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Gina is a low-dose oestrogen HRT for women experiencing menopause related vaginal discomfort.

What does it do? 

It can alleviate dryness, soreness, itching, burning and uncomfortable sex in women over 50 who have not had period for at least a year. 

The drug slowly releases estradiol, the type of oestrogen mainly produced by the ovaries, directly into the vaginal tissue.

This replaces the oestrogen that women's bodies produce in this area prior to going through menopause.  

How do you take it?

In the initial course of treatment women insert one tablet into their vagina daily for a fortnight.

They then transition to a maintenance course of one tablet twice a week. 

Does it have any side effects?

The most common side effects reported are abdominal pain, vaginal discharge, vaginal discomfort and vaginal bleeding.

Cases of vaginal bleeding in particular need to be seen by a GP to rule out anything more serious.  

Serious side effects are from taking the medication are considered rare.

Is there an increased risk of breast cancer from using Gina?

No. Some forms of HRT that release female sex hormones into the bloodstream, like skin patches and gels, have been linked to a small increased risk of breast cancer.

As the vaginal tablets only release hormones directly into the surrounding tissue very little enters the bloodstream so they are not considered to increase the risk of breast cancer.