#urinary incontinence in women

[nuhospitals24]

Treat Urinary Incontinence in Women from our Expert Doctors at NU Hospitals

NU Hospitals expert doctors specialize in treating urinary incontinence in women. With personalized care and advanced interventions, they address this condition effectively. Patients trust NU Hospitals for specialized and compassionate treatment, making it the ideal choice for managing urinary incontinence in women.

[urosaketnarnoli]

Explore the nuances of urinary incontinence in women, delving into its types and causes. This insightful guide sheds light on the various factors contributing to this condition, empowering women with knowledge to seek informed medical advice for effective management and improved quality of life.

[mahimavarun]

Understanding Urinary Incontinence in Women

This condition involves involuntary leakage of urine, leading to a loss of bladder control. While it can significantly impact a woman's quality of life, it's important to understand that urinary incontinence is not a normal part of aging or something to be endured silently. In this article, we will delve into the causes, types, and stress incontinence treatment options for women.

[edgarsghost]

UTI info

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Ask doctor about:

* Hibiscus tea affects hormones, particularly in women. Research shows that hibiscus tea can decrease levels of estrogen – the hormone that plays a major role in female fertility and development.

Sue Warlow you could try Prasterone, brand name is Intrarosa. Unlike vagifem which adds estrogen to your body, intrarosa is DHEA and helps your body to produce its own testosterone and estrogen. You have to use it every night rather than twice a week and may need to get it compounded but it would be worth trying for a 3-4 to see if there's improvement.

Anecdotally some people have better success with that.

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* probiotics competitively inhibit the survival of bacteria in the urinary tract, whereas D-mannose and cranberry prevent bacterial attachment.

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https://www.stoputiforever.com/interview/why-i-recommend-ellura-for-uti/

All

The info

However, the effects of PACs are at their strongest within 6 hours after ingesting.

One study showed that the E.coli-blocking effect drops quite a bit after 24 hours.

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Both are safe, natural options that can work to stop various types of bacteria.   It is preferred to take D-Mannose or 36mg of PACs a couple of hours from each other as it is not known yet if D-Mannose interferes with the ability of the PACs to work at their optimal level.  

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https://www.nutritionaloutlook.com/view/more-urologists-are-recommending-cranberry-pacs-reducing-utis-heres-why

A Cochrane Review concluded that one 36-mg bioactive PAC supplement was as effective as a low-dose antibiotic for UTI prevention.

Some supplements, for example, are made from whole berry or presscake-the dried skins, stems, and seeds of the fruit-and contain mostly insoluble PACs that bind to cell wall components of the cranberry, such as cellulose. It is an essential distinction that this insoluble PAC does not prevent bacterial adhesion to the bladder.10

Soluble PACs, at high levels necessary for maximum anti-adhesion activity and clinical efficacy, can only be extracted from the pure juice concentrate.

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The half-life of Vitamin C in your bloodstream is about 30 minutes, meaning that your levels drop by about half every half-hour. The amount of time Vitamin C remains in your system depends on the factors listed above, but in general, it usually takes between 12 and 24 hours for it to be processed and excreted

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Utva:

It is safe to take PACs and D-Mannose together. However, we suggest taking each ingredient separately as some preliminary research shows that D-Mannose may lower the effectiveness of PACs when taken at the same time. 

Our recommendation is the PACs to be taken at the same time daily; preferably at night so that the PACs can sit in your bladder longer (while you sleep). D-Mannose can be taken during the day.

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If you take aspirin regularly, as a blood-thinner, for example, or if you are allergic to aspirin, you should not take cranberry supplements or drink a lot of juice. Other medications: Cranberry may interact with medications that are broken down by the liver.

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Chemicals in cranberries keep bacteria from sticking to the cells in the urinary tract. But they don't seem to be able to remove bacteria that are already stuck to these cells. This might explain why cranberry helps prevent urinary tract infections (UTIs), but doesn't help treat them.

Activation of mast cells and subsequent release of histamine are known to contribute to bladder hypersensitivity and inflammation (Shan H, 2019).

Marshmellow root:

So, why is mucilage good for an irritated bladder? In healthy bladders, the mucosal membrane that protects the bladder wall is covered in a mucous-like layer made of GAGs (glycoaminoglycans). A contributing factor in IC is the breakdown of this protective GAG layer which allows substances to penetrate deeper into the bladder wall and cause inflammation. The demulcent action of marshmallow is achieved by the expansion of mucilage polysaccharides as they absorb moisture, swell, and form a gel that is soothing and healing to mucosal membranes.

