Ep.24 Painful Sex and Low Libido? Let’s Talk About What’s Really Going On in Menopause

May we talk?  A recent survey of women showed that the most common symptoms during menopause that make sex less enjoyable are low libido, less confidence and painful intercourse, yet a majority of women are not actively seeking help for their  menopause symptoms, even though there is help out there!  The great news is that the women's sexual health industry is listening and developing products to address and boost the midlife sexual experience and confidence.  We are getting there, ladies!Our guest on episode 24 is Dr. Alyssa Dweck, who is a board certified OBGYN and Chief Medical Officer for Bonafide Health.  She is also the author of the book The Complete A to Z for Your V: A Woman's Guide to Everything You Ever Wanted to Know About Your Vagina -- Health, Pleasure, Hormones, and More and  the co-host of the podcast Business of the V.In this episode Dr. Dweck and I discuss:Hot flashes management: -  Minimize caffeine, alcohol, spicy foods, large meals, high sugar foods- Exercise to reduce stress, improve mood, increase metabolism- Herbal remedies such as phytoestrogens and evening primrose oil- Gabapentin for use at night (can make you drowsy)- Hormone therapyVaginal rejuvenation:- Surgical intervention, if needed - Radiofrequency or laser- Dilators to help with painSigns that your vaginal microbiome may be "off":- Itching, pain, discharge, odor - Possible treatment are probiotics specifically for the vagina, moisturizers, vaginal          estrogen- Stay away from douches or fragrant hygiene productsTestosterone is usually prescribed to enhance libido, but is not FDA approved for women.  There are some FDA approved medications for women, such as Wellbutrin, and Vyleesi and Addyi. Alyssa Dweck's book - The Complete A to Z for Your V https://www.amazon.com/Complete-Your-Everything-Vagina-Health-Pleasure/dp/1592337678/Check out her podcast, Business of the V, wherever you get your podcasts or follow  on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/businessofthevor Instagram https://www.instagram.com/businessofthev/Bonafide Health is compensating Asking for a Friend for our endorsement.Bonafide Health's wonderful product line:Revaree (I am fan and have been using for over a year)Relief from vaginal dryness RelizenRelief from menopausal hot flashesRistelaIncreased sexual satisfactionClairveeRelief from vaginal odorSilvessaHealthier looking hair and skinClick the link to_________________________________________If you’re doing “all the right things” and still feel stuck, adding a layer of support may be an option. I’ve partnered with a trusted telehealth platform offering modern solutions for women in midlife—including micro-dosed GLP-1 and other peptide therapies.https://elliemd.com/michelefolan - Create a free account to view all products.Follow us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/askingforafriend_pod/✨ Sign up for my weekly newsletter: https://michelefolanfasterway.myflodesk.com/i6i44jw4fqLike to connect? Email me at [email protected] Transcripts are created with AI and may not be perfectly accurate.Disclaimer: This podcast is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing, or other professional healthcare services. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your qualified healthcare provider with any questions regarding a medical condition.