Newly diagnosed with vaginal atrophy and don't understand prescription

[h0rsewithn0name]

I had a telephone consultation with my Dr yesterday and she confirmed a diagnosis of vaginal atrophy. For several months I have had UTIs. frequent night-time toilet visits, sorness and itching.

The prescription has just arrived in the post and I really don't understand the combination. It's a bit late to ring the Dr back now and was really hoping to get started on it tonight.

I've got Vagifem, one to be inserted twice a week. I get that.

I've also got Ovestin. Whilst the instruction sheet says to insert every night for 2 weeks, then move to twice a week - should I be using both of these products at the same time? The Ovestin says on the pharmacist label to apply to the vulva - it doesn't mention using it internally at all.

Unfortunately I had a problem understanding the Dr on the phone, so couldn't really ask as many questions as I want.

I've also got some hydrocortisone cream, but I can work that one out!

Has anyone had a similar situation where you've been prescribed Ovestin and Vagifem? Shall I use them both internally, or one in and one out? Any help appreciated.

You should be starting with a loading dose of Vagifem, every night for 2 weeks, then twice a week. Some women use it more then this but this is the starting regime.

Ovestin, that'll be external, probably for your vulval itching/soreness.

Ovestin can also be used internally, for example, for those don't get on with Vagifem, but I wouldn't use it internally atm as you need to wait to see if the Vagifem helps.

Thank you @Fallinglguanas, that does make sense as the label says to use Ovestin on the labia. I was just freaked out by the instructions and the 'device'.

I am ridiculously excited for this treatment - if it works it will make such a difference.

That device is a nightmare to clean (if using internally). Good luck and if it doesn't work as you'd hoped (give it a good 12 weeks), you can always consider systemic HRT, instead or in addition.

I think @FallingIguanas is right about what to do. The hydrocortisone will be for calming down the external itching. That's what I was prescribed along with the Vagifem, but not Ovestin.

Make sure you complete the two week loading and you'll notice a big difference I'm sure.