Breaking the Silence: Let’s talk Vaginal Dryness this Menopause Month
When was the last time you heard someone openly talk about vaginal dryness?
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 taking steps toward breaking that silence!
The more we talk about vaginal dryness, the more empowered women can feel. So, let’s dive in.
Understanding Vaginal Dryness: What is it and Why Does It Happen?
As hormone levels fluctuate during menopause and perimenopause, our bodies produce less estrogen. Since estrogen plays a key role in maintaining vaginal lubrication, this change often leads to dryness, discomfort, and even pain during intercourse. It can come as a surprise to many women navigating this phase of life.
Why the surprise? Because we don’t talk about it enough!
Our survey found that 100% of women experienced vaginal dryness at some point, with 80% dealing with it regularly. That makes vaginal dryness much more than just an occasional inconvenience. And while it’s a normal response to changing hormone levels, it’s important to know that it’s also manageable with the right support.
How Vaginal Dryness Affects Daily Life
Nearly 74% of women reported experiencing pain during sex (dyspareunia). Additionally, 70% felt discomfort during their daily activities. Other symptoms included burning, stinging, chafing, inflammation, swelling, infection, and, in some cases, bleeding.
These physical discomforts can lead to significant emotional distress—impacting relationships, self-esteem, and confidence at an already challenging time. And because there’s still a stigma around vaginal dryness, many women feel unable to share their concerns, even with close partners or healthcare providers. 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
Have you ever hesitated to talk about vaginal dryness, even though it’s affecting your quality of life? You’re not alone. We understand that vaginal dryness can be an uncomfortable or awkward topic, but it doesn’t have to be. Breaking down the stigma can help women feel more empowered to discuss their bodies openly. Whether it’s with a trusted friend, partner, or healthcare professional, starting a conversation can make a huge difference.
One of the most encouraging findings from our survey was that more women are beginning to speak up: 67% feel comfortable discussing vaginal dryness with their partner, and 76% would consult a healthcare professional about it. So, while there’s still some hesitance, progress is clearly being made.
Managing Vaginal Dryness with AH! YES®
If you’re dealing with vaginal dryness, you don’t have to suffer in silence. Many healthcare professionals recommend AH! YES® products to women experiencing vaginal dryness, especially during menopause. AH! YES® VM and AH! YES® WB, our bestselling moisturizer and lubricant, are specially designed to help you feel comfortable and confident again.
One of our most popular products, AH! YES® VM, is a pH-balanced vaginal moisturizer used by women across the globe. In our survey, 92% of respondents using VM said it improved their comfort and overall quality of life.
What makes AH! YES® VM so effective? It’s pH-matched to the vagina, ensuring comfort without irritation. Vaginal dryness can also lead to complications like recurrent infections, so keeping the vaginal area well-hydrated is vital during menopause and beyond.
How Can You Manage Your Symptoms?
While choosing the right vaginal moisturizer is important, managing vaginal dryness is also 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 maintain overall hydration, including vaginal moisture.
- Use Gentle Products: Opt for products like AH! YES® VM that are free from irritants, synthetic ingredients, hormones, and fragrances.
- Prioritize Self-Care: Engage in activities that help you relax and manage stress, as anxiety can make symptoms worse.
- Communicate Openly: Talk about your symptoms with your partner or healthcare provider. Open communication leads to better solutions.
- Stay Active: Regular exercise can help regulate hormones and improve circulation, which can benefit your 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 control of your health by addressing it openly and using trusted products like AH! YES® VM.
Celebrating Women, Embracing Change
Menopause is a significant milestone in every woman’s life. It marks the end of one chapter and the start of another. And while vaginal dryness and other symptoms can be challenging, they also remind us of the body’s incredible ability to adapt and change. That’s why we believe menopause should be celebrated. Women at this stage of life are strong, wise, and filled with valuable experience.
By talking openly about issues like vaginal dryness, we normalize the conversation and help create a supportive community. We’re grateful to the women who participated in our survey for sharing their stories, as their courage is helping pave the way for others.
Ready to take back control of your comfort and embrace this new chapter with confidence? Explore our full range of vaginal-friendly products - from moisturizers to lubricants - designed with your intimate health in mind.
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