Menopause is a part of every woman’s life; it is the ending of a woman’s fertility. It tends to bring changes into a woman’s body in large numbers. Whereas most women are aware of common menopause symptoms like hot flashes, sweating at night, and mood swings, they may not be prepared for changes that can occur in their vagina. Yes, you read that right – menopause can have a huge effect on the health and functioning of the vagina. This paper will present five surprising ways through which the vagina might change after menopause.
1. Vaginal Dryness:
One of the most common changes that occur in the vagina during menopause is vaginal dryness. This condition arises due to the decrease in estrogen levels leading to a thinner and less elastic vaginal lining, which can cause discomfort during sexual intercourse, resulting in pain and irritation. The lack of lubrication can also make the vagina more susceptible to infections. Fortunately, several remedies can help alleviate this problem. Water-based lubricants provide immediate relief during sexual activity, while good hydration can contribute to overall vaginal health. Avoiding harsh soaps and douches is also essential to prevent further irritation and maintain the vagina’s natural pH balance.
2. Loss of Vaginal Tone:
Another change that may occur after menopause is a loss of vaginal tone due to the weakening of pelvic muscles caused by decreased estrogen levels. This can lead to urinary incontinence, where leakage of urine may occur while laughing, sneezing, or coughing. Women may find it uncomfortable to discuss this issue, but it is a widespread concern affecting many post-menopausal women. However, there are several methods to improve pelvic floor strength and regain bladder control.
Kegel exercises are a simple and effective way to strengthen pelvic muscles, helping to prevent or manage incontinence. By contracting and releasing these muscles regularly, women can improve their pelvic floor strength, reducing the risk of accidents. Although some women may require professional medical intervention for severe cases, most can improve their symptoms through regular exercise.
3. Increased Risk of Vaginal Infections:
The decrease in estrogen levels can also make the vagina more susceptible to infections. The protective lining of the vagina thins out, making it easier for bacteria and fungi to enter and cause infections. Women may experience an increase in urinary tract infections, yeast infections, and bacterial vaginosis. Maintaining good hygiene and using probiotics can help prevent these infections. It is essential to consult a doctor if the symptoms persist.
4. Changes in Vaginal pH:
The vagina has a natural pH balance that helps keep it healthy. A healthy vaginal pH is slightly acidic, ranging from 3.8 to 4.5. This acidity is due to the presence of Lactobacillus bacteria, which produces lactic acid and helps maintain the vagina’s pH balance. However, menopause can cause a shift in the vaginal pH, making it more alkaline. This change can lead to a decrease in Lactobacillus bacteria, which keeps the vagina acidic and prevents harmful bacteria from growing.
An increase in vaginal pH may result in a stronger odor and altered discharge. This discharge might be thin, white, or yellow in color and have an unpleasant smell. Although an alkaline pH does not always signify an infection, it can foster conditions that make the vagina more prone to infections, such as bacterial vaginosis or yeast infections.
To maintain a healthy vaginal pH, women should avoid using scented products, such as douches or vaginal sprays, which can disrupt the natural balance of bacteria in the vagina. Instead, they should use pH-balanced cleansers that are specifically designed for the vagina. Consuming probiotics can also help maintain a healthy pH by promoting the growth of Lactobacillus bacteria in the vagina.
5. Vaginal Atrophy:
Another surprising change that can occur in the vagina after menopause is vaginal atrophy. It is a condition in which the vaginal walls become thinner, drier, and less elastic due to the decrease in estrogen levels that occurs during menopause. Vaginal atrophy can lead to discomfort, pain, and even bleeding during sexual intercourse, making it a significant concern for many postmenopausal women.
Vaginal atrophy can also cause other symptoms, such as urinary urgency, frequency, and incontinence. These symptoms can significantly impact a woman’s quality of life, causing embarrassment, discomfort, and even depression.
Vaginal estrogen therapy is an effective treatment for vaginal atrophy. Estrogen is a hormone that helps maintain the health and elasticity of the vaginal tissues. By replacing the estrogen that is lost during menopause, vaginal estrogen therapy can help reverse the effects of atrophy and improve the overall health of the vagina.
Women can also try using vaginal moisturizers and lubricants to alleviate the symptoms of vaginal atrophy. Regular sexual activity can also help maintain the elasticity of the vaginal tissues, reducing the risk of discomfort and pain during intercourse.
Conclusion: Changes caused by menopause in a woman’s body can range from anything, even to the vagina. It can majorly affect a woman’s sexual health and hence her overall well-being. These are changes women should know about and work on keeping the vagina healthy. By consulting a doctor and living a healthy lifestyle, in addition to good hygiene and self-care, the changes that take place can help most women to live a healthy and fulfilling menopausal journey.
