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[Postmeno3]

Hi ladies,
I was prescribed Vagifem as it was clear my long-term Estring had become insufficient for my quite severe GSM/VA state. Then I was prescribed Ovestin twice weekly for the external area, too. So, Vagifem × 3 weekly and Ovestin x2 weekly on different days. All in tandem with Estring. Now, this may seem a lot, but with the Estring proving inadequate, additional treatment was required and is starting to prove beneficial. However, the specialist is now saying we can perhaps consider "simplifying" the regime and, to the gp, potentially dropping the Vagifem. Now, to me, if I need this regime, I need it and a recent painful speculum examination shows that I may even need more not less as less implies something is "fixed"? I thought once VA is needing treatment, it's pretty much that for life? Any thoughts? 🤔

[CLKD]

Which specialist?

Continuing with VA treatment is essential - 'vagifem' or 'ovestin' are the usual suggestions 4 internal use, along with 'ovestin' or other moisturisers to keep the labia less dry.

Some ladies use 'vagifem' nightly; some add moisturisers, it really is Trial and Error and many 'experts' need educating!

Treatment for VA is rarely simple!  Does the Estring get replaced?

[Postmeno3]

NHS Menopause specialist.
Yes, the Estring prescription is followed to the letter with replacement every three months.

[CLKD]

Doesn't know much about menopause by the sound of it ?   What do U feel about the suggestions?

[Gracie]

I would be telling them that I want to carry on with the regime that is working for me, I would be too scared the chronic symptoms of VA returned.

It seems they want to make life easier for you but by doing so could do more harm than good. If you are happy with how things are going then that's all that matters. 

[Postmeno3]

Thanks. Yes, I think it's going to be important to not compromise what's been achieved so far which isn't a huge improvement, but definitely one or two very subtle, if not steady, changes for the better.

[CLKD]

I don't think that a 'specialist' with menopause knowledge would mend if it ain't broke? 

[Postmeno3]

It's trial and error for all, including the specialists I guess. There was an issue with a prescribing gp which may be influencing things, but I think the specialist's intention is to get the systemic right so that oestrogenisation influences the topical requirement. Keeping the faith! 😊

[CLKD]

Thus far I haven't required HRT but do need 'ovestin' regularly.  Some ladies find that HRT helps atrophy as well as using appropriate vaginal applications .  Don't be fobbed off by GPs etc. once you find something that works for you.