As my breast cancer was estrogen fed I can no longer use Vagifem pessaries. I have suffered in the past with terrible vaginal dryness. My vulva area was so sore It was painful to sit. What can I use now?
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As my breast cancer was estrogen fed I can no longer use Vagifem pessaries. I have suffered in the past with terrible vaginal dryness. My vulva area was so sore It was painful to sit. What can I use now?
Hi Fanny,
Thank for getting in touch and welcome to the online community, my name is Fiona and I’m one of the Cancer Information Nurse Specialists.
I’m sorry to hear that you’re worried about this. Vaginal dryness is very common after treatment for breast cancer and can make you feel pretty miserable, however there is a lot of information and support available for you. Breast Cancer Now has some detailed advice and suggestions about how to manage this. Remember that vaginal moisturisers work differently to lubricants; you may have to try a few products before finding the right one for you but it is worth persevering with this.
As you mentioned, it is recommended that vaginal oestrogens are to be avoided, as a small amount of oestrogen is absorbed through the vaginal wall. However, if you are taking tamoxifen rather than one of the aromatoase inhibitors you may be able to be prescribed this as there is some evidence to suggest that tamoxifen cancels this out, so please do have a discussion with your Oncologist or Breast Care Nurse.
The hope is that the correct moisturisers, lubricants or local oestrogen will keep you comfortable, but do plan ahead to make sure that you manage pain effectively if you have it.
You might find it helpful to join our Breast Cancer Forum. It’s a safe space in which to find support from others.
Please do not hesitate to contact us again. You may also find it helpful to speak to one of our Cancer Information Nurse Specialist on the support line who would be able to discuss this with you in more detail.
I hope this information is helpful but if you have any more questions please don’t hesitate to get back in touch.
Best wishes,
Fiona S
Cancer Information Nurse Specialist
You can also speak with the Macmillan Support Line team of experts. Phone free on 0808 808 0000 (7 days a week, 8am-8pm) or email us.
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