When discussing perimenopause, hot flushes and night sweats often come to mind first. However, those experiencing this transitional phase know that symptoms extend far beyond these well-known signs. Brain fog, heart palpitations, weight gain, irregular periods, bloating, joint pain, irritability, and reduced libido are just a few of the many possible effects. While awareness has grown thanks to celebrities and influencers sharing their stories, one symptom remains largely taboo: vaginal dryness.
Understanding Vaginal Dryness
Vaginal dryness can cause persistent discomfort, including itching, burning, stinging, irritation, soreness, and chafing. These sensations may occur during daily activities or exercise. Despite being extremely common among perimenopausal women, it is rarely discussed, leading to feelings of embarrassment and isolation. Many women suffer in silence, unaware that others share the same experience.
Common Symptoms
- Irritation such as itching, burning, and stinging
- General discomfort including soreness and chafing, especially during exercise
- Painful sex and occasional light bleeding or spotting after intercourse
- Increased urinary frequency and higher risk of recurrent urinary tract infections
For many women, the first sign of vaginal dryness is discomfort during intimacy. Angela notes, "Sex is not supposed to be painful. If I'm having vaginal dryness, it's not how it used to be, so something has shifted. It's not a subject we should be embarrassed about." Suzanna first noticed the issue during a spin class: "I was thinking, 'oh this is really uncomfortable.' The way I described it to my husband is like washing your face with soap without moisturising—it gets tight, itchy, and stings."
What Causes Vaginal Dryness?
Like other perimenopausal symptoms, vaginal dryness results from decreased estrogen levels. This hormonal change causes vaginal tissues to become thinner and less elastic, leading to discomfort and increased vulnerability to infections. While lubricants can provide temporary relief, they may not address the underlying issue. Many women are turning to products like Replens, a hormone-free vaginal moisturiser recommended by GPs.
Real Experiences with Replens
Charlotte began using Replens six months ago and wishes she had started earlier. "Because I'm now moisturising regularly, it's not building up to a point where it's so dry that I'm feeling irritated. I can carry on my week feeling really comfortable." Suzanna found immediate relief: "Replens has made me feel comfortable again. For me it was instant. I am using other treatments, but it doesn't fix everything. Replens is an additional treatment." Angela's sex life improved significantly: "Replens has made it so easy for me. Our sex now is easier. I don't feel apprehensive because there is no pain."
Replens uses a bio-adhesive, hormone-free formula that coats vaginal surface tissue, delivering soothing moisture that can last up to three days. As Suzanna puts it, "The proof of the pudding is, I don't think about it anymore. It's just normal again. I'm a well oiled machine just like my bike!"
Breaking the Silence
Kirsty, a post-menopausal woman, emphasises the importance of talking about vaginal dryness. "Talk! It might be the only support somebody needs because just having people to talk to, that feeling that it's only you, you're going mad. It's not only you, you're not going mad." She found relief with Replens: "The thing I love about it is the ease of use and the fact that I feel like my vagina is getting the moisture it needs. It feels like it's almost going 'aah, thank you.'"
For more information, visit replens.com or purchase on Amazon.
