Menopause Matters Forum
Menopause Discussion => All things menopause => Topic started by: buffy26 on December 13, 2023, 05:41:14 PM
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Has anyone been prescribed this for very atrophic and changed appearance of the vulva? Seems to be shrinking and shrivelling! I am currently using this prescribed for a three week period but it seems to be making me worse, more red and sore than ever. I am also using Vagifem every other day and have been for a long time ( over a year) and on Estrogel yet my symptoms are terrible. Night sweats and achey joints. Ive had 2 blood tests over the last few months and they were reported as being normal at 312 on HRT. I cant tolerate patches and was advised not go on tablets for risk reasons. Dr observed they maybe Lichen Sclerosus on its way, which my mother was diagnosed with a year ago. Worried as this may not be the best treatment, although Dr said it was experimental
I would like to try a natural mosituriser, the YES product is so watery and it stings, anyone relate? Please share any tips! Thank you
I read some other posts but they were a few years ago so I have started a new post.
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I've no knowledge of this. If symptoms are worse stop the Mometasone?
MayB use the 'vagifem' every night, some require it that way as well as moisturisers. If the vulval/vaginal skin is thin it may be dry, bleed a little - the idea being to plump up those tissues with regular treatment.
Slyc, Yes products ........ I find KY jelly suits as well as a squeeze of ovestin - which I use for VA.
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I've been using vagifem alternate nights and ovestin every night externally for 3 months. I was previously only using vagifem twice a week. The increased dose and the ovestin has made a difference and definitely externally, not as I was before but definitely plumped up and i have no discomfort. This type of atrophy is awful, the physical symptoms and the psychological ones. Totally unexpected on my part. I'm a little anxious about using the stuff so frequently but am scared that if I reduce it will regress.
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Mometasone is a steroid cream for eczema which would be ok if you definately have Lichens sclerosus but if it's causing redness and irritation then stop. I would start by doing a reload of vagifem and take everyday until your feeling comfortable again.
I'm still struggling to find a good moisturiser too, they all sting me now.
I do use Ovestin externally everynight and that has helped as just using vagifem don't reach the outside bits.
I have Dermovate for Lichens and find this very soothing when i have an atrophy flare up too. Using Ovestin externally and Dermovate steroid cream is usually the treatment for Lichens sclerosus.
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OUCH steroids Down There :o
I was prescribed steroid cream - no idea which - to use as little as possible on the area of 'sun burn' after radiation treatment.
Try something simple like KY Jelly ? Some ladies don't get on with it, I have never had problems. Keep away from Replens ;-)
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Steroids down there is the treatment for Lichens Sclerosus, the cream I use is Hydrocortisone called Dermovate or Clobetasol. It's the only cream I can use that actually doesn't sting or burn and make me sore. It works very fast healing the tissue so when I apply the Ovestin it doesn't sting. A small amount twice a day for a month then once or twice a week for maintenance. Usually it sorts me out within a week or two, wouldn't be without it.
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:thankyou:
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Thank you for sharing your experiences ladies. My GP had prescribed this to gauge if there is a difference after trying the Mometasone, if there is then its likely a referral to a dermatologist for Lichen Sclerosus. I may try to stabilise things first with a consistent daily Vagifem and see if this improves things, as right now it is difficult to really work out the real issue to treat. I will also take look at Ovestin, hope its not prescription only, it sounds as though it may be what's needed for external area improvement. I am more red and inflamed rather than flaky/scaly dry.
Deirdre, thank you so much for your response on Lichen. I am glad you have the treatment plan that works well for you, did you find the cream reversed the changes in the area or just prevent further issues?
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The steroid cream is just for Lichens Sclerosus and to heal the sore and sometimes split skin from atrophy. Ovestin and Vagifem are the medication you need to stop the atrophy from progressing, the estrogen hydrates and plumps up the tissue and also strengthens the pelvic floor to help prevent prolapse and bladder issues. It wont reverse changes to the vulva just help prevent further deterioration. Ovestin is very good used on the labia to reduce the shrivelled look as it plumps up the tisses. Daily use of a moisturiser will also stop the dryness but replacing the lost estrogen is what is needed long term.
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I will also take look at Ovestin, hope its not prescription only, it sounds as though it may be what's needed for external area improvement. I am more red and inflamed rather than flaky/scaly dry.
I was able to buy Ovestin from the Superdrug Online Doctor service but I know its not available to buy at a pharmacy, at least when I last asked the question.
