Care Down There

This is a topic that’s tough for a lot of folks. It can be embarrassing to talk about! The biggest problem with our taboo reguarding talking about our intimate areas? It can be hard to know if what you’re experiencing is completely normal or not. And while the “feminine care” aisle of your local drugstore offers tons and tons of products, it’s almost impossible to know which product is going to be the best one for your needs. Fortunately, these conversations are becoming more open. Companies are recognizing that women want – and deserve – products that answer intimate care concerns. We’ll break down a few common issues and share what’s worked for us!

by Amanda Harper

Dryness

There are many reasons you might be experiencing vaginal dryness. Commonly, dips in your estrogen levels – such as those caused by menopause and breastfeeding – can result in this uncomfortable condition. Symptoms may include an itching, burning sensation that can ultimately lead to pain, often during sex. You may have an increase in yeast infections or UTIs. Only your doctor can properly diagnose the cause of these symptoms, as they overlap with many other conditions.

Estradiol

If the symptoms of menopause or vaginal dryness are overwhelming, your doctor may prescribe estradiol. This hormone is the most abundant estrogen produced by the ovaries before menopause. You can supplement it via pills, injections, vaginal rings, transdermal patches, vaginal suppositories, creams and more; talk to your doctor about which form may be easiest for you to use and which may be most effective for your needs. It does have some side effects that you’ll want to discuss and weigh.

Ospemifene

This is another medication that your doctor may prescribe if you are experiencing vaginal dryness. Unlike estradiol, this is not a hormone; instead, it acts like estrogen in some parts of the body and is part of a class of drugs called selective estrogen receptor modulators. Like most medications, this does have some side effects.

Hyaluronic Acid Suppositories

We get it; this is a deeply unsexy phrase. But if you’re experiencing vaginal dryness, it may be a godsend!

You may recognize hyaluronic acid from your skincare routine. It’s a slippery substance that your body produces naturally to do things like keeping your joints moving smoothly and helping retain hydration.

According to suppository brand Revaree®, 84% of women studied saw an improvement in vaginal dryness when using hyaluronic acid suppositories. One of the consequences of vaginal dryness is that your tissues become irritated, leading to itching and burning. The moisture attracted by hyaluronic acid can create an environment that allows these tissues to heal; 86% of users reported a reduction of these symptoms!

You don’t need a prescription to give hyaluronic acid suppositories a try. You can purchase them online or at some drugstores. It has fewer side effects than estradiol and can be combined with most medications (but still talk to your doctor or pharmacist about possible interactions).

Wait... is it your bath?

We love tub time as much as the next gal, but all those bubbles and fizzies can be a problem for your lady bits. If you take baths and experience irritation, UTIs, yeast infections or other discomfort, you may want to read on.

Almost all bath products – from liquid bubble baths to bath bombs – contain fragrances, dyes, soaps and oils that disrupt the microorganisms that work to keep everything in ship shape. This could alter your pH, leading to irritation or even infections. Even “natural” bath goods can upset this delicate balance.

That’s not to say you have to give up baths! Instead, take baths as a special relaxation treat rather than a frequent part of your care routine. If you’ve been out and about – or you’re sweaty, dirty or grimy – take a quick shower with soap first. It’s also a good idea to do a quick rinse after your bath, then pat everything dry with a clean towel.

Don’t use bath products that contain soap –including any bubble baths. Anything heavily scented or deeply dyed is best nixed. And avoid products containing glitter (yes, even if it’s “body-safe”) or glycerin. Instead, choose bath salts, oils and bombs that are designed for sensitive skin.

Inescapable Infections

So many women are at their wit's end with recurring UTIs, cases of bacterial vaginosis, yeast infections and more. If this sounds like you –and you're already in regular conversations with your health care team – we can help you build a toolkit to at least find some relief.

Cranberry Supplements

Taking cranberry extract supplements daily seems to help prevent recurring urinary tract infections. They also contain antioxidants, can help increase "good" cholesterol, protect against stomach ulcers and offer a host of other health benefits.

Urinate Often

The best thing you can do for your urinary tract health is... well, to go! Stay well-hydrated, urinate after any sexual activity and go when you gotta go (holding it can strain your bladder muscles and could allow bacteria to multiply within your bladder.)

Boric Acid Suppositories

Combined with a doctor's prescribed treatment, a boric acid suppository can help resistant or recurrent vaginal infections, particularly bacterial vaginosis (BV). Simply insert a capsule before bed and wear a panty liner overnight. You may wish to rinse the area in the morning.

Vitamin E

Doctors recommend this vitamin to treat certain types of vaginal inflammation. One study shows vitamin E may help with vaginal atrophy – a thinning of the vaginal walls due to lack of estrogen, which changes your pH and can lead to recurrent infections. You can purchase vitamin E suppositories or apply vitamin E oil directly to the vulva, which can help soothe itching, burning and inflammation.

Baking Soda

Earlier, we discussed how baths may be causing your discomfort. But they may also be a solution! Adding up to a Tablespoon of baking soda to your bathwater may help calm the itching.

Probiotics

The (scientific) jury is still out on whether probiotics actually help support the vaginal bacterial biome. But if you've tried everything else, we'll chalk this one up to can't hurt; worst case scenario, you're helping out your gut health! Take probiotic supplements and/or consume probiotic-rich foods such as yogurt, kombucha, kimchi and sauerkraut. Adding up to a Tablespoon of baking soda to your bathwater may help calm the itching. •

Skin Care

You probably don’t think about your downstairs beauty routine. But your skin in that region can be quite temperamental. A boutique industry has cropped up to help address sensitive, dry, bumpy, irritated skin in sensitive spots. One of our favorite brands is Fur. They launched with the idea of helping people with body hair maintenance, but the founders quickly realized that people needed gentle, effective skincare for their intimate areas (their Ingrown Microdart Patch is a lifesaver!)

If you have nagging skin concerns in that region, speak to your gynecologist first. They can often diagnose the issue and help you build a care plan to rectify it. But they may ultimately suggest you go see a dermatologist.