Vaginal Changes and Menopause

Many women will experience vaginal dryness in their lifetime. Although vaginal dryness can occur at any age, it becomes more common during the perimenopause and menopause transition. Beginning in the perimenopausal phase , the vagina may weaken, shrink and produce fewer secretions. Due to a relative lack of estrogen, the vaginal tissue can be more easily injuerd. Also, decreased acidity of the vagina can lead to infections. A thinning of the tissue lining in the vagina may lead to pain during intercourse. Vaginal dryness can also occur, as may itching or irritation. Although few women experience serious problems with vaginal dryness and thinning after menopause, both dryness and thinning continue to occur over time. Doctors estimate that over 50% of all women older than 60 years have some degree of vaginal dryness.

Other causes of vaginal dryness include medications, such as antihistamines, oral contraceptives, fertility medications, chemotherapy and some other prescription medications.

Physical conditions such as stress, vigorous exercise, recent childbirth and/or breastfeeding, and hysterectomy can contribute to vaginal dryness, irritation and discomfort.

The Solution: Vaginal moisturizers can safely and effectively treat dryness.  A distinction should be made between moisturizers and lubricants.  Lubricants are commonly used during sexual relations to help with dryness.  However, these lubricants do not improve the reason for the dryness.  Moisturizers actually work to improve the cause of dryness and continued use can make sexual relations much more comfortable.  Moisturizers help to rejuvenate the vaginal lining, eliminate dry skin cells and, when used regularly, replenish your natural vaginal moisture.

A frequent analogy between lubricants and moisturizers is that lubricants help to ‘put out the fire’ of vaginal dryness, while moisturizers help to ‘prevent the fire from starting’.

Estrogen products can be used in the vagina to treat vaginal dryness.  A number of formulations exist, such as estrogen creams, tablets and rings to be inserted into the vagina.  A thorough discussion with your health care provider regarding the risks and benefits of estrogen, as well as the correct dosage is recommended for vaginal estrogen.

In general, vaginal dryness during menopause is best treated by using a maintenance regimen of a moisturizer and the occasional use of a lubricant during sexual relations.

Replens Long-Lasting Feminine Moisturizer provides soothing, safe, immediate, and long-lasting relief of vaginal dryness.Replens has a patented formula that works to replenish and maintain natural moisture for up to three days at a time with just one application.

Replens Long-Lasting Vaginal Moisturizer is available with comfortable, easy-to-use applicators that provide soothing, immediate relief at the source of discomfort.

A Safe Choice

New England Journal of Medicine Confirms Replens Moisturizer Relieves Dryness for Menopausal Women
As reported in a November, 2006 issue of The New England Journal of Medicine, women suffering from feminine dryness due to menopause can alleviate symptoms by using Replens Long-Lasting Vaginal Moisturizer.

"In a randomized trial, a polycarbophil-based vaginal moisturizer available over the counter (Replens) provided relief of vaginal (dryness) symptoms that was equivalent to that of vaginal estrogen…," stated the article from the Nov. 30th, issue entitled "Management of Menopausal Symptoms," by Deborah Grady, M.D., M.P.H.  (The New England Journal of Medicine, November 30, 2006, Number 22. http://content.nejm.org/cgi/content/full/355/22/2338)

Vaginal dryness is one of the most common concerns of menopausal women.Replens Vaginal Moisturizer is an estrogen-free, long-lasting vaginal moisturizer. One treatment delivers continuous moisture for three days, providing safe and soothing relief and helps rejuvenate the vaginal lining.

How often should Replens Long-Lasting Vaginal Moisturizer be used?
For most women, Replens can be used every three days for the best results. However, Replens can be applied more or less frequently, as necessary. You can create the Replens routine that best serves your body, your needs and your lifestyle. Whether you experience dryness periodically or daily, Replens works with your body’s own moisturizing process to achieve the balance that is right for you.

Does Replens have any side effects?
Some women may notice a residue after use of Replens–this is caused by the elimination of dead skin cells. Your body naturally sheds dry vaginal tissue that has built up over time. Replens helps this happen, leaving softer, more supple tissue behind. When used on a regular basis, Replens will prevent the build up of dead skin cells and the discharge should dissipate. If the discharge does not dissipate,  you may wish to wait an extra day or two between applications. While use is recommended every two to three days, every woman is unique and you may wish to increase or decrease the amount of time between Replens applications to maximize moisture and minimize discharge.