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Now, you might be wondering, why oh why does this happen? Well, blame it on those pesky hormones – specifically, estrogen. During perimenopause and menopause, our estrogen levels take a nosedive, wreaking havoc on our bodies in more ways than one. You see, estrogen plays a crucial role in maintaining the health and elasticity of our vaginal tissues, as well as stimulating the production of natural lubrication. So when estrogen levels plummet, it's no wonder our lady parts start to feel a little less than stellar.

But wait, there's more! It's not just estrogen calling the shots here – other factors can also contribute to vaginal dryness and atrophy. Think along the lines of certain medications (hello, antihistamines and antidepressants), smoking (yes, it's not doing your vagina any favors), and even stress (thanks, cortisol). And let's not forget about our good old friend, aging, which can exacerbate the effects of hormonal changes and make things even drier down below.

Now, I know what you're thinking – "Great, so what do I do about it?" Fear not, my fabulous friends, because I've got some tips and tricks up my sleeve to help you navigate this journey with grace and ease.

First and foremost, let's talk lubrication. No, I'm not talking about those sticky, synthetic lubes you find at the drugstore – I'm talking about natural, body-friendly lubricants that mimic your body's own moisture. Look for products that are water-based, fragrance-free, and free from harmful additives like glycerin and parabens. And don't be afraid to experiment until you find the one that works best for you – trust me, your vagina will thank you for it.

Next up, let's show some love to those vaginal tissues. Investing in a good-quality vaginal moisturizer can work wonders for keeping your lady parts hydrated and healthy. Opt for products that are specifically designed to replenish moisture and restore elasticity to the vaginal walls, and make it a part of your daily self-care routine.

But wait, there's more! Don't forget about the power of estrogen – yes, in its bio-identical form. For some women, hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can be a game-changer when it comes to managing vaginal dryness and atrophy. Checkout our over the counter Estro2 Rejuvenation cream here. Estro2 contains both estradiol and estriol, two key players in the hormone game when it comes to vaginal tissue and lubrication. Estriol, a weaker estrogen, and estradiol, a more potent form, work hand in hand to maintain the health and elasticity of vaginal tissues. They promote the production of glycogen, which fuels the beneficial bacteria in the vagina, keeping infections at bay and maintaining a healthy pH balance. Additionally, these hormones stimulate the production of vaginal mucus and lubrication, making things more comfortable and enjoyable in the bedroom. So, when it comes to vaginal health and comfort, estriol and estradiol are like the dynamic duo you definitely want on your side!

Talk to one of our healthcare providers about whether HRT might be right for you, and explore all of your options before making a decision.

Last but not least, let's not underestimate the importance of communication – both with yourself and with your partner. Don't be afraid to speak up about what you're experiencing and what you need to feel comfortable and satisfied in the bedroom. And remember, you're not alone – millions of women around the world are going through the exact same thing, and there's strength in numbers.

So there you have it, fabulous ladies – a crash course in vaginal dryness and atrophy during perimenopause and menopause. Remember, it's all part of the journey, and with a little knowledge, a lot of self-love, and a dash of humor, you can embrace these changes with open arms and a confident stride. Here's to embracing our bodies, embracing ourselves, and embracing every stage of this beautiful, messy, and oh-so-worth-it journey called womanhood. You've got this!