I’m 53 and having irregular periods. After every period I either end up with BV (bacterial vaginosis) or a yeast infection, and it’s driving me mad. I’ve been to the doctor and she can find nothing wrong other than the constant infections. She’ll give me medication and I’m fine until I have another period and then it’s back to another infection. The doctor said it is because the vagina changes PH when you have a period but I’ve never experienced this until now. She’s even treated my husband in case he was reinfecting me but that didn’t work either. Is anyone else experiencing this? Does anyone have something that’s helped them with this?
– Kath, UK
Hi Kath, I’m sorry to hear what you’re going through, it must be really dragging you down! What you describe sounds like – yet another – perimenopausal/menopausal symptom. Local oestrogen may well help. I’d really recommend you look up Jane Lewis, who has written the book “Me and My Menopausal Vagina”. The book is a fantastic resource every woman should read. She also has a FaceBook group where you can learn lots, as well as receive plenty of support. If your recurring issues are in fact menopause related, antib’s and OTC treatments will only worsen the condition. You’ll find more information on Menopause Doctor, another amazing resource. I hope you find the right treatment soon!
Taking all of your recommendations! Thank you ? x
Dear Kath,
Sorry to hear of your problem.
I also thought that I had BV a couple of years ago, but my doctor paid attention to other symptoms (dryness, minor lesions) and suggested I may have vulvovaginal dryness and suggested using Vagisan Moist cream.
As irritation and itchiness was brought under control, other symptoms (strange discharge, stinging) disappeared by themselves.
I use the cream at the first sign of an itch appearing, usually a few days before my period, and sometimes I also apply a little bit externally.
I understand that the cream has no hormones in its formula and it is sold without prescription in the UK.
Hope you find your solution too!
I’ve already placed an order for the Vagisan. Fingers crossed! Thank you ? x
Hey there. A friend of mine had the same and it turned out to be caused by the sanitary pads she was using. Over the past few years pad companies have added some really strong smelling scents. She switched to unscented pads and her infections stopped. This may not apply to you if you are already avoiding scented products, but just in case, it’s worth a try. Hope you get it sorted.
I’ve had recurring yeast infections since I completed fertility treatment 8 years ago. While there was no “science” to suggest that it was related to hormones, it’s the only factor that changed. Since then, I’ve established a preventative protocol. That said, I still get them. Now, in the midst of perimenopause, they are FAR mor likely to occur just prior to my period. Believe me when I say that I empathize with your frustration. The infections are maddening! Thank you, Shari, for the book/author recommendation. Fingers crossed you’re able to find some relief!
I’m already using fragrance free pads but this is good advice for everyone to see. Thank you ? x
Hi Kath,
Feel your pain I’ve had similar experience without the understanding of a kind Female GP so I’ve done extensive research. I have irritation like thrush that I’ve self treated for years I’ve since discovered YES lubricant (Jane Lewis won’t advise your to use Vagisan, but instead YES or SYLK) I also use vagifem pessary twice per week and after sex I use a gel called Balance Active it’s to treat BV or prevent it, I’ve found this helps with rebalancing the PH so I suffer much less. I’m perimenopausal and prior to my period I seem to suffer more. I also use Dermol 500 instead of any other soap products. I’m considering a local oestrogen cream too as my dryness is both internal and external. Funny enough sometimes you can have a wet type discharge making you think you don’t have dryness but this is a first sign of dryness and is a symptom of this. So it confuses you?. Nobody prepares you for this, I had these symptoms way ahead of my periods changing at around 43 yrs old I’m now 48 and only really discovering what works for me. Good luck x
Thank you for opening this discussion Kath, I’m 52 and having a similar issue but I’m at an earlier stage where I hadn’t thought to connect it with my periods.
My periods only became irregular at the start of the year. I had them Dec, March then June and in July.
Since June I’ve had recurring cystitis and now think also BV as the urine colour and odour is different. You’ve helped reassure me I’m not going mad! Not a solution for you but I’ll also be interested in suggestions for remedying.
It’s just good to know I’m not alone. I hope we both find a solution soon! X
Hi I had this problem a while ago and the usual creams only worked for short term relief so I went to our local herbal shop and they recommended acidophilus tablets which is a probiotic. I now swear by them it keeps ur gut healthy and apparently it’s all connected (not sure of the science)
I always have a tube of Canestan in my bathroom so that as soon as I feel the slightest bit of discomfort I can apply the cream and nip it in the bud
I, too, at 51, perimenopausal, have been experiencing reoccurring infections and my vaginal secretions during and after sex are sometimes strong. Thank God I have an understanding husband. But it does put a damper on being spontaneous and adventurous. Sex just isn’t the same anymore. ??
I have a doctors appointment next week to check my hormone levels and thyroid. I would love to find something natural to help with this.
Thanks ladies
I have had problems with yeast infections in the past and ended up going to a herbal shop and asked for probiotics specifically for yeast infections. I was given capsules that you had to keep in the fridge and was told finish them. One a day for a month and I can honestly say that I have never looked back. I would recommend going to your herbalist for advice.
I was having regular yeast infection starting in the middle of my irregular periods. I changed everything I was using to unscented and perfume-free… body soap, toilet paper, wipes, laundry soap and dryer sheets. I also started wearing cotton underwear. All of this helped. Good luck with finding what works for you. I know how uncomfortable you feel.
Omg Im having vagina redness and burning urine. I’m also experiencing lower back pain, and restless legs. My tongue is also dry at all time and mouth burns. Is anyone else having the same symptoms ? This is so upsetting and I feel like I’m going crazy.