Detailed definition
Estradiol vaginal cream (0.01% Estrace) and conjugated equine estrogens cream (Premarin Vaginal Cream, 0.625 mg/g) are intravaginal estrogen preparations. Typical regimens are an induction phase of nightly application for 1–2 weeks followed by maintenance dosing 2–3 times weekly. Estrace cream typical maintenance dose is 0.5–1 g (containing 50–100 mcg estradiol). Cream offers flexibility — it can be applied to the vulva and introitus as well as inside the vagina, useful for women whose pain is at the entry rather than deeper. Some serum estradiol absorption occurs but typically remains within or slightly above postmenopausal baseline at standard doses.
Why it matters in menopause
Vaginal cream is often the most flexible vaginal estrogen format, particularly for women whose dominant symptom is vulvar/introital irritation rather than deeper vaginal symptoms.
Related terms
Sources
External references: Wikipedia.