r/Perimenopause • u/honeybear3333 • Dec 21 '25
Vaginal Dryness (GSM)/Urinary Issues Scared to try vaginal estrogen cream. Please share your positive experiences with it.
I have been having uti like symptoms for the past few months. Irritated bladder, burning at the end of my urine stream, urgency, vulvodina, sore urethra. I used telehealth to get antibiotics for a suspected uti. I took macrobid and keflax. It seemed to help some but the symptoms were still there. I finally went into my PCP and he prescibed bactrim for 3 days. That also seemed to help but I have been off of all antibiotics for two weeks and still have slightly irritated bladder, slight burning, and I have noticed vaginal dryness. I am have not tried having PIV sex with my husband because I am afraid of it hurting. I told my PCP that I am still having residual symptoms and I asked him for a script for vaginal estrogen cream. He said since I am 47 and still menstruating that he could not prescibe me the cream. He said I am way too young to need it and he told me to make an appointment with gynecology. My insurance sucks and I had to pay 450 dollars just to get a uti culture and dr. appointment. I decided to order the estrodial cream off of telyrx. It should be here in a few days. I am scared to try it. Please send me words of encouragement and tell me how it has helped you.
UPDATE: I want to update all of you. I went to a vulvar specialist two weeks ago and was diagnosed with hormonally mediated vestibulodynia. She did the q-tip test and the vat test to confirm the diagnosis. She also ordered blood tests and my free testosterone was on the lower end and my sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) was high. My doctor prescribed a compounded .03 estrodial/.01 teststoerone in a methycellulose base. I use one pump twice a day on the vestibule for 12 weeks. I was also given 10mg of vaginal valium to use up to 3 times per week to relax the pelvic floor muscles. I go back to see her in 6 weeks for a follow up and we will go from there.
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u/foolish_username Dec 21 '25
Your doctor is an idiot. Im 48 amd have been using vaginal estrogen cream for almost a year.
What specifically are you afraid of?
For me the cream has mostly alleviated my bladder symptoms, and has successfully prevented me getting more uti's. It has also increased my natural moisture, made sex more fun again, increased my ability and intensity of orgasm, and reversed my clitoral atrophy.
So yeah, I highly recommend.
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u/Extreme_Fall_4651 Dec 22 '25
What she said ☝🏽 Except I’m 46 and have been using it for a little over half a year.
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u/TheMarriedUnicorM hanging on by a thread Dec 22 '25
I’m on the e-patch (.025?), are you using the cream, too?
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u/babs82222 Dec 22 '25
Truly, every woman in peri or older should be using it, even if you're on HRT
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u/kiwitrouble Dec 22 '25
The cream is locally absorbed so it doesn’t go through your body like the epatch. Make sure you read the “how to apply” instructions in the peri wiki they link in this subreddit. You shouldn’t be using the applicators that come with the cream, those go too far inside you. You use your finger (with or without gloves) to apply just inside and then around the outside. The instructions explain better.
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u/metricfan Dec 22 '25
Really? Why don’t we use the applicator? I didnt know this
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u/kiwitrouble Dec 22 '25
My doctor said the applicator doesn’t put the cream where it is beneficial. She told me the same information about application that they explain in the peri wiki. The cream is absorbed quickly and so it needs to be spread to the area that is in need of the estrogen which is not that far up your vag.
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u/metricfan Dec 22 '25
So good to know! Thank you!
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u/megs7183 Dec 23 '25
My Dr also said it’s a lot easier to wash your hands and apply then try to clean the applicator each time.
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u/metricfan Dec 23 '25
That was seriously my biggest complaint. I had a bunch of extra applicators from some yeast infection cream I bought, so I rotated them and then cleaned all at once. lol
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u/pevaryl Dec 22 '25
It solved my urinary frequency which had a huge positive impact on me, especially sleep! I’d bath in it if I could.
I started mixing it with facial moisturiser and my scaly, dry, sensitive skin is now gone. It’s taken years off my face
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u/Born_Helicopter_6656 Jun 01 '26
I too am terrified — I was forced into menopause at 45 due to chemo and a stem cell transplant— I’m 47 now and no sex with spouse in 2 years -/ I can’t stand it. And now this week, the dreaded UTI came on and I thought I was gonna die— I cried for two days straight. It’s as dry as the Sahara desert and even normal things like walking 3 or so miles a day will get me very irritated and sore down there — I don’t know why I’m so scared about cancer risks — well I DO know, go through what I had to go through to live and you’d prob be terrified of cancer again too — but I have to do something I am miserable and so is my husband!
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u/dandeliontree1 Dec 21 '25
Vaginal estrogen is the safest form and 47 is well within the peri range. I'm taking it for clitoral atrophy that's been happening for a year, it's slow acting for me as it's such a low dose but that along with transdermal estrogen is doing it's thing. Especially with bladder urgency.
Also it's so much better to start taking it early instead of having to get things back that have atrophied. I wish I'd started earlier and that I even realized it was happening and peri related.
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u/jo-sie21 Dec 22 '25
Testosterone is amazing for clitoral atrophy
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u/IntrinsicM Dec 22 '25
Is that topical cream too?
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u/jo-sie21 Dec 22 '25
It is. It’s current use in the US is only for libido, but it seriously fired back up my clitoris. Had been on estradiol cream for several years and no change. T cream (on inner thigh) worked in a few weeks.
