When you really take some moments and think about it – a woman’s hormonal journey is just not fair! In the early years, we deal with PMS, menstrual cycles, acne, birth control, pregnancy, post-partum and then, later, it becomes perimenopause, menopause, acne (again), hot flashes, Hormone Replacement Therapy……the list goes on.
Even though some of us no longer have inhibitions about discussing our sexuality, we still have subjects we avoid discussing with our spouses/partners, our closest girlfriends and even acknowledging to ourselves. Vulvovaginal Atrophy, commonly known as Vaginal Dryness, is one of those subjects.
No one wants to admit they are experiencing this condition but the truth is 30 million women who are postmenopausal (or have had their uterus and/or both ovaries removed) are suffering the discomforts of this condition which include inflammation, persistent itching, redness, burning, and pain during sexual intercourse. Typically, the decline in estrogen production causes vulvovaginal atrophy (thinning and inflammation of the vaginal walls) but it can also occur during breast feeding. Also, it is reported that smoking and never giving birth vaginally are contributing risk factors for vaginal atrophy.
It is estimated that half of the women who suffer vaginal atrophy never seek help and just resign themselves to the symptoms because of embarrassment. If you or someone you know are experiencing this condition, please seek help from your doctor.
Currently, there is research occurring on a new medication for this condition. It is called the Venus Study. You can get more information about it at the following link www.venusstudy.com
Although this condition is common in menopausal women it has been determined that not all menopausal women suffer from it. It seems that regular sexual activity helps you maintain healthy vaginal tissue.
So, ladies, here is an easy tip for a preventative measure.
Get busy and have more sex!
QUESTIONS
1. Do you find it difficult to discuss your sexual health with your spouse/partner, your best girlfriends, and your doctor?
2. Do you think a decline in sexual desire is a natural progression of aging?
At last we talk about the no no!