

Up to 57% of postmenopausal women experience symptoms of vaginal atrophy.1
Vaginal atrophy is thinning of the vaginal epithelium and decreased cervical secretions most closely related to changes in estrogen levels. Because of the decrease of the cervical secretions, the walls of the vagina don’t lubricate enough, causing what’s known as vaginal dryness. Vaginal dryness can happen at any age from several different causes, but it’s mostly associated with menopause because of the drop of estrogen levels. Vaginal dryness is accompanied by other symptoms of vaginal atrophy like burning, irritation, dyspareunia, post-coital bleeding, vaginal bleeding, dysuria and increased risk for recurrent vaginal infections and urinary tract infections. Treatment requires proper diagnosis and includes – nonhormonal – and hormonal interventions.1
1 Bleibel B, Nguyen H. Vaginal Atrophy. StatPearls 2021
Vulvar pH could be expected to fall between values of the skin’s pH (estimated at 4.7) and of vagina’s pH (average 3.5).1
The vulva is the first line of defence to protect the genital tract from infection. Contaminants often collect in the vulvar folds and increased moisture, sweating, menses and hormonal fluctuations influence vulvar microbial growth and species balance, potentially resulting in odour and vulvovaginal infection. Genital skin is unique in that it is covered by a thin stratum corneum containing large hair follicles, making it easier for microbial and other substances to permeate the skin. Another characteristic of vulvar skin is the slightly more acidic pH compared to the rest of the body. For these reasons, it is advisable to take care of the vulvar skin by using intimate hygiene products that are specifically formulated and tested for this purpose.1
1 Chen Y. et al. (2017) ‘Role of female intimate hygiene in vulvovaginal health: Global hygiene practices and product usage’, Women’s Health
Interstitial Cystitis is a chronic bladder condition affecting 4 to 12 million people in the US.1
Interstitial cystitis is a condition that affects the urinary bladder, characterized by chronic inflammation. It is not secondary to an infection. In many cases, because it remains a diagnosis of exclusion, the condition is often diagnosed late. Patients often describe pain in the bladder region, with an urge to urinate. This sensation is worsened with the filling of the bladder and is often relieved by urinating more often. This may happen during the daytime and/or during the night. Other symptoms, such as pain or discomfort while urinating and pain or discomfort during sexual intercourse, may be present. These symptoms have a profound impact on the emotional, psychological and social well-being of the patient. Given the complex nature of the disease, the treatment remains a challenge.2
1 Source: ESSIC (International Society for the Study of BPS)
2 Lim Y, O’Rourke S. Interstitial Cystitis. StatPearls 2021
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