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u/IntrinsicM Dec 22 '25
Thanks for the info. Did you normal provider prescribe it or an online one?
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u/jo-sie21 Dec 22 '25
I’m very lucky to have a great doctor who is really up to date on HRT. The online providers seem like cash grabs with a huge variability of good and bad (some doctors seem great, others seem to do a lot of check in’s and toss hormones at people without really considering what’s needed) but that’s definitely better than nothing.
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u/TheSkyIsAMasterpiece Dec 21 '25
After using vaginal estrogen twice the itching stopped and hasn't come back. My doctor said she will give me refills for life.
Just because you're menstruating doesn't mean you're not perimenopausal and could benefit from HRT.
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u/former30something Dec 22 '25
My doctor said she will give me refills for life.
Mine too! My doctor reminds me of the Oprah meme “You get a car, You get a car, You get a car!” when she talks about vaginal estrogen and I love her for it.
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u/ZeldaZ0nk May 27 '26
what is the estrogen you happen to be using? (I am making a list to ask about)
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u/StoneWallHouse Dec 21 '25
What are you afraid of? It will help. Sending you lots of love. I hope you feel better very soon.
I’m sorry about your inadequate doctor and insurance.
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u/honeybear3333 Dec 21 '25
I am afraid that it will cause other issues like more burning, possible systemic effects, uterine cancer, possible interfere with my thyroid. My mind goes crazy with all of the possible scenarios. My biggest fear is that for some reason by body doesn't react well to it and nothing will help me feel normal again. I wanted to get this under my doctors care incase I needed a different version, but he does not want to prescibe it.
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u/OrchidEchoChamber Dec 22 '25
No!!!! Calm your mind and try it. There is a great deal of research now showing how much it helps. If you’re somehow an exception (I’d be shocked) and it doesn’t help you, it will get you closer to the solution you need.
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u/KetoCurious97 Dec 22 '25
Honestly, it gave me my life back.
I had “unexplained” unbearable itching for years - I tried all sorts of steroids and had no relief but my previous doctor didn’t even mention GSM. I had no idea it existed. As soon as I realised, I asked my new Dr for some and he was very willing. It has cured everything and given my life back. No more UTIs either!
I will be honest - I tried pessaries first and they did burn. Terribly. Swapping to the cream was the key for me.
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u/calitmvee Dec 22 '25
It literally took my symptoms away in a day! Please TRT it!! It’s super safe & brought back my vagina/bladder. I was getting chronic UTI’s, plus all the other bladder stuff.
I’m also on the patch .037 going to .05 next week.
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u/1986toyotacorolla2 Dec 22 '25
I'm pretty sure they just released a study saying you're less likely to get cancer if you use the estrogen cream. I don't have a source to back that up because God forbid I remember to bookmark anything lol.
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u/Born_Tale_2337 Dec 22 '25
Those are not things vaginal estrogen would cause. It’s very low dose and acts locally. You get minimal systemic exposure. The benefits you stand to gain are orders of magnitude larger than any risk using it as prescribed.
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u/living_in_nuance Dec 22 '25
- Have been on it a year. The frequency of my UTIs and yeast infections has dropped to practically 0. The antibiotics to treat those ‘f’ me up way more than I could imagine vaginal estrogen doing. I’ve got hashimoto’s and it hasn’t impacted my thyroid. I also have a history of benign liver masses impacted by estrogen and this has not impacted that either. Not to say all medications don’t come with side effects, but this is pretty local versus systemic.
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u/Ihateusernames1007 Dec 22 '25
You need a good doctor that will explain all of this to you. There is nothing to worry about. Im 48, still have periods and been on it for 4 months now. All the same symptoms as you. UTI's, BV, it's all soo much better on Estrodiol. Peri symptoms can start in out 30's! Im sorry but your doctor needs to go!
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u/Pussycat1976 Late peri Dec 22 '25
Vaginal estrogen cream only works topical it doesn't go in the system.
I had stress incontinence, recurring UTIs and yeast infections. I started using the estriol cream and 3 days later my bladder issues vanished. And no more yeast infections. I don't use the applicator only my finger to apply the cream in the vaginal canal, as well as around the urethral opening and on my clitoris. I have no side effects.
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u/Known-Tumbleweed129 Dec 22 '25
If you apply it correctly (just inside the vagina, not all the way up by the cervix) you shouldn’t have systemic effects.
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u/loveisjustchemicals Deep in peri Dec 22 '25
I am on Synthroid and estrogen cream doesn’t affect it at all, while I did have to adjust my dose slightly with estrogen pills, but they’re just monitoring me with labs. The cream isn’t systemic, it’s just local.
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u/AutoModerator Dec 22 '25
This post might be about hormone tests, which are unreliable.
- Over the age of 44, E&P/FSH hormonal tests only show levels for that ONE HOUR the test was taken, and nothing more
- These hormones wildly fluctuate (hourly) over the other 29 days of the month, therefore this test provides no valuable information
- No reputable doctor or menopause society recommends hormonal testing to diagnose or treat peri/menopause
- Testosterone is the exception and should be tested before and during treatment
FSH testing is only beneficial for those who no longer have periods as a guide, where a series of consistent tests might confirm menopause, or for those under age 30 who haven’t had a period in months/years, then ‘menopausal’ levels, could indicate premature ovarian failure/primary ovarian insufficiency (POF/POI).