Licorice:

Researchers believe that licorice enhances blood flow to the mucosal membrane and increases the mucus production, thereby allowing tissue to regenerate and heal. The ability of licorice to increase mucus production by epithelial cells appears to occur in a number of places that epithelial tissues are found, including the bladder (Braun, 2015).

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TheraCran® One is a recommended option, offering 500 mg of cranberry extract with 36 mg of PACs. It’s
the only cranberry supplement in the U.S. that is independently tested and certified for content
accuracy, purity, and PAC content.

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"In order to have the full effect of cranberry prophylaxis and/or D-mannose, you want to take them about two or three hours apart, so the combination pill is not usually recommended," Dr. Shah explained.

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In some lab studies and studies in mice, D-mannose components were shown to increase the growth of "good" bacteria. This suggests D-mannose may have some use for people with dysbiosis, an imbalance in good and bad bacteria.

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https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/pharmacology-toxicology-and-pharmaceutical-science/cranberry-extract

Early randomized trials in humans, have suggested that cranberry juice or cranberry-concentrate tablets reduce the risk of symptomatic recurrent UTI by 12–20%, especially in premenopausal women.

Howell et al. (2002) showed that an antibiotic resistant uropathogenic P-fimbriated E. coli had significantly reduced adhesion to bladder cell receptors after incubation in urine of humans that had consumed 240 mL (containing 30 mg PACs). In later study, Howell et al. (2005)showed this consumption prevented adhesion in 80% of 30 P-fimbriated E. coli and in 79% of the 24 antibiotic resistant strains, with antiadhesion activity being evident in urine within 2 h that persisted for up to 10 h.

PACs:

PACs A-type showed a significant dose-dependent antiadhesive effect in urine samples of volunteers consuming at least 36 mg PACs from cranberry capsules compared with the group consuming the placebo, which was most effective up to 6 h after ingestion. They also determined that 72 mg may provide 24 h protection.

Alkaline or acid:

The best method for alkalinizing is citrate salts (potassium citrate and sodium citrate) that are rapidly absorbed and metabolized without affecting gastric pH or producing laxative effect. They are excreted partly as carbonate, raising urine pH.

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Science direct.com

The active compound of uva ursi is thought to be arbutin, which is converted into hydroquinone following consumption.53Alkaline urine is thought to be necessary for the efficacy of uva ursi, with in vitro studies indicating activity against typical pathogens.54

A preliminary trial reported the effectiveness of uva ursi in preventing recurrent UTI when combined with dandelion root and leaf.55 In this trial, women took an extract for 1 month and were then followed for 1 year. During that time, 18% of women in the placebo group (27 individuals) and 0% in the treatment group (30 individuals) developed a UTI. Unfortunately, due to potential toxicity when used long term, uva ursi cannot be recommended for the purpose of prophylaxis. The toxicity of uva ursi may be related to the component hydroquinone and the inhibition of melanin,56 although tannins may also play a role. Many experts recommend limiting the use of uva ursi to acute infections for no longer than 1 week at a time and no more than five courses per year,57 although others have argued that longer use may be safe.58

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The bladder is perpetually shedding and regrowing new layers. It takes between six months and one year for it to complete a cycle of rejuvenation. According to Dr. Bundrick, as long as the bacteria do not continue to burrow into the bladder wall as the new layers grow, they will eventually be eradicated through the long-term antibiotic method.

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Dr b: I’m a clinication, I don’t have have time, energy or desire for research (4min in Long Term Chronic UTI Treatment: Chronic UTI Treatment, with Dr. Stewart Bundrick, Part 2)

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Bacteria from a single UTI can lay dormant for weeks or months, eventually leading to another infection or cyclical outbreaks. These recurrent UTIs are caused by the same bacteria that never left. Separate, individual UTIs, spaced further apart, are more likely to be caused by new bacteria being introduced to the urinary tract.

rUTI is defined by the occurrence of 2 or more UTIs within 6 months, or 3 or more UTIs within 12 months.

Most antibiotics work by interrupting the bacterial division process. This is very important because if the bacteria are dormant, and not dividing, these antibiotics will not affect them.

