Lifting the Lid on Vaginal Dryness This Menopause Month
With Menopause Month in full swing, we’re bringing you the eye-opening results of our recent survey into vaginal dryness.
Despite vaginal dryness being one of the most common symptoms of menopause and perimenopause, it’s often shrouded in secrecy and confusion. It’s time to break this taboo, and it looks like the 384 women who participated in our survey are already challenging this taboo!
The more we talk about vaginal dryness, the more empowered women can feel. So, let’s get into it, shall we?
What Is Vaginal Dryness, and Why Does It Happen?
As hormone levels fluctuate (especially during menopause and perimenopause), our body produces less oestrogen. And because oestrogen plays a pretty weighty role in maintaining vaginal lubrication, we’re often left with feelings of dryness, discomfort, and even pain during intercourse. It’s not pleasant, and it can come as a surprise to women navigating this phase of their lives.
Why? Because we don’t talk about it enough!
Our survey found that a staggering 100% (yep, ONE HUNDRED PERCENT) of women had experienced vaginal dryness at some point, with 80% experiencing it on the regular – making it much more than an occasional inconvenience. And although vaginal dryness is a perfectly normal response to the body’s changing hormone levels, it’s entirely manageable with the right support.
The Impact of Vaginal Dryness on Daily Life
Nearly 74% of women reported pain during sex (dyspareunia), while 70% experienced general discomfort in their daily lives. Other symptoms include burning, stinging, chafing, inflammation, swelling, infection, and even bleeding in some cases.
These very real physical discomforts can lead to equally disabling emotional distress – impacting relationships, self-esteem, and confidence at an already challenging time. And because of the lingering taboo around vaginal dryness, it can be incredibly difficult for some women to share their concerns – even with close partners or healthcare professionals. In fact, our survey found that 7% of women don’t feel comfortable discussing vaginal dryness with ANYONE.
It’s Time to Break the Silence
We get that vaginal dryness can feel like an embarrassing or awkward subject, but it doesn’t have to be. We need to break down the stigma and empower women to feel comfortable talking about their bodies. Whether it’s with a trusted friend, partner, or healthcare professional, simply opening up a dialogue can make a world of difference.
One of the most positive findings from our survey was the realisation that more women are beginning to speak up: 67% feel comfortable discussing vaginal dryness with their partner, and 76% would willingly consult a healthcare professional. So, while there is some reticence, progress is being made.
Managing Vaginal Dryness with YES®
If you’re experiencing vaginal dryness, there’s no need to suffer in silence. Healthcare professionals frequently recommend us to women experiencing vaginal dryness, particularly during menopause – and YES® VM and YES® WB are available on NHS prescription! Specifically designed to help combat dryness, our products allow you to feel comfortable and confident again, at a time when you need all the extra comfort you can get.
If you’re new to the world of intimate healthcare, our most popular product is the Holy Grail, YES® VM: a pH-matched vaginal moisturiser used by women all over the world. And with 92% of our survey respondents who use YES® VM sharing how it improved their comfort and overall quality of life, it’s no wonder.
One of the reasons YES® VM is so effective is because it’s pH-matched to the vagina – ensuring comfort without irritation. And because vaginal dryness can lead to a raft of other complications, including recurrent infections, it really is important to keep your intimate area well-hydrated throughout menopause and beyond.
How Can You Manage Your Symptoms?
Choosing the right vaginal moisturiser is important, but managing vaginal dryness is about more than products alone: it’s about lifestyle, self-care, and being kind to yourself. Here are a few tips to help you navigate this time with confidence:
- Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water helps to maintain overall hydration, including vaginal moisture.
- Use Gentle Products: Opt for products like YES® VM that are free from irritants, synthetic ingredients, hormones, and fragrances.
- Prioritise Self-Care: Make time for activities that help you to relax and manage stress, as anxiety can exacerbate symptoms.
- Communicate Openly: Don’t be afraid to talk about your symptoms with your partner or healthcare provider. Open dialogue can lead to better solutions.
- Stay Active: Regular exercise can help to regulate hormones and improve circulation, which can contribute to better vaginal health.
Vaginal dryness is one of the most common symptoms of menopause, but it doesn’t have to be a source of shame or discomfort. You can take back control of your health by addressing it openly and using trusted products like YES® VM.
Celebrating Women, Embracing Change
Menopause is a significant milestone in any woman’s life. It marks the end of one chapter and the beginning of another. And while vaginal dryness and other symptoms can be frustrating, they also serve as a reminder of the body’s remarkable ability to change and adapt. That’s why we believe that menopause should be celebrated. Women in this phase of life are powerful, wise, and full of experience.
By talking about issues like vaginal dryness openly, we not only normalise them, but help to create a culture of support. We’re grateful that the women who took part in our survey shared their stories, because their courage is paving the way for others to do the same.
Discover our full range of vaginal-friendly products – from moisturisers to lubricants – and start embracing your new normal.
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