Key takeaways
Estradiol vaginal insert (Vagifem) and tyopical estradiol gel (Divigel) are both estrogen replacement medications used to treat symptoms of menopause, but they differ in their specific uses and forms. Estradiol vaginal insert is used for vaginal symptoms only, such as dryness or painful intercourse. It's typically insert once daily for 2 weeks, then twice a week therafter. Estradiol gel is applied topically to the skin once daily and treats bodywide menopause symptoms, such as hot flashes and night sweats. Common side effects of the vaginal insert include vaginal yeast infections and back pain, while estradiol gel may cause breast tenderness and abnormal vaginal bleeding. Both medications carry risks of serious side effects like blood clots and certain cancers, and you may need to take a progestin if you have a uterus to lower the risk of uterine cancer.
