Estring is a vaginal ring used to treat symptoms caused by menopause such as burning, dryness or itching in or around the vaginal area, and hot flashes. Although some menopausal women find the Estring ring effective at relieving their unpleasant symptoms, others suffer from medical complications after using the product. Women should always discuss the potential benefits and risks of the Estring ring with their doctors before using it.
Estrogen Risks
Women who use products containing estrogen, like the Estring ring, may increase their risks of heart disease, heart attacks, strokes, blood clots, dementia, breast cancer and uterine cancer, according to Drugs.com. Women who are already at an increased risk of these medical complications due to other factors should consider exploring other treatment options with their doctors.
Toxic Shock Syndrome
A few patients who have used vaginal rings developed a condition called toxic shock syndrome, or TSS, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Although this condition is rare, it is quite serious and even life-threatening in some cases. Symptoms of toxic shock syndrome may include muscle pain, nausea, vomiting, fever, fainting, sunburn-like rash, dizziness or diarrhea. Women should call their doctors immediately if they suspect they may have toxic shock syndrome.
Allergic Reaction
The Estring ring may cause a severe allergic reaction in some women. Symptoms of an allergic reaction to the Estring ring can include hives, itching, difficulty breathing, hives, tightness in the chest, or swelling of the tongue, lips, mouth or face. Women experiencing these symptoms should seek medical attention immediately.
Vaginal Issues
Estring ring may become attached to the vaginal wall, which makes removing it difficult. It also may cause vaginal discomfort. Women experiencing these conditions should contact their doctors for advice.
Dizziness
Dizziness may occur while using the Estring ring, especially when taken with alcohol or certain other medications that cause dizziness. Women should be cautious about driving and performing other tasks requiring steadiness or alertness until they know how Estring ring affects them.
Drug Interactions
The Estring ring may interact negatively with other medications. Although individuals should always report all over-the-counter and prescription medications to a doctor to prevent the likelihood of these interactions, those taking barbiturates, hydantoins, rifampin, anticoagulants, azole antifungals, corticosteroids, macrolide antibiotics, ritonavir, tacrine or succinylcholine should be particularly cautious, warns Drugs.com.
