What Happens To Your Vagina As You Age?

As with all areas of your body, there are obvious changes to the genitourinary system as you get older. The vulva, vagina and cervix all change due to the natural aging process. There are physiological and understandable reasons why these changes occur and the changes are a natural process.

The two main reasons for these changes include:

Lack of oestrogen after going through menopause – oestrogen hormone is responsible for maintenance of tissues particularly of the vagina and significant changes occur due to lack of oestrogen hormone which occurs after women go through menopause. The majority of these changes can be significantly alleviated by the use of menopausal hormone therapy if this treatment is indicated.
The loss of natural supportive tissue, particularly due to the loss of proteins – collagen and elastin (the protein that is responsible for the elasticity in your skin including vaginal skin).
In this article
Changes to Your Vagina You May Notice As You Age
How To Manage Changes to Your Genital Tract as You Age
Seek Medical Advice
Changes to Your Vagina You May Notice As You Age
There are many changes that occur to your body as you age, that includes changes to your genitourinary system (vagina). Below we’ve listed the most common changes women experience during the ageing process:

Menopause
All of the symptoms that are described below are primarily due to or made worse by the lack of oestrogen production that occurs after menopause. Menopause is the physiological state where your ovaries reduce oestrogen production and this occurs at an average age of 52. Sometimes menopause can occur in younger women and often symptoms are more pronounced the earlier the menopause occurs.

Vaginal Drying
After menopause, you may notice that the vaginal skin becomes thinner and has less folds. This is due to lack of oestrogen hormone. There is also a loss of muscle tone that occurs in all organ systems as age. The vagina has a muscular component and the pelvic floor through which the vagina passes, also is made up of muscle, collagen and elastic tissue. All of these tissues are affected by age.

A lack of oestrogen hormone results in vaginal dryness as oestrogen is the hormone responsible for stimulating the production of normal vaginal discharge including lubrication during intercourse.

The vagina also contains what we describe as normal vaginal flora or protective germs that prevent infection. These germs are maintained by the presence of oestrogen hormone and therefore the normal protective environment is altered which can result in an overgrowth of bacteria called anaerobes. These germs are responsible for a distinctive odour and may produce a thin yellow discharge which can be irritating.

Changes to Your Pubic Hair
Because oestrogen hormone production reduces, there is a predominance of male hormone called testosterone. This may result in a loss of pubic hair so that your pubic hair becomes thinner and more sparse.

Similarly, just as the hair on your head becomes grey with time so may your pubic hair because of a reduction in the amount of melatonin or pigment in the hair follicles.

The labia itself becomes looser due to the sagging gravity effect on all tissues in your body but also because of the change in the proteins in your skin, particularly collagen and elastin. This is contributed to by a reduction in muscle tone.

Lack of Libido
A reduction in oestrogen hormone that occurs after the menopause may be responsible for a lessening of your libido or sex drive. There are hormonal methods to help this situation. This may involve the use of menopausal hormone therapy or more specifically with respect to libido, the use of testosterone or male hormone which is responsible for female libido. It can be given as a cream absorbed through your skin or as a patch.

Similarly, the lack of oestrogen hormone that occurs after the menopause can result in a narrowing of the vagina due to changes in muscle tone and elasticity and also vaginal dryness. These changes can result in intercourse becoming uncomfortable. In this situation, menopausal hormone therapy may be indicated or even more simply in many patients a local vaginal cream can be inserted initially every night for 2 weeks and then twice a week indefinitely. The cream or tablets called ovules provide oestrogen replacement for the tissues of the vagina and also help with improving lubrication.

The best lubricant to use whilst having intercourse is an oil based lubricant rather than a water based lubricant. Therefore, olive oil or coconut oil are very effective.

Urinary Tract Infections May Be More Frequent
Oestrogen hormone not only affects the tissues of the genital tract but also affect the part of the bladder called the trigone or base of the bladder. The effects of oestrogen reduction can result in an increased frequency of urinary tract infections. You may also notice urinary symptoms such as urinary incontinence, the need or urge to pass urine more frequently (urgency) and urge incontinence where urine starts to come away before you can make it to the lavatory.

