Introduction
Estrogen cream is a popular treatment for vaginal dryness, itching, and burning, as well as other menopausal symptoms. In this article, we will discuss the benefits of applying estrogen cream with your finger, provide you with a step-by-step guide to how it’s done, address common mistakes to avoid, and offer expert tips to make the process more comfortable. This article is targeted towards women who want to know more about the effective and proper way to use estrogen cream.
A Step-by-Step Guide to Applying Estrogen Cream with Your Finger
Follow these easy to do steps to apply estrogen cream with your finger:
1. Start with clean hands
Before beginning, it is important to wash your hands with soap and water. Make sure that your hands are dry before proceeding to the next step.
2. Squeeze a pea-sized amount of cream onto your finger
Remove the cap from the estrogen cream tube and gently squeeze out a pea-sized amount of the cream onto your finger. Use only the recommended amount as prescribed by your healthcare provider.
3. Slowly insert your finger into the vagina
With your finger extended, slowly insert it into your vagina. Move your finger in a circular motion while applying gentle pressure to ensure even distribution of the cream. Females new to the process may want to utilise a hand mirror to gain visibility in a comfortable position.
4. Rub the inside of the vagina with the cream for about a minute
For optimal results, apply the estrogen cream for at least one minute, rubbing the inside walls of the vagina gently.
5. Ensure that the cream is evenly distributed
Make sure that the cream is evenly spread throughout your vaginal walls and not just covering one area or being rubbed off. You can use your finger to do a final check for adequate coverage.
Dos and Don’ts of Applying Estrogen Cream with Your Finger
Here are some guidelines for correct use of estrogen cream with your finger:
Do: Wash your hands thoroughly before and after application
Hand hygiene is crucial before and after applying the estrogen cream. Make sure to wash your hands with soap and water, and dry them thoroughly with a clean towel before and after application.
Do: Use a fresh, clean finger every time you apply the cream
Use a clean finger for every application. Avoid using two fingers or a different finger for the subsequent applications. By doing so, you could introduce bacteria to your vagina. It is vital that you ensure cleanliness at all times.
Don’t: Insert your finger too deep into the vagina
It is necessary to only insert your finger as deep as it takes to get the job done. Do not force your finger too far, as it can damage the vaginal muscles and reduce the effectiveness of the therapy. In case of any extreme discomfort, please contact your healthcare provider immediately.
Don’t: Apply too much or too little cream
Applying too much cream can lead to messy discharge and can result in ineffectiveness of the treatment. Applying too little cream can cause a missed dose. Always check with your healthcare provider to see what is recommended for you before applying the cream. Do not self-medicate or self-dose.
Why Applying Estrogen Cream with Your Finger is More Effective Than Using an Applicator
It has been suggested that using your finger to apply estrogen cream is more effective than using a plastic applicator. This is due to the limitations of applicator usage like insertion depth, uneven distribution, and discomfort caused by the applicator itself.
When you apply the cream with your finger, you have better control and can feel the internal texture and spread of the cream. Thus you can ensure that it is adequately applied throughout the vagina, which enhances absorption and optimises results.
The Benefits of Using Your Finger to Apply Estrogen Cream
Better Control
When applied with a finger, you have better control over how deep the cream is applied and ascertain that it’s distributed uniformly.
More Comfortable
Using your finger to apply estrogen cream can be more comfortable than using an applicator as vaginal walls may not react well to foreign objects. Using fingertips ensures that the cream does not irritate the vagina walls as well as variable depth adjustments.
Easier to Use
Applying estrogen cream with your finger is simple and straightforward, without the need for an applicator, you can check on the amount of cream to cater to your needs, and adjust the depth as you feel necessary.
Addressing Stigma
There’s no need for any stigma over applying estrogen cream with your finger, as it’s a common, practical process recommended by healthcare providers due to ease, more uniform application and better absorption.
How to Measure the Right Amount of Estrogen Cream While Applying With Your Finger
The amount of estrogen cream you need to use will vary based on your specific prescription. Doctors typically suggest applying a pea-sized amount of cream twice a week. To measure the right amount to apply, use the markings on the applicator or gauge the quantity by applying the cream with your finger until experience allows for reliable judgement.
Common Mistakes to Avoid While Applying Estrogen Cream with Your Finger
Improper Dosage
Applying too little or too much cream can result in an ineffective treatment. Using an inappropriate dose can lead to health risks, so it’s important to stick to prescribed limits and follow the instructions of the healthcare provider.
Inadequate Coverage
Taking insufficient caution when applying estrogen cream with your finger can lead to areas of inadequate coverage. To avoid this, make sure that the cream is evenly distributed to ensure that all areas of the vagina are covered. Double-check your work to ensure you didn’t skip applicating in any area.
Hygiene Issues
It’s essential to ensure adequate hygiene before and after applying estrogen cream with your finger. Always wash your hands thoroughly before and after application to prevent the introduction of bacteria. Avoid using towels or tissues that can carry bacteria, and do not reuse or share your applicator or finger with others. Clean your hands and the application area after the procedure to reduce the risk of potential infections.
Expert Tips for Comfortable and Effective Application of Estrogen Cream with Your Finger
Lubrication Helps
Utilising a small amount of water-based lubricant can make the process effortless, comfortable and smoother.
Choose the Right Time
Try to apply estrogen cream at nightly intervals so that adequate time is given for recovery and healing. Beneficial to apply estrogen cream after passing urine or during a shower, which improves the comfort factor.
Consult Your Healthcare Provider
Consulting a healthcare provider can help determine the most appropriate way to apply estrogen cream, based on individual factors, such as comfort level, skin sensitivity, and menopause symptoms.
Conclusion
Applying estrogen cream with your finger is a straightforward and practical process that is recommended by healthcare providers and popular with women experiencing menopause symptoms. Using the proper dosage, distribution, and hygiene are crucial to effective treatment with estrogen cream. It is essential to consult with your healthcare provider to determine the appropriate prescription for you to ensure proper treatment. Always use clean hands, apply with care, and with confidence to get the most out of estrogen cream treatments.
