Vaginal Dryness and the Answers You Need
Vaginal Dryness and the Answers You Need https://communityclinicalrx.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/CCRX_featured-image_Feb-blog-2-1024x536.png 1024 536 Community Clinical Pharmacy https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/e5859a5ea81a26a35dbca0f20faaa25d?s=96&d=mm&r=g
Causes, Effects, and the Possible Solutions
As a pharmacist specializing in Bioidentical Hormone Therapy and natural alternatives, I find myself discussing Vaginal Dryness frequently. I consider this issue to be extremely private, yet important. Vaginal dryness can affect a woman’s (and her partner’s) life profoundly. It can ruin your day and your relationship alike.
Fortunately, there are several solutions to this common problem (see chart below for comparison of common ways to deal with dryness in the vagina).
What Causes Vaginal Dryness?
A woman’s hormone levels drop in the years leading to and after menopause. This may result in vaginal dryness and dryness of the external female genitals (vulva).
What Are Common Signs of Vaginal Dryness?
Vaginal dryness may cause fragile vulvovaginal tissues. The tissues may then become more prone to irritation. A woman may experience pain during intercourse or dyspareunia (dis-puh ROO-nee-uh) and sometimes bleeding which is the result of injury and tearing of the vaginal tissue and vulva.
What Happens if Vaginal Dryness Is Left Untreated?
- Possible increase in frequency of bladder and urinary tract infections (UTIs)
- Frequent urination
- Urinary incontinence (leakage)
- Vaginal discharge
- Pain during intercourse — affects as many as 45% of the 65 million menopausal and post-menopausal American women
What Other Things Besides Menopause Can Cause Vaginal Dryness?
Swimming, certain medications, chemicals, childbirth, anxiety, and stress (will discuss more in a future article)
Are Treatments for Vaginal Dryness Only Suitable for Women Who Are in a Relationship?
No. Even women who are not sexually active can be bothered by vaginal dryness. Non-menopausal women may sometimes experience dryness as well and may benefit from treatment.
Common Ways to Deal with Vaginal Dryness
| Available without Prescription | Hormone
Free |
Free of Harsh Chemicals | Long Lasting Effect | Natural | |
| Estrogen Vaginal Cream | no | no | no | yes | maybe |
| Oil-Based
Lubricant (Vit E, Olive Oil, etc.) |
yes | yes | maybe | no | maybe |
| Water-based Lubricant | yes | yes | no | no | no |
| FabuVag®
Vaginal Moisturizer* |
yes | yes | yes | yes | yes |
*FabuVag® is an herbal vaginal moisturizer which can effectively soothe dry vaginal tissue. It is an all natural and mostly organic moisturizer which provides a healthy option for women.
Virtual Consultation
Once you or your health care provider have received the results from your lab test, it is time to set up your appointment with Sharzad Green, Pharm. D. You can request an appointment online or call the pharmacy. Initial hormone replacement appointments last for one hour.
One Hour Hormone Replacement Therapy Consultations:
- Review your recent lab results Discuss your current symptoms
- Evaluate your past and present medical history, including family history
- Discuss hormone and non-hormonal options for improving your symptoms
Since COVID, we have been doing our patient consultations via secure video or phone for the safety of our community. Learn more about how we’ve adapted our consultation process.
Sharzad Green, Pharm. D., is a hormone replacement specialist & pharmacist at Community Clinical Pharmacy, in Mesa, Arizona. She offers private Hormone Replacement Consultations to find a tailored solution that fits your needs. Sharzad has had the privilege of working with over 12,000 patients and providers in the Valley and around the world.
Here to Help
If you have any questions, or would like to learn more about your options when it comes to hormone replacement, please call Community Clinical Pharmacy and we can consult with you and your physician to find the best solution.
We serve the East Valley Metro Area including Mesa, Chandler, Gilbert, and surrounding areas.
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When in doubt, contact one of our knowledgeable pharmacists at Community Clinical Pharmacy. We are here to offer you solutions and assist you in making informed decisions about your health. Contact us with comments, questions, or pharmacy related topics you’d like to know more about. And, as always, stay healthy!
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