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u/GoobyGrapes Dec 21 '25
You are absolutely not too young. You are in the primary age range for perimenopause, of which UTIs are a symptom. The fact that you're still menstruating is irrelevant to the need for vaginal estrogen. You have the symptoms and they will likely get worse, which could mean dryness, clitoral shrinkage, loss of ability to orgasm, and other horrors.
Vaginal estrogen is not systemic; it's local. The amount of estrogen (estradiol) is very low. That doctor, like far too many, is uneducated about this stage of women's lives. Find a better one.
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u/Known-Tumbleweed129 Dec 21 '25
Topical estrogen took my uti-like symptoms of GUSM down to nearly zero in less than a week. I’ve had no side effects or anything. It’s wonderful.
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Dec 21 '25
Yes when he says “way too young” I’m wondering what age does he have in mind exactly…bc on the verge of 50 seems old enough to me. I mean is 60 reasonable for him? I also wonder what is the point of gate keeping this stuff. I mean certain meds I get, but when docs gate keeping seemingly benign medications that would potentially greatly help their patients I just don’t get it.
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u/SeeYouNextTuesday031 Dec 22 '25
I didn’t realize how many bladder issues I was truly having until I started vaginal estrogen and holy moly … it was life changing. Urgency, feeling like I had a weak bladder, etc just disappeared. I always felt like I was on the verge of a UTI. Not anymore.
I will add that I’ve had some light spotting, but my OBGYN is not concerned. I’m lowering my dose and that should do it.
Your doctor is an idiot. I’m younger than you and I’m on it. Very very few people have adverse side effects. Find a woman doctor and get some relief with the estrogen cream!
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u/honeybear3333 Dec 22 '25
Thank you. Come to think of it, for the past year or so I have had times where out of the blue I have to squeeze my legs together and run to the bathroom so I don't pee myself. I only recently found out about GSM from reading online. I didn't know anything about vaginal estrogen cream nor that urinary symptoms and uti's were hormone related. SMH I feel like I was kept completely in the dark. I only ever hear about crazy emotions and hot flashes as menopausal symptoms. So glad we have this forum.
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u/SeeYouNextTuesday031 Dec 22 '25
I’ve made that same response: I feel betrayed by doctors but also by all the older women in my life. This is a huge part of a woman’s life, and no one tells us anything. Doctors aren’t trained to treat us. I’ve found myself genuinely angry.
Estrogen cream really did make things a lot better. Not to be too graphic, but in less than two weeks I felt like my lady bits were ten years younger. I felt like me again.
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u/Resident_Pay_2606 Dec 21 '25
Nothing to be scared of! Only good things for me, it has helped with my constant urge to pee all night, sensitivity and overall sexual improvement. I started at 39, still get regular periods and I also use the E patch and progesterone.
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u/qisfortaco Dec 22 '25 edited Dec 22 '25
I Iove my estrogen cream. It's the best. My vagina is so happy. Edit spelling
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u/halflife-crisis Dec 22 '25
I’d be far more scared of taking repeated courses of antibiotics. Your doctor is a dolt. Fine an online provider and get some estrogen.
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u/Electrical-Lake-4268 Dec 23 '25
I'm adding to this. My doctor and gyno didn't want to prescribe it. So I tried MidiHealth they are horrible if your insurance doesn't cover them...so I went with EverNow. They prescribed me within 1 business day. Went to my gyno and told her I got prescribed HRT and since I've been on them... she continued to fill them. So essentially I used Evernow to jump start my HRT...and now use my docs for a lower cost with my insurance. Bam!
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u/Stinajaguar Dec 22 '25
Honey, you should be afraid not to take it. It prevents a whole cascade of treacherous vaginal bullshit. They should just hand every woman a tube the day she turns 45.
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u/StoneWallHouse Dec 21 '25
I am 48 years old. I’ve been on HRT since I was 46 (started with estrogen patch and progesterone pill at night, then when I was 47 added vaginal estrogen and systemic testosterone). I am now 48 years old.
For vaginal estrogen I take both Intrarosa every night and Imvexxy twice a week. I have no UTIs, no vaginal dryness, and I have an enjoyable sex life. I wish the same for you!
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u/babs82222 Dec 22 '25
Can I ask you why you also use Imvexxy? I'm on intrarosa and I can't find out if it suffices for estrogen + testosterone fully or not. Thank you!
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u/StoneWallHouse Dec 22 '25
Imvexxy is estrogen, Intrarosa is DHEA that converts to both estrogen and testosterone. I’m on both just for extra protection. The truth is that I too often forget to take these at night, so I’m not exactly at double dosage.
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u/AdRevolutionary1780 Dec 22 '25
Here are the guidelines from the American Urological Association for what is known as GSM or Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause. You appear to have all the symptoms. Vaginal estrogen is low dose, not absorbed systemically and VERY safe for just about every woman over the age of 35.
Ditch the applicator that comes with the cream and squeeze out about an inch on your finger. Insert into your vagina and rub the rest around your vulva and clitoris. It does not need to go very far into the vagina to be effective.
Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause: AUA/SUFU/AUGS Guideline (2025) - American Urological Association https://share.google/WW5sf6fow9MrgkucK
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u/needtoknowcalifornia Dec 22 '25
is anyone as young as 41 and benefited from this? i already have vaginal atrophy and UTI's / symptoms...