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The steroid cream is just for Lichens Sclerosus and to heal the sore and sometimes split skin from atrophy. Ovestin and Vagifem are the medication you need to stop the atrophy from progressing, the estrogen hydrates and plumps up the tissue and also strengthens the pelvic floor to help prevent prolapse and bladder issues. It wont reverse changes to the vulva just help prevent further deterioration. Ovestin is very good used on the labia to reduce the shrivelled look as it plumps up the tisses. Daily use of a moisturiser will also stop the dryness but replacing the lost estrogen is what is needed long term.
Someone told me that with persistence and the right regime, vaginal and vulval atrophy could be reversed. I'd be interested to know if anybody has managed to make a difference with vaginal and topical estrogen.
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That's a really helpful explanation, thank you Deirdre. I have seen a slight improvement already by using the Vagifem for a few consecutive nights and using Hydromol twice a day in the last couple of days.
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The steroid cream is just for Lichens Sclerosus and to heal the sore and sometimes split skin from atrophy. Ovestin and Vagifem are the medication you need to stop the atrophy from progressing, the estrogen hydrates and plumps up the tissue and also strengthens the pelvic floor to help prevent prolapse and bladder issues. It wont reverse changes to the vulva just help prevent further deterioration. Ovestin is very good used on the labia to reduce the shrivelled look as it plumps up the tisses. Daily use of a moisturiser will also stop the dryness but replacing the lost estrogen is what is needed long term.
Someone told me that with persistence and the right regime, vaginal and vulval atrophy could be reversed. I'd be interested to know if anybody has managed to make a difference with vaginal and topical estrogen.
If its a straight forward case of Vaginal Atrophy then yes, symptoms can be reversed but its not a cure, treatment has to be continued for life because if stopped then you reverse back to how you were before starting treatment.
My VA is well under control but I still get the odd flare up depending what is going on in my life, like stressful situations or my immune system is below par.
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Before I self diagnosed VA from reading in thus forum, I was prescribed Locoid steroid cream. Although it can still help as long as I only use a small amount 3 times per week for a couple of weeks and no more, it's not great. Prior to that I was given the same as you ( Mometasone) and it also made things so much worse.
I haven't been able to get rid if my VA even though I use Ovestin and oestrogen pessaries, but it's so much better than it was.
But now I'm waiting for a hysteroscopy I've had to stop all hrt treatment and I know it will come back with avengence.
I was told by the GP that because I've had it undiagnosed for over 12 years, there is no chance of getting back to how things were. Lovely thought.
I think I'd stop the steroid if it makes you sore, as it did me, too.
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The vaginal estrogen is doing okay for me. I don't have any discomfort but I use alternate nights. The ovestin for vulval atrophy has made some difference after nightly for 4 months but nothing like as I was before. I hoped I'd get some reversal. It's actually put me off being intimate, I feel self conscious and stopped meeting the man I was friends with.
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The vaginal estrogen is doing okay for me. I don't have any discomfort but I use alternate nights. The ovestin for vulval atrophy has made some difference after nightly for 4 months but nothing like as I was before. I hoped I'd get some reversal. It's actually put me off being intimate, I feel self conscious and stopped meeting the man I was friends with.
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The vaginal estrogen is doing okay for me. I don't have any discomfort but I use alternate nights. The ovestin for vulval atrophy has made some difference after nightly for 4 months but nothing like as I was before. I hoped I'd get some reversal. It's actually put me off being intimate, I feel self conscious and stopped meeting the man I was friends with.
Estrogen will reverse atrophy by stopping the dry, burning and soreness inside the vagina and the vulva. It can reverse prolapses with the help of physiotherapy, also bladder issues, like needing to go for a pee all through the night and the feeling of having UTI's. It will also make it possible to have sex again without pain as you will feel moist again and the tissue will be hydrated and plumped up.
But any shrinkage and loss of labia and clitoral hood will not grow back or be reversed. Narrowing of the vaginal canal can be improved with estrogen and dilators.
This is why treatment should be started as early as possible, too many women are embarrassed to see their doctor or in my case and many more, had no idea what was happening as I'd never heard of atrophy.
Local estrogen is for life, it's treating an estrogen deficiency.
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The vaginal estrogen is doing okay for me. I don't have any discomfort but I use alternate nights. The ovestin for vulval atrophy has made some difference after nightly for 4 months but nothing like as I was before. I hoped I'd get some reversal. It's actually put me off being intimate, I feel self conscious and stopped meeting the man I was friends with.
Estrogen will reverse atrophy by stopping the dry, burning and soreness inside the vagina and the vulva. It can reverse prolapses with the help of physiotherapy, also bladder issues, like needing to go for a pee all through the night and the feeling of having UTI's. It will also make it possible to have sex again without pain as you will feel moist again and the tissue will be hydrated and plumped up.
