Vaginal dryness: how the right cleanser can help

Let's talk about a common but often hush-hush menopause symptom: vaginal dryness. If you're experiencing this, you're not alone. According to the Cleveland Clinic, over half of women experience vaginal dryness after menopause. The more we are able to openly discuss body skin concerns, the less taboo they become, between friends, but also our society.

So what causes this? Vaginal dryness is the main symptom of genitourinary syndrome of menopause, or GSM. This condition occurs due to the decrease in estrogen levels during menopause, which can lead to:

• Thinning of the vaginal walls
• Decreased elasticity of vaginal tissues
• Reduced natural lubrication
• Changes in vaginal pH balance

It's important to note that while GSM is most common in postmenopausal women, it can also affect women in other situations when estrogen levels are low, such as during breastfeeding or cancer treatment.

Choosing a Cleanser That Won't Exacerbate Vaginal Dryness

When you're dealing with vaginal dryness, the last thing you want is a harsh soap that strips away the moisture you do have. Many body washes contain fragrances and other potentially irritating ingredients that can disrupt the delicate balance of intimate areas.

That's where a gentle, hydrating cleanser like Soft Services' Comfort Cleanse comes in. This fragrance-free, ultra-soothing formula effectively cleanses the body and intimate areas without disrupting their natural balance and pH, which can lead to further dryness and irritation. Specifically formulated for dry, sensitive skin and intimate areas, it's enriched with a quarter glycerin—a tried-and-true humectant, that helps draw in and bind moisture, even after rinsing.

—says Jen in their review of Soft Services' Comfort Cleanse

References:

Carlson K, Nguyen H. Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause. [Updated 2024 Oct 5]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing
Cleveland Clinic. (2023). Vaginal Dryness: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment.