Hot flashes, night sweats, and irregular periods — you probably already know these are signs that you could be approaching menopause. But there’s another symptom of menopause that needs your attention, too — vaginal dryness.

Vaginal dryness is the result of declining levels of estrogen, the hormone responsible for maintaining a lubricated, thick, and healthy vaginal lining. Vaginal dryness is a common symptom of menopause but a decrease in estrogen levels can happen at any age from a number of different reasons, including:

• Menopause
• Hormonal birth control (patches, pills, IUD’s, injections, and rings)
• Childbirth
• Breastfeeding
• Ovary removal
• Cancer treatment

When estrogen levels begin to decline the vagina becomes thinner and less elastic. This is known as vaginal atrophy. Fifty percent of menopausal women suffer from vaginal atrophy. Vaginal dryness can cause itching, pain (especially with intercourse), and can lead to bacterial or yeast infections.

Vaginal dryness is a normal part of aging, but this doesn’t mean you have to simply live with it and suffer in silence. There are several treatment options available:

1. Hormone replacement therapy
2. Moisturizers and lubricants
3. Local, low-dose vaginal estrogen
4. Vaginal rejuvenation

The Juliet Device, Dr. Mia’s new vaginal rejuvenation machine tightens the vagina internally and externally and can help increase pleasure during sex and improve the cosmetic look of the labia, which can change as we age. Dr. Mia offers various hormone replacement therapy options, too.

Explore your options for vaginal dryness:

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