Ovestin 1mg/g Vaginal Cream With Applicator

What is Ovestin cream?

Ovestin 1mg/g vaginal cream is a HRT treatment used to relieve vaginal dryness, irritation, and discomfort caused by the menopause. It contains estriol, a form of oestrogen, and comes with an applicator so you can apply it directly where it's needed.

Unlike oral tablets or patches, Ovestin works locally in the vagina and has low systemic absorption (meaning only very low amounts are absorbed into the bloodstream), particularly after the initial treatment phase. Because of this, it’s less likely to affect the rest of the body compared with systemic HRT.

What is Ovestin vaginal cream used for?

Ovestin is mainly used to treat vaginal atrophy. That's the medical term for what happens when falling oestrogen levels cause the vaginal walls to become thin, dry, and irritated. You might also hear it called genitourinary syndrome of the menopause, or GSM. It's a common symptom around and after the menopause.

Ovestin can help with vaginal symptoms like:

• dryness
• discomfort
• irritation
• pain during sex

How long does it take Ovestin cream to work?

Ovestin cream doesn't tend to work overnight. In fact, it may take several days or weeks before you feel an improvement, which is completely normal.

For the first two to three weeks, you'll use the cream every day. This helps build oestrogen levels back up in the vaginal tissue. After that, you switch to twice a week.

Benefits of using Ovestin cream

Because Ovestin works locally in the vagina rather than circulating through your whole body, it's a gentler form of HRT for many people.

Beyond relieving vaginal dryness and discomfort, regular use can help restore vaginal tissue affected by low oestrogen levels. Sex can become more comfortable again, and for some people, urinary symptoms linked to vaginal changes also improve with treatment.

Ovestin can also be used before and after vaginal surgery to support better wound healing.

How to use Ovestin vaginal cream

Always use Ovestin exactly as your prescriber has directed or as described in the patient information leaflet. It comes with a clear plastic applicator alongside the cream.

Filling the applicator

1. Remove the cap from the tube and flip it upside down. Use the sharp point on the cap to pierce and open the tube.
2. Screw the applicator onto the open end of the tube.
3. Gently squeeze the tube to fill the applicator up to the red ring mark. The plunger stops automatically here, so you know you've got the right dose.
4. Unscrew the applicator, replace the cap on the tube, and you're ready to go.

Applying the cream

Lie down on your back, gently insert the tip of the applicator into your vagina as far as it's comfortable, and slowly push the plunger all the way in. The best time to do this is just before bed as the cream stays in place and gets to work while you sleep.

Cleaning up

Pull the plunger out of the barrel after use and wash both parts in warm, soapy water. Rinse well and leave to dry. Don't use detergents and don't put the applicator in boiling water.

How much and how often

For vaginal dryness and atrophy, you'll use one applicator per day for the first 2-3 weeks, then drop down to twice a week going forward. Your prescriber will confirm the right routine for you.

If you're using Ovestin ahead of vaginal surgery (for prolapse), the usual approach is one applicator daily for two weeks before the operation. After surgery, wait at least two weeks before starting again, then use it twice a week going forward.

If you miss a dose

Apply it as soon as you remember. If it's been more than 12 hours since your missed dose, skip it and carry on as normal.

Can you use Ovestin cream externally?

Ovestin is intended to be applied inside the vagina using the applicator, unless your prescriber advises otherwise.

Side effects of Ovestin cream

Like any medicine, Ovestin can cause side effects, though not everyone gets them. Because it works locally rather than throughout the body, the risk of systemic side effects is lower than with other forms of HRT.

Side effects may include:

• vaginal irritation or itching when you first start using it
• increased vaginal discharge, bleeding, or light spotting
• breast swelling, tenderness, or discomfort
• headaches
• nausea and vomiting
• flu-like symptoms
• skin rash or increased sensitivity to sunlight

Although it’s usually nothing to worry about, if you get any bleeding or spotting while using Ovestin, you should book an appointment to see your GP. It could be a sign that your womb lining (endometrium) has become thicker.

For further information on side effects, including potentially serious side effects, please refer to the patient information leaflet.