But any shrinkage and loss of labia and clitoral hood will not grow back or be reversed. Narrowing of the vaginal canal can be improved with estrogen and dilators.
This is why treatment should be started as early as possible, too many women are embarrassed to see their doctor or in my case and many more, had no idea what was happening as I'd never heard of atrophy.
Local estrogen is for life, it's treating an estrogen deficiency.
Okay. I feel even worse now.
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But any shrinkage and loss of labia and clitoral hood will not grow back or be reversed. Narrowing of the vaginal canal can be improved with estrogen and dilators.
This is not every woman's experience and certainly not mine, and I have never needed the use of a dilator.
I was at the very late stages of VA before I understood what was happening down there but since constant VA treatment I am back to how I was and feel in my 30's, I am now 74. I won't go into detail but I want to say to women that it does not mean the end of a normal sexual life when diagnosed with vaginal atrophy.
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But any shrinkage and loss of labia and clitoral hood will not grow back or be reversed. Narrowing of the vaginal canal can be improved with estrogen and dilators.
This is not every woman's experience and certainly not mine, and I have never needed the use of a dilator.
I was at the very late stages of VA before I understood what was happening down there but since constant VA treatment I am back to how I was and feel in my 30's, I am now 74. I won't go into detail but I want to say to women that it does not mean the end of a normal sexual life when diagnosed with vaginal atrophy.
I'd been examined a few times for different things and not one doctor told me I needed to use estrogen externally. One doctor prescribed ovestin when i asked but said the increase in dose on top of vagifem might increase the breast pain i had at the time so i got scared and didn't use it. The last one described the vulval changes but said it was normal as we age. It's not what I'd ever heard of. I'd heard about ovestin use on here so started using it every night 4 months ago. I wish I'd used it 2 years ago when I noticed changes to prevent this. I'm going to continue in the hope I get some more improvement, as Ayesha says, it's worked for her. I hope I've not left it too late. At present I avoid my man friend.
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Dont worry about using Ovestin as well as Vagifem, Ovestin externally really does help improve this area and it's a very small dosage, weaker than Vagifem when used this way. A pea sized amount every night is enough.
Sorry I made you feel worse Jules, those changes were worse case scenario and usually happen over a long period of time.
A lot of women don't look down there often and it's only when they become very sore that the mirror comes out and then get a bit of a shock. If you haven't been having sex or don't have a partner then it would take longer to notice there was a problem.
I think my thinning of labia and darker skin happened a long while before I started getting dry and sore, that part came on quite suddenly. I still didn't have a clue why. Nobody tells you these things.
Women can be such gossips but this has definately been taboo for decades. My children and grandchildren are now aware and know what to expect so will be ready.
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I did notice changes, just from washing, but I wasn't having any discomfort. And the GP left me believing that it was an inevitable part of aging. I felt so despondent. I would have used some treatment had I known. I'm not that hopeful really. The ovestin has made some difference but not a great deal. It would maybe take longer.
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Yes I wish I had been aware of atrophy a lot earlier, it really is a total shock when it happens. I was mortified, ashamed, depressed. But constant regular use of ovestin has improved things a lot. It took over a year or so. I did not have shrinkage, but sore, dry etc. Things are better now but it is still a distressing condition psychologically.
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Thanks Ayesha you have given me hope x So... just after reading this this morning should I be using ovestin externally as well? as I actually feel ok externally, I just have pain internally when having sex so that's why I have just been using it internally so far
As yous all say this is the best kept secret ever - nobody really talks about this debilitating and life changing condition, I was totally unware of it and thought it was just me until I met all you lovely people here x and it gets me so down at times
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It feels like when you get to this stage, a pea sized amount of ovestin isn't enough to cover all your bits and to sort out the problem, even once a day. I was sexually active at the time and wasn't having any difficulties with that thanks to vagifem but the external changes sort of crept up on me. It is distressing, it's your womanhood and I don't feel attractive in the buff anymore.
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Use more if necessary, a large pea size, cover the end of your finger. I have to do this every night and it wasn't until I used Ovestin externally I noticed an improvement and was plumper, more normal. Vagifem didn't do anything for me externally but is good for inside and reversed my prolapse strengthening my pelvic floor and bladder issues.
I use Vagifem most nights too and the couple of nights I dont I smear Ovestin internally as well so I get both estrogens inside. Although estriol (Ovestin) is supposed to be the weaker estrogen I think it plays an important part as different estrogens attach to different recepters, A and B. It was a game changer when I started using both.
