Sexual health is rarely discussed and more than not, avoided. A recent study has shown that half of post-menopausal ladies have symptoms that affect their sexual wellbeing though only two thirds of that group will seek medical attention.
Intimate health issues such as vaginal dryness, pain and discomfort during intercourse are common and can be treated.
Vaginal dryness is in the main the result of lack of Oestrogen, causing reduction in vaginal secretions and the thinning of the vaginal walls. This results in the symptoms of painful intercourse, vaginal itching and irritation. There is also the possibility of urinary tract infections. These issues may also be present after child birth or part of the issues related to breast cancer.
The ageing vulva has the same changes that affect skin changes on the body and the face. Again, it is the decrease in Oestrogen during menopause that has an effect on fibroblasts, hence the loss of elasticity and plumpness in the area of the labia majora. This can result in a lack of confidence in intimate settings.
Treatment is possible to improve the situation with the help of hyaluronic acid gels specifically for the intimate areas.
Based at the Yorkshire Skin Centre and Leeds and The Harrogate Clinic, I have paraphrased the article above of Dr Farzana Khan, a qualified GP with major interest in women's healthcare and dermatology, specialising in vaginal rejuvenation treatment.
(Original article published in Wigmore News, Issue Number 80)