Menopause Matters Forum
General Discussion => New Members => Topic started by: Kirsti on February 10, 2023, 11:47:11 AM
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Hi
I'm new to the forum, really struggling with Vaginal Atrophy extreme discomfort, burning and urge to go to the toilet, currently off work as I'm in so much discomfort and stressed. I've been on vagifem for over 3 years which was fine until a couple of months ago. A few things happened I had been on oestrogel and Utrogestan continuous for 3 months, so not sure if I'm having a reaction to the Utrogestan, vagifem changed to vagirux and I struggled a bit with this at first but seem to have that sorted now, my mum passed away on New Years day and this literally all kicked in then. I've been using the yes hypoallergenic oil moisturiser but things are just getting worse. Any ideas on what would help, I'm at my wits end :'(
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Hi Kirsti, and a warm welcome to the forum.
I am so sorry to hear about your mum. This could well have an effect on how you are feeling now, as stress does have an impact on VA.
Vagirux is the same as Vagifem as far as I know, so ought not to make a difference. What is your usual dose? Many women are underdosed at only two a week, you could try using it every day for as long as it takes, then cautiously reduce the dose. The addition of Ovestin on the labia might also help.
Tension in the pelvic floor also impacts how we feel in the "undercarriage", and this includes soreness and the urge to pee (the bulboglossobius muscle can cause that). Assessment by a women's health physiotherapist would help you know if this is part of the problem, and you can be taught techniques to help.
Hope this helps.
JP x
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Welcome. :bighug:
Sorry that your Mum has died, with all the paper work etc. that is associated can certainly impact on stress and VA.
I would use the treatment every night. When I get the need2P I take 2 Nurofen 3 times a day to ease that nip as the urine flow stops.
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So sorry you have lost your Mum, the stress of all this could have caused a flare up. Trauma and stress will do this everytime. I would do a reload of the Vagirux and use everyday until this settles down. Stop using the YES oil, this could be causing the irritation if you are sore.
Vagirux is the same ingredients as Vagifem except only 1 applicator so doubt this would be the problem.
I would also try an one dose oral thrush treatment as the stress could have lowered your immune system and symptoms of thrush are simular to a VA flare up, I've been fooled by this before.
Sorry, I don't know anything about Utrogestan but I'm sure someone else will beable to advise on this soon.
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Thank you for responding.
I have been using the vagirux nightly so will continue with that.
I think I am just hypersensitive to everything at the moment so that is probably making things worse.
We still haven't had my mum's funeral due to so many delays so that is upsetting me and making me anxious too which probably is having an impact. Thanks again for your advice x
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Hello and welcome. I am so sorry you have lost your mum. My heart goes out to you.
Ultrogestan can affect the bladder so if it is bladder symptoms you are experiencing that it could be that but like the others have said, stress causes VA to flare.
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Thanks flossieteacake
I have an appointment with a gynecologist in a weeks time, so I think for now I will stay on the hrt, keep taking vagirux every day, stop the yes in case that is irritating and take ibuprofen 3 times a day. I've ordered myself a special cushion so I can go back to work and hopefully be slightly more comfortable. Sounds like I might need the cream as well as the vagirux.
Thanks for your help
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Thanks flossieteacake
I have an appointment with a gynecologist in a weeks time, so I think for now I will stay on the hrt, keep taking vagirux every day, stop the yes in case that is irritating and take ibuprofen 3 times a day. I've ordered myself a special cushion so I can go back to work and hopefully be slightly more comfortable. Sounds like I might need the cream as well as the vagirux.
Thanks for your help
They all sound like good ideas. I hope the appointment goes well and you keep us updated. :)
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If the gynae ain't any help, do ask for an appt to a dedicated menopause clinic - sometimes Consltants don't know a lot more than some GPs!
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Thanks CLKD
I can't seem to get an appointment with a menopause expert until June so am trying the gynecologist first. Fingers crossed.
