Keywords: vagina vaginal discharge vulva vulvar itch itching sensitivity estrogen hormone menopause estradiol oestradiol side effects complications rash premarin

It is not unusual for elderly women who have not used estrogen or who have been post-menopausal for many years to report sensitivity of the vulva including itching, irritation, and hypersensitivity of the skin when they are placed back on estrogen. This occurs because of the increased blood flow to these tissues. They may also report a change in vaginal discharge. If the discharge is white and there are no external skin rashes, this is probably perfectly normal. These side effects will also disappear after several months of use. When in doubt about this, however, checking with your health care provider is always wise. Once again, switching to the lowest possible dose of estrogen such as Premarin 0.3 mg, for several months may be helpful.

Drs. Caroline Dott and Andrew Dott are professional lecturers and teachers with a special interest in the interactions between the biological and psychological basis of human behavior at midlife.   Among their lecture topics are female and male menopause, the hormonal basis of human behavior, and issues related to depression and anxiety.  They are available to travel and give seminars on the topics covered in this website both nationally and internationally.