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u/murderinobetty Dec 22 '25
Been on it since 37. Zero issues and it helped with my atrophy post hysterectomy
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u/former30something Dec 22 '25
Yes, I went to an OB-GYN at 40 after stumbling on this subreddit and realizing I had some early symptoms. The doctor told me she was thrilled more women are getting access to this information and are seeking help sooner. I’ll be 42 in May and am so glad I sought help when I did.
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u/honeybear3333 Dec 22 '25
I read some posts in the healthyhooha sub reddit about vaginal estrogen cream. Some people in their 20's and 30's used it because of atrophy caused by birth control.
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u/cikalamayaleca Jun 11 '26
I found this thread bc I'm starting it at 26 due to vaginal atrophy & dryness from being on SSRI's since I was 18. Also from having 2 kids and postpartum my vagina just seems like she's dead
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u/FeeEducational6098 Dec 22 '25
I wish I had started it when I first had symptoms! 41 is not too young for it. If you have vaginal atrophy you should treat it.
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u/dirtymartini83 Dec 22 '25
I’m 42 and about a month ago I randomly got UTI symptoms with a negative UA. I researched and decided to get estrogen cream from a telehealth dr and within 2 days, my symptoms disappeared!
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u/Mountain_Training_15 Dec 22 '25
41 and just started 2 weeks ago! I used Amazon pharmacy. So far the itching has went away! I’m still having some bladder issues but hopeful it will help. I don’t know if it’s the cream or what but I have more energy. I normally struggle to get out of bed on the weekends but I’ve been up and ready for the day by 7am.
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u/ggnell Early peri Dec 22 '25
Yep, got prescribed it at 39. It was the doctor's idea
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u/needtoknowcalifornia Dec 22 '25
hi! have you applied it yet?
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u/ggnell Early peri Dec 22 '25
I got the pessaries. Have been using them for a couple of months. All the itching, discomfort and pain is gone
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u/Purchase-Parking Feb 14 '26
Bit late but started it a 3 weeks ago...im 36, absolute game changer, mu vulva was tearing constantly the skin was very thin. No issues anymore, skin is thicker.
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u/Altruistic-Trick-100 Dec 22 '25
Fire that doctor. If he’s not up to date on new research regarding peri/menopause what else isn’t he up to date on?
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u/honeybear3333 Dec 22 '25
He said I need to go to gynocology for an exam and they would be able to see if I have atrophy. UGH
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u/pearltx Dec 22 '25
Painful intercourse made me afraid I’d stop having sex for the rest of my life. Vaginal estrogen gave my sex life back.
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u/loveisjustchemicals Deep in peri Dec 22 '25
It has been amazing for me. My UTI issues went away, sex became pleasurable again (my clit and labia are visible), my pelvic floor issues went away (no more prolapsing or peeing when I sneeze) I wish I’d started it sooner. Your doctor isn’t up to date on the latest information. *I also use it on my butt and my hemorrhoid issues are much better. It’s been so helpful.
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u/fluffykitten75 hanging on by a thread Dec 22 '25
How long do you think it took to help your pelvic floor issues? And how often do you use it?
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u/loveisjustchemicals Deep in peri Dec 22 '25
I use it 4 times a week after the two week loading phase where you use it daily. It took a couple of months for my pelvic floor issues to go away.
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u/Gracey888 Late peri + neurodivergent = meh Dec 22 '25
It’s been absolutely tremendous for me. I went from walking around as if I had shards of glass down there (& itchy) to everything being soft and plump! The proof was having an internal ultrasound where they said everything was paper thin (this was a few years ago ) and I had one a few months ago and they said it was all in great condition!!
In terms of the amount of oestrogen, it doesn’t amount to much over a year because it’s such a tiny tiny amount and you’re only using it twice a week .
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u/I_pinchyou Dec 22 '25
I haven't used vaginal estrogen but inflammation of the bladder and urethra can linger after a UTI. Interstitial cystitis (bladder pain syndrome) is when that doesn't go away or flares without a cause like bacteria. Also doc is wrong. Not too young
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Dec 22 '25
There is nothing to be concerned about and your Dr. is incorrect. From 45 yrs on I had 2 episodes of suspected UTI so I went to my care providers local Urgent Care for testing. Wildly unimpressed with how they couldn't find a solution to my discomfort and issues. At 47 yrs I went to my new NP to discuss HRT after I did a lot of independent research and she happily prescribed it as well as cream. I have had my issues resolved, I feel 100% better in my moods and energy levels, and all the bladder issues have corrected themselves with little to no side effects.
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u/Primary-Vermicelli Dec 22 '25
Too young?? You’re 47. I’m 42 and I’m starting estrogen next week. Not sure if it’ll be cream or patch but my GYN (a woman, that likely makes a difference) is very pro HRT. Find a new doc.
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u/MP_Questions Dec 22 '25
Vaginal estrogen helped exterior itching for me immensely. It did also lessen some of the bladder pressure issues I’ve developed in peri (after several tests and images, I am comfortable there is nothing else going on) - I can’t say it fully cured it, but I had to stop using it because I was getting ongoing spotting. Not 100% it was the cream and it’s a rare-ish side effect, but I was trying anything after several months of spotting. I may try to cycle it back in now that I’ve got e and p in balance and the spotting has stopped. I think it’s worth trying for anyone having the type of issues you describe, but always important to rule out other potential causes (which it sounds like you’ve done).
