Episode 159 - The Future of Sexual Health After Cancer: Can Vaginal Probiotics Help?

Could a breakthrough in women's health change the way we manage sexual health after cancer? In this episode, I sit down with Jo Bailey, a consultant gynaecologist surgeon, specialising in gynaecological cancers, to explore an exciting and emerging treatment—vaginal probiotics.Many cancer survivors struggle with menopause symptoms, including vaginal dryness, discomfort, and pain during intimacy. With traditional treatments like hormone replacement therapy (HRT) not always being an option, the search for safe and effective solutions continues. Jo explains how the vaginal microbiome plays a crucial role in post-menopausal health and how vaginal probiotics could be a game-changer for improving symptoms and restoring comfort.We discuss:- Why the vaginal microbiome matters for post-cancer care.- How vaginal probiotics are showing promise as a non-hormonal treatment.- The current research gaps and why more studies are needed.- The importance of patient-centred care in sexual health post-cancer.While more research is needed, the early signs are promising—and for many survivors, this could be the breakthrough they've been waiting for.Episode Highlights:00:00 Intro05:05 Gynaecological Cancer and Menopause Treatment17:22 Empowering Women's Health Choices18:21 Exploring Non-Hormonal Gynaecological Treatments22:53 "Vaginal Probiotics for Menopausal Health"28:40 Ultimate V & Health ProductsThe probiotics mentioned can be found here: https://pelvicrelief.co.uk/ This episode is proudly sponsored by Pelvic Relief, a company dedicated to improving women’s pelvic health with science-backed solutions. They offer a curated range of products, including the vaginal probiotics we’ll discuss today—plus lubes, moisturisers, the Ohnut, and more to support pelvic pain, menopause symptoms, and post-cancer recovery. Check them out here https://pelvicrelief.co.uk/Connect with us:For more information and resources, visit our website: www.menopauseandcancer.org Follow us on Instagram @menopause_and_cancerFind us on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@NavigatingMenopauseAfterCancer Join my NEW blog ‘Still Becoming’ on Substack: https://substack.com/@danibinnington?...Buy my book ‘Navigating Menopause After Cancer’: https://amzn.eu/d/07dUoYBbJoin our Facebook group: www.facebook.com/groups/menopauseandcancerchathub Mentioned in this episode:Substack: https://danibinnington.substack.com/