Question 37
Dr N,
My question is about a woman who has had a hysterectomy that uses HRT such as premarin vaginal cream has sexual activity with her husband. Is her husband likely to experience side effects of premarin vag cream? Is this possible?
Reply:
Hi,
Estrogen vaginal cream is readily absorbed by the penis. If the cream is placed in the vagina and intercourse takes place soon after, absorption through the skin and mucous membrane of the penis can occur and result in amounts in the circulation sufficient to cause feminization and impotence. The actual occurrence of feminizing changes and impotence would be dependent on the amount and potency of the estrogen vaginal cream used and the frequency of exposure to the male partner.
Dr N