Explore the best ways to manage menopause symptoms through lubricants, moisturizers, and estrogen treatments. Find out the efficacy and safety of different options while considering potential risks. Discover the effectiveness of estrogen preparations, ospemaphine, and soy in treating symptoms like hot flashes and sexual dysfunction. Learn about the impact of soy consumption on sexual desire and share your own health improvement stories.
Simple treatments like lubricants and moisturizers, which should not exceed an osmolality of 380, can provide relief for symptoms of menopause such as vaginal dryness and pain during sex.
Vaginal estrogen therapy, specifically in the form of low-dose localized estrogen, is considered safer and more effective than systemic hormone therapy for managing moderate vaginal symptoms of menopause.
Deep dives
Management of Genital Urinary Symptoms of Menopause
Genital urinary syndrome of menopause (GSM) refers to the changes in the vulva, vagina, birth canal, and bladder caused by menopausal hormone changes. Symptoms include vaginal dryness, pain during sex, post-quital bleeding, recurrent bladder infections, and incontinence. Simple treatments like lubricants and moisturizers can provide relief. A study found that cheap over-the-counter moisturizers are just as effective as expensive ones. Personal lubricants and moisturizers should not exceed an osmolality of 380, according to the World Health Organization.
Vaginal Estrogen Therapy and Safety
For mild to moderate vaginal symptoms of menopause, lubricants and moisturizers may not be enough. In such cases, vaginal estrogen therapy is recommended. Vaginal application is considered safer and more effective than systemic hormone therapy. Studies have shown that vaginal estrogens offer better symptom relief than estrogen pills, patches, or implants. Vaginal estrogen is considered safer since it can be used at a much lower dose. Observational studies have linked vaginal estrogen use to a doubling of odds for endometrial cancer, but low-dose localized estrogen appears safe. For breast cancer survivors, vaginal DHEA could be an alternative.
Soy Foods for Menopausal Symptoms
Soy isoflavones have shown beneficial effects for menopausal hot flashes and vaginal dryness. While studies on isolated soy supplements have mixed results, soy foods like soy milk have shown promise in reducing menopausal sexual symptoms. However, more research is needed to determine the effectiveness and potential placebo effects of soy milk. Soy foods have the advantage of not increasing the risk of breast and uterine cancer or cardiovascular disease.