Once antibiotic treatment is over, bacteria can quickly multiply within the cells, which causes an inflammatory response and UTI symptoms. As part of this response, white blood cells arrive but do not recognize the bacteria because they are hiding within the cells or biofilm.

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Once such a biofilm develops, whenever you get a UTI, instead of recovering completely, your body can be left with an embedded infection adherent to bladder wall, that is difficult to treat.

[shobhagiresh55]

Best cosmetic genecolog in chennai

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[bio-life-boost]

What are the most effective home remedies for managing the discomfort caused by urinary tract infections in women?

Hey there! Today, let's chat about something that concerns many women at some point in their lives – urinary tract infections, or UTIs. We'll break it down into the causes, symptoms, and how you can prevent them. Trust me; it's super important to spot them early and get the right treatment.

So, What's Behind UTIs in Women?

Uninvited Bacteria: UTIs are often caused by pesky bacteria like Escherichia coli (E. coli) sneaking into the urinary tract. Women are more susceptible because they have shorter urethras, which makes it easier for these intruders to reach the bladder.

Intimate Activities: Yep, you guessed it! Sexual activity can sometimes introduce unwanted bacteria, making women more vulnerable to UTIs.

Menopause Matters: Post-menopausal ladies experience hormonal changes that can affect the urinary tract, increasing the risk of infections.

Health Matters: Conditions like diabetes or a weakened immune system can also up the chances of UTIs in women.

I have something special for you, a presentation that will help you never have to go to the bathroom every 5 minutes again: >>>Watch Now<;<<

Recognizing Those UTI Signals

Ouch, It Burns: One of the most common signs is a burning sensation when you pee – not fun, right?

Frequent Pit Stops: Feeling like you need to use the bathroom every five minutes? That's a red flag.

"Gotta Go Now" Urgency: If you urgently need to go, even when your bladder isn't full, it could be a UTI.

Peculiar Pee: Keep an eye on your urine. If it looks cloudy or has traces of blood, it's time to take notice.

Pain Down There: That uncomfortable pressure or pain in your lower abdomen or pelvic region – yep, that can be a UTI symptom too.

Feeling Down and Out: In severe cases, UTIs can bring on a fever and fatigue.

Keeping UTIs at Bay

Hydration Station: Make sure to stay well-hydrated; it helps flush out those pesky bacteria. Aim for at least eight glasses of water daily.

Wipe Right: After using the bathroom, remember to wipe from front to back to prevent bacteria from the backside ending up in the front – you get the idea.

Before and After Fun Time: Yep, urinate before and after getting intimate to flush out any potential troublemakers.

Berry Good Advice: Some say cranberry juice or supplements can help prevent UTIs by making it hard for bacteria to stick to the urinary tract.

Skip the Irritants: Avoid using products that can irritate the area down there – think harsh soaps, douches, or scented sprays.

Clean and Comfy: Keep things clean and wear breathable cotton undies to avoid any moisture build-up.

Probiotic Power: Consider adding probiotics to your diet; they can help maintain a healthy balance of good bacteria in the urinary tract.

Don't Wait, Communicate: If you suspect a UTI, don't procrastinate. Reach out to a healthcare pro ASAP. Early diagnosis and the right antibiotics are crucial to stop the infection from getting worse.

Wrapping It Up

So, there you have it – the lowdown on UTIs in women. By understanding the causes, spotting the symptoms, and taking preventive steps, you can lower the risk and keep your urinary health in tip-top shape. Remember, early detection and treatment are your best buddies in this battle. Stay informed, stay healthy!

I have something special for you, a presentation that will help you never have to go to the bathroom every 5 minutes again: >>>Watch Now<;<<

[phlorenasblog]