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Use more if necessary, a large pea size, cover the end of your finger. I have to do this every night and it wasn't until I used Ovestin externally I noticed an improvement and was plumper, more normal. Vagifem didn't do anything for me externally but is good for inside and reversed my prolapse strengthening my pelvic floor and bladder issues.
I use Vagifem most nights too and the couple of nights I dont I smear Ovestin internally as well so I get both estrogens inside. Although estriol (Ovestin) is supposed to be the weaker estrogen I think it plays an important part as different estrogens attach to different recepters, A and B. It was a game changer when I started using both.
Ok. I have noticed some difference but obviously there was a lot of change before it clicked what was going on and that I could actually address it. It's not as though my friend with benefits ever remarked on it, I've become more conscious. Generally it's becoming a full time job, keeping on top of my aging, face care regimes, new lines around my mouth, hairline receding, once firm belly going jelly like, crinkly skin on my thighs, dodgy knees. People tell me I don't look my age. I must just be dressing it or hiding it well🤪
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Thanks Ayesha you have given me hope x So... just after reading this this morning should I be using ovestin externally as well? as I actually feel ok externally, I just have pain internally when having sex so that's why I have just been using it internally so far
As yous all say this is the best kept secret ever - nobody really talks about this debilitating and life changing condition, I was totally unware of it and thought it was just me until I met all you lovely people here x and it gets me so down at times
I can only go by my own experience as we are all different but my regime is one Vagifem every morning. I use a half pea sized amount of Ovestin externally spread wide morning and night and always with added moisturiser like Yes or Sylk, when the latter comes back on sale! This regime has been a life changer for me.
It may come a day when you realise you need to use externally but at least you will know what to do, unlike me I didn't have a clue what was going on until I read posts on this forum two years ago.
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Thanks Ayesha you have given me hope x So... just after reading this this morning should I be using ovestin externally as well? as I actually feel ok externally, I just have pain internally when having sex so that's why I have just been using it internally so far
As yous all say this is the best kept secret ever - nobody really talks about this debilitating and life changing condition, I was totally unware of it and thought it was just me until I met all you lovely people here x and it gets me so down at times
I can only go by my own experience as we are all different but my regime is one Vagifem every morning. I use a half pea sized amount of Ovestin externally spread wide morning and night and always with added moisturiser like Yes or Sylk, when the latter comes back on sale! This regime has been a life changer for me.
It may come a day when you realise you need to use externally but at least you will know what to do, unlike me I didn't have a clue what was going on until I read posts on this forum two years ago.
And how long did you follow that frequency for before it made improvements?
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...and always with added moisturiser like Yes or Sylk, when the latter comes back on sale!
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Are you registered on the Sylk website Ayesha ?
I don't use Sylk but signed up a while ago just in case i wanted to try it and to hear of offers. I had an email last Tuesday saying that they have a limited amount available to 'our registered and existing online customers'. Seems to be Sylk Intimate 40g bottle.
I had a previous similar email several months ago.
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And how long did you follow that frequency for before it made improvements?
It took over a year to be fully plumped up again and feel normal. Its constant maintenance and I still suffer the occasional flare up but they are very mild now.
My regime is the same as I started with and experimented reducing the Vagifem but it never really works to do that, I need the daily regime even after two years.
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...and always with added moisturiser like Yes or Sylk, when the latter comes back on sale!
Are you registered on the Sylk website Ayesha ?
I don't use Sylk but signed up a while ago just in case i wanted to try it and to hear of offers. I had an email last Tuesday saying that they have a limited amount available to 'our registered and existing online customers'. Seems to be Sylk Intimate 40g bottle.
I had a previous similar email several months ago.
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I am registered with them and got the same notification but strange how it can take so long to wait for it to come back on sale, I always bought a 3 pack from Amazon and keep checking there.
I'm getting on ok with Yes but prefer the Sylk because of the smaller bottle size.
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And how long did you follow that frequency for before it made improvements?
It took over a year to be fully plumped up again and feel normal. Its constant maintenance and I still suffer the occasional flare up but they are very mild now.
My regime is the same as I started with and experimented reducing the Vagifem but it never really works to do that, I need the daily regime even after two years.
Okay. I'm wondering if I'm going to even have the same response as you, I hope so but probably didn't start soon enough, I literally thought it was a horrible old age thing that must happen to everyone but that nobody talks about it. I suppose I should feel fortunate that I'm not in discomfort but it really has affected my confidence especially in relationships with men. Im 66 now and look fairly okay for my age, people assume I'm in my 50s. Up to 60, i looked no different to when i was 50, no jelly belly etc. The effects of the lack of estrogen has been a shock. It really is quite hard being an older woman. All the health screenings, body changes and there's so much pressure on us to stay looking good, even harder when you're single. I've no daughters otherwise I'd be warning them to address the effects of menopause before it's too late. I think GPs are too complacent. I was told almost like she thought I was old and what else did I expect. Maybe we should be starting a national awareness raising thing.
