What lifestyle changes help with vaginal atrophy?
Key lifestyle changes include staying sexually active, maintaining a healthy weight, eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, keeping hydrated, and avoiding smoking and harsh soaps. These support vaginal health and overall wellbeing.
Detailed Medical Explanation
Lifestyle choices can delay onset and reduce severity of vaginal atrophy. Regular sexual activity increases blood flow and helps maintain vaginal tissue health. Avoiding douching, harsh soaps, and tight synthetic underwear can prevent further irritation. Balanced diet and hydration also play key roles. NHS: Self-Help for Vaginal Dryness.
Clinical Context
Most women benefit from simple daily habits, even alongside medical treatments for atrophy.
Evidence-Based Approaches
Guidelines recommend lifestyle modification as part of a holistic approach to atrophy. RCOG: Lifestyle and GSM.