Phlorena

Website: https://phlorena.com/

Address: 401 Keyes St, San Jose, CA 95112

Phone: +1 650-382-3443

Altus Lifescience: Elevating Women's Wellness with Phlorena and Asterli Brands- At Altus Lifescience, we take immense pride in our ownership and offering of the exceptional Phlorena and Asterli brands. These brands are dedicated to catering to the unique needs of women by providing high-quality, natural, and scientifically-backed products. Our commitment to delivering effective, safe, and reliable solutions is unwavering, thanks to our dedicated team of experts who have conducted extensive research and testing. Quality You Can Trust With Altus Lifescience, you can place your trust in the high standards of our products. We understand that your well-being is paramount, which is why our commitment to using natural ingredients and conducting rigorous testing ensures that every product you purchase from us is of the highest quality. Discover Phlorena and Asterli Our Phlorena and Asterli brands are your ultimate companions in the world of e-commerce. Whether you visit our website or shop through major retailers like Amazon and Walmart, you'll easily find our products. Experience the difference that Phlorena and Asterli can make in your life today, and take a step towards a healthier and happier you. Your Wellness Partner At Altus Lifescience, we're here to meet all your health and wellness needs. Our dedication to your well-being is not just a promise but a mantra – Love, Care, and Compassion for all. Why Choose Phlorena? Phlorena is a symbol of comfort and support during challenging times. We believe that ""No one fights alone,"" and our hand-prepared boxes are tangible expressions of care and love. Sending a Phlorena gift is a powerful way to remind your loved ones that they have a strong support system in friends, family, and loved ones. It's a gesture that says, ""You are not alone,"" and that support is always available. Why Choose Asterli? Asterli is our brand that embodies our commitment to natural wellness. Our products are crafted entirely from natural herbs, free from harmful chemicals. We believe in taking care of ourselves, each other, and the environment to achieve higher happiness. This philosophy guides every aspect of our work. Backed by Science Altus Lifescience is where love meets science. Our products are meticulously developed with the well-being of women in mind. When we say ""Backed by science,"" it means that our products have undergone rigorous testing and proven effectiveness through extensive research and experimentation. This fusion of care and scientific rigor guarantees products that are not only high in quality but also reliable and safe. Sustainability and Eco-Friendliness Our dedication to the environment is as strong as our commitment to women's well-being. We take conscious steps to minimize our impact on the planet. All our products are 100% recyclable, reflecting our efforts to reduce waste and pollution, use sustainable materials, and decrease energy consumption. We believe that producing eco-friendly products is not just an environmental responsibility but also a sustainable business practice and a socially responsible choice. We encourage our customers to join us in completing the recycling loop by responsibly recycling our products. In conclusion, Altus Lifescience is your partner in achieving a healthier and happier life. With Phlorena and Asterli, we offer you not just products, but a philosophy rooted in love, care, and compassion for all. Trust us for quality, trust us for science, and trust us for a greener, more sustainable future.

[williamnewtonhospital]

If you’re a woman who has noticed persistent urine leakage, you’re in good company. About half of adult women experience urinary incontinence at some point in their lives. Some write it off as “old age.” Some suffer in silence. Some are too embarrassed to discuss it at all. But the truth is urinary incontinence is a medical condition and there are treatment options available.

[beautikinieeboy]

What Causes Urine Leakage After Using the Bathroom?

Why Do I Experience Urine Leakage After Using the Toilet?

If you find yourself experiencing urine leakage after using the toilet, you're not alone. This type of urinary incontinence, often referred to as "after-dribble" or overflow incontinence, affects approximately 30 percent of women. It may feel like your bladder is not fully emptying, and you might notice a small amount of urine leakage after you think you've finished urinating. While urinary incontinence can occur in anyone, it is more common in older individuals, pregnant women, and those who have given birth. Dealing with bladder control issues can be embarrassing and may lead to avoiding regular activities. However, incontinence can often be managed or treated effectively.

Is it normal to experience urine leakage after using the toilet?

While urine leakage after using the toilet is not considered normal, urinary incontinence can have various causes unrelated to underlying diseases. It can occur temporarily due to factors such as alcohol consumption, lack of access to bathrooms, coughing, sneezing, extreme anxiety, or intense laughter.

Causes of urine leakage:

Urinary incontinence can stem from everyday habits, underlying medical conditions, or physical problems. A comprehensive evaluation by a healthcare professional can help determine the underlying cause of your incontinence.

Some instances of urine leakage can be attributed to temporary and controllable factors. Certain beverages, foods, and medications may act as diuretics, stimulating the bladder and increasing urine volume. These include alcohol, caffeine, carbonated drinks, artificial sweeteners, chocolate, chili peppers, spicy, sugary or acidic foods, and certain medications like heart and blood pressure medications, sedatives, muscle relaxants, and large doses of vitamin C.

Urinary incontinence can also be caused by treatable medical conditions, such as urinary tract infections that irritate the bladder, leading to strong urges to urinate and occasional incontinence. Additionally, constipation with hardened stool in the rectum can activate the nerves shared with the bladder, resulting in increased urinary frequency.

