Estradiol acetate is an estrogen hormone medication that is commonly prescribed to women who are undergoing menopause to alleviate moderate to severe symptoms, such as vaginal discomfort and hot flashes. It may help relieve these symptoms by providing the body with estrogen hormones, because a menopausal woman cannot make enough of them naturally.
This medicine is available in the form of a ring inserted into the vagina. It is effective for three months, after which the doctor may either recommend that the patient insert a new ring or discontinue treatment. Patients should wash their hands thoroughly before and after inserting the ring, which should be placed into the upper portion of the vagina. After three months, a patient may remove it by inserting a finger through the device and pulling it.
Some women may notice that the ring moves out of position. It may be pushed back into place with a clean finger. If the estradiol acetate ring falls out of the vagina entirely, patients should rinse the device and re-insert it. Women wearing an estradiol acetate ring will still be able to engage in sexual intercourse.
Before using estradiol acetate, patients should discuss serious safety concerns with their doctors. Taking estrogen may increase a woman's risk of developing uterine and ovarian cancer, particularly when the patient does not take the hormone progestin along with estrogen. When both of these hormones are taken together, the patient may rarely have an increased risk of developing a stroke, dangerous blood clots, and heart disease. Women using estradiol acetate should have regular check-ups and physical examinations. The hormone should be used for the briefest time possible to help reduce the risk of these complications.
Estradiol acetate may cause some side effects, which should be reported to the prescribing physician if they become bothersome. It may cause breast tenderness, weight changes, and an increased or decreased libido. Some women may experience nausea, stomach upset, and dizziness.
More serious side effects are rare, but require immediate medical help. These can include slurred speech, a sudden severe headache, and weakness on one side of the body. Some women may notice breast lumps, vision changes, or pelvic pain. Unusual vaginal bleeding can also occur, along with mood changes and swelling of the hands or feet. Toxic shock syndrome (TSS) has also been rarely reported, which may cause fainting, severe dizziness, and a high fever.
Before using estradiol acetate to alleviate symptoms of menopause, patients must disclose all their other medications, supplements, and medical conditions. It is not intended for use by women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. Estradiol acetate may be contraindicated for use by those who have diabetes, seizures, or blood disorders. This hormone may interact with other medications, including St. John's wort, antifungals, and certain antibiotics.