May
6
Vaginal Health in Menopause
Filed Under Women's Health News
A recent survey showed that 63% of postmenopausal women experience vaginal dryness that makes sex uncomfortable. Because of personal privacy and embarrassment, only half of them reported this to their physician.
The vagina is very estrogen dependent, without it the tissues often become thin and dry. Then during intercourse friction creates discomfort. Consequently, vaginal dryness and pain with intercourse have become more problematic with the dramatic decline in the use of systemic hormone replacement therapy. Estrogen thickens the vaginal lining and increases natural secretions.
While not all menopausal women experience vaginal dryness, there are solutions to help those that do. First, there are over the counter vaginal moisturizers and lubricants for intercourse that may suffice (often displayed near condoms at retailers). Alternatively, consider utilizing low dose vaginal estrogen. Topical preparations such as Premarin® and Estrace® creams or Vagifem® tablets are FDA approved remedies. A recent study demonstrated that a new lower dose of ½ gram of either estrogen cream inserted into vagina just 2 nights each week is effective. This does not change serum levels of estrogen, so it’s effects are confined to the vagina. This is also true for Vagifem®. A good pneumonic to help women remember is, use it every Wednesdays and a weekend night. It may take about a month before symptoms initially improve. Finally, women usually need to continue using vaginal estrogen to achieve the benefits.
While estrogen won’t correct a waning sex drive it can make sex more comfortable. A little estrogen can make an improvement in the quality of menopausal women’s life. Please don’t wait until your annual exam to seek help.
Wishing you good health!
Women’s Health Specialists
2299 Mowry Avenue, Suite #3C
Fremont, CA 94538
510.796.7057
www.WomensHealthFremont.com
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