Menopause is the time in a woman’s life when she stops having menstrual periods. The years leading up to this point are called perimenopause, or “around menopause.” Menopause marks the end of the reproductive years that began in puberty. It can take up to 10 years before one actually becomes menopausal and after that, the symptoms may lessen but may not completely disappear.
Although not completely without risks, hormone replacement with estrogen continues to be the most effective treatment for menopause symptoms. For women who have breast cancer or have a strong family history of breast cancer, there are non-hormonal medications available that can help.
Some women only notice symptoms such as vaginal dryness and pain or discomfort with during intercourse. Using vaginal estrogen such as Estrace or Premarin cream prescribed by a physician may be helpful. Coconut oil, Vitamin E and glycerin have been known to help with these symptoms as well. For some women, especially those who are not able to use hormones or prefer not to use estrogen, there is a non-surgical option that can strengthen, rebuild vaginal wall collagen and improve sexual health.
Check in with the doctors at Annanadale OBGYN to learn about the latest solution to vaginal dryness and discomfort symptoms.
Author: Dr. Anna Le
