How to use vaginal oestrogen cream – menopausal hormone therapy

On this page, you can find out how to use vaginal oestrogen cream, including step-by-step instructions and tips for safe and effective use.
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  • Last updated:
    May 7 2026
  • Last reviewed:
    May 7 2026
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What is vaginal oestrogen cream?

Menopausal hormone therapy (MHT) is used to treat menopausal symptoms. There are different types of MHT, including vaginal oestrogen cream.

Vaginal oestrogen cream is also called topical vaginal oestrogen. It contains a low dose of oestrogen. It’s mainly used for:

  • vaginal dryness and itching
  • painful sex
  • some urinary symptoms, such as a burning feeling when you wee, needing to wee urgently and getting urinary tract infections often.

In Australia, vaginal oestrogen cream comes in a tube with a reusable applicator for measuring and inserting the correct dose. The cream is applied directly into the vagina.

Vaginal oestrogen cream is only effective for managing bladder, vaginal and vulval symptoms. It can be used alone or with other forms of MHT.

It may take 8 weeks of treatment to get the best effect.

How to use vaginal oestrogen cream

Before you start

It’s important to know how often to use the cream. Talk to your doctor to find out.

Using the cream before bed reduces leakage, but you can still expect some. You can use a panty liner to protect your underwear.

1. Wash and dry your hands

Before handling the tube of cream or applicator, wash and dry your hands.

2. Open the tube

To open the tube for the first time:

  • remove the cap from the tube
  • turn the cap upside down
  • use the sharp point of the cap to make a hole in the tube.

3. Prepare the applicator

  • Attach the applicator to the tube.
  • Gently squeeze cream into the applicator until it reaches the marked dose line.
  • Remove the applicator and recap the tube.

 

4. Get into a comfortable position

For example, stand with one foot raised on a ledge, chair or toilet seat, or lie on your back with your knees bent.

 

 

5. Insert the cream

Use your thumb and pointer finger to spread the lips of your vulva. The vulva is the outside part of the female genitals.

  • Gently insert the applicator into your vagina as far as it will comfortably go. Insert it at an angle, aiming slightly towards your lower back.
  • Slowly press the plunger (inner rod) all the way in to release the cream. Most of the cream should stay inside your vagina.
  • Remove the applicator from your vagina.

6. Clean the applicator

  • Pull the plunger out of the barrel (outer tube) of the applicator.
  • Wash both parts with warm, soapy water.
  • Rinse well and dry thoroughly.
  • Do not use detergents.
  • Do not put applicator into hot or boiling water.

7. Wash your hands again

8. Store the applicator

When dry, put the plunger back into the applicator barrel ready for next time.

This information is based on commonly used medicines in Australia. Always follow medicine instructions and advice of your doctor, pharmacist or health professional.

Funded by the Australian Government through the Quality Use of Diagnostics, Therapeutics and Pathology Program.

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