The vast majority of women who journey through menopause, if not every last one, experience multiple frustrating side effects. The interesting thing about perimenopause and menopause is that the discussion around this crucial topic tends to focus on run-of-the-mill problems. Women know to experience hot flashes and night sweats. They may know that their risk of weight gain increases as their hormones change. What they may not realize is that, as they lose estrogen, their risk of anxiety and depression increases. Their sex lives will likely change, as may their bladder control, as may their overall sensations in their most intimate areas.
Historically, the symptoms of perimenopause and menopause have been treated with hormone replacement. The thing is, a woman’s body is naturally meant to change. Otherwise, it wouldn’t! At Ong Institute in Scottsdale, we give women’s health a new lens. Rather than turning to hormone replacement therapy to offset the effects of menopause, we consider a woman’s nutrition using specialized nutrient testing and providing nutritional IVs to support her changing biology. Additionally, Dr. Ong customizes treatment for women who want to address issues like vaginal atrophy.
Symptoms of Vaginal Atrophy
The ways that hormone shifts affect the body are widely varied. Women are often aware that, when estrogen levels decline, they may experience a dip in libido. From what we have seen, a woman who maintains her overall health is able to enjoy prolonged sexual health. Part of maintaining overall health is to observe how hormones directly affect the vagina. Without sufficient hormone production, the vaginal lining can become dry, thin, and inflamed, resulting in pain and other symptoms, such as:
- Painful intercourse
- Vaginal or genital itching
- Vaginal dryness
- Urinary leakage
- Burning or stinging while urinating
- A more frequent need to urinate
According to studies, urinary concerns nearly always accompany vaginal atrophy. Therefore, the concept of “vaginal rejuvenation” is not reserved only for cosmetic improvements or the restoration of a woman’s sex drive. In our Scottdale office, vaginal rejuvenation means much more; it means a woman’s return to herself.
Dr. Cheri Ong is a passionate advocate for women’s health. A board certified plastic surgeon, she has expanded her educational background to include knowledge and practice administering the latest treatments for vaginal atrophy, including the use of PRP, radiofrequency, and other modalities. To her patients, she is a thoughtful listener and creative physician who develops programs aimed at improving one’s quality of life.
Vaginal atrophy is a very real and very frustrating problem. Dr. Ong provides care to address this important issue in a friendly, professional manner. We are pleased to serve women in Scottsdale and from areas including Mesa and Phoenix, AZ. To schedule a consultation to discuss your intimate wellness, call (480) 771-7771.
