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Pause Menopause with Hormone-Free Replens Long-Lasting
Vaginal Moisturizer
by: Machelle M. Seibel MD
Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology at the University
of Massachusetts and head of the Complicated Menopause Clinic
One of the most common symptoms of peri-menopause or menopause is feminine
dryness. When estrogen levels decrease, the amount of vaginal lubrication
naturally produced in the body also drops. Lower estrogen levels lead to a
thinner, less elastic and more fragile vaginal lining. Whether mild or severe,
it can be painful, cause constant discomfort and become severe if left
untreated.
Hormone replacement therapy is most often recommended for those undergoing
menopause, but because most vaginal preparations are absorbed into the
bloodstream, some women have concerns about the safety of estrogen and prefer
alternative solutions. And, studies show that many of the women taking oral
hormone therapy report that they sometimes still suffer from vaginal dryness.
Women’s bodies change as they age, but one thing stays the same: sensitive
vaginal areas must be kept moisturized to stay pliable, elastic and healthy.
However, the Women’s Health Initiative study found that women taking a
combination of estrogen and progestin had a higher risk of breast cancer, heart
disease, stroke and blood clots than women on a placebo. But, there are
non-prescription approaches to help reduce dryness.
Over-the-counter Replens Long-Lasting Vaginal Moisturizer is made with a
patented bioadhesive ingredient, which helps treat irritating and painful
vaginal dryness. It does so by re-moisturizing and normalizing the pH balance in
the vagina, replenishing and maintaining natural moisture for up to three days
per application.
Replens can also enhance HRT to treat vaginal dryness and is estrogen-free, so
it will not interfere with prescription medication or cause risk or distress to
those wishing to avoid hormones.
Feminine dryness is one of the most treatable symptoms of menopause. The New
England Journal of Medicine reported that Replens Long-Lasting Vaginal
Moisturizer is as effective as prescription hormones. "In a randomized trial, a
polycarbophil-based vaginal moisturizer available over the counter (Replens)
provided relief of vaginal symptoms that was equivalent to that of vaginal
estrogen," stated the article from the Nov. 30th issue entitled "Management of
Menopausal Symptoms," by Deborah Grady, M.D., M.P.H. "Oral phytoestrogens have
not proved to be effective for the treatment of vaginal symptoms."
While lubricants like K-Y Jelly or Astroglide are useful to reduce friction
during intercourse, they must be applied just prior to sexual contact and will
do nothing to repair dry or damaged vaginal tissues. Replens provides
long-lasting moisture and provides soothing, safe, immediate, and long-lasting
relief for up to 72 hours.
Just because a woman's body goes through a series of natural changes during
menopause doesn't mean she can't take control of uncomfortable symptoms with
hormone free solutions and stop pausing for menopause.
Replens is available in the feminine care aisle of most drug and discount
stores. Visit www.replens.com to order online and learn more about vaginal
health or call 1-877-507-6516.
Also, refer to Replens’ clinical studies:
http://www.replens.com/Content/Clinical_Studies_Featuring_Replens.aspx
The information in this article is for educational purposes only, and is not intended as medical advice.
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