Again, oestrogen replacement therapy can be very effective both systemically and locally. It is important to realise that oestrogen hormone used locally does not enter your bloodstream to any extent and can be safely used in women who have a contraindication to systemic hormone therapy such as in women with breast cancer or those who have had previous blood clots.

Muscles in The Pelvic Floor May Weaken (Prolapse)
The term prolapse refers to changes that occur in the supporting connective tissue and muscle tone that supports the pelvic floor. These changes include the reduction in oestrogen and the loss of supporting collagen and elastin in connective tissue. The reduction in muscle tone in the pelvic floor diaphragm may result in descent of the uterus in the vagina and/or bulging of the bladder and bowel into the vagina.

These symptoms need to be assessed and appropriate treatment options can then be discussed.

How To Manage Changes to Your Genital Tract as You Age
If appropriate, menopausal hormone therapy and/or the use of local vaginal oestrogen can help reverse many of the symptoms that have been described above.

Similarly, pelvic floor physiotherapy to improve the muscle tone of your pelvic floor is recommended and can be significantly aided with the assistance of a pelvic floor physiotherapist.

Urinary incontinence issues that arise with age can be improved both by the use of menopausal hormone therapy and local oestrogen, pelvic floor physiotherapy and assessment of your bladder function with a computerised test call urodynamics which diagnoses where the weakness that causes urinary incontinence is located. There are a number of medications and surgical procedures that can significantly improve urinary incontinence.

There is also significant evidence that the use of local vaginal oestrogen twice a week can both reduce the incidence of pelvic floor issues and help alleviate some of the symptoms of urinary incontinence.

Seek Medical Advice
Although the changes that occur in the genital tract with aging are physiological and inevitable, these changes can be distressing and impact on your quality of life. It is important that you seek help, assistance and advice if these changes are affecting you adversely.

Associate Professor Len Kliman has been involved in the care of women for over 35 years. He understands that these issues need to be taken seriously and will discuss both the causes of any signs and symptoms and the possible ways you can be assisted to alleviate distressing symptoms.

If you’d like to chat to someone about your symptoms or are currently based in Melbourne and would like to book an appointment with Dr Len then get in touch with our office today.

Heartbreaking Tragedy in Washington: Three Young Sisters Found Dead After Visit with Their Father

A devastating tragedy has shaken the city of Washington and captured national attention following the heartbreaking deaths of three young sisters — Paityn, Evelyn, and Olivia Decker.

The girls were found dead last Monday, shortly after a court-approved visit with their father, 32-year-old Travis Decker, a former soldier reportedly living in a pickup truck at a remote homeless encampment two hours outside of Seattle.

Authorities are treating the incident as a triple homicide, and the case has sparked intense public outrage and renewed debate over child welfare protections and the risks of shared custody arrangements involving unstable parents.

According to official reports, Travis Decker had legal visitation rights and picked up the girls on Friday under the terms of a court-approved agreement with their mother, Whitney Decker, whom he divorced in 2022. The children were reported missing shortly thereafter — and what followed was a nightmare no family should endure.

As the investigation unfolds, the nation watches in grief and disbelief, demanding answers — and justice — in one of the most disturbing child-related crimes in recent memory.

The Love Wins singer admitted she had ‘had enough’ when she worried her fourth pregnancy after having son Isaiah, now five, was also not going to go to term and she was left feeling ‘guilty’ over her frustrations with her faith.

‘I had an honest conversation with God, and I told him how I felt. I was hurt. I was a little angry and, of course, you feel guilty for being mad at your creator,’ Carrie – whose fears were happily unfounded and she gave birth to son Jacob in January 2019 – said as she broke down in tears during episode two of Mike And Carrie: God & Country.

Heartbreak: Carrie Underwood was ‘mad’ at God after suffering three miscarriages. The Love Wins singer admitted she had ‘had enough’ when she worried her fourth pregnancy after having son Isaiah, now five, was also not going to go to term and she was left feeling ‘guilty’ over her frustrations with her faith

‘And I told him we needed something. We needed to have a baby or not, ever, because I couldn’t keep going down that road anymore.’