Persistent urinary incontinence may be caused by underlying physical problems or changes, including hormonal changes during pregnancy, weakened pelvic floor muscles and damaged bladder nerves and tissue due to vaginal childbirth, age-related decline in bladder muscle function and increased involuntary bladder contractions, decreased estrogen levels after menopause, tumors or urinary stones blocking normal urine flow, and neurological conditions like multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's disease, stroke, brain tumors, or spinal injuries affecting bladder control nerve signals.

By identifying the underlying cause of urine leakage and seeking appropriate treatment or management options, it is possible to address and improve urinary incontinence symptoms.

How Can I Prevent Urine Leakage After Using the Toilet?

There are various medical treatments available to address urinary leakage after urination. Here are four common solutions that your doctor may recommend:

Medications: Certain medications can help improve bladder function, increase bladder capacity, reduce urgency, and enhance the ability to fully empty the bladder.

Botox: Injection of Botox into the bladder lining can help prevent urine leakage by relaxing the muscles and reducing overactivity.

Urethral injections: Supportive injections near the urethra can provide additional support and help prevent leakage.

Bladder sling surgery: In some cases, a bladder sling surgery may be recommended. This procedure involves placing a mesh sling under or around the urethra to provide support and prevent leakage.

Tips for managing urine leakage:

If you prefer to explore non-medical options to manage urine leakage after urination, here are some tactics you can try:

Dietary adjustments: Avoiding certain foods, drinks, and ingredients known to irritate the bladder can help reduce leakage. These may include alcohol, artificial sweeteners, caffeine, carbonated beverages, chocolate, citrus fruits, tomatoes, corn syrup, and spicy foods.

Weight management: Losing weight can help alleviate symptoms of bladder leakage, as excess weight puts additional pressure on the bladder and pelvic floor muscles.

Pelvic floor exercises: Performing exercises like Kegels can strengthen the pelvic floor muscles and improve bladder control. The Knack method involves contracting the pelvic floor muscles during activities that trigger leakage, such as coughing or sneezing.

Leak-proof protective underwear: Using leak-proof protective underwear, such as BeautikiniLeakproof Underwear, can provide an extra layer of protection and keep you dry and comfortable throughout the day.

Can urine leakage be cured?

In the majority of cases, urinary leakage can be cured or significantly improved through various treatments and management strategies. Seeking medical advice and exploring appropriate options can help address the underlying causes and alleviate symptoms.

What are the consequences of untreated bladder incontinence?

If left untreated, urinary incontinence can have a negative impact on daily life, leading to sleep disturbances, depression, anxiety, and a loss of interest in sexual activities. If your condition is affecting your quality of life, it is advisable to consult your doctor, who may refer you to a pelvic floor specialist or urologist.

When should you schedule an appointment with a doctor?

If urine leakage causes embarrassment and leads you to avoid important activities, it is advisable to consult your primary care provider. Seek medical attention if you frequently experience a strong urge to urinate and frequently rush to the bathroom but occasionally cannot make it in time. Additionally, if you frequently feel the need to urinate but have difficulty passing urine, it is recommended to see a doctor. These symptoms may indicate an underlying issue that requires medical evaluation and appropriate treatment.

Purchase BeautikiniLeakproof Underwear for a comfortable and dry experience, eliminating the unpleasant feeling of wet undergarments. While discussing long-term solutions with your doctor, consider shopping for BeautikiniLeakproof Underwear to ensure round-the-clock dryness and comfort. Avoid the discomfort of wet underwear and explore this reliable option for enhanced confidence and peace of mind.

[womenhealthspecialist]

At Women’s Health Care Specialists in Greenbelt, Maryland board-certified Navita Modi, MD, FACOG, and urinary disease treatment greenbelt md her obstetrics and gynecology team provide exceptional, personalized health care using a holistic approach for women of all ages. The practice specializes in preventing OB/GYN illnesses though wellness care and treating chronic disorders if they arise. Book Your Appointment call us: Phone: 301-812-3400 7525 Greenway Center Dr, Suite 202, Greenbelt, MD 20770

[vitalmayfair]

How to do Kegel Exercises for Women to Improve Sexual Health (Pelvic Floor Muscle)

How to do Kegel Exercises for Women to Improve Sexual Health (Pelvic Floor Muscle)

How to do Kegel Exercises for Women to Improve Sexual Health (Pelvic Floor Muscle)   How to do Kegel Exercises for Women to Improve Sexual Health (Pelvic Floor Muscle). After some time, all kinds of people lose strength and muscle tone in the pelvic floor, which can prompt long-haul issues like urinary or waste incontinence. What’s more, it is that the pelvic floor is liable for supporting the…

[maslows-pyramid-scheme]

Actually bathrooms shouldn't be gendered at all that's half the problem.

