Vaginal dryness & menopause

Vaginal dryness can affectwomen at any age of life but after the menopause it can affect well over 50% ofwomen. But despite the high number of women who experience the issue, many feelembarrassed about talking about it with friends, partners, doctors or otherhealth professionals. Only 25% of women suffering from the condition actuallyseek treatment. If we consider that women can spend over 1/3 of their lifeeither perimenopausal or menopausal its important to make sure that they can maintaina good quality of life

Vaginal dryness is largely caused by a drop in estrogen levels. Estrogenhelps maintain the thickness and elasticity of the vaginal walls and promotesnatural lubrication. When estrogen declines—either during perimenopause,menopause, or post menopause—those tissues can become thinner,drier, and less elastic.

Some common symptoms to look outfor include:

• Loss of lubrication and painful intercourse – the thinning of the     skin around the vagina can make it prone to damage. This damage can occur     during sex. The chances of this damage is increased by poor lubrication.     Pain during intercourse can then have an affect on sexual desire and drive     which can in turn lead to an emotional impact and confusion for those     involved
• Itching or discomfort during daily activities – the discomfort     brought about by vaginal dryness can make it uncomfortable to go about simple     daily activities like walking, sitting etc..
• Increased risk of urinary tract infections (UTIs)
• Changes to vaginal discharge – a lot of women find a significant difference     in both the appearance, regularity and smell from discharge. These symptoms     can be worrying but are simply down to the hormonal changes that are     happening in the body

These symptoms coupled with other things going on at this stage of lifecan lead to confusion and concern. But recognising that it is normal and commonis the first step to helping yourself and not letting it have a detrimental affecton your life. The next steps are to talk about it. Talk about it with a medicalprofessional who can recommend a treatment. But also talk about it with your partnerand discuss what changes can be made to make intercourse more manageable and apart of your lives.

Treatments:

Local estrogen – in the form of creams, gels, pessaries or vaginal rings.Local estrogen can help hugely with discomfort, correct the vaginas Ph and regulatebacteria

Vaginal suppositories

Lubricants and moisturisers – can be useful for women who are not suitedto estrogen replacement

Avoid perfumed soaps and creams as these can cause more irritation

Talk about it! – Talk to your friends, the likelihood is some of themare going through the same thing. Talk to your partners so they know theres areason for changes in desire and sex drive and you can work through them together.Talk to a health care professional to get guidance and advice on whattreatments are best for you

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