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A female asked:

I was prescribed estrace (estradiol) vaginal cream to apply externally. my libido, that i thought i lost returned. is this normal, and will it last.

3 doctor answers4 doctors weighed in
Dr. Claudette Anderson
Specializes in Gynecology
Yes: Part of your lack of libido apparently was due to genital changes , usually dryness ,which makes sex unpleasant.If you continue it should .
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Dr. John Berryman
Obstetrics and Gynecology 56 years experience
Estrogen topical: Without knowing your age, it is difficult to comment on the use of topical estrogen. If you are near or past menopause, topical estrogen is helpful, and if used regularly, will be effective with libido enhancement. The risks of topical estrogen are similar to injected or oral preparations if taken over time, so ask your healthcare provider for advice/
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Dr. Charles Whiting
Obstetrics and Gynecology 29 years experience
Normal: Many women notice improvement in libido after starting vaginal estrogen. It does seem to last for many women. Best wishes!
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.

Related questions

A 66-year-old female asked:
2 opinions on estradiol cream for vaginal atrophy. Gyne prescribed it 3x a week and said risk of uterine cancer very low. My physicians assistant at my GP said I must take oral progesterone with it or my endometrium will thicken. Who is right?
Dr. John Berryman
Obstetrics and Gynecology 56 years experience
Gradual bloodstream levels of estrogen by strictly vaginal use of estrogen sources , and can cause proliferation of endometrial cells. Long term use ... Read More
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
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A 61-year-old female asked:
I am 61, have had a hysterectomy, then a bladder suspension mesh, and now have been prescribed estrace (estradiol) cream to avoid mesh protrusion is this normal?
Dr. Ron Eaker
Specializes in Obstetrics and Gynecology
Yes: This is very standard after the surgeries you described. Using the estrogen cream will help reduce problems with the mesh, which are actually quite ra... Read More
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
A 66-year-old female asked:
66 years old and 14 years post menopausal. For vaginal atrophy and urethral burning do I need to take oral progesterone along with estradiol .01% cream taken 3x a week. And how long can I safely use the estradiol externally?
Dr. Harold Fields
Family Medicine 63 years experience
As long as you take the dual combination you are safe.At the age of 66 you may be advised to take a drug holiday. WhatI mean discontinue the medicati... Read More
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
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A member asked:
Does 2% clindamycin vaginal cream effect ortho tri cyclen (ethinyl estradiol and norgestimate) lo? And how long should I wait to have sex after i complete the prescription?
Dr. Miguel Cano
Obstetrics and Gynecology 32 years experience
No effect : As long as you're taking your ocps orally, you'll be fine. Have sex when you want as long as you have been taking your pills as directed for at least ... Read More
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
A 20-year-old female asked:
Levlen (ethinyl estradiol and levonorgestrel) birth control gave me suicidal thoughts, thrush (first time), no libido. Is Norimin better?
Dr. John Munshower
Family Medicine 32 years experience
Side Efects: If your side effects were definitely due to the BC, than any other BC with a different type of hormonal combination etc. would be a better alternative... Read More
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
Last updated Oct 12, 2014

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