What Happens to Your Vagina + Vulva After a Hysterectomy (Plus my favorite products)
When I had my hysterectomy, I soon noticed how much the tissue of my vulva had changed. I’d heard of “vulvar atrophy” and “vaginal atrophy”... I just didn’t think much about what that meant.
The changes in estrogen that happen with a hysterectomy (or menopause in general) can make the skin of the vagina and vulva thin, dry and sometimes inflamed or irritated. The structure of the vulva can also change, losing the peaks and valleys of the labia minora (the inner lips) as they get thinner and flat.
When my symptoms were at their worst, I couldn’t even go for a walk without severe pain. The dry scratchiness felt like walking in a cactus garden in the desert.
Navigating these changes has been a journey filled with trial, error, and way too many products—herbal remedies, homemade concoctions, and countless over-the-counter options. Most didn’t quite do the trick, and some even made things worse.
After a lot of experimenting, I finally found my go-to lineup and Queen Vulva (aptly named because, honestly, she rules my comfort and well-being) is happy!
Best natural treatment for lichen sclersous
Long before menopause, I realized I needed to be extra gentle with Queen Vulva. I have an autoimmune condition called lichen sclerosus (LS) that affects vulvar tissue, making it sensitive and prone to dryness and irritation.
So, when menopause came around, it felt like another layer of challenge on top of the existing LS symptoms. But in a way, my pre-menopause experiences had already prepared me to build a solid skincare routine for this delicate area.
On both menopause and LS fronts, here’s my go-to lineup for soothing, hydrating, and keeping things comfortable.
Products for Menopause + Lichen Sclerosus
Rosebud Woman has been a game-changer for my vulvar care. Their products are gentle and luxurious, perfect for nourishing sensitive skin and creating a comfortable, balanced environment. I find their formulations especially soothing when things feel off, and they use beautiful natural ingredients that feel good to apply. I use this Honor Balm every day.
HyaloGyn, which contains hyaluronic acid, has been nothing short of a lifesaver. Research has shown that hyaluronic acid can provide significant relief from dryness, and it’s almost as effective as estrogen therapy. It’s a great option for anyone who prefers or needs a hormone-free solution for vulvar hydration. Both the inserts and the gel (which I use externally) have made an incredible difference for me in managing dryness without relying on estrogen.
SweetSpot Labs is a brand entirely devoted to vulvar health. They’re dedicated to creating products that are pH-balanced and gentle, reducing the risk of irritation. It’s refreshing to see a company focus specifically on products for the vulva, which isn’t as common as it should be. SweetSpot Labs has earned a spot in my lineup for their Rescue Balm, which they promote as an LS-supportive product.
In the earlier stages of my journey, when dryness felt unrelenting, Alba Botanica provided much-needed relief. This Un-Petroleum jelly has a comforting consistency and works wonders to soften and hydrate. It’s a fantastic option for anyone looking to combat “sandpaper days,” as I like to call them. And who wants to use petroleum on their most tender parts? Yikes, no. Try this instead.
Hysterectomy and HRT
For those who are able to use hormones, dryness may be less of an issue. But for anyone like me, who can’t or prefers not to, these hormone-free options are fantastic alternatives.
I’d love to hear what works for you! If you have tips, favorite products, or your own methods for vulvar care, please share in the comments below.
Living with LS
And for those with lichen sclerosus, know that I’m here as a resource—I was diagnosed in 2015 and have managed to minimize flare-ups significantly. If you ever want to talk about LS, feel free to email me. I know it can be a lonely diagnosis, but you’re not alone.
Meanwhile, take care of your delicate tissues and you’ll have more ease in your activities, more comfort in general, you’ll still get to wear your favorite clothes, do your favorite things, and you’ll feel more like the queen you are.
With love,