Your liver isn’t lounging around doing nothing all day. This powerhouse organ performs over 500 functions daily. It’s your personal detox center, energy storage facility, and chemical processing plant rolled into one biological machine. Your liver filters toxins, breaks down fats, and produces clotting factors that help your blood thicken and stop bleeding when you’re injured. When you drink alcohol, your liver drops everything to process this toxic substance. It’s pulling double shifts every time you crack open a drink. Over time, this constant overwork can damage this vital organ. So, how long does it take for your liver to heal after drinking? Your liver forgives easily and heals quickly once you give it a break.
The First 24 Hours: Your Liver’s Sigh of Relief

What happens in those first crucial 24 hours after your last drink? Your liver exhales with relief. No more alcohol means no more emergency mode. Within hours, inflammation markers start dropping, and your liver cells can now focus on regular duties instead of damage control. You won’t feel dramatically different yet, but inside your body, the healing process has begun. Your liver starts ramping up natural repair mechanisms, switching from crisis management back to normal operations. Blood flow improves, cellular stress decreases, and your liver begins assessing alcohol-related damage.

Day Seven: The System Reboot

By day seven, you’ll wonder if someone upgraded your internal operating system. Sleep quality often improves significantly because your liver isn’t working overtime processing alcohol toxins that disrupt your sleep cycles. Many people fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer. Your liver’s natural rhythms sync back up with your body clock. Energy levels spike since your liver efficiently converts stored glycogen into usable glucose. Inflammation continues dropping, reducing that general “blah” feeling many drinkers know oh so well. Your digestive system usually starts workingcorrectly again, reducing bloating and stomach discomfort.

Day 14: Fat Deposits Pack Their Bags

At two weeks, fatty deposits in your liver may begin to slowly clear out. Alcoholic fatty liver disease, the most common alcohol-related damage, often shows early signs of improvement by this point. Your liver’s lipid metabolism returns to normal, meaning better nutrient absorption and more efficient energy production. Blood tests typically show liver enzymes like ALT and AST starting their journey toward normal ranges, showing how your liver begins its recovery process after you stop drinking. Your liver spent months accumulating fat, and now it’s ready for spring cleaning.

One Month Mark: Everything’s Different

Thirty days alcohol-free marks a major victory. If your liver was enlarged from alcohol use, the swelling has likely decreased substantially. Blood work often shows noticeable improvements in liver enzymes, sometimes surprising both patients and doctors. You’re probably feeling like a different person. Energy stabilizes, brain fog lifts, and that weird afternoon crash often becomes history. Your immune system gets a boost since your liver can properly produce immune-supporting proteins instead of being stuck in perpetual detox mode.

90 Days Later: Full Recovery for Your Liver After Stopping Drinking

Welcome to what recovery experts call the “transformation zone.” By month three, your liver has typically shed much excess fat, inflammation has dropped significantly, and cellular repair is in full swing. This is when people often experience what feels like a complete health makeover. Skin may clear up, energy becomes more consistently high, and mental sharpness often returns. Your liver’s protein production reaches closer to normal levels, meaning better muscle recovery and improved wound healing. Blood pressure frequently normalizes since your liver can properly regulate fluid balance.

Six Months to One Year: Patience Pays Off

Patience becomes your best friend during this extended phase. While dramatic improvements might slow, your liver continues careful repair work behind the scenes. Some scar tissue may begin improving, though severe scarring takes much longer and sometimes never fully resolves. Your risk of serious liver disease drops considerably. Many discover their alcohol tolerance has completely changed, and even small amounts now affect them differently. This extended healing proves sobriety isn’t just about stopping drinking; it’s allowing your body time to rebuild from the ground up.

What Determines Your Liver Recovery Speed After Stopping Drinking?

Not everyone heals at the same pace, and that’s perfectly normal. Your timeline depends on several key factors. How much did you drink? Daily heavy drinking typically creates more damage than weekend binges. Duration matters too; decades of heavy drinking usually need more healing time than shorter histories. Age plays a role since younger livers often bounce back faster, though older adults can achieve remarkable recoveries. Overall health, including nutrition, exercise, and conditions like diabetes, impacts healing speed. The encouraging part? Improvement begins immediately when you stop drinking, regardless of your starting point.