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It took me longer than a year or so to get right but I had a prolapse too and had left it a long while due to ignorance, plus the dryness and burning came on very suddenly with no warning.
Have you any other menopause symptoms Jules? Some women find going on full HRT very beneficial to their wellbeing and feel like a new woman.
The GP I first saw was a woman and when I asked what was wrong, I thought it was an infection or worse like cancer, she said had I never heard the saying "dried up old woman". I've never gone to her again. Not much sympathy with doctors, old age and menopause are not an illness so thats it. I suppose they have too much serious illness nowadays to deal with as the NHS is in a terrible mess.
If you can afford it maybe go private.
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It took me longer than a year or so to get right but I had a prolapse too and had left it a long while due to ignorance, plus the dryness and burning came on very suddenly with no warning.
Have you any other menopause symptoms Jules? Some women find going on full HRT very beneficial to their wellbeing and feel like a new woman.
The GP I first saw was a woman and when I asked what was wrong, I thought it was an infection or worse like cancer, she said had I never heard the saying "dried up old woman". I've never gone to her again. Not much sympathy with doctors, old age and menopause are not an illness so thats it. I suppose they have too much serious illness nowadays to deal with as the NHS is in a terrible mess.
If you can afford it maybe go private.
No I'm fine otherwise. Had the usual things but nothing I couldn't cope with. Yes GPs have more serious things to deal with though it's not too time consuming to prescribe some ovestin. I was prescribed vagifem because i was getting UTIs following sex. I've been using vagifem for 18 months though only on an increased dose since September and only started using ovestin then. So I guess its early days. My sister has none of these problems though she had horrendous hot flushes, low moids etc. I think hearing people's positive outcomes from treatment helps, sometimes reading this forum increases anxiety
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Forums like this are usually for people to discuss their problems and get support so it can be a bit negative. Women that sail through menopause with no symptoms or do very well on HRT straight away probably wouldn't need to join a forum so we don't very often hear the positives.
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Forums like this are usually for people to discuss their problems and get support so it can be a bit negative. Women that sail through menopause with no symptoms or do very well on HRT straight away probably wouldn't need to join a forum so we don't very often hear the positives.
I suppose not though Ayesha had a more positive outcome. If she hadn't shared that, I would have just accepted what the GP said and suffered the consequences.
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It took me longer than a year or so to get right but I had a prolapse too and had left it a long while due to ignorance, plus the dryness and burning came on very suddenly with no warning.
Have you any other menopause symptoms Jules? Some women find going on full HRT very beneficial to their wellbeing and feel like a new woman.
The GP I first saw was a woman and when I asked what was wrong, I thought it was an infection or worse like cancer, she said had I never heard the saying "dried up old woman". I've never gone to her again. Not much sympathy with doctors, old age and menopause are not an illness so thats it. I suppose they have too much serious illness nowadays to deal with as the NHS is in a terrible mess.
If you can afford it maybe go private.
Was your issue just the vaginal dryness or atrophy? I initially had vaginal dryness and prone to UTIs. The vulval atrophy came much later but it happened before I realised what was happening. I think the ovestin has stopped it progressing but not sure it will achieve anything more
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Both really, I suddenly became very sore and had splits like paper cuts, inside just went so dry and burning. I thought it was thrush to start with or an infection. When i was examined inside to take swabs the nurse said I was red raw up to my cervix. This all happened within a few days, it didn't come on gradually.
I was given Vagifem but after the initial two weeks I went to twice a week that did nothing. Eventually a gynae upped the dose to five a week and Ovestin externally every night but by this time I was in a mess and had a prolapse.
It took about a year to feel comfotable but still had flare ups and struggle sitting all day at work.
I'm retired now and its been much better.
The changes to the vulva had come gradually before the soreness and atrophy and like you I'd excepted it as getting older and it didn't bother me too much. I wish I'd done something about it then and i might have avoided all the pain later.
It sounds like you've got to it sooner than i did, so hopefully will keep on top of it better.
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Both really, I suddenly became very sore and had splits like paper cuts, inside just went so dry and burning. I thought it was thrush to start with or and infection. When i was examined inside to take swabs the nurse said I was red raw up to my cervix. This all happened within a few days, it didn't come on gradually.
I was given Vagifem but after the initial two weeks I went to twice a week that did nothing. Eventually a gynae upped the dose to five a week and Ovestin externally every night but by this time I was in a mess and had a prolapse.
