Today is our Menopause Cheat Sheet episode. Dr. Margaret Nachtigall is joining me to answer your questions about menopause and related issues. This is a place to get questions answered, support and encouragement on everything pre-post and mid-menopause.

Dr. Margaret Nachtigall is a Board-certified Reproductive Endocrinologist. She graduated cum laude from Princeton University, received her medical degree from New York University School of Medicine, did her residency in OB/GYN at NYU School of Medicine followed by a fellowship in reproductive endocrinology at Yale University.

She has been on the faculty at New York University Medical Center teaching, researching, and seeing patients for over 25 years. I think I’ve known her for most of that time!

It’s great to have her here to get answers to our questions.

What should I do about vaginal dryness?

This is an important topic. It impacts women as we age because our estrogen levels decrease. It impacts the elasticity and Ph of our skin. Less moisture leads to dryness, and possibly pain and in some circumstances infections.

There are prescription options including vaginal estrogen. This is not the same as a pill or patch. It’s local to the vagina, and not systemic. Everyone can take this except for those with an estrogen-sensitive tumor.

Other options include vaginal moisturizers and lubricants. Dr. Margaret recommends hyaluronic acid products. It is a natural substance found in the fluids in the eyes and joints and can act as a cushion and lubricant in the joints and other tissues.

Natural oils like coconut oil can help as well. She outlines the other products that can work including over the counter brands that are easy to find.

She recommends thinking about multiple options to see what works best for you. No two people are the same, and it may be a combination of options that give you the best results.

I found what works for me after discussing it with my doctor. Don’t be afraid to ask for options and recommendations.

What you need to know about STD’s.

I want to make sure you are in the know and recent reports have shown growth in STD’s for men and women in mid-life.

It’s important to take precautions and continue to practice safe sex. Don’t be afraid to talk to your doctor and if you aren’t sure, ask to be screened.

If you have a question you’d like us to cover in a future episode, reach out on Instagram and let me know. This is a resource for all of us to age better!

Resources:

North American Menopause Society - Resources

Get the Menopause Cheat Sheet Here

Love Your Age: The Small-Step Solution to a Better, Longer, Happier Life 

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