Print

Please login or register.
1 Hour 1 Day 1 Week 1 Month Forever
Login with username, password and session length

[sprush1]

I had a UTI in early January that I hope has responded to 2 lots of Nitrofurantoin. Urine samples have been sent for analysis and nothing has shown up. I’m being referred for a renal scan to rule out anything nasty as my late mother had kidney cancer.
It’s been many years since I had a UTI so it’s all rather alien.
I’m 67 and had the menopause 25 years ago. I have tried HRT patches in the past but decided they weren’t for me.
I’ve decided that my problems are linked to vaginal atrophy not least because of pain in my vagina (no burning or itching), and frequent urination.
My GP has prescribed Vagifem pessaries but I’m loathe to try them.
I started taking Optibac for Women and I’m using YES VM moisturiser. (I’m not sexually active).
I also started Bladapure but have stopped that because I think the D Mannose in it is what’s making me wee even more.

Any thoughts or advice from fellow sufferers would be gratefully appreciated.

[CLKD]

Why?   Unless VA is treated apppropriate U will continue to get UTI symptoms because VA mimics that really really well.

What's your worry?

[sprush1]

CLKD thank you. I do realise that. My reason for being hesitant about Vagifem is because one of the listed side effects is UTI. I’m also trying to find out if I can help the VA by using alternative therapies.

[Ayesha]

Honestly don't be afraid to take topical oestrogen, its perfectly safe. Read up on the condition, great information in the link below and alternative remedies don't work, only oestrogen.

https://bssm.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/GSM-BSSM.pdf

[CLKD]

I never read the leaflets in the boxes unless I suffer side effects 

When I've had a break in using the treatment, I do get slight UTI sensations when restarting every night but that doesn't last.  Nurofen sorts that.

You have nothing to lose and everything to gain by trying it.  There are a few products: Vagifem by pessary; Ovestin/estriol by applicator and another, name escapes me. Some of us require 1 of the stated plus 'estriol' or a YES-type product on the outer labia to keep everything moist and supple.  A bit Trial and Error initially but most of us have great relief.

[VioletAquarius]

Hi Sprush1, i must have missed that about utis being a side effect of vagifem, will have to have another look at the leaflet.

Though saying this, I understand vaginal estrogen helps prevent utis.

I would try it though, not everyone gets side effects.

[sprush1]

VioletAquarius  thank you. It’s not on the leaflet in the box. I found it when I looked online about the side effects.

I need to pluck up courage and try it. My vagina is so painful when I put in YES moisturising gel. Deep breaths needed for sure.

On the subject of side effects, I’ve been taking Optibac for Women and I was surprised to learn that this causes frequent urination. I’m going to stop taking it and see if it calms my need to wee.

[CLKD]

I, as your GP prescribed, suggest that U get the VA treatment up there ASAP! and avoid reading GOOGLE. 

It may be sore/painful especially if there is physical resistance, as the vaginal tissues may well be dry, stingy [which can happen when putting anything inside, including VA treatment initially], once the walls are plumped up it will be easier and more comfortable.  What's the worst that could happen?

If U have KY Jelly then put a little inside the vaginal opening whilst laying on the bed B4 inserting the pessary.  If it's very sore don't put the pessary in too deeply until symptoms ease which should be within 2-3 nights.  Some ladies avoid VA treatment as they have been told that we shouldn't 'touch down there', however, sometimes it is essential to get treatment in order to avoid repeated urethra irritation.

[SundayGirl]

If you're feeling sore and tender and are worried about it hurting when using the vagifem, try popping the tablet our of the applicator and use your finger to insert. You may only be able to insert just inside initially but it will get easier the more you use.

[CLKD]

So did U?

Devices are OK if the vagina is well lubricated etc..  The alternative that I would suggest is not to use anything at all.   

Some ladies have VA so badly that surgical intervention is required.  Out of interest what other prescribed medication/s would you avoid using?  In 1988 I didn't want to take anti-depressant medications but without I wouldn't B sitting here.

[SundayGirl]

If the little tubes of Yes hurt and you're concerned about the vagifem applicator being painful then I can only imagine the agony that something that size would induce. 

Please don't get hung up on possible side effects.

[Ayesha]

It's seems a right of passage as you enter old age to throw money at anything that you hope will relieve symptoms.
I got to a very bad state of GSM symptoms and I said no when offered oestrogen, I will try the moisturisers first I said, I had a habit of refusing medications in those days and always looking for alternatives.

I soon learned the madness of my decision and never say no when offered meds to help with the ageing process, saying no to topical oestrogen was the most idiotic thing I did but the Doc knew I would be back begging for it a week later.

[sprush1]

CLKD I haven’t bought one.
I respect anyone who takes prescribed medication whereby the benefits far outweigh the possible side effects. I’m not averse to taking prescribed meds if deemed vital/necessary. It’s since finding out that Vagifem could potentially cause UTI’s that’s caused me to try and find a different treatment.
 I nursed my late husband and not only did he have to endure the horrors of his untreatable terminal illness, he had to endure the many adverse side effects of his medication. I can’t shake that memory off unfortunately.

SundayGirl, I’ve got a high pain threshold and am prepared to try anything non medicinal that might help, at least I can say I tried.

Ayesha, I’ve got the box of Vagifem in my line of sight every time I open my bathroom cabinet. Common sense may well prevail.

[Ayesha]

Would love to know how it all goes for you and what you eventually decide to do. Keep us updated 

[Devon66]

This has been such a useful conversation for me to read today. Particularly the link that Ayesha put on.
Thank you - it has put my mind at rest. I’ll give the Estriol a try if I can get it up there!