A Vaginal pH of 6 in Menopause Leads to bacterial Vginosis, Yeast Infections and Recurrent UTIs. скачать в хорошем качестве

A Vaginal pH of 6 in Menopause Leads to bacterial Vginosis, Yeast Infections and Recurrent UTIs.

A vaginal pH of 6 in menopause is actually very common. After menopause, estrogen levels drop, and that naturally raises vaginal pH. Even if your doctor said it’s “not a problem,” your symptoms absolutely matter. Higher pH in menopause can lead to: • Dryness • Burning or irritation • Recurrent infections • Discomfort with intimacy This condition is often called Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause (GSM) — and it is treatable. Options to discuss with your doctor include: • Vaginal moisturizers (regular use, not just lubricants) • Vaginal probiotics • Low-dose vaginal estrogen (very effective and generally safe for most women) You don’t have to just “live with it.” If you’d like, I can make a dedicated video explaining menopausal vaginal pH and treatment options in detail. If you’re in menopause and experiencing dryness, burning, irritation, painful intimacy, or recurrent infections — and your doctor says “everything looks normal” — this video is for you. Today we’re going to talk about: • Why vaginal pH changes after menopause • What that actually means biologically • Why symptoms happen even when tests look “normal” • And most importantly — what safe, effective treatments are available Let’s break this down clearly and scientifically. 🧬 PART 1: What Is Normal Vaginal pH? In reproductive years: • Normal vaginal pH = 3.8 to 4.5 • Slightly acidic • Maintained by estrogen • Supported by lactobacillus bacteria Estrogen keeps vaginal tissue thick, elastic, and rich in glycogen. That glycogen feeds lactobacilli → they produce lactic acid → which keeps the environment acidic. Acidic pH protects against: • Bacterial vaginosis • Yeast overgrowth • UTIs 🌡 PART 2: What Happens After Menopause? After menopause: • Estrogen levels drop • Vaginal tissue becomes thinner • Glycogen decreases • Lactobacillus decreases • pH rises Postmenopausal vaginal pH often rises to: 👉 5.0 – 7.0 So a pH of 6 in menopause is very common. But here’s the key: Even if this is “expected,” symptoms can be very real. ⚠️ PART 3: What Is Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause (GSM)? This is the modern medical term. GSM includes: • Vaginal dryness • Burning • Itching • Pain with intimacy • Recurrent infections • Frequent urination • Urgency • Recurrent UTIs This is not “just aging.” It is estrogen deficiency affecting vaginal and urinary tissues. And it is treatable. 🔬 PART 4: Why Higher pH Causes Symptoms When pH rises: • Protective bacteria decline • Tissue becomes fragile • Micro-inflammation increases • Infection risk rises The vaginal lining loses elasticity and blood flow. Even without infection, inflammation alone can cause: • Burning • Irritation • Discomfort That’s why women may have symptoms even when cultures are negative. 💊 PART 5: Treatment Options (Evidence-Based) Let’s divide this into three levels. 🟢 Level 1: Non-Hormonal Options Good for mild symptoms. 1️⃣ Vaginal Moisturizers Used 2–3 times per week. Not the same as lubricants. Moisturizers: • Restore hydration • Improve tissue comfort • Support pH balance Look for: • Hyaluronic acid • Polycarbophil-based gels 2️⃣ Lubricants Used during intimacy only. Choose: • Water-based or silicone-based Avoid: • Scented products • Harsh soaps • Douching 3️⃣ Vaginal Probiotics Some evidence supports lactobacillus strains. They may help restore microbial balance. But probiotics alone usually don’t fix moderate or severe GSM. 🟡 Level 2: Vaginal Estrogen (Highly Effective) This is the gold standard. Available as: • Cream • Tablet • Ring Important points: • Very low dose • Minimal systemic absorption • Much safer than systemic hormone therapy • Often safe even in many women with history of breast cancer (but must discuss with oncologist) Benefits: • Restores vaginal thickness • Improves blood flow • Lowers pH • Reduces recurrent UTIs • Reduces pain Improvement usually seen within 4–8 weeks. For moderate to severe symptoms — this is the most effective option. 🟠 Level 3: Other Options 🔹 Vaginal DHEA (Prasterone) Acts locally Improves tissue health 🔹 Ospemifene (oral SERM) Used for painful intercourse Systemic medication These are considered when estrogen cannot be used. 🚫 What NOT To Do • Do not douche • Avoid scented wipes • Avoid harsh soaps • Avoid repeated unnecessary antibiotics • Don’t ignore symptoms And most importantly: Do not let anyone tell you “it’s just aging.” ❤️ PART 6: Emotional & Quality of Life Impact This condition affects: • Intimacy • Confidence • Relationships • Sleep • Daily comfort And many women suffer silently. Menopause is natural. Suffering is not. 🎯 KEY TAKEAWAY If you are in menopause and your vaginal pH is 6: That is common. But if you have symptoms — You deserve treatment. Talk to your doctor about: “Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause” That specific phrase changes the conversation.