During and after menopause, 30 percent of women experience vaginal issues like irritation, pain or a burning sensation in the vagina or labia area. The culprit? Declining oestrogen levels brought on by menopause. What can you do about it? What products support vaginal health during menopause, and which ones are best to avoid?
Vaginal itching and burning was driving me crazy. Since I’ve stopped using products with irritants, I feel so much better. - Lisa (age 51)
Vaginal problems are a typical symptom of menopause. When levels of oestrogen go down, the walls of the vagina can become dry and more vulnerable. In many women, this triggers uncomfortable symptoms. As the level of oestrogen in your body is still relatively high during perimenopause, most women develop vaginal problems after menopause.
Research shows that vulvovaginal symptoms are common and present in over 50 percent of postmenopausal women. The older you are, the more susceptible you are to these symptoms. The most common complaint is vaginal dryness, but many women also experience other symptoms, such as vaginal itching, irritation and burning. Most women report that their symptoms affect how they feel, both physically and mentally, as well as their sex life.
Oestrogen plays a crucial role in maintaining vaginal health. It keeps mucous membranes healthy, regulates blood flow in the vaginal wall (the lining of the vagina) and keeps vaginal tissue supple and lubricated. This is necessary to keep fungi and yeasts at bay and ensure the vagina secretes natural lubrication in response to sexual arousal.
As women age their ovaries gradually produce less and less oestrogen, which can result in vaginal issues. Loss of oestrogen can lead to decreased vaginal blood flow. The vaginal tissue may lose its elasticity and become drier and more prone to irritation. As a result, the lining of your vagina can become thinner, less stretchy and more sensitive. You may notice burning or soreness in your vagina or labia. Loss of oestrogen can also cause vaginal pain or itching.
Mind you, a burning sensation in the vagina or labia can also occur due to other factors, such as the use of irritating products, a contact allergy, bacterial infection, vaginal yeast infection, urinary tract infection or an STI. Whatever the cause, vaginal or labial burning does not go away on its own. It may need to be treated with medication, such as vaginal oestrogen. Sometimes, lifestyle adjustments are enough to provide relief.
While vaginal dryness is a common symptom, women may also experience other symptoms like hot flashes, sleep problems and mood swings.
Here are some tips that can help reduce vaginal burning:
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Vaginal or labial burning often stems from hormone shifts and declines experienced during the menopausal transition. Avoid using hygiene products that have perfumes. These products contribute to vaginal irritation. Also make time for foreplay and arousal. If the burning persists, you should talk to a doctor.
Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) replaces the hormones a woman's body stops making due to menopause. HRT can be an effective way to treat severe symptoms, such as hot flashes and vaginal dryness. If you're experiencing severe symptoms besides labial burning, then HRT might be an option for you.
Labial or vaginal burning can have a variety of causes. Understanding what is happening in your body can help you address the issue effectively. Vaginal burning is usually caused by inflammation (an infection). In women over 45, menopause may be the cause. See a doctor to identify the cause so that it can be treated accordingly.
What dietary supplements you should take depends on your situation. However, there are a few supplements that benefit all women going through menopause. These are magnesium, Vitamin D, omega-3 and a vitamin and mineral complex. Read more about supplements and menopause.