Every decade, your body — and your vaginal health — changes. While every woman is unique, with a different vaginal health journey, there are some general things you can look out for as you grow through the years. Here’s our blue zone guide on navigating the decades for your best vaginal health.
Your Vaginal Health in Your 20s
During your 20s, your vagina should be operating optimally for the most part. Hormones like estrogen and progesterone are nearing their peaks. Your menstrual cycle is now more regular compared to the teen years, though using hormonal birth control may cause your periods to disappear. You should be thinking about your preferred method of birth control and developing a relationship with a gynecologist. While having children may be a decade away, taking care of your fertility is of utmost importance. That means screening for STIs with your doctor, not having unprotected sex, and beginning regular Pap tests.
Things To Do:
- Establish healthy vaginal practices
- Think about your fertility
- Protect yourself from STIs and pregnancy
Your 30s & Your Vaginal Health
Benign growths called fibroids may affect some women this decade and cause a sudden heavier flow or more cramps than usual. Additionally, endometriosis, the condition where cells in the uterine lining grow outside of the uterus, is also diagnosed more frequently among women in their 30s. Finally, women in their 30s may already have had a baby or be thinking about family planning. Pregnancy can lead to long-term shifts in your menstrual cycle, though some women report less cramping after delivery.
Things To Do:
- Continue breast self-exams and Pap tests
- Get preconception counseling if you are thinking about conceiving
- Talk to your doctor about fertility issues
How Your 40s Affects Vaginal Health
Perimenopause, the transition phase that occurs when your ovaries begin producing less estrogen can sometimes begin in your 40s. These reduced hormonal levels can lead to irregular periods, mood swings, bladder problems, and changes in vaginal health.Your risk for diabetes and heart disease may increase during this decade, so continue healthy eating and exercise this decade. Women in their 40s can also develop more anxiety and depression which can increase susceptibility to vaginal infections. Women should get their first mammogram in their 40s.
Things To Do:
- Get your first mammogram this decade
- Maintain a healthy diet and exercise program
- Watch for anxiety or depression
- Talk to your doctor about any perimenopausal symptoms
Vaginal Health in Your 50s
The average age for menopause is 51, though it varies among women. During menopause, your ovaries stop producing estrogen, and your hormone levels wane. Some women choose hormone replacement therapy for a short time if their symptoms are particularly bothersome. Menopausal symptoms can include hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, and loss of libido. These changes can also increase susceptibility to vaginal infections. Staying sexually active can help keep vaginal tissues thick and moist but some women may find a need for additional lubrication. If you experience vaginal dryness in your fifties, speak with your OB-GYN about FDA-approved vaginal moisturizers. These can help alleviate pain during sex and improve vulvar and vaginal atrophy symptoms.
Things To Do:
- Get your first colonoscopy
- Schedule a baseline bone density test
- Continue routine health screenings
- Talk to your doctor about hormone replacement
- Continue having sexual intercourse