Reading Your Body’s Recovery Signals

Sometimes alcohol leaves lasting marks, and that’s worth acknowledging. Advanced scarring often can’t be completely reversed, particularly when healthy tissue has been extensively replaced by scar tissue. However, even people with considerable damage benefit enormously from sobriety. Stopping drinking prevents further deterioration and allows the remaining healthy tissue to function optimally. Regardless of damage extent, sobriety always helps because after you stop drinking, your liver does take time to heal, but how long it takes varies for everyone. Your liver’s remarkable ability to repair means improvement is possible even in challenging circumstances.

Aging is a beautiful, inevitable journey – one that comes with wisdom, confidence, and a stronger sense of self. But let’s be real, dating dynamics can shift over time, and for women over 50, certain traits or habits might be perceived as “unattractive” by some men.

Does that mean you need to change? Absolutely not. But understanding these perceptions can be eye-opening and a lot entertaining. So, let’s dive into the top 10 things some men might find unappealing about women over 50 – and why they really shouldn’t matter if you’re living life on your terms.

1. Resistant to change
Some men assume that women over 50 are too comfortable in their routines, unwilling to embrace new experiences or spontaneity. But let’s flip the script: being discerning about what you like isn’t the same as being closed-minded. If you know what you want and aren’t afraid to say it, that’s a power move, not a turnoff.

Experience brings confidence, and confidence is sexy!

2. Retrospective
We all have stories, and sharing life experiences is normal. The issue? If every conversation circles back to “that one ex” or “the good old days,” it can feel like you’re mentally living in the past.

Keep the conversation balanced. Reflect on the past but focus on what’s next. Your future is just as exciting as your history.

Always remember that your past shaped you – but it doesn’t define you.

3. Appearance
There’s an outdated notion that women should keep up their appearance to stay attractive. Let’s ditch that narrative. Prioritizing health, fitness, and self-care isn’t about meeting someone else’s standards – it’s about feeling your best.

Move your body in ways you love, eat what makes you feel good, and invest in self-care that boosts your confidence.

Taking care of yourself is about you, not impressing someone else.

4. Makeup
Some men claim to prefer a natural look, but let’s be real – most couldn’t tell the difference between BB cream and full-coverage foundation. If you love a bold red lip or dramatic eyeliner, rock it. What matters most is that you feel fabulous.

Wear makeup for you. Confidence is the ultimate beauty enhancer.

5. Constant Negativity
Negativity is draining, no matter your age. A habit of constant complaining can make it tough for others to enjoy your company. That doesn’t mean you need to fake happiness 24/7, but a little gratitude and lightheartedness go a long way.

Focus on what excites you. Positive energy is magnetic.

6. Too independent
Gone are the days when women needed a partner for financial stability or validation. However, some men feel intimidated by a woman who doesn’t “need” them. The truth? Independence isn’t about rejecting relationships – it’s about wanting a partner, not needing one.

If you want a relationship, make sure your independence doesn’t come off as emotional unavailability. Let someone in – without losing yourself.

7. Insecurities about aging
Aging is a sensitive topic, especially for women who’ve been bombarded with “anti-aging” messages their entire lives. But the truth is, confidence at any age is stunning. The more you embrace your age, the more attractive you become – not just to men, but to yourself.

Shift your mindset from “anti-aging” to pro-aging. Celebrate the wisdom and beauty that come with time. Aging is a privilege, not a curse!

8. Lack of passion
Some men assume that women over 50 are less interested in romance, adventure, or intimacy. But passion doesn’t have an expiration date. If anything, experience makes love (and life) even more enjoyable.

Keep your curiosity alive. Explore new hobbies, embrace your sensuality, and stay open to adventure. Passion isn’t about age – it’s about attitude.

9. Communication
Effective communication is key in any relationship, and sometimes, years of experience can make people more set in their ways. But relationships thrive on open dialogue, not assumptions.

Be clear about what you want and listen in return. Great communication leads to great connections.

10. No time for a relationship
Having a full life is amazing, but if you’re actively looking for a relationship, leaving no space for a partner might send the wrong message.

Your time is valuable – just make room for what matters. If you’re open to love, make space for it. If you’re not, own that choice.

At the end of the day, attraction is highly subjective. Some men might be put off by certain traits, but the right person will appreciate you exactly as you are. The key isn’t changing yourself to fit someone else’s idea of attractiveness – it’s about being authentic, happy, and unapologetically you.

