Pelvic Health

The pelvic area of a female body includes many structures including connective tissues and organs. This region supports and controls many important bodily functions including bladder, bowel, sexual function, but also overall stability and supportive movement of the body. Pelvic health is not just limited to periods and pregnancy. 


Pelvic health is affected by hormonal change throughout the lifespan eg lower estrogen on the genital tissues pre-pubertal, with during breastfeeding, and in the menopause but also by other organs and bodily functions. For example a chronic cough puts extra pressure on the pelvic floor, and straining to do a poo can cause a prolapse. When managing pelvic floor health issues all aspects of health need to be considered. 

a woman wearing a pink shirt and blue jeans has her hands on her hips
PODCAST: Vaginal dryness

PODCAST: Vaginal dryness
EXPERIENCE: Recurrent genital thrush

EXPERIENCE: Recurrent genital thrush
MEDICATION: Topical estrogen cream

MEDICATION: Topical estrogen cream
PELVIC FLOOR PHYSIOTHERAPY

PELVIC FLOOR PHYSIOTHERAPY
RESOURCE: Bladder and bowel diary

RESOURCE: Bladder and bowel diary
RESOURCE: Bowel function

RESOURCE: Bowel function
UNDERSTAND: Prolapse

UNDERSTAND: Prolapse
UNDERSTAND: Masturbat!on

UNDERSTAND: Masturbat!on
SYMPTOM: Itchy vagina

SYMPTOM: Itchy vagina
DIAGNOSIS: Is it really a urinary tract infection?

DIAGNOSIS: Is it really a urinary tract infection?
UNDERSTAND: Coffee

UNDERSTAND: Coffee

  • Can I have vaginal estrogen if I have had breast cancer?

    Vaginal estrogen cream delivers a very low dose of estrogen directly to the tissues of the vagina, which means it is primarily absorbed locally. Unlike systemic hormone therapy, which circulates estrogen throughout the entire body, vaginal estrogen remains mostly in the vaginal area and has minimal absorption into the bloodstream.


    Because the amount of estrogen entering the body is so small, it doesn't significantly affect hormone-sensitive tissues like the breasts. This localized action reduces the risk of estrogen-related side effects, such as an increased risk of breast cancer, which is a concern with higher doses of systemic hormone replacement therapy (HRT). 


    For most women, especially those using low-dose vaginal estrogen, the risk of breast cancer is not elevated, making it a safer option for treating vaginal symptoms of menopause. However, it’s always important to discuss individual risks with a healthcare provider.

  • Is there a milder form of Ovestin?

    There is a milder, less strong form of Ovestin/vaginal estogen cream available world wide, however Ovestin is the only form available in NZ.


    Vagifem can indeed be considered a milder form of estrogen therapy compared to Ovestin. While Ovestin contains estriol, Vagifem contains estradiol, which is delivered in a lower dose and more localized manner. Vagifem 10 mcg vaginal inserts can be imported into New Zealand, though they may not be readily available over the counter.


    For those seeking an even milder approach, there are a couple of options to consider:

    • Reduced application frequency: Instead of using Vagifem daily, you can use it less frequently as directed by your healthcare provider. Typically, after the initial two weeks of daily use, Vagifem is used twice weekly for maintenance.
    • Lower dose application: While it's not officially recommended, you could use half of a Ovestin dose.  
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