Vaginal Health as You Age

From puberty to pregnancy to menopause, a woman’s vaginal health can go through many changes during a lifetime. The key to maintaining a healthy vagina is to get acquainted with your body so that you know what ‘normal’ feels like to you, and you can recognize any changes. This might include symptoms like itching, burning, or an unusual vaginal discharge—all of which might indicate a yeast infection or another type of infection.

Whether it’s a yeast infection in your 20s, a UTI in your 30s, or the symptoms of menopause in your 40s and 50s, paying attention to your body can help you prepare for vaginal health issues before they become a problem. Listen to your body. Know what is ‘normal’ for you and become a master of your vaginal health at every stage of your life.

Don’t be Embarrassed…Talk About Your Vaginal Health!

Vaginal health is part of your overall health, and therefore, it’s very important! No matter how old you are, vaginal health is not a taboo topic. It’s a good idea to discuss your vaginal health with your healthcare provider, especially when symptoms appear that may point to a problem. Over the years, women can experience a number of changes—some temporary and some lasting—from UTIs and yeast infections to vaginal dryness associated with menopause and hormonal changes. What you should also know is vaginal yeast infections are very common—the majority of women experience at least one in their lifetime. Other factors like taking antibiotics or becoming pregnant are often common triggers of yeast infections.