When not to use Ovestin cream

Ovestin isn't suitable for everyone. Don't use it if you:

• are allergic to estriol or any of the other listed ingredients
• have or have ever had breast cancer, or there's a suspicion you might have it
• have a cancer that's sensitive to oestrogens, like cancer of the womb lining
• have unexplained vaginal bleeding
• have excessive thickening of the womb lining that isn't being treated
• have or have ever had a blood clot in the legs or lungs
• have a blood clotting disorder, like protein C, protein S, or antithrombin deficiency
• have or recently had a heart attack, stroke, or angina
• have liver disease and your liver function tests haven't returned to normal
• have a rare inherited blood condition called porphyria

Ovestin isn't suitable during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Ovestin also isn’t a contraceptive, so if there's any chance you could still become pregnant, speak to your prescriber about additional contraception.

Storage information

• Store it below 25°C at room temperature.
• Don't freeze it.
• Keep it out of the reach and sight of children.
• Don't use it after the expiry date on the pack.
• If the cream looks discoloured or shows any signs of deterioration, check with your pharmacist before using it.
• Don't dispose of it in household waste or down the sink. Your pharmacist can advise you on how to get rid of it safely.

Alternatives to Ovestin cream

Ovestin works well for a lot of people, but it's not the only option. There are other creams available, including those in a lower strength that you can get over-the-counter. But if creams aren't for you, there are also tablets and pessaries you can explore.

Other vaginal oestrogen creams

• Ovesse cream 1mg/g: Contains the same active ingredient as Ovestin (estriol 1mg/g) and works in the same way. However, Ovesse is available over-the-counter, unlike Ovestin.
• Generic estriol 1mg/g cream: This is the unbranded version of Ovestin and Ovesse. It contains the same active ingredient at the same strength, so it works in exactly the same way as Ovestin and may be available at a lower cost.
• Generic estriol 0.01% cream: Another unbranded alternative, but it contains a lower concentration of estriol.

Vaginal tablets and pessaries

• Vagifem vaginal tablets 10mcg: A prescription-only estradiol tablet that you insert into the vagina using an applicator. It's a popular alternative for those who prefer a less messy option to cream.
• Gina vaginal tablets 10mcg: Contains the same active ingredient as Vagifem (estradiol) and is available to buy over-the-counter without a prescription. Although it’s the same strength as Vagifem, Gina contains fewer tablets.

Blissel gel vs Ovestin

Blissel and Ovestin are both used for vaginal dryness and atrophy, but they come in different formulations.

Ovestin is a prescription-only hormonal cream. It contains estriol and works by restoring oestrogen to the vaginal tissue, helping improve moisture, elasticity, and thickness. Because it treats the underlying hormonal cause, it’s effective for moderate to severe symptoms.

Blissel is another prescription-only, hormonal treatment containing estriol, but it comes as a water-based gel rather than a cream. It works in the same way by replacing local oestrogen in the vaginal tissue.

Some people might prefer the lighter gel texture of Blissel, especially if they find creams too heavy or messy. But it all comes down to personal preference and which one your prescriber thinks is the best option for you.

Frequently asked questions about Ovestin cream

Does Ovestin cream cause weight gain?

No, weight gain isn't a known side effect of Ovestin. Because it works locally with very low absorption into the bloodstream, it's much less likely to affect things like weight compared to systemic HRT.

That said, weight changes around the menopause are common regardless of whether you're using any treatment.

Can you use Ovestin cream for bladder problems?

Ovestin is primarily prescribed for vaginal symptoms, but it can have a positive effect on bladder symptoms, too.

The same drop in oestrogen that causes vaginal atrophy can affect the urethra and bladder, leading to urgency, more frequent urination, discomfort when weeing, or recurring urinary tract infections (UTIs).

Which is stronger, Ovestin or Vagifem?

Both are vaginal oestrogen treatments, but they contain different types. Ovestin contains estriol, while Vagifem contains estradiol. Both are used at fairly low doses and both are effective for vaginal atrophy.

The right choice comes down to your symptoms, medical history, and personal preference. If you're unsure, your GP or prescriber can help you decide which is best for you.

Sources

• Patient Information Leaflet. MHRA. [Accessed 8th May 2026].
• Menopause. (2022). NHS. [Accessed 8th May 2026].
• Vaginal Dryness. (2025). NHS. [Accessed 8th May 2026].
• Long-term use of ovestin by postmenopausal women with urinary incontinence. (2003). PubMed. [Accessed 8th May 2026].