Hormone Therapy for a Common Female Problem

I couldn't help but revisit an informational folder I have been collecting over the years of doing customized medicine on the topic of vaginal pain syndromes. This  "common" alphabet soup of symptoms is "uncommonly" talked about in the outside world. I don't mind talking about it at all because I actually make a living on helping find answers for troublesome symptoms such as this through creative medicines. Let me give you a little insight into what happens in the urogenital zone as women age.

During the reproductive years, three estrogens of importance are Estradiol, Estrone, and Estriol. About five years before actual menopause, the production of Estradiol begins to decline, and after menopause the production ceases almost completely. Consequently, estrone and estriol become the main circulating estrogens. This decrease and shift of estrogens commonly brings noticeable changes such as hot flashes, atrophy (thinning and inflammation of the vaginal walls due to a decline in estrogen), and an increased risk of osteoporosis and cardiovascular disease.

Studies have indicated that 50% of otherwise healthy women over 60 years have symptoms of urogenital atrophy. That's 1 in 2 and thus why I call it common. The symptoms are vaginal dryness, pain, itching, urination complaints, recurrent vaginal infections and urinary tract infections. The answer is often estrogen replacement therapy and we have hundreds of patients that get a common formulation to help with these problems. In fact, the OB/GYN's that we collaborate with will order a customized formulation for their patients needing some help in this area.

Lichen Sclerosis (LS) is another Uro-zone problem that can be associated with hormone deficiency. LS is a benign and progressive skin disease that creates patchy, white skin usually around the genital area. It can affect both men and women at any age, but usually is found in menopause aged females. Some medical articles suggest that androgen deficiency (testosterone) is a culprit and that testoserone replacement therapies applied to the affected area can help promote healthy skin and healing of the wounds associated with this condition. A soothing base can be used to promote good saturation of the therapy into the diseased tissue which gives great relief to those who suffer from this.

Sometimes with vaginal area pain there can be a neuropathic process causing pain sensitivity affecting activities of daily living. Working with a physician to determine if the issue is related to muscle constriction of the pelvic floor, involvement of the hormonal system, genetic and disease factors, or sexually transmitted diseases is important in determining a plan of action for creative medicine interventions. Very effective creams, suppositories, and sprays can be customized and formulated to control multiple issues contributing to the pain and on a per individual basis.  Painful intercourse is a concern for these patients as it tends to bring about a breakdown in sexual relationships for those experiencing this problem. But, the good news is that it's very treatable.

I think it's so important for women and men to know that there are options in treating these conditions. And believe me, throughout the years, I have responded to these needs many, many times. We can cover a lot of territory (literally) in the creative medicines that we provide for these and other things. I have a go-to formulation that works like magic for those with vaginal atrophy, dryness, and painful intercourse.  Don't let this be a problem in your life.

To your good health,
Dr. Sonja