October 2025 Newsletter
HRT Monthly: Let’s Talk Vaginal Health
Because “down there” deserves attention too.
As we move through midlife, declining estrogen (and often testosterone and DHEA) can
quietly change the health of our vaginal and urinary tissues — leading to dryness,
discomfort, UTIs, and pain with intimacy. It’s called Genitourinary Syndrome of
Menopause (GSM) — and it affects up to 80% of women after menopause… but most never
bring it up.
Here’s the truth:
This isn’t just about sex. It’s about comfort, confidence, and quality of life.
What’s happening:
Lower hormones = thinner, drier tissues, higher vaginal pH, less elasticity, and irritation or
burning. The bladder and urethra are affected too — leading to more urinary urgency and
infections.
What helps:
Local, low-dose therapies can safely restore tissue health:
Vaginal Estradiol – tiny doses via cream, tablet, or ring rebuild the vaginal lining,
improve lubrication, and reduce UTIs.
Vaginal DHEA (prasterone) – supports both estrogen and androgen receptors,
improving comfort and desire without major systemic absorption.
Testosterone (off-label) – may help with tissue thickness and libido when estrogen alone isn’t enough.
Up to 70% of women with GSM symptoms never mention them to their doctor — yet
local hormone therapy is one of the safest and most effective treatments available.
— Health OSU 2023
Why you should bring it up
This is treatable. It’s not “just part of aging.” Early treatment keeps tissues healthy and
maintains intimacy and confidence.
If you’ve noticed dryness, pain, or recurrent UTIs — it’s time to start the conversation.
Grab your handout to bring to your doctor’s appointment below.
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