I'll keep everyone updated as it is good to share outcomes to help is all x
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Hi
I'm new to the forum, really struggling with Vaginal Atrophy extreme discomfort, burning and urge to go to the toilet, currently off work as I'm in so much discomfort and stressed. I've been on vagifem for over 3 years which was fine until a couple of months ago. A few things happened I had been on oestrogel and Utrogestan continuous for 3 months, so not sure if I'm having a reaction to the Utrogestan, vagifem changed to vagirux and I struggled a bit with this at first but seem to have that sorted now, my mum passed away on New Years day and this literally all kicked in then. I've been using the yes hypoallergenic oil moisturiser but things are just getting worse. Any ideas on what would help, I'm at my wits end :'(
So sorry to hear about your Mum. I lost mine around the same time of year (many years ago). Stress and upset may well have triggered your symptoms. Can you increase your frequency of Vagifem?
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Let us know how you get on.
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Hi all
Update on what is going on.
I had my gynae appointment and have been diagnosed with severe vaginal atrophy, also painful bladder syndrome.
I have carried on with the vagifem every night, am using coconut oil instead of the other moisturiser. But my bladder is insane, I feel I need to wee all the time and am incredibly emotional. I've been signed off work as I can't really function. I am still not convinced that the Utrogestan isn't affecting me, wondering whether to stop it for a bit and see if that helps.
I am feeling suicidal to be honest. I have my mum's funeral next week but once I'm through that I don't know if I can carry on.
Can anyone help should i stop the Utrogestan for a bit?
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Hi all
Update on what is going on.
I had my gynae appointment and have been diagnosed with severe vaginal atrophy, also painful bladder syndrome.
I have carried on with the vagifem every night, am using coconut oil instead of the other moisturiser. But my bladder is insane, I feel I need to wee all the time and am incredibly emotional. I've been signed off work as I can't really function. I am still not convinced that the Utrogestan isn't affecting me, wondering whether to stop it for a bit and see if that helps.
I am feeling suicidal to be honest. I have my mum's funeral next week but once I'm through that I don't know if I can carry on.
Can anyone help should i stop the Utrogestan for a bit?
I am so so sorry you are feeling suicidal. I think you should stop the Utrogestan right away as I have heard of members feeling suicidal while taking it. I know you have a lot going on and you recently lost your Mum too which is so painful for you.
VA takes a while to treat so your symptoms not improving just yet is noting to worry about. My VA is also chronic so I understand how horrible it is and how it is ruining your sleep. The best thing is to use your vagifem every day and some find it helps to use two a day when things are bad.
Have you told anybody how you are feeling?
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Contact your GP Surgery now, who may B able to offer some medication to relax your mood. It's a huge upheaval - a funeral and mourning - with VA on top! When my bladder nips I take 2 Nurofen 3 times a day for 2-3 days which really helps. U can add an extra 'vagifem' this afternoon as well as your usual pessary later. Where is the main problem, on the outer labia or deep inside the vagina?
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Hi Flossieteacake
Thank you so much for responding.
I have been on increased vagifem for about 3 weeks now and have started stringing coconut oil up there this week. Down there looks a bit better but I am convinced the Utrogestan is affecting my bladder and mood. I used to get pmdd which I've read can be an intolerance to progesterone, I feel so much worse in my self and with my bladder since I've been on it. I think I will stop it but carry on with the gel until I can see someone. I have managed to book an online appointment with a menopause clinic on Monday. I need to be ok for the funeral next Wednesday, well as I can be under the circumstances. The GP knows I feel like this, trying to get me on anti depressants and told me to get some counselling. Thank you for your help
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Hi Flossieteacake
Thank you so much for responding.
I have been on increased vagifem for about 3 weeks now and have started stringing coconut oil up there this week. Down there looks a bit better but I am convinced the Utrogestan is affecting my bladder and mood. I used to get pmdd which I've read can be an intolerance to progesterone, I feel so much worse in my self and with my bladder since I've been on it. I think I will stop it but carry on with the gel until I can see someone. I have managed to book an online appointment with a menopause clinic on Monday. I need to be ok for the funeral next Wednesday, well as I can be under the circumstances. The GP knows I feel like this, trying to get me on anti depressants and told me to get some counselling. Thank you for your help
I also think the Ultrogestan is effecting your mood. Many women have difficulties with progesterone. It can be a nightmare trying to find one that can be tolarated. It is great your skin looks better as that is a sign things are already improving.
