The effect of estradiol vaginal tablet and conjugated estrogen cream on urogenital symptoms in postmenopausal women: a comparative study.
OBJECTIVE
To compare the effects of estradiol vaginal tablet with conjugated estrogen cream on urogenital symptoms, vaginal health index, vaginal cytology, endometrial thickness, and plasma estradiol level in postmenopausal women.


METHODS
Fifty-three women with urogenital symptoms were randomized to local vaginal treatment of 25 microg estradiol tablet or 1 g of conjugated estrogen cream for 12 weeks. They were assessed for urogenital symptoms, vaginal health index, vaginal cytology, endometrial thickness and estradiol level.


RESULTS
Forty-eight women completed the treatment. Both groups showed improvement of urogenital symptoms, vaginal health index, and vaginal cytology after the first 4 weeks of treatment. Conjugated estrogen cream showed superior efficacy in alleviating vaginal dryness and dyspareunia. Two cases of endometrial proliferation were noted.


CONCLUSIONS
Estradiol vaginal tablet and conjugated estrogen cream were effective in treating urogenital symptoms, the restoration of normal vaginal epithelium and reduction of vaginal pH in postmenopausal women. However, 2 cases of endometrial proliferation were noted.
Manonai
J
J
Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, Ramathibodi Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand.
Theppisai
U
U
Suthutvoravut
S
S
Udomsubpayakul
U
U
Chittacharoen
A
A
D000282:Administration, Intravaginal; D004717:Endometrium / Q000187:drug effects; D004958:Estradiol / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D004966:Estrogens, Conjugated (USP) / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008875:Middle Aged; D017698:Postmenopause; D013607:Tablets; D014526:Urethritis / Q000188:drug therapy*; D014621:Vagina / Q000166:cytology / Q000187:drug effects*; D014622:Vaginal Creams, Foams, and Jellies; D014627:Vaginitis / Q000188:drug therapy*
D004966:Estrogens, Conjugated (USP); D013607:Tablets; D014622:Vaginal Creams, Foams, and Jellies; D004958:Estradiol