So, if you’re over 50 and thriving? Keep doing you. Because confidence, self-love, and a vibrant life will always be attractive – no matter your age!

As I watched the footage unfold, I couldn’t quite believe my eyes. In the dimly lit aisles of my beloved store, I saw someone I never expected. It was George, an elderly man who had been a regular customer for as long as I could remember. George had always been a fixture in the community, known for his warm smile and friendly demeanor. He was the last person I would have suspected.

In the video, George moved slowly, as though carrying the weight of the world on his shoulders. He carefully picked up items, slipping them into his worn-out coat pockets. I sat there, conflicted, watching clip after clip as George repeated this across different days.

I felt a chill run down my spine. This was George, the man who always took the time to chat about the weather or share stories about his grandchildren. It didn’t make sense. Why would he do this? I knew I needed to approach the situation with sensitivity and understanding, but I was also concerned about my business.

The next morning, I decided to confront George. As he shuffled in, I felt my heart pounding. I called him over after he had picked up his newspaper, and we sat down at the small table near the window. “George,” I began cautiously, “I need to talk to you about something.”

To my surprise, he didn’t seem shocked or defensive. Instead, his eyes softened, and he sighed heavily. “I knew it would come to this,” he murmured, staring at his hands.

He explained that his pension barely covered his rent and utilities, let alone any medical expenses. His pride had kept him from asking for help. He never intended to steal, but desperation pushed him into an unimaginable corner.

Listening to George, my feelings shifted from betrayal to empathy. I realized that he wasn’t just a thief, but a man struggling with circumstances beyond his control. I thought of all the years he’d been a part of the store’s story, all the kindnesses exchanged. I knew I couldn’t turn my back on him.

I told George that I understood, and that I wanted to help. We came up with a plan: he would work a few hours a week in the store in exchange for groceries. It was a solution that allowed him to maintain his dignity and gave me peace of mind.

That moment changed me. It reminded me that everyone has a story, and sometimes all it takes is a little compassion to see the bigger picture. I decided to keep the cameras up, not as a tool for suspicion, but as a reminder to always look deeper, to ask questions before jumping to conclusions.

In the end, the experience brought us closer. George became more than just a customer—he became a friend, someone whose presence I cherished even more. And my store continued to be a place not just for transactions, but for understanding, community, and second chances.

A recent incident on Fraser Island, Australia, has led to a tragic outcome for a dingo, a native wild dog species. The dingo was euthanized after it attacked a group of tourists visiting the popular destination.

This event has sparked widespread discussion about the interaction between humans and wildlife, as well as the measures needed to ensure safety for both parties.

Fraser Island, known for its stunning landscapes and unique wildlife, attracts thousands of visitors annually. However, the natural habitats of these animals are increasingly intersecting with human activity, leading to dangerous encounters. Authorities had been monitoring the behavior of this particular dingo for some time, as it had shown signs of aggressive behavior towards humans.

The decision to put down the dingo was not made lightly. Wildlife experts and local authorities emphasized that public safety must be the top priority. They also highlighted the importance of educating tourists about maintaining safe distances from wildlife and respecting their natural environments.

Conservationists stress the need for better management strategies to prevent such incidents in the future.

This incident has reignited the debate on how to balance tourism and wildlife conservation effectively. Some advocate for more stringent controls and better visitor education, while others suggest that more robust wildlife protection measures need to be implemented. The case serves as a reminder of the delicate balance required to coexist peacefully with the natural world.

For more insights and updates on the situation, watch the video above, which provides more context and expert opinions on the matter. This serves as a crucial learning moment for both tourists and authorities to prioritize safety and conservation efforts moving forward.

In a shocking turn of events, beloved actress Robyn Bernard, known for her role in “General Hospital,” was discovered dead in an open field.

The tragic news has sent waves through the entertainment industry and among her countless fans worldwide.

Details surrounding the circumstances of Bernard’s death remain unclear, but authorities have launched a full investigation to determine the cause.

The actress, who captured hearts with her performances, leaves behind a legacy of talent and grace.

Robyn Bernard’s career spanned decades, during which she became a household name.

