Estrogen cream recommended for prolapse, but ER+ Thoughts?

Posted by carolina8 @carolina8, Oct 12, 2023

Just came back from seeing my gynecologist about prolapse. She recommended using an estrogen crème. I have estrogen positive breast cancer. She said I should ask my oncologist about it since it’s a very small amount and because it’s a cream it works differently. Anyway I called oncologist and his nurse said it’s my decision but since I have estrogen positive cancer it could affect me. I felt she was most concerned that it was entirely my decision to take a risk. Has anyone used or thought about using estrogen crème to help prevent prolapse?

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windyshores | @windyshores | Oct 12, 2023

Look into a pessary. A friend of mine likes that solution for prolapse. And no cancer risk!

carolina8 | @carolina8 | Oct 12, 2023

In reply to @windyshores "Look into a pessary. A friend of mine likes that solution for prolapse. And no cancer..." + (show)

Thank you. I don’t know why but just felt so overwhelmed for some reason. Appreciate you having another solution

Young@65 | @happyat65 | Oct 13, 2023

I had a bladder tuck and it has been wonderful!

kensiejames | @kensiejames | Oct 13, 2023

Hey there!
I’m a breast cancer survivor of 17 years. ER+ 2/18 involved lymph nodes.
I use an estrogen crème, 1/2 a gram every two to three weeks. When I first started this, 10 years ago, I had blood work done to check my estrogen levels every 3 months. Now I have that blood test every 6 months. So far so good. 🙏🏻
I don’t like taking this risk, but it’s the only med that worked for me.
All the best!

mariecarder | @mariecarder | Oct 13, 2023

I just did the same thing regarding my prolapse and er+ breast cancer. I was also recommended estrogen cream but then we discussed a moisturizing ointment called Replens that I will try. I am not willing to use any estrogen product of any kind because of my er+ breast cancer. So many ongoing decisions that are difficult. Trust your guts

mariecarder | @mariecarder | Oct 13, 2023

In reply to @windyshores "Look into a pessary. A friend of mine likes that solution for prolapse. And no cancer..." + (show)

I have used a pessary for 11 years and it has been very helpful. not perfect but a good option

carolina8 | @carolina8 | Oct 13, 2023

In reply to @mariecarder "I have used a pessary for 11 years and it has been very helpful. not perfect..." + (show)

Thank you all. It is a very difficult decision. I was told about replens too and will definitely give it a try. It has to be applied more often since it can’t make vaginal skin thicker like estrogen but it can make it less uncomfortable. I don’t want to use estrogen crème but I also know it probably works best. If I do decide to go ahead with it I will ask about doing bloodwork like kensiejames. Thank you all for suggestions. I do feel like I have some options

gemjaynes | @gemjaynes | Oct 13, 2023

I was diagnosed July 2023, with ER+ breast cancer, caught early on an annual mammogram. Despite clear margins and lymph nodes after lumpectomy, oncotype testing of the tumor determined I needed chemo. I have tossed out all vaginal estrogen cream, which wasn't working to alleviate intercourse pain (nor was anything else), anyway. At 63, why should I risk feeding another ER+ tumor? Viagra is unfair to aging women like me and carries no cancer risk for men. I'm closing up shop and not looking back. I had zero genetic, lifestyle, family history, or other risk factors prior to diagnosis.

dp77827 | @dp77827 | Oct 13, 2023

In reply to @gemjaynes "I was diagnosed July 2023, with ER+ breast cancer, caught early on an annual mammogram. Despite..." + (show)

I just had surgery this past Tuesday & go back to the doctor next week. My margins & lymph nodes were clear, however, I don’t see my oncotype in the results yet so it’ll be interesting to see what that is. I also go for genetic testing next week. Wishing you all the best, hugs & prayers.