Menopause and vaginal dryness
Most women going through menopause will experience, to differing degrees of bothersomeness, hot flushes and night sweats. Many women also have mood changes, weight gain and a sense of not being so mentally sharp.
There are many herbal remedies to assist with the above which I have previously discussed. Herbs such as Dong Quai, Black Cohosh, Red Clover, Rehmannia, Wild Yam and Paeonia to mention just a few, are exceptionally helpful in controlling hot flushes and improving mood. Also, vitamins such a B5, B6 and vitamin C help with lowering increased cortisol levels and improving energy.
However, we rarely discuss vaginal dryness which often accompanies menopause. Lowered levels of oestrogen and changes to the vaginal microbiome are largely responsible for this painful condition. Bike riding and sexual activity can result in discomfort and even micro-tears to the sensitive vaginal tissues.
As we enter menopause the beneficial bacteria of the vagina changes, contributing to vaginal dryness and making menopausal women more prone to infection.
Two species of the Lactobacillus family have been found to be specific to maintain healthy vaginal flora and urogenital pH. These are Lactobacillus rhamnosus (GR-1) and Lactobacillus reuteri (RC-14). The loss of protective lactobacilli bacteria within the vagina can have significant health impacts. Specifically low levels of vaginal lactobacilli are linked to increased risk of developing urinary tract infections (UTIs), bacterial vaginosis (BV) and vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) as well as vaginal dryness.
Both strains of lactobacillus, GR-1 and RC-14 have been shown to colonize the vaginal tract following oral administration. All studies to date have administered L. rhamnosus and L. reuteri at 1 to 1.5 billion CFUs (colony forming units) of each strain.
Hyaluronic acid, often found in some collagen products also helps address vaginal dryness as it attracts moisture. Hyaluronic acid is a glycosaminoglycan with a unique capacity to bind and retain water molecules. Indeed, many studies suggest that hyaluronic acid has a profile of efficacy, safety, and tolerability comparable with vaginal estrogens for the treatment of symptoms of post-menopausal vaginal atrophy.
Sea Buckthorn at a dose of 3g over a three-month period has shown to regulate vaginal pH and improve vaginal epithelium. Sea Buckthorn is a rich source of Omega 3, 6, 7 and 9 fatty acids. It also rather helpfully supports skin hydration and alleviates dry eyes.
Vitamin D either applied topically or as a pessary daily for eight weeks improves vaginal dryness associated with sexual pain.
Another topical remedy is fennel ointment, which is high in phytoestrogens and when applied to vaginal tissue changes pH and moisturizes.
Dietary wise linseeds (also known as flaxseeds) are rich in lignans, a source of phytoestrogens as well as omega 3, 6 and 9 fatty acids. Two dessertspoons of linseeds daily can help with vaginal dryness. (See recipe on next page for linseed, date and banana muffins. Each muffin delivers two dessertspoons of linseeds.)