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Menopause

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Taking utrogestan vaginally

15 replies

CharlieFarley2 · 17/02/2025 07:57

I’ve seen some talk on here about this but I just wanted to confirm that’s it’s ok before I do it! I’m on continuous utrogestan 100mg capsules and find it gives me horrible acid reflux as I settle to sleep.

From what I’ve read on here, many women take these capsules vaginally as an alternative, even though it’s not necessary approved in the UK- but what I wanted to ask is- does the capsule fully dissolve or is there likely to be residue/ discharge next day? Anyone had experience of this? Thanks in advance

OP posts:
charmanderflame · 17/02/2025 07:59

There is a different version of it which is vaginal - you would need to ask for this - it comes with applicators.

Doggymummar · 17/02/2025 08:01

I have Vagirux vaginally and there is a little residue in my panty liners, I would imagine it to be similar.

JinglingSpringbells · 17/02/2025 08:13

charmanderflame · 17/02/2025 07:59

There is a different version of it which is vaginal - you would need to ask for this - it comes with applicators.

They are both the same. But the 200mgs is bigger.
The plastic applicator is useless - it's sharp and cold.

I've had both versions over the years. I prefer the 100mgs.

This means I can use them either way.

Bayonetlightbulb · 17/02/2025 08:14

You will need to have your gp agree to using it this way and it has to he specifically utrogestan not the other generic brands that you can sometimes be given as they aren't suitable

JinglingSpringbells · 17/02/2025 08:15

CharlieFarley2 · 17/02/2025 07:57

I’ve seen some talk on here about this but I just wanted to confirm that’s it’s ok before I do it! I’m on continuous utrogestan 100mg capsules and find it gives me horrible acid reflux as I settle to sleep.

From what I’ve read on here, many women take these capsules vaginally as an alternative, even though it’s not necessary approved in the UK- but what I wanted to ask is- does the capsule fully dissolve or is there likely to be residue/ discharge next day? Anyone had experience of this? Thanks in advance

I've used it both ways for years- around 11 now.

My consultant prefers it to be used vaginally.

Used vaginally there is a white residue which you will find in the morning. (I use 2 capsules on a cycle so there is obviously more.)

You may need/want to use a panty liner overnight although you can also insert them during the day (but just be sure it doesn't fall out before dissolving.

JinglingSpringbells · 17/02/2025 08:17

Bayonetlightbulb · 17/02/2025 08:14

You will need to have your gp agree to using it this way and it has to he specifically utrogestan not the other generic brands that you can sometimes be given as they aren't suitable

The other brands are exactly the same. There is no guidance (as far as I know) about checking with a GP before using it that way.

Is there a link to what you've posted - out of interest.

GPs are actually obliged to say only take it orally as in the UK, compared with Europe, it's not licensed for vaginal use.

JinglingSpringbells · 17/02/2025 08:19

charmanderflame · 17/02/2025 07:59

There is a different version of it which is vaginal - you would need to ask for this - it comes with applicators.

Just to add- she can't use the vaginal capsule as it's twice the dose she's on.

Notonthestairs · 17/02/2025 08:22

"but what I wanted to ask is- does the capsule fully dissolve or is there likely to be residue/ discharge next day? Anyone had experience of this? Thanks in advance"

Yes there may be some residue. Worth using a pad/liner for the first hour after waking.

JinglingSpringbells · 17/02/2025 08:31

Because the capsule isn't being absorbed by the nervous system, like orally, it doesn't need to be used at bedtime. You can insert it at any time of day. (I asked my consultant this.)

If you do insert it during the day, it's best if you can lie down for a little while (I know this may not be possible.)

charmanderflame · 17/02/2025 08:41

JinglingSpringbells · 17/02/2025 08:13

They are both the same. But the 200mgs is bigger.
The plastic applicator is useless - it's sharp and cold.

I've had both versions over the years. I prefer the 100mgs.

This means I can use them either way.

I found the applicators helpful and less messy (just in case OP is trying to decide - it's worth a try as everyone's different - but yeah I'm unsure about dosages etc. I had 200 vaginal).

Really best thing is just speak to the GP/ medical professional about it.

JinglingSpringbells · 17/02/2025 08:50

charmanderflame · 17/02/2025 08:41

I found the applicators helpful and less messy (just in case OP is trying to decide - it's worth a try as everyone's different - but yeah I'm unsure about dosages etc. I had 200 vaginal).

Really best thing is just speak to the GP/ medical professional about it.

Edited

Most GPs will give a flat 'No'- so many posts here along these lines.

I'm sharing experience from a menopause specialist who trains other drs. OP can take it or leave that, I know, but her GP will most probably want to work within the licensing which is only to take it orally.

OchonAgusOchonOh · 17/02/2025 08:58

My GP told me I could take it either vaginally or orally.She also said that in France most women take it vaginally.

JinglingSpringbells · 17/02/2025 09:44

OchonAgusOchonOh · 17/02/2025 08:58

My GP told me I could take it either vaginally or orally.She also said that in France most women take it vaginally.

They do and have for years and years. But in the UK it's not licensed as such so GPs are prescribing it off-licence. Some are happy to do this, others not.

CharlieFarley2 · 18/02/2025 08:00

Hmm, seems to be a contentious issue!

OP posts:
JinglingSpringbells · 18/02/2025 08:12

CharlieFarley2 · 18/02/2025 08:00

Hmm, seems to be a contentious issue!

It's only contentious because some GPs want to stick with the licensing which is for oral use only. It's laughable really as consultants who know far more (mine's been prescribing it vaginally for 20 years!) think otherwise.

If you ask your GP they may say 'No' but the point is (as many posters here have pointed out in the past) how would they know what you do with it?

The British Menopause Society has a report/statement out on progesterone in HRT and they say vaginal use is acceptable for women who find oral =side effects.

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