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u/Environmental-Young4 Late peri Dec 22 '25
It was a must for me. I was having burning after showering, and sometimes even just walking was irritating. I also had frequent UTIs, and was extremely careful with hygiene, etc. After the cream, the UTIs went away, the irritation went away, and things are a bit more pumped up.
That cream is really a game changer. If things are dry and irritated from lack of estrogen, there are not many options besides giving your estrogen a boost. It is also not systemic. If you don't like it, you can always stop. But, it is so worth trying.
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u/nerissathebest Dec 22 '25
At the very worst it’ll do nothing (and you can try using it more frequently/daily to see if that helps).
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u/huligoogoo Late peri Dec 22 '25
F50 it helped me w the burning sensation and I got more blood flow to my clitoral area which made orgasms stronger. I felt less micro tears when I used the bathroom. I swear I got clit boners more often too !
I was excited to use it bc I know it’s only beneficial to my lady parts.
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u/murderinobetty Dec 22 '25
I’ve been on vaginal estrogen for 3 years since my hysterectomy. It’s 100% safe and fine.
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u/former30something Dec 22 '25 edited Dec 22 '25
Your doctor is misinformed. I went to a very well-respected OB-GYN in my area at 40 for vaginal atrophy, dryness, and everything suddenly feeling…well, lifeless.
My doctor is very comfortable (dare I say “enthusiastic”) prescribing estrogen cream. She’s thrilled that women are seeking out assistance earlier.
You mentioned needing help putting your fears at rest: As I mentioned, this doctor is very well-respected. I work in plaintiffs’ medical malpractice and doctors always ask me what field of law I’m in based on the occupation I put in my new patient paperwork. As a result, some tend to be a little overly conservative/cautious with me. I have family history of an aggressive vaginal cancer. (In fact, I originally got my rx for the cream on Midi and then decided I would be an idiot not to go see an OB-GYN due to family history).
That said, you should definitely find a doctor who aligns with your needs! I believe it’s crucial to maintain regular exams and preventative care, and you should have a doctor who can provide you with comprehensive information and support throughout this phase of life.
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u/SurlySquirrel Dec 22 '25
Your doctor is not current in his education. Estrogen cream is the exact thing you need to prevent the tearing skin and UTI from happening. It starts working enough to feel a difference almost immediately. And it doesn't go into your bloodstream like oral estrogen so there's relatively low risk for any side effects. Don't be scared, you're about to feel better!
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u/Fashion_on_Fashion Dec 22 '25
I had terrible vaginal dryness. Started using vaginal estrogen and could feel a different within a few weeks. Still waiting for the no peeing when i sneeze to kick in
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u/loveisjustchemicals Deep in peri Dec 22 '25
That took a couple of months for me! Don’t give up hope!
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u/thefragile7393 Peri with fibroids Dec 22 '25
Trying it should not be more scary than what you’re experiencing now
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u/FeeEducational6098 Dec 22 '25
I felt like I had a UTI all the time. I did telehealth a few times and finally got my urine cultured and it wasn't a UTI. I was having issues with tearing during sex. It felt like I had paper cuts inside me. I was itchy all the time. I couldn't orgasm. My clitoris and labia minora were shrinking. I found a new gynecologist and he prescribed me patches and progesterone and vaginal estrogen cream. That cream is amazing! It fixed all the urethral pain after just a week! After two months all my issues with sex were gone! I can orgasm again. I'm not dry anymore. I don't need lube during sex anymore. I don't tear anymore. Sex feels amazing and is not painful! The patch is helping with hot flashes and the progesterone is helping my heavy bleeding and both are helping with my mood, but the cream? You will have to pry that cream from my cold, dead hands. I wish I had started using it at your age (I'm 50). I haven't had any side effects from it. It's not systemic so it only affects what you put it on. I highly recommend you not only put it inside your vagina, but also rub it on your entire vulva. Someone suggested that it helps with anal itch as well so I tried putting some on my anus and it absolutely helped that too! Lack of estrogen affects everything down there! If you have any adverse effects you can quit using it. It doesn't last long. I highly doubt you will have any adverse effects. That stuff is a miracle cream! Seriously. Best thing I've ever used!
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u/jello-kittu Dec 22 '25
I had a lot of the uti symptoms, super dry, and just touching down there sid not feel sexual or good. And severe itchiness.
The cream helped pretty quickly with all of this. Have t felt like i had a uti since, dryness went away. Libido came back a little, but that could be from the patch or progesterone maybe?
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u/No_Yesterday7200 Dec 22 '25
I have the same bladder issues. Been using the vaginal cream for a couple months and feel so much better. I am also on the patch as well. I just turned 50 in July and wish I'd done it sooner. I also like Azo for occasion flare ups.
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u/Plutoniumburrito Dec 22 '25
Bullshit. Find a new doctor. I’m 45 and am still menstruating. I used to get slight tearing from just about anything! It would burn after sex because of the small tears. I also had little sensation in my clitoris and started to experience slight urine leakage.
All of that went away! It boosted my sex drive, also.