Her portrayal on “General Hospital” earned her critical acclaim and a devoted fanbase. Her untimely passing marks a significant loss to the world of soap operas.

The entertainment community has come together to pay tribute to Bernard’s contribution to the industry. Colleagues and fans alike have taken to social media to express their condolences and share memories of the actress who brightened their screens with her performances.

As the investigation unfolds, more information is expected to come to light. For now, the world mourns the loss of a cherished actress whose impact will not be forgotten.

Live television has frequently been the stage for unintentional wardrobe malfunctions involving various hosts and presenters. Below are some noteworthy examples:

Naga Munchetty’s Dress Incident on BBC Breakfast

While presenting a live segment of BBC Breakfast, Naga Munchetty encountered a wardrobe mishap when her dress unexpectedly burst open. Oblivious to the situation, she continued her presentation alongside co-host Charlie Stayt. Viewers promptly took to social media, encouraging her to acknowledge the incident.

Tania Llasera’s On-Air Wardrobe Slip
Spanish game show host Tania Llasera experienced an awkward moment during a live broadcast when her dress slipped, revealing more than she intended. This occurred while she was adjusting her microphone, resulting in an unintended exposure.

Barbara Francesca Ovieni’s Accidental Exposure
During a live segment of the football show “Rabona,” Italian TV presenter Barbara Francesca Ovieni inadvertently flashed her underwear while adjusting her dress. This incident garnered significant attention on social media.

Judy Finnigan’s Incident at the National Television Awards
At the 2000 National Television Awards, presenter Judy Finnigan faced a wardrobe malfunction when her dress slipped, exposing her bra to the audience. Her husband and co-host, Richard Madeley, humorously addressed the situation, allowing the couple to proceed with the event.

Sunny Hostin’s Dress Adjustment on “The View”
During a live interview on “The View,” co-host Sunny Hostin’s dress began to slip, unintentionally revealing her undergarment. Guest Pamela Anderson noticed the issue and kindly adjusted Hostin’s dress, preventing further exposure. This moment showcased Anderson’s attentiveness and Hostin’s gratitude for the timely intervention.

In an unexpected and startling revelation, Queen Camilla has broken her silence to disclose shocking DNA test results regarding Prince Harry. In a statement that has taken both the royal family and the public by surprise, Camilla declared, “Harry is truly my son.” This admission has upended years of royal assumptions and narratives, leaving the public reeling and the royal household scrambling to respond to the implications.

The announcement came during an exclusive interview where Camilla addressed longstanding rumors and speculations surrounding Prince Harry’s parentage.

While the world has largely accepted that Harry is the son of King Charles and the late Princess Diana, this revelation points to a hidden chapter in royal history that few could have anticipated. Camilla’s declaration suggests a narrative of personal and family dynamics that has been obscured for decades, raising questions about the timelines and relationships within the royal circle.

Insiders indicate that this disclosure could dramatically reshape the royal family’s story, potentially affecting Harry’s position within the line of succession and altering public perceptions of key figures. Camilla, who has faced her share of public scrutiny over the years, appeared both resolute and emotional as she revealed the results of the DNA test. “It was time for the truth to be known,” she said, hinting at the complexities and motivations behind the decision to come forward now.

Prince Harry has not yet commented publicly on this revelation, but those close to him describe him as being taken aback by the news. Having lived under the weight of public interest and media scrutiny for most of his life, this new information adds another layer to the complexities he has navigated as a member of the royal family. The potential fallout from this revelation is vast, impacting his relationship with his father, King Charles, and other senior royals, particularly his brother, Prince William.

Public reactions have been swift and varied, ranging from disbelief and shock to curiosity about what further details might emerge. Social media has erupted with debates and theories as royal watchers and supporters try to process what this means for Harry, Camilla, and the royal family as a whole.

Royal commentators are already speculating on how this news could reshape family dynamics, public opinion, and even Harry’s path forward, given his recent departure from royal duties and efforts to build an independent life. The palace has yet to issue an official statement, leaving a cloud of uncertainty over the implications of Camilla’s revelation.

As more details are anticipated, this shocking declaration from Queen Camilla has underscored the ongoing saga of the British royal family—a tale marked by complex relationships, hidden truths, and the quest for identity amid the weight of tradition and public scrutiny.