Written by Dr. Decarolis, ND
Naturopathic Doctor at IVitality
Supplementing patients with our most bio-active form of estrogen, estradiol (also known as E2), assists with symptoms like brain fog, irritability/mood swings, hot flashes, night sweats, chronic UTIs, and vaginal dryness. Most patients see benefits within the first week of treatment in these areas, with some cases though patients need extra support, or it is not indicated for them to take estradiol.
Estriol (also known as E3) is a weaker form of estrogen that can still be used clinically. It has great benefits when used vaginally for dryness and irritation. We use estriol when patients are still experiencing vaginal dryness, but a resolution of their other symptoms of low estrogen. Vaginal estriol assists with increasing lubrication as well as tissue elasticity, without affecting systemic blood levels of estrogen.
Patients often wonder if using vaginal estriol will negatively affect their partner through direct absorption, the answer to this is no. When applied topically, estriol will not be absorbed in significant enough amounts to cause any symptoms with partners who come in contact with the medication.
The estriol is applied as a cream to the vaginal canal using an internal applicator, as well as to the labia externally. Some patients utilize the cream daily to treat irritation, tissue thinning, or dryness, while others will use the cream as needed for support with intercourse.