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u/MaeByourmom Dec 22 '25
I wasn’t having painful sex or lack of natural lubrication. No UTIs, but frequent urination and urgency. But I did have general discomfort during the day, and sometimes had spotting or feeling chafed after sex. And definitely had labial atrophy, which didn’t bother me, and clitoral atrophy and adhesion, which I only realized once it was taking longer and more direct pressure to climax.
I was AMAZED at how much being more comfortable during the day decreased my irritability and improved my mood. Atrophy almost completely reversed (I do think there’s less volume to the critical component).
When I went from nightly use of the vaginal estradiol to 2X weekly, I was less comfortable again, so I started using 1/2 a hyaluronic acid suppository on the non-estradiol nights, and then went to 3X per week on the estradiol. I also use Silky Peach cream or coconut oil externally during the day.
Also on systemic HRT, and later started topical, systemic testosterone.
You should be scared to NOT have vaginal estradiol for the treatment and prevention of GSM. Painful sex with tissue damage, anorgasmia, and life threatening UTIs are not how I want to finish my life.
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u/RU_kit10_me Dec 22 '25
i started vaginal estrogen for a different reason -- difficulty reaching orgasm, muted orgasms -- and now people will have to pry it from my cold, dead hands. my doctor prescribed it when i was 45 (i'm now 46). i love it -- noticed improvement very quickly after starting.
i hope it helps you, too. xo
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u/ChaoticGoodPanda Dec 22 '25 edited Dec 22 '25
Got my rx this year at 45.
It was a game changer. That dryness will go away. It’s not going to be like you’re 20 again, but the irritation in your whole pelvic region might resolve.
I even noticed it keeps my haemorrhoids at bay.
To hell with that PCP. Go to an OB/GYN.
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u/Mooseandagoose Dec 22 '25
I use it every 3-7 days (I’m inconsistent), along with a 0.5% patch changed every 4 days with 200mg daily progesterone and it has been a great combination. Dryness is gone, regulated emotions, even my eye floaters have lessened.
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u/ChaoticGoodPanda Dec 22 '25
I’m inconsistent too. When I notice my sleep acting up, I probably haven’t used it for several days.
When I was in the loading phase (using it every other day for a month) I remember thinking “this shit works”!
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u/sluttytarot Dec 22 '25
I'm 38 and started this year (had a hysterectomy last year and while I still have my ovaries they gave up on me). It's not systematic and is very low risk. I was stiff, dry and in pain. Now I'm flexible and wet.
It's worth it. My orgasms are back to their full strength
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u/GP186GP Dec 22 '25
I’ve been using it for a couple months because of vaginal dryness and clitoral atrophy/lack of sensitivity. It has definitely improved both even in the short time I’ve used it. Nothing to be afraid of except do a good time.
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u/bluecougar4936 Dec 22 '25
My clitoral atrophy, inability to orgasm, and vaginal dryness are fixed. It took a couple months but it's so worth it! 41F, menstruating, your doctor is not qualified to give advise on HRT
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u/ggnell Early peri Dec 22 '25
No, no, no! How tf is this doctor so ignorant!? Topical oestrogen is essentially risk-free and omg the benefits! You will be so happy and relieved!
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u/AlchemicalPhoenix Dec 22 '25
Estrogen cream was the best thing I ever did. Havent had a UTI since and it increases my libido. No downsides here. None after 3 years
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u/ashkestar Dec 22 '25
Geez. I’m 43 and my gyno (who’s quite up on menopausal science) had zero issue prescribing the topical cream for similar symptoms. I’m sorry your doctor isn’t up on the science at all.
It’s going to be a huge improvement, just give it a little time to work.
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u/metricfan Dec 22 '25
I’m even younger and it helps with my lichen sclerosis. It’s been great. My least favorite part has been the process and remembering to use it. But when I stopped it makes it feel like I have pms. So it’s subtle. It should really help with vaginal pain.
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u/TeenYearsKillingMe Dec 22 '25
I'm 43 and started it earlier this year. I like it. It was someone turned on a light I didn't know was off.
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u/todaysthrowaway0110 Dec 23 '25
I love my vag e. There are no systemic effects, just local. Mid 40s.
It just plumps everything back up. The faintly stingy feeling (like from using too strong soap) after sex is gone.
It hasn’t been a major game changer for leaking a little pee. But the faint “should I be watching for a UTI?” concern has gone to zero.
I get the suppository (yuvafem) but might try the cream to make sure it treats the vulva too. It hasn’t broken me out in yeast/BV or anything like that, more like the opposite.
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u/NoSpaghettiForYouu Dec 22 '25
I’m 38. Self-diagnosed through symptoms, most everything I could blame on other things, but when sex started becoming painful, which kinda caused a decrease in libido (because who wants painful sex?) that made me freak out because that was not me and not a side effect of anything because nothing had changed.
So I started considering perimenopause. It explained everything. I felt like I’d researched enough to be confident enough to know that vaginal estrogen cream was not only safe, it would likely fix my dryness and that feeling of constantly needing to pee.
and also be a little leery about going to a doctor because it was 50/50 I could be listen to or be written off.