In communities that lack access to single-sex bathrooms, you witness an increase in the rate of sexual violence, physical health issues like incontinence, and mental health issues like PTSD. If women's health and safety aren't a problem to you, then by all means continue insisting that there's no need to provide them, but you should know these issues disproportionately affect poor women, disabled women, young women, and women from ethnically, linguistically, and racially diverse backgrounds (e.g. bathrooms in northern India are particularly unsafe for women).

I'll leave you with a quote from a book I read recently - Invisible Women, by Caroline Criado Perez:

According to the UN, one in three women lack access to safe toilets, and WaterAid reports that girls and women collectively spend 97 billion hours a year finding a safe space to relieve themselves [which affects their productivity, as women are more likely to be engaged in the informal economy, and their safety]. Local governments that fail to provide public toilets may believe that they are cutting costs, but a 2015 Yale study suggests that this is a false economy. [They linked] the ‘risk of sexual assault to the number of sanitation facilities and the time a woman must spend walking to a toilet, and calculated the tangible costs (lost earnings, medical, court, and prison expenses) and intangible costs (pain and suffering, risk of homicide) [against] the cost of installing and maintaining public toilets … [they found public toilets could save one town $5 million better off, which is a conservative estimate, as it doesn’t include the various health benefits saved from women having more regular and more private bowel movements (e.g. chronic constipation, cholera)]. Health problems arising from a lack of public sanitary provision are not restricted to low-income countries. Canadian and British studies have revealed that referrals for urinary-tract infection, problems with distended bladders, and a range of other uro-gynaeloogical problems have increased proportionately to [toilet inaccessibility]. Urban planning that fails to account for women’s risk of being sexually assaulted is a clear violation of women’s equal right to public spaces – and inadequate sanitary provision is only one of the many ways planners exclude women with this kind of gender-insensitive design. ... For women who try to escape from war and disaster, the gender-neutral nightmare often continues in the refugee camps of the world … [although] international guidelines state that toilets in refugee camps should be sex-segregated, marked, and lockable, [sic] these requirements are often not enforced [and] research by the Women’s Refugee Commission has found that women and girls in accommodation centres in Germany and Sweden are vulnerable to rape, assault, and other violence…

[edgarsghost]

July. Mid. 24

Trying to prevent utis…

Was it the 3 M&Ms, the half a Diet Coke (I haven’t had in 2 months - or any type of caffeine tbh aside from green tea… I miss my shaken expressos from Starbucks and mid afternoon kregui (?). I haven’t drank since June 3rd really to be honest. Other than a nightly shot of tequila while on the road which thankfully didn’t kill me.) Was it the sip of beer? Being too tired? Stress? I don’t ask to do this to myself. I am not an addict reaching for my drug of choice with shame and regret the next morning. I am taking my vitamins, eating my veggies and fruits, avoiding everything I should (for the most part) and still this. A punishment. If I knew what was causing all this I would avoid it like the plague. But a flare… again. My bladder fine. My uthera almost feels like there’s something stuck despite me knowing there isn’t. The tests confirm it and I am just irritated. I know I’m not alone, but I feel so alone. This is UTI life. I’ve never been so obsessed with my bladder until I decided to start tracking it. This is my bladder journal now I suppose. Off to drink my life away in water. Over 100oz here we go.

[johannestevans]

hi, unless i’m imaging things i think you’ve mentioned having written an article about different treatments for vaginal atrophy. do you have a link?

Hey there, Anon!

I have a big, exhaustive guide to vaginal and vulvar stimulation, and I do discuss the impact of vaginal atrophy and a few options toward treating it, but it doesn't go into specific detail.

