Ep 51 | The Sahara Down There: Vaginal Dryness & Perimenopause

Vaginal dryness, itching, burning, and painful sex? Ah, the many gifts of perimenopause that nobody asked for. As estrogen levels decline, the vulva and vagina can undergo some pretty significant changes. And while these symptoms are common, they aren't something you just have to live with. Your vagina deserves better.

In this episode of OvaryActive, the Docs are getting up close and personal with genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM). They explain why hormonal changes affect vaginal and vulvar tissues, how symptoms can range from mild irritation to recurrent UTIs, and why vaginal estrogen might just become your new best friend. From over-the-counter moisturizers to prescription hormones, they talk all about what actually works, what doesn't, and what's mostly expensive marketing.

The doctors also explore vulvar skin conditions like lichen sclerosus and lichen planus, the role of pelvic floor physical therapy, and when it's time to get things checked out. Bottom line? Pain, itching, and dryness shouldn't be your new normal, and there are plenty of ways to give your vagina the attention it deserves.

What you'll hear in this episode:

[0:42] Vaginal Troubles

[1:13] GSM Symptoms

[3:19] Speak Up! (at your visits)

[5:36] Estrogen's Exit Causes Tissue Changes

[9:43] Infection or Hormones?

[11:11] Slather on the Moisturizer…Down There

[17:46] Estrogen Options

[24:49] Local Therapy Matters

[25:34] DHEA Delivery

[28:19] Osphena: Pill Power

[30:53] Testosterone Talk

[36:40] Laser Hype

[39:22] When It's NOT GSM

[47:19] Get Examined!

Links for over-the-counter moisturizers:

Replens

Hyalogyn

Revaree

Follow the show @OvaryActive Instagram | YouTube | perimenopausedrs.com/ovaryactive

Estrogen, Interrupted by Dr. Rebecca Dunsmoor-Su & Dr. Amy Voedisch

Support the show: patreon.com/cw/OvaryActive

Meet the Docs:

More information about Dr. Rebecca Dunsmoor-Su:

Gennev: www.gennev.com/clinician/dr-rebecca-dunsmoor-su

LinkedIn @rebecca-dunsmoor-su

More information about Dr. Amy Voedisch:

Stanford Medical Clinic: stanfordhealthcare.org/doctors/v/amy-voedisch.html

This episode was produced by Audiotocracy Podcast Production.