Estring Side Effects

Based on clinical studies, common side effects of Estring include headaches, a milky white vaginal discharge, and vaginal yeast infections. In most cases, these side effects are minor and are typically easy to treat. However, serious Estring side effects are also possible. Make sure to notify your healthcare provider immediately if you develop any serious problems, such as chest pain, vision changes, or heavy vaginal bleeding.

 

An Introduction to Estring Side Effects

Just like any medicine, Estring® (estradiol vaginal ring) can cause side effects. However, not everyone who takes the drug will experience side effects. In fact, most women tolerate it quite well. If Estring side effects do occur, in most cases, they are minor and either require no treatment or are easily treated by you or your healthcare provider.
 
(This article covers many, but not all, of the possible side effects with Estring. Your healthcare provider can discuss a more complete list of Estring side effects with you.)
 

Common Side Effects of Estring

Estring has been studied thoroughly in clinical trials. In these studies, Estring was compared to an estrogen vaginal cream instead of a placebo (a "sugar pill" with no active ingredients). Because Estring was not compared to a placebo, it is difficult to say with certainty that any of the common Estring side effects discussed in this article are really due to Estring. Many of these "side effects" might not really be side effects at all; they may be due to completely unrelated factors.
 
In these studies, the most common side effects of Estring included:
 
  • Headaches -- in up to 13 percent of women
  • A milky white vaginal discharge -- up to 7 percent
  • Vaginal yeast infections -- up to 6 percent
  • Back pain -- up to 6 percent
  • Upper respiratory tract infections (such as the common cold) -- up to 5 percent
  • Vaginal irritation or infection -- up to 5 percent
  • Vaginal discomfort or pain -- up to 5 percent.
     
Other possible side effects (occurring in 1 to 4 percent of women) included:
 
(Estring Side Effects Continued: Page 2)
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;