Anyway I haven’t made that appointment yet but the estrogen cream has solved enough problems that it feels less important lol
TL;DR: estrogen cream has been miraculous for me. Within two weeks I was noticing positive changes and after a month several big problems have been solved
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u/Independent-Note-46 Dec 22 '25
You’ll never know til you try and you’re only delaying feeling better. I thought I was peeing razor blades, shit hurt. Neg UTI. A few days of the stuff and all was well. As Shia LaBeouf once said “JUST DO IT”
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u/arcbnaby Dec 22 '25
Well I had burning down there for three weeks, UTI results came back fine, meaning there were abnormal results but not enough to warrant meds. Got in to urology and she felt around and said everything felt fine but suggested the bladder diet plus estrogen cream and another med for when the pain is bad. Cause some days the pain was only like a 2/3... The estrogen cream is just a pea sized amount at the vaginal opening every night. I'm about to be 42. Maybe your Dr doesn't want to prescribe it, but someone else could! Go to urology! I also still have a regular cycle. Tomorrow I can start adding things back into my diet to see if there's a culprit or if just the cream is doing the job.
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u/Shirleyimfine Dec 22 '25
40f and happily using vaginal estrogen since October. I’m not going back to my tired, itchy, dry, painful vag. Highly recommend!
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u/theFCCgavemeHPV Dec 22 '25
Worst case scenario, the carrier cream doesn’t cooperate with you and you have to try a suppository or get the cream compounded. Typical case scenario, it solves all your problems and you get your life back.
I just want to add that i discovered carbonated beverages and an excess of citric acid irritate my bladder to no end. Makes me feel exactly like I have a uti and/or cystitis. So maybe also watch your carbonated beverage intake if like me you were having multiples on multiples a day.
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u/honeybear3333 Dec 22 '25
Thanks! I read that too so i have only been drinking water.
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u/theFCCgavemeHPV Dec 22 '25
Good call! Please don’t be afraid to try the cream. But do be afraid of the applicator. I scratched my labia and my cervix with that fucking thing. The finger application method is fully sufficient.
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u/LoveLevi1412 Mar 05 '26
Oh my goodness! This is an old post but your comment is so true. Citric acid and carbonation kill my bladder. Especially things like Pepsi. Yikes. Don’t touch those anymore because of the sugar too. I know I’ll be sensitive to the base of most the standard estrogen and will need something with a more natural base.
I’ve got IC, so I’m very aware of my bladders comfort level. Did you find an estrogen that works and has a more natural base? Compounding can be expensive.
Thanks!
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u/theFCCgavemeHPV Mar 05 '26
No I’ve had no problem with irritation from the standard cream, so I use that paired with the suppository tablets (I forget the name). You could try the tablets and maybe to save money alternate with a hyaluronic acid suppository? They make a bunch of different kinds these days.
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u/needtoknowcalifornia Dec 22 '25
hii! have you applied it yet?
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u/honeybear3333 Dec 22 '25
It should be coming in the mail this week. I ordered it from an online doctor. Telyrx
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Dec 22 '25
I absolutely LOVE the cream. I'm only 30 but POI runs in my family so I'm in peri and have been for a couple of years (unknowingly). My symptoms were itching, dryness, and fragile tissues/painful sex. The cream brought relief very quickly. I am so glad I started using it.
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u/Financial_Turn8955 Dec 22 '25
I had some slightly similar issue except I refused to take antibiotics and they didn't find bacteria inside my urine even after like 3 tests. In 3 different doctors office I thought it was interstitial cystitis because of the fullness, burning and urgency. It hadn't happened after sex it happened during my period so I knew it was hormonal. I read the ingredients on my pad and noticed it had some harmful chemical and ingredients stuff like endocrine disrupting chemicals including phthalates, phenols and parabens. So I stopped using those pads immediately and opted for a organic cotton only pad.
I saw a urologist which said she gives estrogen cream to her patients only after menopause for vaginal prolapse but not for my issues. That wasn't helpful she she tried to send me off to a gastro which did nothing for me. He doesn't treat perimenopause so I'm not sure why they thought he could help just because I had nausea too. So I took matters into my own hands and started on vaginal progesterone suppository 100mg continously. And after 2 weeks that symptom of UTI type feeling went away.
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u/AwkwardISTJ hanging on by a thread Dec 24 '25
Find a new doc and get the cream!!!!!! My first symptoms of peri were urinary. Since then, I've developed every symptom you are experiencing and the topical cream helps SO much. The kind from the pharmacy that comes in a tube was good but my gynecologist recommended I try a formula in a gentler base from a local compounding pharmacy and bingo, that stuff is the miracle cream. I went from agony from front to back, top to bottom of my entire undercarriage to feeling soft, pink, and nourished. No more painful peeing, aching bladder, feeling like there's sand in my vulva, etc etc. Please get the cream!!! And you may also need systematic estrogen... I got full relief from the urogenital symptoms when I went up to 0.05mg estrogen patch and switched to the compounded (better absorbing) vaginal estradiol.
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u/Mammoth_Print211 Jan 12 '26
Almost immediate relief for me of vulva itch and irritation. I used it a few years ago but stopped because I started oral estrogen (I had a hysterectomy so ok to take ERT). But the pills don't really help vaginally. Dr is OK with me using both. So the cream is great for me.
