Vaginal atrophy (thinning) can be one of the most distressing conditions that develops during the menopausal journey. It is often more of a problem than change in libido.
This often prompts a whole new way of approaching intimacy, and requires diligence, patience, and (frequently) experimentation. Partner understanding is so important to this process!
Notable Quotes
My vagina is not only bone dry, it’s chapped.
Beth
I am frustrated by vaginal dryness. I would like to learn how to make sex more enjoyable given the dryness.
Lynn
Vaginal dryness has not been an insurmountable problem….planning and a tube of lube go a long way!
Marcelle
I wish I had more guidance and insight about what could happen to my pelvic floor and vagina, because boy those things sure did happen!
Laura
More Information
Blog posts tagged as vaginal dryness:- Women’s Health: Representation & Research
- Breast Cancer Survivors: A Plan for Dealing with Vaginal Dryness
- Menopause! The Conference.
- We Need to Talk About Menopause!
- Menopause and Urinary Tract Infections
- Lecture #60: Menopause: Hormones and Beyond
Additional Video Links: Feeling daring? Watch Dr. Jen Gunter, OB/GYN in Jensplaining, Season 1, Episode 9 “take down the myth that the vagina is a dirty, shameful place, and sheds light on the snake oil salesmen trying to profit off women’s insecurities.” Be prepared for graphic discussions and lots of laughs!
Resources:
- A great book written by 3 physicians (March 2023): “A Woman’s Guide to Her Pelvic Floor: What the F*@# Is Going On Down There?”
- MiddlesexMD is a robust website dedicated to sexuality and postmenopause.
- Vaginal Dryness (Beyond the Basics) is a nice summary from UpToDate.
- JAMA’s quick read “Dyspareunia in Women” (April 2022) is a very helpful summary of many contributors to painful sex.
Wild Card: Pulse personal lubricant is a refreshing alternative to the “usual” products. Since the sensory experience is a part of libido (brain-connection to vaginal sensation and arousal), products can be of some help such as Queen Bee vaginal moisturizer/personal lubricant and Vajuvenate vulvar cream. Also valid: topical estrogen such as prescription Estradiol and vaginal insert tablets like Vagifem. Other great lubricants: coconut oil, vitamin E oil with silicone, Aloe Cadabra, Überlube, Good Clean Love, Slippery Stuff, Astroglide, hyalogyn.