It took about a year to feel comfotable but still had flare ups and struggle sitting all day a work.
I'm retired now and its been much better.
The changes to the vulva had come gradually before the soreness and atrophy and like you I'd exepted it as getting older and it didn't bother me too much. I wish I'd done something about it then and i might have avoided all the pain later.
It sounds like you've got to it sooner than i did, so hopefully will keep on top of it better.
I don't have any discomfort but definitely the changes bother me and I wish id known what was happening and that there was treatment available. Has the ovestin helped with plumping up the tissues?
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Definately, before Ovestin I was getting worse externally. Vagifem sorted inside but did nothing outside. Even now I can't miss an Ovestin dose or the plumpness deflates overnight and I start to become dry and sore. I wish I could find a good moisturiser for outside too but they all cause irritation and over the years I've tried a lot.
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Definately, before Ovestin I was getting worse externally. Vagifem sorted inside but did nothing outside. Even now I can't miss an Ovestin dose or the plumpness deflates overnight and I start to become dry and sore. I wish I could find a good moisturiser for outside too but they all cause irritation and over the years I've tried a lot.
I'll have to keep trying. It's not doing much at present though I'm not sore. I have period type pain today, bit in lower back too. I'm a little worried that it's related to the vagifem and ovestin use. I've had bouts before, end up having an ultrasound by which time the pain has gone
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My 48 year old friend has just told me she's struggling with paper cuts etc too. Terrible. I've advised her to get treatment quickly. Deidre did the ovestin help to return some normality to the vulva?
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Yes but I have to use every night.
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Yes but I have to use every night.
Well at least that's something. I will plod on with it and see how it goes. I really was ignorant to what was happening. Too busy enjoying sex😉. We had a forced break and it's during that time things went worse and I noticed. Women have it tough.
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Before I self diagnosed VA from reading in thus forum, I was prescribed Locoid steroid cream. Although it can still help as long as I only use a small amount 3 times per week for a couple of weeks and no more, it's not great. Prior to that I was given the same as you ( Mometasone) and it also made things so much worse.
I haven't been able to get rid if my VA even though I use Ovestin and oestrogen pessaries, but it's so much better than it was.
But now I'm waiting for a hysteroscopy I've had to stop all hrt treatment and I know it will come back with avengence.
I was told by the GP that because I've had it undiagnosed for over 12 years, there is no chance of getting back to how things were. Lovely thought.
I think I'd stop the steroid if it makes you sore, as it did me, too.
Hi, I am sorry for only just responding MrsMitch, thank you for sharing your experience too. Your GPs reaction was a bit defeatist wasn't it?! Don't give up hope, I noticed the Hydramol, simple hydration cream has made a good impact. It may be a try of various creams to suit you. I stopped the Mometasone after a week as it was becoming intolerable; I knew it was this that was making it so. I saw my GP yesterday for a review, she noted an improvement in the rawness but also noticed some potential structural changes so I have been referred to a Vulva Clinic which is reassuring that I am going to see a specialist now. I
also had a Hysteroscopy last year, for thickened lining of the womb. All was ok there, but I am still not getting the best out of Estrogel, so considering alternative dosages or other methods. Night sweats and body aches are dire still! Best of luck with finding something that helps you :_)
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Before I self diagnosed VA from reading in thus forum, I was prescribed Locoid steroid cream. Although it can still help as long as I only use a small amount 3 times per week for a couple of weeks and no more, it's not great. Prior to that I was given the same as you ( Mometasone) and it also made things so much worse.
I haven't been able to get rid if my VA even though I use Ovestin and oestrogen pessaries, but it's so much better than it was.
But now I'm waiting for a hysteroscopy I've had to stop all hrt treatment and I know it will come back with avengence.
I was told by the GP that because I've had it undiagnosed for over 12 years, there is no chance of getting back to how things were. Lovely thought.
I think I'd stop the steroid if it makes you sore, as it did me, too.
Hi, I am sorry for only just responding MrsMitch, thank you for sharing your experience too. Your GPs reaction was a bit defeatist wasn't it?! Don't give up hope, I noticed the Hydramol, simple hydration cream has made a good impact. It may be a try of various creams to suit you. I stopped the Mometasone after a week as it was becoming intolerable; I knew it was this that was making it so. I saw my GP yesterday for a review, she noted an improvement in the rawness but also noticed some potential structural changes so I have been referred to a Vulva Clinic which is reassuring that I am going to see a specialist now. I
also had a Hysteroscopy last year, for thickened lining of the womb. All was ok there, but I am still not getting the best out of Estrogel, so considering alternative dosages or other methods. Night sweats and body aches are dire still! Best of luck with finding something that helps you :_)
Structural changes? Internally?