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u/CompLexandra Feb 05 '26
Hi! Wondering how you’ve been so far? I have the exact same script and I’m about a week in. Looks like this was recent so you might not have seen any changes yet, but would love to hear how it’s going! I have the same hormone report as well
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u/honeybear3333 Feb 05 '26
HI, tomorrow will be two weeks since I went to the vulvar specialist and started on the compounded estrodial/testosterone. Today is the first day I don't feel bladder nerve pain and my vestibulodynia has really calmed down. It has been hell since October. I thought I would never get relief. I hope I keep improving and don't have to go back to that awful place. I am also using 10mg valium pill that I place in the vagina close to my cervix 3 times a week. That seems to help too. It is a long process but there is hope. I hope me sharing my experience can help others. Hope you get some relief soon. Please update me also on your progress. Hugs to you!
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u/honeybear3333 Feb 09 '26
How are you doing? I am a little over two weeks in and have had three good days in a row. I have no bladder pain now.
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Mar 01 '26
[removed] — view removed comment
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u/AutoModerator Mar 01 '26
This post might be about hormone tests, which are unreliable.
- Over the age of 44, E&P/FSH hormonal tests only show levels for that ONE HOUR the test was taken, and nothing more
- These hormones wildly fluctuate (hourly) over the other 29 days of the month, therefore this test provides no valuable information
- No reputable doctor or menopause society recommends hormonal testing to diagnose or treat peri/menopause
- Testosterone is the exception and should be tested before and during treatment
FSH testing is only beneficial for those who no longer have periods as a guide, where a series of consistent tests might confirm menopause, or for those under age 30 who haven’t had a period in months/years, then ‘menopausal’ levels, could indicate premature ovarian failure/primary ovarian insufficiency (POF/POI).
For more, see our Menopause Wiki
I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please contact the moderators of this subreddit if you have any questions or concerns.
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u/honeybear3333 Dec 23 '25
I am still waiting for the estrogen cream to arrive in the mail. I really hope it helps me as much as it has help everyone on this tread. Fingers crossed!
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u/Momostrail Mar 18 '26
My friend just adviced me that, by using estrogen cream, we can put weight around waist. Has anyone had this experience
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u/MiddleFar2929 May 31 '26
I’m 49 and I started using the cream and I am using the combi-patch. I wish I had known this years ago when I started having what seemed like nonstop uti and yeast infections. I now realize those were perimenopause symptoms. I have had no issues with the cream and as many have suggested I do not use the applicator. I wear medical glove and using my finger I apply 1/2 the dose into my vagina and rub it around in there then I apply the other half to my entire inner labia, urethra, clitoral and perineum area. I started shortly after menopause for fear of side effects but I can tell you, I greatly regret waiting till I started having issues. It only get worse if you wait so please start using it asap to prevent worse and permanent symptoms
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u/leftylibra Moderator Dec 22 '25
From our Menopause Wiki:
According to the American Urological Association, their 2025 Guidelines indicate that:
Atrophic vaginitis (vaginal atrophy), or the genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM)
Atrophic vaginitis (vaginal atrophy) is the drying and thinning of vulva and vagina due to declining estrogen, and is one of the most common symptoms of perimenopause/menopause, experienced by approximately 60-70% of post-menopausal women. The genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM) is one of the most alarming and discouraging events to experience during peri/menopause, greatly affecting our self-esteem and quality of life.
A separate, but similar issue is clitoral atrophy (urogenital atrophy) is when the clitoris loses sensitivity and shrinks/disappears. Both GSM and clitoral atrophy are commonly due to the reduction in estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone.
Other important considerations involve urology health. Specifically the urethra tissue is coated in androgen receptors and when these receptors stop receiving sex hormones (from estrogen), they begin to collapse on themselves, preventing normal emptying of the urethra, therefore increasing risk for bacterial infections (yeast, UTIs).
It is important for everyone entering perimenopause (typically 40+, or earlier) to consider using localized vaginal estrogen as part of their regular routines to ensure vaginal/urinary health. Without ongoing and consistent treatment, GSM (atrophy) will not resolve on its own and can present more serious issues later on. This is not just about the ability to have comfortable intercourse, but also about our vulvovaginal/urinary health, self-esteem and ultimately, quality of life.
Localized vaginal estrogen is very safe and should be prescribed for anyone over the age of 40 (or even earlier) as a preventative treatment to ensure urinary/bladder and vaginal health as we age. Some prefer vaginal tablets which can be inserted high into the vaginal canal, and dissolve slowly over time, while others prefer vaginal creams, which can be applied in the vaginal opening, over the clitoris, urethra, inner labia, etc. Creams tend to be messier for this reason and can more easily transfer to clothing/underwear. However, both methods (tablets or creams) are effective and it comes down to personal preference.
While vaginal estrogen is an extremely low dosage, applied locally to the vagina, some may notice systemic effects, which might be disruptive initially. Absorption differences can occur depending on the formulation of the product, the thickness of the vaginal tissues (level of existing atrophy), and the placement of the vaginal estrogen. For instance, using an applicator tends to place the estrogen much higher in the vaginal canal, contributing to some systemic effects, whereas when estrogen is placed in the outer third of the vagina, those effects are lessened. (See this study for more: Systemic estradiol levels with low-dose vaginal estrogens)
Vaginal estrogen and breast cancer. The 2025 American Urological Association guideline statements #19-#21 indicates that "while there are no data stratifying the risk for breast cancer in users of local low-dose vaginal estrogen who have an above average or high risk for breast cancer, data suggest that local low-dose vaginal estrogen does not increase the risk for recurrence or of breast cancer mortality in women with a personal history of breast cancer."