Spotlight on World Menopause Day
Today marks World Menopause Day and we are delighted that for the first time ever, menopause is firmly in the spotlight. It seems like we are finally realising and accepting as a society the massive impact the decline in hormones does have on women. That it’s not just something we ‘have to put up with’ and that there are solutions that will help.
Smashing the taboo of Vaginal Dryness
Even the taboo topic of vaginal dryness is being talked about openly. The reception to Jane Lewis’ book, “My Menopausal Vagina” has been amazing. As Sylk Managing Director Nicky Gaylor commented, “I really hope it encourages women that they don’t have to accept pain and discomfort, that they can and should go to their GP but they should also inform themselves to ensure they are getting the right treatment for them”.
Vaginal dryness during perimenopause, menopause & post menopause
Around 80% of menopausal women will suffer with some form of vaginal soreness, pain and discomfort. A quarter of these women won’t seek medical help. Vaginal dryness is also one condition that doesn’t go away post-menopause and as we are forecast to now spend a third of our life post-menopause, it’s important we don’t suffer in silence, particularly as there are solutions that can help. As Kathy Abernethy, Chair of The British Menopause Society & author of Menopause: The One Stop Guide, says, “Vaginal dryness is something women often don’t talk about. However, symptoms can often be easily and simply alleviated with a good quality lubricant which can be prescribed or bought over the counter”.
Why does vaginal dryness happen at menopause?
Oestrogen plays a vital role acting as a natural lubricant in the vagina and helping to keep this area moist. During menopause our hormone levels decrease, and the lack of oestrogen tends to cause the tissues around the vagina to become thinner, dryer and inflamed. The vagina may shrink a little and expand less easily during sex, making intercourse more uncomfortable or even painful. Symptoms vary between women and can take months or even years to develop.
What are the best treatment options?
A good quality lubricant like Sylk Intimate that is plant & water based, pH friendly and non-drying can make all the difference to sex and everyday comfort. You can buy it over the counter at all chemists or direct at www.sylk.co.uk where you can also get a free sample. For more severe cases, a GP can prescribe topical oestrogen.
The British Menopause Society has a list of registered Specialist Menopause Clinics if you feel you need further help.
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This is the talkhealth blog spot, where we post on a wide range of health conditions, topics, issues and concerns. We post when we see something that we believe is of interest to our vistiors. Our posts do not reflect any particular view or stand point of talkhealth, but are merely to raise attention and awareness.