Vaginal atrophy is caused by decreased estrogen production, and effectively what happens is that the soft, wet tissue on the inside of your vagina - the parts that are formed of mucous membranes - become thinner and dryer. This can lead to pain during sex, difficulty getting sufficiently loose or lubricated for penetration, and it can make the skin there tear a lot more easily, because when it's thinner it's less flexible and has less support from the surrounding tissues, not to mention the increased friction from lack of lubrication.

It's important to remember that while we're at our wettest during sexual arousal, the inside of the vagina - much like the head of the penis inside the foreskin - should always be a little bit wet. That wetness is really important to the vagina performing its regular activities, keeping itself clean and healthy, and not receiving too much friction just from things like walking around.

Even your rectum has important mucous inside it to keep things running a bit more smoothly and to ensure it's never too dry, and this is why too many enemas in a short period can be bad for your anal and rectal health, and your anus is a lot more closed naturally than your vagina, you know?

While more lube during sex is often the first thing people bring up in response to vaginal dryness, that's actually only one facet of potential issues - for people who are on T, for people going through menopause, for people who for whatever reason have an E deficiency or insufficient E in this area, it can cause other problems too - your vaginal canal might get a bit shorter, muscle weakness in the area (especially of the pelvic floor) can make you need to pee more often and more urgently, you might have some spotting, abdominal pain, uncomfortable or burning sensations when urinating.

In combination with the fact that vaginal atrophy can make you more prone to injury, your bacterial flora can be thrown out of whack by this process too, and these are really really important to maintaining a healthy vagina, producing appropriate amounts of discharge, but also to fighting off infection - vaginal atrophy is also associated with recurrent UTIs and other infections.

So, what can we do?

Firstly, pelvic floor exercises are unbelievably helpful, and everyone should be doing them regularly, regardless of gender or genital make-up.

Here's an NHS guide """for women""" but it mostly doesn't use any gendered language for your actual body parts:

These exercises will help strengthen your pelvic floor, and strengthening these muscles will not only help with stuff like potential urinary incontinence or give you a tighter grip that you can better control during penetration (more control in this area can also help you if you're prone to reflexive tightness under stress, e.g. with vaginismus), but when those muscles are stronger and have more density to them, they provide more support to the surrounding area, which can help blood flow and give more structure to the tissues we're trying to support.

Secondly, as well as good lubricants, there also exist vaginal moisturizers - depending on the extent of your atrophy and how much it's a problem (it might be worse, for example, at some points of the month than others), these might help - you apply them every few days and they help your vagina maintain its lubrication.

If pelvic floor exercises and lube and moisturizer isn't helping, your next step is different forms of estrogen - your medical provider will need to tell you what's available in your area and to you particularly, but there's honestly all sorts.

You can get topical estrogen gels and creams that you smear inside the vagina, you can get suppositories that you insert and are then absorbed, you can get rings that you insert and then stay in place for a few months, slowly releasing E over time.

If you're using testosterone, it's more likely that your medical provider would suggest these latter than taking E orally - the great thing about these topical applications is that the E stays very localised to your pelvic region where you need it, much like when you get an IUS and the progesterone stays relatively localised. Taking E orally, you're introducing estrogen to your whole system, and depending on your current hormone cocktail, it might be harder to figure out dosage and effect, especially over time.

If your medical provider hears you're experiencing vaginal atrophy and, if you say that lube and moisturizer aren't sufficient, they immediately suggest moving to vaginal dilators or pain killers, or if they talk about easing your "discomfort" during sex (especially with a presumed male partner) without talking about pleasure or satisfaction, or especially if you've brought up vaginal atrophy for reasons other than sex and their priority immediately jumps to the imaginary partner they want you to be satisfying, I would recommend getting a new medical provider as soon as possible, and probably telling that one to shut the fuck up.

Many doctors, as we know, are scumbags, but some particularly cunty ones' automatic focus for someone with a vagina is that you're providing sex to your (cishet male) partner - they automatically focus less on your pleasure or satisfaction, let alone your health, and more on the idea of reducing pain you're experiencing enough that you'll let that partner fuck you as much as they desire to.

This is not a medical provider that has your best interests at heart, and if they don't afford you humanity in this area, I would have doubts as to others.

