That's dreadful advice, seems like there at too many medics that still lack menopausal knowledge

OK rant over.
As oestrogen levels drop the body may become dry: inside and out; skin, scalp, vagina, anus, back of the neck, deep in the ears, eyes, nostrils - hopefully not all at the same time!
This GP is out of date. One does not use VA treatment when necessary, it's designed to plump up the vaginal walls so that they are less dry and itchy. Initially we should use nightly for 2-3 weeks then 'as necessary', some require nightly use for years, others manage to keep symptoms under control with every 3rd and 5/6th nights for example.
The Consultant is also giving out conflicting advice. My suggestion is that y ou get a referral to a dedicated menopause clinic: not a gynae: there are waiting lists on both NHS and private Clinics . An appt once it does arrive can be cancelled if no longer required. [this goes for most medical issues these days due to long waits].
Is there a Nurse Practitioner in your surgery who should have more knowledge about peri etc. than GPs still seem to have!
Get an appt., make a list and discuss. Good Luck. VA treatment is essential for many of us, every night if necessary. Too many medics read the leaflets in the box! Which are incorrect.