"Just as I suspected… It's atrophic vaginitis", said my gynecologist with a concerned look. "Atrophic... what?" I asked, feeling a mix of confusion and embarrassment. Dr. Johnson took a deep breath before she continued: "Atrophic vaginitis is a condition where the vaginal tissues become thin, dry, and inflamed. Studies show this affects up to 50% of women over 40. As we age, our bodies produce less hyraluronic acid and collagen – key factors in maintaining healthy, resilient vaginal tissues. You

Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is sometimes prescribed to manage menopausal symptoms. These women speak about their experience with HRT. | SBS INSIGHT

Vaginal Atrophy? Let’s Talk About It. (And nope, it’s not just “part of aging” you have to accept.) Vaginal atrophy—aka Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause (GSM)—is what happens when estrogen levels drop and the vaginal and vulvar tissues start to thin, dry out, and get real cranky. Think: • Burning or itching • Pain with sex • Recurring UTIs • Pee leaks • That “something’s off” feeling down there Here’s the good news: you don’t have to suffer in silence. There are so many ways to give your vulv