Many women suffer from vaginal dryness, irritation of the bladder or vagina, or incontinence issues (when you cough, sneeze or laugh). Vaginal dryness can happen naturally in women right after the menstrual period and more commonly during perimenopause or menopause. It is due often to the decrease in estrogen levels. The dryness can make intercourse more painful and less enjoyable.
The decline in hormones as we age results in thinning of the vaginal and urinary tissues and pH changes. The pH changes result in lower good bacterial flora which makes the area more prone to infections. The lower hormone effect can cause laxity of the collagen structure in the urogenital skin resulting in urinary incontinence, bladder irritation and laxity of the labia (vaginal folds).
7 Tips to Improve Vaginal and Urinary Health
- Evening Primrose Oil: 1300mg daily improves lubrication and breast health. Also eat more good fats in the diet- avocados, nuts, seeds, fish and olive oil.
- Probiotics- Lactobacillus and Bifido bacteria specific for the urogenital tract can benefit. Take orally and locally can restore the vaginal pH
- Aloe Vera topically and orally can help bladder irritation
- Pelvic floor exercises- Kegels and belly breathing may improve blood flow to the pelvic area. Belly breathing exercise- as you inhale breathe into the belly, exhale pulling the belly button into the spine and lifting the pelvic floor up. (Don’t push down). Do breathing for 5-10 cycles.
- Use organic lubricants and urinate after intercourse. Organic lubricants are better than petroleum based products. Urinating after intercourse prevents any abnormal bacteria from entering the bladder.
- Get your Hormones checked- Hormone imbalances can cause irritation and dryness. Local estrogen and DHEA prescription creams help to make tissue more supple.
- Get a series of Vitalia- Radiofrequency treatments for women’s wellness. Vitalia is a warming, comfortable treatment that induces collagen, lifts and tightens the pelvic floor region. It treats vaginal dryness, vaginal thinning, bladder incontinence, pelvic floor tightness, vulva (labia) laxity and may improve sexual response.
To find out more Call Dr. Kovalik
