Menopause Bleeding Clots

Solutions for Vaginal Dryness During Menopause

Vaginal dryness and itching is a common complaint of women during menopause.  This problem interferes with sexual pleasure and sometimes is a source of general discomfort.  A primary cause is the lower level of estrogen in your body.  However, don’t rule out other possible causes such as medications and lack of sexual arousal. The guidelines below will help you solve this problem.

Vaginal Lubricants

Vaginal lubricants are nonprescription products that reduce discomfort during sexual activity. Examples are K-Y Personal Lubricant, Astroglide, Lubrin and Moist Again.  Products that are not intended for the vagina, such as body lotion, petroleum jelly or baby oil should not be used as they irritate vaginal tissue; they also damage condoms and diaphragms.  An exception is vitamin E oil which is reported to provide relief without negative effects.

Vaginal Moisturizers

Vaginal moisturizers are also nonprescription products.  Applied twice a week, they keep the vaginal area moist on an ongoing basis.  They also help to maintain a healthy level of acidity which guards against infection (other than those that are sexually transmitted).  Examples of moisturizers are K-Y Long Lasting Moisturizer and Replens.  Douches are not effective and not recommended.

Bath Products and Antihistamines Can Increase Dryness

Soaps, bath oils, and bubble baths can promote dryness.  Antihistamines, drugs often taken for allergies, dry out mucous membranes, including vaginal tissues.

Estrogen Therapy

Prescription estrogen therapy can relieve vaginal dryness within a few weeks.  Local therapies such as gels, creams, and vaginal rings, target the vaginal area.  As a local therapy, vaginal estrogen may be safe for long-term use, as absorption into the bloodstream is minimal.

As a general rule, the FDA (U.S. Food and Drug Administration) recommends the lowest effective dose for the shortest period of time.  Often lubricants and moisturizers will be sufficient once estrogen therapy restores vaginal tissue.

When a woman still has her uterus, a key concern will be the risk of uterine cancer. This should be carefully discussed with your doctor before starting any estrogen therapy. A form of progestogen is often prescribed with estrogen to minimize this risk. (Progestogen is always combined with estrogen when taken orally, intravenously, or through skin patches, even in low doses).  You should also be aware that there are government guidelines which say that women with the following conditions should not use hormone therapy, even when applied directly to the vagina:

• History of breast cancer or certain other cancers
• Unexplained uterine bleeding
• Liver disease
• History of blood clots
• Cardiovascular disease
• Smoking is not on the list, but women are advised to quit before treatment.

There is no reason to suffer

There is no reason to suffer from vaginal dryness during or after menopause.  Whether you choose to use Vitamin E oil, a vaginal moisturizer or lubricant, or hormone therapy, there will be a solution for you.  If simple measures don’t bring relief, consult with your doctor to investigate the cause and best treatment for your discomfort.

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