Down There Discomfort? What Every Woman Should Know

When it comes to women’s health, there’s one topic that often goes unspoken: why everything seems to hurt “down there” as we age. Vaginal dryness, burning, discomfort, and urinary issues are not just “part of getting older” that women must endure in silence. These are real, treatable conditions linked to menopause and perimenopause and it’s time to start talking about them openly.

Symptoms like vaginal dryness, pain with sex, urinary urgency, and recurrent infections are part of what’s known as Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause (GSM). Left untreated, these symptoms are chronic and progressive, significantly affecting quality of life.

The Good News: You Have Options

Dr. Moyers emphasizes that vaginal estrogen is safe, effective, and life-changing for many women. Unlike systemic hormones, local estrogen therapy is not absorbed into the bloodstream and is considered low-risk—even for women with a history of breast cancer.

Treatment options include:

Vaginal creams (with easy-to-find disposable applicators)

Vaginal tablets (just twice a week)

Suppositories

Estrogen rings (lasting 90 days)

Vaginal DHEA for painful sex

And here’s the best part—cost doesn’t need to be a barrier. With pharmacies like Cost Plus Drugs, vaginal estrogen can cost as little as $13 a tube.

Many women fear hormone therapy, often due to misinformation. But the latest research—including studies published in JAMA Oncology—shows no increased risk of recurrence or mortality in breast cancer survivors using vaginal estrogen.

Ignoring GSM doesn’t just impact intimacy; it can lead to frequent infections, painful fissures, and even hospitalizations. The longer it goes untreated, the worse it gets.

Practical Tips for Women and Their Partners

Speak up: Vaginal pain, dryness, or bladder issues are not “just normal.” Bring them up at your appointment.

Find the right provider: If your doctor dismisses you, get a second opinion. Visit menopause.org or ishwsh.org to find a certified specialist near you.

Use the trifecta: Vaginal estrogen, a daily vulva moisturizer, and a good lubricant for sex.

Partners matter: Understanding, patience, and advocacy from loved ones go a long way in navigating this transition together.

“This is not your mama’s menopause,” Dr. Moyers reminds us. Women today don’t have to suffer through midlife changes. With the right care, you can thrive, stay active, enjoy intimacy, and embrace this season of life with confidence.

You deserve care, relief, and a thriving quality of life. Don’t settle for less.