Menopause is an important stage in a woman’s life because it brings physical changes that can also affect her quality of life.
During menopause, estrogen levels drop very low. This makes the vaginal walls thinner, reduces natural sugars (glycogen) and raises the vaginal pH from an acidic level (about 3.5 to 4.2) to a more neutral level (around 6 to 7).
This change makes it easier for harmful bacteria to grow, replacing the normal healthy bacteria. As a result, symptoms like irritation, itching, burning, discomfort and painful sex can occur.
Vaginal atrophy was the old term for thinning and dryness of the vaginal lining, often after menopause. It was also called atrophic vaginitis. These terms are no longer used.
Now, these changes are grouped under a condition called genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM), which affects the genitals and urinary system.
GSM happens because estrogen levels drop. It can cause symptoms like painful sex, frequent or urgent urination and general discomfort.
The good news is that you don’t have to live with these symptoms. Treatments are available to help relieve them.
Vaginal dryness can be treated with either hormonal or non-hormonal methods, depending on how severe the symptoms are and a person’s medical history.
Low-dose estrogen therapy can help treat these symptoms, but it may not be suitable for everyone. Vaginal collagen cream is another option that may help support tissue health and improve comfort.
Usually, treatment starts with non-hormonal options. These include lubricants, which are used during sex to reduce friction and moisturizers, which are used regularly to keep the area hydrated. Collagen vaginal cream is a specially formulated topical product designed to improve vaginal health. Besides helping with moisture and lubrication, vaginal collagen cream also supports the health of vaginal tissues. It strengthens the vaginal walls by increasing important proteins, which can help reduce dryness, itching, irritation, and repeated infections, while improving comfort and pleasure.
If symptoms are more severe, hormonal treatments may be used. These often include low-dose estrogen applied directly to the vagina (as creams, tablets, or rings), which helps restore the health of vaginal tissue.
Non-hormonal options
- Lubricants: Used before sex to reduce dryness and discomfort. Water- or silicone-based types work best.
- Moisturizers: Used every few days to keep the area moist over time.
- Vaginal dilators: Help gently stretch vaginal tissue.
- Lifestyle changes: Avoid scented soaps, use gentle products, and maintain regular sexual activity to improve blood flow.
Hormonal options (need a prescription)
- Low-dose vaginal estrogen: Very effective and comes as creams, tablets or rings. It mainly works in the vaginal area with little effect on the rest of the body.
- DHEA: A daily vaginal insert that the body converts into estrogen.
- Ospemifene: A pill that acts like estrogen in vaginal tissue and helps reduce pain during sex.
Key points to keep in mind
- Cancer history: People with hormone-sensitive cancers should talk to their doctor before using hormonal treatments. Non-hormonal options are usually preferred, though low-dose estrogen may still be possible in some cases.
- Effectiveness: Moisturizers can help, but low-dose vaginal estrogen is generally more effective for improving tissue health.
When to seek help: If over-the-counter products don’t work or symptoms interfere with daily life, it’s best to see a healthcare provider.
