to menopause. My GYN is find with me using both prescriptions.

Does anyone know where to buy a small container of Kirkland Coconut oil? I ordered one but it came in a HUGE 84 ounce container that I sent back. Hard to store or use. I was using estradiol vaginally but my oncologist advised me to discontinue. I don't want to take any chances. Bring on a small container of coconut oil!

@marshgirl24. I have seen small bottles of coconut oil at my local food co-op.

I never minded having the large container of coconut oil because I use it every day. I'm on my fourth container now. You can buy other brands, smaller sizes. Just be sure the oil is pure enough to stipulate that it can be used for cooking.

What piqued my interest in this topic as a sufferer of all the dryness, pain and basically giving up on intercourse since my breast cancer last year, I was listening to a podcast and looking at the website of Rachel Rubin who is a urologist. I find her to be very credible and if nothing else, can help us all have a discussion with one another and our physicians to see how we can address these issues. Here is Rachel's video and website:
https://www.rachelrubinmd.com

Hi - taking a hormone inhibitor - had lots of problems in first months with dryness/bladder infections - was miserable. Since my BC is estrogen positive did not want me taking a estrogen product - GY recommended Good Clean Love Restore Moisturizing Vaginal Gel - surprisingly it worked!!! All natural - really a nice product and not too expensive - maybe about $16 per tube.

My new oncologist told me I could take vaginal estradiol. My last oncologist preferred I use something else but I can’t remember what she recommended.