Menopause and intimate hygiene: advice

Menopause represents a physiological phase of female life characterized by a significant reduction in hormonal production by the ovaries with aabsence of menstrual cycle for 12 months. The symptoms of menopause which can be psycho-affective (anxiety, tiredness, changes in mood, irritability, memory and concentration problems, decreased sexual desire) or neurovegetative (hot flashes, excessive sweating, changes in blood pressure , tachycardia and palpitations, dizziness and sleep disturbances) can affect various aspects of daily life.

In menopause it is important take care of your intimate hygienealso due to changes in the acidity of the vaginal environment, linked to hormonal variations that influence the balance of the vaginal ecosystem. However, excessive care or the use of inappropriate products can cause irritation, burning and other problems.

We talk about it with the teacher Nicoletta Di SimoneHead of the Multidisciplinary Center for Menopause of the IRCCS Humanitas Clinical Institute of Rozzano and Full Professor of Gynecology in Humanity University.

Changes in menopause

In menopause there is a reduction in estrogen levels which leads to a natural thinning of the genital mucous membranes. The vaginal mucosa and the skin of the external genital area become more sensitive and delicate, with the risk in some cases of vulvo-vaginal atrophy.

At the same time, the self-lubrication capacity is reduced, causing a increased vaginal dryness and by modifying the acidity (pH) of the intimate environment, which can thus combat the bacteria to which one is exposed on a daily basis less effectively.

Intimate hygiene during menopause: advice

• Washing once or twice a day with warm water is enough to maintain good intimate hygiene.
• Wash from the vulva towards the anus, avoiding opposite movements to prevent contamination by Enterobacteria, which can cause vaginitis and cystitis.
• Prefer a non-aggressive cleanser, preferably formulated for menopause, and in an oil-milk or oily version, so as to respect the dryness of the skin at the genital level.
• Choose natural detergents, without surfactants and perfumes, which could irritate the delicate mucosa. Cleansers containing aloe or tea tree oil are particularly effective, as they offer soothing properties and help fight infections without damaging the skin.
• Be careful not to dry yourself by rubbing excessively with rough fabrics, better to dab gently with towels made of soft fabrics, such as linen.
• Avoid using vaginal douches unless indicated by your gynecologist.
• Avoid wearing synthetic, colored underwear or trousers that are too tight.
• Drink plenty of water during the day. Proper hydration helps purify the body from the inside and maintains good intestinal regularity, which is essential for preventing infections.

Furthermore, in case of unusual vaginal irritation or dischargeit is advisable to consult a specialist gynecologist. These professionals can carry out a thorough examination and, if necessary, a swab to check for the presence of infections, also checking the general state of the genital tissue to identify any signs of vulvo-vaginal atrophy, even in the initial phase.

Multidisciplinary Center for Menopause: a dedicated path in Humanitas

Humanitas offers a path dedicated to all women aged between 35 and 65 through its multidisciplinary center for menopause. The Center treats patients in perimenopause, physiological or iatrogenic menopause, as well as those facing premature menopause and premature ovarian failure. Women who experience alterations in the menstrual cycle or specific symptoms can access a complete diagnostic process, supported by laboratory and instrumental tests, such as pelvic ultrasound, bone densitometry (DEXA), breast ultrasound and mammography. Furthermore, a clinical consultation is provided with specialists from different disciplines: gynecologists, cardiologists, endocrinologists, rheumatologists and radiologists.

Gynecological specialist visit – Menopause

The gynecological specialist visit for menopause allows you to set up multidisciplinary therapeutic paths and prevent the risk of the onset of pathologies.

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