Menopause dryness

What is the menopause?

Menopause literally means the last period. A woman is diagnosed as being ‘menopausal’ when her last menstrual period was one year ago. Once our ovaries stop producing eggs, the menopause occurs and as a result the levels of hormones called oestrogen and progesterone fall which affects many parts of our bodies including our skin, heart, bones and vagina.

Symptoms of the menopause

Menopausal symptoms vary between women, some will only experience them for a few months whilst others can continue to suffer for many years even after their last period. Whilst symptoms like hot flashes, mood swings and night sweats are well known others like brain fog and vaginal dryness are less well known. There are many treatments that will help control symptoms, like HRT or other natural alternatives, which your GP can discuss with you.

When the menopause occurs

The average age of the menopause in the UK is 51 years old, however this can be earlier for some women, particularly if you started menstruating at a young age. Perimenopausal symptoms usually occur at around 45 years of age. If the menopause occurs before the age of 40 it is classed as Premature Ovarian Insufficiency (POI). Some women may experience an ‘early’ menopause due to having cancer treatment (radiotherapy) or hysterectomy.

The perimenopause is the time when you may be experiencing some menopausal symptoms but are still having periods, though they may be more irregular and heavier or lighter than previously. This is due to fluctuating hormone levels as you transition to the menopause.
The time in your life after the menopause is referred to as post-menopause. Most symptoms like hot flashes and palpitations will disappear, but vaginal dryness is one condition that won’t go away.

The least talked about symptom of the menopause

Vaginal dryness is one of the most common but least talked about symptoms of the menopause. Of the 13 million menopausal women in the UK, 80% will suffer with vaginal dryness. However only a third will seek medical help.

Why does it occur?

The hormone oestrogen affects many parts of our body including our vagina. It acts as a natural lubricant and helps keep the vagina moist. As levels of oestrogen fall as we transition through the menopause, the tissues around our vagina can become thinner, dryer and inflamed. It can take months or years for these symptoms to develop and vary between women.

Love-making is often when many women first notice vaginal discomfort as the lack of oestrogen may cause the vagina to shrink a little and expand less easily during sex making penetration uncomfortable and less enjoyable. Every day activities can also be affected by vaginal dryness.

How can Sylk help treat menopausal dryness?

Sylk has been specially formulated to provide immediate relief from vaginal dryness whilst nourishing and hydrating delicate tissues. Sylk gently and effectively provides silky smooth lubrication that makes love-making or just the everyday more comfortable.