Menopause Makeover: Restoring Confidence, Comfort, and Intimacy

10 Aug

• By: Dr. Anup Dhir

During menopause, women experience actual physical alterations that they have to come to terms with – and many never hear that anything can be done about them. Many women experience vaginal dryness, discomfort during sex and feel they are not themselves – however, this is rarely discussed openly – even with a doctor. This is where a menopause makeover can help. Not one treatment but a unique blend of therapies designed to treat the physical and emotional aspects of menopause, so comfort, confidence and intimacy are not withdrawn in silence. You'll find out what a menopause makeover is, who it's for and why it's a great first step to consult a qualified gynecologist.

What is a Menopause Makeover?

A menopause makeover is a customised treatment, a blend of non-surgical and, if necessary, surgical methods designed for providing women with the care they need to help them manage their challenges during menopause. It takes into account vaginal health, skin changes and quality of life all at once, instead of addressing one symptom at a time. This combination varies depending on each woman's symptoms, medical history and individual objectives, so it's more of a process that begins with a consultation, rather than a set package.

During menopause, there are some common physical and emotional changes that can occur. During menopause, women cannot only experience hot flashes and night sweats, but the body suffers from a lack of oestrogen in other ways. Doctors may talk about postmenopausal vaginal health concerns and many women will experience vaginal dryness, thinning of the vaginal tissues and discomfort or even a bit of bleeding when they have sex. Elasticity may be decreased in the vulva and surrounding skin as well. Emotionally, some women experience a loss of self-confidence or a feeling of being out of their own body, impacting on intimacy with a partner. These experiences are normal, not a result of any personal failure and they can respond to a proper menopause therapy treatment.

Who can benefit from a Menopause Makeover?

This is a good idea for women who suffer from persistent vaginal dryness, urinary irritation, or thinning tissue, or feel their menopause symptoms are impacting their relationships or everyday life. It's equally applicable for years past menopause women who have been experiencing symptoms unconsciously, as well as for the women who are just starting to enter menopause and wish to deal with changes early.

Treatment Options

• Non-Surgical Approaches: For many women, non-surgical treatments suffice. These may involve using vaginal moisturiser or lubricants, using local oestrogen and less traditional options like laser or radiofrequency treatment to restore tissue thickness and elasticity with minimal downtime, after menopause.
• Surgical Options: If these changes are more extensive, or if a woman desires a surgical remedy, surgical changes to the labia or to the vagina may be considered. These are not a recommended first course of action, but are only recommended after thorough evaluation.

Benefits of Treatment:

Females treated in an appropriate manner often experience a decrease in pain when moving around and in bed, increased body confidence and an improved quality of life. Since the plan is custom-made, outcomes will be similar to the goal the woman was seeking, not a standard outcome.

The importance of knowing the experience of an expert gynecologist.The advantage of consulting an expert gynecologist.

A makeover for the menopause may be hormonal, non-surgical, or surgical, so always consult with an experienced gynecologist or cosmetic gynecologist. A thorough evaluation helps to create a treatment program that is medically appropriate, safe and practical for your particular health profile, and not just the generic approach recommended by product marketing.

Conclusion

These menopause symptoms are normal, but it doesn't have to be painful all the time or lead to a loss of confidence that is endured silently. With a professional expert, a well-crafted menopause makeover can truly give you comfort and confidence. If you can relate to any of this, the next logical step is to talk to a knowledgeable gynecologist, not another year dealing with it yourself.