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Before I self diagnosed VA from reading in thus forum, I was prescribed Locoid steroid cream. Although it can still help as long as I only use a small amount 3 times per week for a couple of weeks and no more, it's not great. Prior to that I was given the same as you ( Mometasone) and it also made things so much worse.
I haven't been able to get rid if my VA even though I use Ovestin and oestrogen pessaries, but it's so much better than it was.
But now I'm waiting for a hysteroscopy I've had to stop all hrt treatment and I know it will come back with avengence.
I was told by the GP that because I've had it undiagnosed for over 12 years, there is no chance of getting back to how things were. Lovely thought.
I think I'd stop the steroid if it makes you sore, as it did me, too.
Hi, I am sorry for only just responding MrsMitch, thank you for sharing your experience too. Your GPs reaction was a bit defeatist wasn't it?! Don't give up hope, I noticed the Hydramol, simple hydration cream has made a good impact. It may be a try of various creams to suit you. I stopped the Mometasone after a week as it was becoming intolerable; I knew it was this that was making it so. I saw my GP yesterday for a review, she noted an improvement in the rawness but also noticed some potential structural changes so I have been referred to a Vulva Clinic which is reassuring that I am going to see a specialist now. I
also had a Hysteroscopy last year, for thickened lining of the womb. All was ok there, but I am still not getting the best out of Estrogel, so considering alternative dosages or other methods. Night sweats and body aches are dire still! Best of luck with finding something that helps you :_)
Structural changes? Internally?
Hi Jules, I will DM you if thats ok?
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And how long did you follow that frequency for before it made improvements?
Just popped back on here to report that after 4 months, the nightly use of ovestin is making some difference. Plumping up a bit and more comfortable. I was wasting away so less than nightly was doing nothing. I'm using a large pea size and continuing till I feel I've got on top of it before I try reducing.
It took over a year to be fully plumped up again and feel normal. Its constant maintenance and I still suffer the occasional flare up but they are very mild now.
My regime is the same as I started with and experimented reducing the Vagifem but it never really works to do that, I need the daily regime even after two years.
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Hi Jules Welcome back :foryou:I missed ya, great to see you back x :hug:
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:foryou:
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Thanks for the update, Jules and welcome back.
Your post proving again that if you keep to a regime that works for you and to be in charge of your own regime will work in the end and to reduce the dose when the time is right.
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That's right. I dont know if there's a limitation to the extent it can have and I'm not sure I'll ever look like my old self (none of me is my old self) but definitely improvement and had I done nothing, I dread to think of the end result. Don't wait till things get too severe.
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:foryou:
Thankyou
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Before I self diagnosed VA from reading in thus forum, I was prescribed Locoid steroid cream. Although it can still help as long as I only use a small amount 3 times per week for a couple of weeks and no more, it's not great. Prior to that I was given the same as you ( Mometasone) and it also made things so much worse.
I haven't been able to get rid if my VA even though I use Ovestin and oestrogen pessaries, but it's so much better than it was.
But now I'm waiting for a hysteroscopy I've had to stop all hrt treatment and I know it will come back with avengence.
I was told by the GP that because I've had it undiagnosed for over 12 years, there is no chance of getting back to how things were. Lovely thought.
I think I'd stop the steroid if it makes you sore, as it did me, too.
Hi, I am sorry for only just responding MrsMitch, thank you for sharing your experience too. Your GPs reaction was a bit defeatist wasn't it?! Don't give up hope, I noticed the Hydramol, simple hydration cream has made a good impact. It may be a try of various creams to suit you. I stopped the Mometasone after a week as it was becoming intolerable; I knew it was this that was making it so. I saw my GP yesterday for a review, she noted an improvement in the rawness but also noticed some potential structural changes so I have been referred to a Vulva Clinic which is reassuring that I am going to see a specialist now. I
also had a Hysteroscopy last year, for thickened lining of the womb. All was ok there, but I am still not getting the best out of Estrogel, so considering alternative dosages or other methods. Night sweats and body aches are dire still! Best of luck with finding something that helps you :_)
Structural changes? Internally?
Hi Jules, I will DM you if thats ok?
Hi Buffy, I had a break. Needed to stop reading things. I've had to re-register and can't send or receive messages until I've posted 10 times.
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Before I self diagnosed VA from reading in thus forum, I was prescribed Locoid steroid cream. Although it can still help as long as I only use a small amount 3 times per week for a couple of weeks and no more, it's not great. Prior to that I was given the same as you ( Mometasone) and it also made things so much worse.
