There have been news stories lately (here’s one) about how the rates of STDs among America’s (clearly) active seniors has skyrocketed lately. We’re talking a 24% jump from 2020 to 2023 among patients 65 and older, and about a 16% increase in those 55 to 64.
Don’t forget supplements
Pharmacist Formulations has you covered with a comprehensive herbal formula aimed at promoting healthy and balanced hormones during menopause.
Clearly “Golden Girls” needs an TV-MA update.
That said, there wasn’t a lot of explanation for the jump. Better health overall? Better medications for sexual health? Infrequent condom use? Discounts on Barry White albums?
But now there’s an answer — it seems to be related to one of the effects of menopause. Specifically, researchers at an Ohio State University found, “menopause also compromises the structural integrity of the tissue lining the vagina.” (That link goes to an article by the lead author. Here’s their paper.)
More specifically, menopause results in lower levels of a couple of proteins (called desmoglein-1 and desmocollin-1) that strengthen the vaginal lining and prevent pathogens from getting into the bloodstream. Thus unprotected sex gets riskier, even for that nice Mrs. McGillicuddy who’s always tending her garden — literally and, perhaps, metaphorically.
Women who are going through menopause have, as this study shows, some specific health needs. Menopause comes with a lot of issues, and there are a lot of “treatments” out there that range from the legit to outright quackery … or worse, dangerous. Obviously OB/GYNs are a great starting place for health info, but they’re only part of the healthcare team. Don’t neglect talking to a compounding pharmacist.
Read more: beyond estrogen
Some OB/GYNs think estrogen is a magic bullet when it comes to menopause symptoms. The reality is a lot more complex.
A pharmacist? Yep. Compounding pharmacists in particular are experts in tailoring medications to fit your body and your lifestyle. If you need a hormone, should it be a pill? A cream? A suppository? What’s the best dosage? Are there other options?
A compounding pharmacist will work with your OB/GYN to determine what’s right for you — not “women kind of like you.” Whether it’s dealing with hot flashes or dryness, or helping reduce your risk of STDs, don’t take a chance with your health during and after menopause. Include a compounding pharmacist in your healthcare team.
