Pain starting Vagifem

[ElliePascoe]

I started Vagifem today, prescribed for vaginal dryness and itching, pain during sex, etc. Since I inserted the pessary this morning, I've had a burning pain in my vagina, and the same feeling that you get if there's a tampon that's been inserted too low. I've also had some bleeding (red, fresh blood, although that may be because I struggled to insert the applicator and may have scratched the skin). I've been on Cerelle for the last three years, so don't have periods (apart from the odd bit of brown spotting every couple of months).

Is this discomfort and/or bleeding normal when starting Vagifem, and will it get better? I've been told to use a daily loading dose for two weeks, then to use it twice a week (or as needed).

Also, any tips for inserting the pessaries more easily? Five years ago, I was using tampons and a menstrual cup with no problems, but everything seems to have become so dry and shrunken and fragile down there

I didn't have any issues, it's a pretty slim smooth applicator. But I probably didn't wait as long before starting them and get fragile. Have you tried the obvious, a bit of lube?

So sorry OP, honestly It will get better - definitely use some lube - I use Yes VM which you can order online & you can use both internally & externally

Epaderm barrier ointment in the tub is very soothing, both for washing and applying generally to stop urine stinging, heal the dry tissue and make it easier to insert the pessaries.
Don't buy the cream in the pump, it isn't the same.

You might get on better with Ovestin instead - I did. You can use it internally in an applicator but you can also use it externally as well as it’s a cream and I found as I was super dry and in pain it was a lot more soothing and I could put some of the cream around the applicator before I put it in.

Definitely need lube. Vagifem has been a absolute life saver for me

Thanks all! I did use some lube this morning, so will persist for a bit longer (and consider Ovestin as an alternative if i can't get on with it). Does the burning/obstructed feeling get better as you get used to the Vagifem?

I couldn’t get on with Vagifem. It gave me terrible period-like cramps. I think probs a reaction to the fillers? Happy to say Ovestin has worked for me so it’s a bit of trial and error to find what suits x