Vagifem (estradiol vaginal tablets) is considered a pregnancy Category X medication, which means it should not be used intentionally during pregnancy. Vagifem does not appear to increase the risk of birth defects, but the full risks are not known. Also, there is no legitimate medical reason for a woman to take the drug during pregnancy. If you are using Vagifem and pregnancy occurs, contact your healthcare provider.
Vagifem and Pregnancy: An Overview
Vagifem and Pregnancy Category X
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) uses a category system to classify the possible risks to a fetus when a specific medicine is taken during pregnancy. Pregnancy Category X is the most serious rating and is given to medications that should never be used during pregnancy, usually due to serious problems that could occur, such as birth defects or miscarriages.
Despite that fact that Vagifem is considered a Category X medication, the estrogen in Vagifem (estradiol) does not appear to increase the risk of birth defects or other problems. However, because the risks are not fully understood, and because there is no accepted, legitimate medical reason for pregnant women to use Vagifem, it should not be used during pregnancy. Estrogens are not effective at preventing miscarriages, even though they were used for such uses many years ago.
Vagifem and Pregnancy: Final Thoughts
Pregnant women should not use Vagifem. If you used the drug for a while before realizing you were pregnant, it should not cause any problems, although you should discuss this with your healthcare provider. If you think you may be pregnant, you should contact your healthcare provider for further instructions.
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