well aware
What's Going on Down There?
The good news: Medicine retired “vaginal atrophy,” a phrase that makes it sound like your vagina has simply given up. But the current term, “genitourinary syndrome of menopause” (GSM), which covers changes to the vulva, vagina, urethra, and bladder as estrogen declines, still leaves a lot to be desired. Symptoms can begin during perimenopause and include dryness, itching, painful sex, urinary urgency, and recurring UTIs. And experiences range among women: Halle Berry described the pain as feeling like “razor blades in my vagina.”
For Your Sanity:
Bring up the annoying stuff. Sure, you’re only on a trampoline once in a blue moon. But if it makes you pee every time, tell your doctor. Decreased estrogen could be to blame, but it could also be a pelvic floor issue — and treatment exists for both.
Your pleasure matters. Lubricants and vaginal moisturizers may help with milder symptoms — same for prescriptions. Testosterone gets plenty of attention, and it’s supported for postmenopausal women with diagnosed low sexual desire, not as a cure-all for every late-millennial bedroom problem.
Get to know the landscape. Looking at your vulva with a mirror may sound straight out of a 1970s consciousness-raising circle. As estrogen drops, the vaginal opening may look smaller, while tissue can become thinner, drier, and easier to tear. Knowing what’s normal for you can help you bring issues to your doctor.
You Tell Us
Together with
What’s really getting in the way of taking care of your mental health?
Whatever's holding you back, Rula makes it easy to access quality, affordable care. Find a provider that takes your insurance in less than five minutes.
Well Reviewed
Your Feet Need a Hug
Going barefoot worked for summer, but fall is about structure, including below the ankles. A good pair of slippers keeps your feet warm while adding the cushion and arch support you may have been missing these last few months.
Soléi Sea
Soléi Sea Aspy Slipper is the best option for arch support.
Mykos
Mykos Lia Scuff Slipper is the best budget-friendly option.
Orthofeet
Orthofeet Lorin Hands-Free Slipper is the best orthopedic option.
Cozy Earth
Cozy Earth Puffy Sheep Slipper is the best option for wide feet.
Here’s the full list of the best slippers, according to experts.
just one thing
Is This Walk Worth It?
To date, we’ve had the silly little walk, the hot girl walk, the fart walk, and now the lymphatic walk. At this rate, picking up the mail requires a decision tree. So, what’s the deal with lymphatic walking?
A refresher: The lymphatic system is a network of vessels, nodes, and organs that collects excess fluid from tissues, transports immune cells, and returns that fluid to the bloodstream. It doesn’t have one big pump like the heart; vessels contract because of nearby arteries and muscles, while breathing and everyday movement help nudge lymph along.
Some people have problems with lymphatic drainage, which leads to a condition called lymphedema. But for most, that puffy feeling after a long day of sitting may ease once they get up and move around.
A “lymphatic walk” is basically a regular walk with deeper breathing and a more committed arm swing. There’s no evidence that it does anything an ordinary walk can’t. But if your walk could use an upgrade, or you’re over your usual grumpy little trudge, go for it.
No Notes
well aware
What's Going on Down There?
The good news: Medicine retired “vaginal atrophy,” a phrase that makes it sound like your vagina has simply given up. But the current term, “genitourinary syndrome of menopause” (GSM), which covers changes to the vulva, vagina, urethra, and bladder as estrogen declines, still leaves a lot to be desired. Symptoms can begin during perimenopause and include dryness, itching, painful sex, urinary urgency, and recurring UTIs. And experiences range among women: Halle Berry described the pain as feeling like “razor blades in my vagina.”
For Your Sanity:
Bring up the annoying stuff. Sure, you’re only on a trampoline once in a blue moon. But if it makes you pee every time, tell your doctor. Decreased estrogen could be to blame, but it could also be a pelvic floor issue — and treatment exists for both.
Your pleasure matters. Lubricants and vaginal moisturizers may help with milder symptoms — same for prescriptions. Testosterone gets plenty of attention, and it’s supported for postmenopausal women with diagnosed low sexual desire, not as a cure-all for every late-millennial bedroom problem.
Get to know the landscape. Looking at your vulva with a mirror may sound straight out of a 1970s consciousness-raising circle. As estrogen drops, the vaginal opening may look smaller, while tissue can become thinner, drier, and easier to tear. Knowing what’s normal for you can help you bring issues to your doctor.
You Tell Us
Together with
What’s really getting in the way of taking care of your mental health?
Whatever's holding you back, Rula makes it easy to access quality, affordable care. Find a provider that takes your insurance in less than five minutes.
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