I haven't been able to get rid if my VA even though I use Ovestin and oestrogen pessaries, but it's so much better than it was.
But now I'm waiting for a hysteroscopy I've had to stop all hrt treatment and I know it will come back with avengence.
I was told by the GP that because I've had it undiagnosed for over 12 years, there is no chance of getting back to how things were. Lovely thought.
I think I'd stop the steroid if it makes you sore, as it did me, too.
Hi, I am sorry for only just responding MrsMitch, thank you for sharing your experience too. Your GPs reaction was a bit defeatist wasn't it?! Don't give up hope, I noticed the Hydramol, simple hydration cream has made a good impact. It may be a try of various creams to suit you. I stopped the Mometasone after a week as it was becoming intolerable; I knew it was this that was making it so. I saw my GP yesterday for a review, she noted an improvement in the rawness but also noticed some potential structural changes so I have been referred to a Vulva Clinic which is reassuring that I am going to see a specialist now. I
also had a Hysteroscopy last year, for thickened lining of the womb. All was ok there, but I am still not getting the best out of Estrogel, so considering alternative dosages or other methods. Night sweats and body aches are dire still! Best of luck with finding something that helps you :_)
Structural changes? Internally?
Hi Jules, I will DM you if thats ok?
Hi Buffy, I had a break. Needed to stop reading things. I've had to re-register and can't send or receive messages until I've posted 10 times.
Ah Ok, I get it. Sometimes it takes you down a rabbit hole doesn't it! Although, super helpful and much valued forum.
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Steroids down there is the treatment for Lichens Sclerosus, the cream I use is Hydrocortisone called Dermovate or Clobetasol. It's the only cream I can use that actually doesn't sting or burn and make me sore. It works very fast healing the tissue so when I apply the Ovestin it doesn't sting. A small amount twice a day for a month then once or twice a week for maintenance. Usually it sorts me out within a week or two, wouldn't be without it.
Hi Dierdre, so after my visit with the gynae doctor, she confirmed Lichen Planus or Schlerosis. She observed all looked well "estronogised "
and not a bit dry or sore and that I should drop the Vagifem to just twice a week. Also to use Epaderm ointment for moisture instead of Hydramol. Since adapting this advice I have reverted back to the rawness and discomfort. I was using Vagifem every night and was doing so well. She is waiting for a result of a swab test to check for thrush and then will issue a prescription request for my GP practice to prescribe Dermovate to prevent any flare ups. I was deemed to be not in a flare at the time, diagnosis made from evidence of activity historically. I feel I want to up the Vagifem again as before and do my own routine again, surely thats ok, if it works?! Any thoughts on this ladies on the safety of higher doses of pessaries?
I am back and forth to GP for other issues a lot so I am loathed to go back again about this too!
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A GP once said I was well estrogenised on examination. Clearly though I wasn't as I was having UTIs and irritation. I wasn't using any estrogen products then.
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This was a gynaecologist, so sees a lot more cases I guess! although, someone I know prefers to see a dermatologist for her issues as both specialities cover these issues. Menopause specialists may even have another view on dosage and best products ! aghh! I just read that you are on daily Vagifem, is still the case? Is your practitioner fine with this?
Jules, I have just seen your reply on my messages, can I now respond to that? Apologies for not seeing sooner!
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This was a gynaecologist, so sees a lot more cases I guess! although, someone I know prefers to see a dermatologist for her issues as both specialities cover these issues. Menopause specialists may even have another view on dosage and best products ! aghh! I just read that you are on daily Vagifem, is still the case? Is your practitioner fine with this?
Jules, I have just seen your reply on my messages, can I now respond to that? Apologies for not seeing sooner!
I'm not on daily vagifem, alternate nights though. I use ovestin nightly though at present externally, hopefully until I feel I can reduce it.
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And yes it's fine to reply to my message
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And yes it's fine to reply to my message
Hi, its weird, I thought I had replied to it, I check the sent box and it showed as empty, yet I have 'you have forwarded or responded to this message, so not sure if you have it or not?!! ::)
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Hi. When you send or reply to a private message you need to tick the box that says "save a copy to my outbox" otherwise it just gets sent with no copy. I don't know why it's set up like that, as you assume it will just save it.
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suzysunday I sent you a PM as a test - I am still finding my way around this forum but it doesn't look like you have got it? as it is not in my sent box although I did defo press the send button - very strange x
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Yes I did get it. It's the message below the box that says "save a copy to outbox" . There is a small square box and touch it so that a tick appears in it. It's different than the send button but you need to press that as well. Good luck!
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Many thanks x
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Thank you ladies for clarifying! x
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I have replied. I didn't check the save a copy box though