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Remedies for Menopausal Symptoms
The Menopause Self Help Book
by Susan M. Lark, M.D.,
The Wild Rose Scientific Herbal by Terry Willard, Ph.D.,
Menopausal Years The Wise Woman Way by Susun S. Weed
are drawn heavily upon for this segment. All references are provided here.
 VAGINAL
and BLADDER CHANGES
The pelvic energies of postmenopausal women, having no outlet in menstruation
or birth, easily become congested. This congestion may cause more frequent
problems in the vagina, bladder, and uterus in a number of ways. Reduced
vaginal lubrication, thin and irritated vagina and vulva, constipation,
incontinence, and vaginal atrophy and chronic yeast and bladder infections
are often the result.31
Thinning and drying of pelvic tissue can occur rapidly (within 6-10
months of the last menses), but women who carry enough body fat and who
nourish their adrenals/kidneys will generally experience few problems
with vaginal/bladder weakness in the postmenopausal years.31
It has been found that ERT/HRT and estrogen vaginal creams can be highly
effective at reversing incontinence caused by thinning of vaginal and
bladder walls.31 However, be aware that these creams have been
found to irritate delicate vaginal tissue in some women.
The following may help vaginal and bladder health:
Homeopathic remedies include Bryonia
(overheated and dry vagina, dry stools, constipation); Lycopodium
(vagina very dry, self-confidence withered, skin dry); and Belladonna
(vagina painfully dry and too sensitive to tolerate touch).
Nettle contains abundant vitamins,
minerals, proteins and micronutrients with a wide variety of health benefits.
It has been found to heal adrenal/kidney function beautifully, relieving
cystitis, bloat and incontinence. It is claimed that one cup of infusion
(250 ml) daily will help rehydrate dry vaginal tissues; help build strong,
flexible bones; stabilize blood sugar; reduce fatigue and improve stamina;
ease sore joints; prevent constipation and reduce hemorrhoids; maintain
supple skin and hair; nourish and support the immune system and cardiovascular
system; and normalize weight. If eating fresh, pick and cook nettles in
the spring, before the flowers emerge.31
 Comfrey root sitz bath may help keep
vaginal tissues flexible, strong, and soft. Make 2 quarts/liters of infusion,
reheat, and sit in it for 5-10 minutes several times a week. Comfrey ointment
is a wonderful ally when skin needs flexible strength. Rub in morning
and night and try it as a lubricant for love play. Positive changes are
often noticeable within three weeks.31
Comfrey ointment helps increase flexible strength of skin. Rub in morning
and night, and you may expect results within three weeks.31
Dong quai root is said to increase
vaginal lubrication. Try chewing on a small piece.31
Motherwort tincture (25 drops),
or 1-3 tablespoons of safflower oil
or flaxseed oil may increase vaginal
lubrication and vaginal wall thickness within a month of use.31
Chickweed tincture, 25-40 drops
in water, several times a day for 2-4 weeks has been found to have a soothing,
cooling effect on hot dry vaginal tissues.31
Wild yam ointment may be the herbal
equivalent of estrogen cream in its ability to restore moistness and elasticity
to postmenopausal vaginal tissues.31
Vitamin E in daily oral doses of
100-600 IU for 4-6 weeks has been found to increase vaginal lubrication.31
To treat atrophic vaginitis and provide immediate relief, one of the most
popular natural measures is the topical use of vitamin E oil, creams,
ointments or suppositories. Vitamin E is usually quite effective in relieving
the dryness and irritation that accompany this and other forms of vaginitis.19
Acidophilus capsules inserted vaginally
help prevent yeast infections and create copious amounts of lubrication.
Insert 1 or 2 about 4-6 hours before lovemaking. Eating plain yogurt with
active culture 4-5 times a week helps maintain healthy intestinal flora
and vaginal balance.31
Researched and written by the ProjectAWARE group, 2000
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