As we make our journey through our 40s and beyond, we can expect a lot of physical, emotional, and mental changes. There are also a few adjustments when it comes to the bedroom, and I’m not talking about sexual desire…although that is an issue as well. No, I want to talk about vaginal atrophy.
Dear readers
As I get older, there are many things I am noticing about my body and mind are changing. For example, I can be moodier than usual, or how some things tend to get bigger (like hips!) while others seem to dry out and get smaller. In this latter case I’m talking vaginal atrophy, also known as genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM).
As the level of estrogen in a woman’s body declines, the vagina undergoes some significant changes. For example, the walls of the vagina begin to become dry and more fragile. This makes them more susceptible to tearing and infection.
These and other symptoms such as excess discharge, vaginal itching, urinary incontinence, discomfort or light bleeding with intercourse, reduced sex drive, increased urinary tract infections, and vaginal burning or itching are associated with vaginal atrophy. It’s been reported that about half of all women who go through hormonal changes later in life experience vaginal atrophy, although the percentage is probably much higher because many women don’t seek treatment or talk about it.
But I do get readers who ask me about these vaginal changes, so I want to address them. Mostly they are concerned that (1) something is wrong with them; and (2) they don’t know how to treat it.
First of all, nothing is wrong with you! The vagina has estrogen receptors, and when estrogen goes away, the vaginal walls respond. This leads to the big question: what you can do about it.
Fortunately there are some effective natural remedies
- Sea buckthorn oil has helped some women with vaginal atrophy. Use of this supplement, which is a great source of essential fatty acids, can improve vaginal elasticity and the overall health of the vaginal walls.
- Other nutritional supplements that have shown some help with vaginal dryness include vitamins A and E, beta-carotene, omega-3 fatty acids, and the B vitamins.
- Flaxseed contains phytoestrogens, which have been shown to reduce vaginal dryness. Sprinkle 2 to 3 tablespoons on your vegetables, salads, or soups, or put them in your smoothies.
- Use a high-quality maca supplement to help reduce vaginal atrophy symptoms. It can stimulate natural hormone production.
- Exercise regularly (daily!) to help keep your hormones in balance. Participating in physical activities also can help reduce weight, which will also assist in restoring balance.
- Essential oils can help moisturize the vaginal canal. Add a few drops of one or more of these essential oils to several drops of carrier oil (olive, coconut, vitamin E, jojoba) before you apply the oils to your vagina: chamomile, frankincense, lavender, Roman chamomile, rose, Salvia sclarea, and sandalwood.
- Pay attention to your diet. Vaginal lubrication comes from gland found in the cervix and vagina, but most vaginal fluid is from the bloodstream. Molecules of proteins as well as potassium, calcium, sodium, and other electrolytes make their way through the vaginal cells into the vaginal canal. Eat a diet rich in fresh vegetables and fruits, nuts, seeds, and fresh caught fish. Generally, an alkaline diet is better than an acidic one for vaginal health as well as overall health. Focus on fresh vegetables and fruits, nuts, seeds, and plant-based beverages. Avoid processed foods, red meat, dairy, legumes, grains, and sugar.
- Avoid using feminine hygiene products that contain fragrances of other chemicals, which can irritate and dry out the vaginal walls.
- Enjoy more sexual intercourse—another remedy for vaginal atrophy. When your vagina is stimulated, lubrication occurs naturally. You may need a little help with lubrication, so be sure to use all-natural oils: jojoba, coconut, and vitamin E, as well as aloe.
Let’s banish vaginal dryness and atrophy! Be good to your body temple and it will respond well to you. Be sure to check out other helpful articles on the Divine Renewal blog.
Blessings,
Myriam Llano.
Aging. Body Health. Mental Wellbeing. Menopause & Sex LIfe.
If you enjoyed this article and would like to help us support this beautiful project so we can continue creating amazing content; please help us by donating as little as the cost of a coffee or as much as you like.
and