If you're having difficulty with a medical provider, I would always, always advise:

Bringing a chaperone with you. You're entitled to a chaperone, you can always bring one, a lot of the time they'll want to say a chaperone can stay out of the room "for your comfort/privacy" but for your comfort and safety, you can also bring them in with you. A chaperone might be a friend or family member or partner, and they don't even need to say anything a lot of the time - just having a witness there can make a medical provider think twice about bullying a patient. I've served as a medical chaperone for quite a few friends, especially because I'm a thin white man, and even as a faggot, doctors humanise me slightly more than they do friends of mine who are perceived as women, who are POC, who are fat, etc.

Ask your doctor the reasoning behind denying a course of treatment, and ask them to document that they are refusing treatment at this time. Once they write it down, it becomes something that's documented and that they can't deny in court, which tends to make them a bit more flexible.

Don't be afraid to go into the doctor having done a bit of your own research. Doctors will tell you not to google things as many doctors have fragile egos and become nervous at empowered patients - with particularly egotistic doctors, you can always phrase your research in the form of questions to make them feel like you're appropriately aggrandising them. "Are there suppositories for this, or creams? Could my UTIs be related to my vaginal dryness? My mother mentioned vaginal atrophy during her menopause, but I didn't really understand what it was. Could you explain? Could that be me?"

Cisgender women are generally better doctors than cisgender men (statistically, despite being underpaid and underrepresented), but obviously cisgender people are often... very cisgender, and cisgender women can be even more painfully cisgender than cisgender men. Most providers won't bat an eyelid at you requesting a female doctor over a male one for a gynecological concern, but you can't go around asking for the most clocky doctor they've got in the back.

What you can do if you're having trouble at your GP is look for your local GUM (Genito-Urinary Medicine) clinic, and see if they'd see you and talk to you about vaginal atrophy - I know several trans people who work as nurses and practitioners in the GUM field, and in general, GUM practitioners will be way more chill about this field.

Unlike your GP, there's no chance of them getting flustered, nervous, or religiously conservative about sex or genitalia, and GUM practitioners are often more chill about queer, trans, and intersex patients because they already see us a lot more, whether because queer people are more on-the-ball about STI testing, or just because many of us enter sex work, and they're more likely to see sex workers. The benefit of this, though, is that you're almost certainly not going to be their first or only patient with x or y element of your body or identity, which can mean they humanise you a bit better and are generally less shit.

I hope that helps, Anon!

[butchpeace]

Begging you to stop assuming that trans people are just gay people who can't admit to being gay. I'm bi regardless of whether I'm the woman the body I was born into is supposed to make me or the man that I feel like I was supposed to be. I won't say that no one has ever transitioned to avoid homophobia, but there are better ways to address that than to stop genuinely transsexual people from transitioning.

I've been in therapy for 27 years. Since puberty sunk its teeth in me. NOTHING is going to make me feel like being a woman is the right fit for me and trying to force myself to fit into that box has made me suicidal for decades. Convincing myself I could just be a masculine woman barely soothed any of that. I'm sorry that transition wasn't the right fit for you, and you deserve all of the support you need for that, but it's no more fair to force me to be a woman just because of the body that I was born into than it would be to force you to keep identifying as a man and taking hormones.

I don’t know you and it’s none of my business how you live your life.

My opposition to transition is primarily due to the medical risks of testosterone therapy on women.

Testosterone causes our reproductive organs to atrophy, potentially irreversibly. I’ve heard stories of people who develop chronic pain, persisting even after stopping T. People whose ovaries no longer work correctly after only a few years on T, causing various problems from low hormone production. People with urinary incontinence and pelvic floor issues caused by T essentially putting them into early menopause. PCOS worsening. Ovaries twisting. People who have had unnecessary gynecological surgeries due to the effects of T. People with chronic chest pain after top surgery. People who developed arthritis in their joints, or autoimmune conditions while on T. People who had mental health crises triggered by being on testosterone. People with chronic debilitating vocal pain or clitoral pain due to the effect on those areas. People who developed cholesterol or blood pressure problems only after being on T, causing them to be at higher risk for heart health issues.

That’s just off the top of my head, and that’s just things I’ve personally witnessed in myself and friends, both trans and detrans.

Live your life, do what makes you happy. I’m not going to stop talking about this health crisis that’s currently affecting young women, many of whom are just gay or tomboys, and would eventually become fine with themselves if they were able to grow up with masculine female role models and actual feminist education.

Even if there was a small minority of “true transsexuals”, even if you are one of them, that doesn’t make what I’m saying wrong or unimportant. You can’t deny that women are getting harmed by transition.