It is good you have an appointment at the menopause clinic on Monday. That is not too far away to wait.
I am glad your GP knows. In time I think counselling is going to be very helpful but I know you need to be in the right frame of mind for it.
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Hi CLKD
My vagina etc doesn't feel too bad today, but I feel like I need to wee constantly, it's not pressure like I had when I first had VA or when it flared up in December this is just a constant feeling that doesn't go, some days worse than others but as time goes on seems worse and worse. I'm struggling to function. Ibuprofen doesn't do anything. I feel like I am going insane which is why I am wondering if it is the Utrogestan. Thanks for responding.
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Thanks Flossieteacake
I am just panicking about what might happen 're bleeding if I stop the Utrogestan, but I think I just have to try.
I've not been bleeding as it's been continuous 100 for 3 months. I am getting dull pains on my right side and down my leg though now which I used to get years ago when I was ovulating.
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Thanks Flossieteacake
I am just panicking about what might happen 're bleeding if I stop the Utrogestan, but I think I just have to try.
I've not been bleeding as it's been continuous 100 for 3 months. I am getting dull pains on my right side and down my leg though now which I used to get years ago when I was ovulating.
I can understand you are concerned but you have an appointment on Monday which is just a few days away. You may bleed but hopefully it will not be a heavy bleed.
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Thanks Flossieteacake
I will stop the Utrogestan tonight and see how I go. A bit of bleeding may be better than my current state.
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Thanks Flossieteacake
I will stop the Utrogestan tonight and see how I go. A bit of bleeding may be better than my current state.
I agree. You need to focus on your mental health right now. Please keep posting for support. We are all here for you.
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Get some good pads to give you confidence in case you bleed/leak. That's what they are designed for. There are pads as well as pull on pants.
If a medication makes a person unwell, it's best to stop it. There are other ways of delivering HRT and many are sensitive to progesterone .
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Thanks Flossieteacake
I will let you know how I get on x
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Thanks CLKD
Yes I'll go and get some pads just in case.
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It will give your brain less to bother about ;-). Have U got everything that you require for the Service?
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Hi CLKD
Yes I think I am all prepared.
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That's good. A supportive funeral director makes a world of difference.
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Kirsti just wanted to send some love ❤️ so sorry for everything you are going through. Agree with the other ladies stop the utrogestan and see if helps with your mood xxx
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Thanks cara999 xxx
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Update
Had an online call with a menopause doc who has said ok to stop the Utrogestan for a couple of weeks to see if I feel bit better in myself and if my bladder feels any better. Possible progesterone intolerance. Options then would be to try a 3 month cycle only using Utrogestan then with scans under the guidance of my gp. Try Femoston instead, or try coming off hrt and just sticking with the daily vagifem. She has also said Amitriptyline could help with my anxiety and bladder pain. So looks like I've got a way to go to find out what will ultimately work best for me. Starting with 2 weeks off the Utrogestan. Fingers crossed 😯
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Stop the HRT
Continue with the vaginal atrophy treatment that you already use or your vagina won't know if it's flying a bike or riding a kite ;-). You may require every night or alternate nights for a while.
Let us know. Do U feel supported ???
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Update
Had an online call with a menopause doc who has said ok to stop the Utrogestan for a couple of weeks to see if I feel bit better in myself and if my bladder feels any better. Possible progesterone intolerance. Options then would be to try a 3 month cycle only using Utrogestan then with scans under the guidance of my gp. Try Femoston instead, or try coming off hrt and just sticking with the daily vagifem. She has also said Amitriptyline could help with my anxiety and bladder pain. So looks like I've got a way to go to find out what will ultimately work best for me. Starting with 2 weeks off the Utrogestan. Fingers crossed 😯
Thank you for the update. I am glad the menopause specialist suggested you stop the Utrogestan. If your bladder improves on stopping it, then I would not use it again but try something else. It can take time to find something but there are other options so try not to worry about it just now.
Some do find Amitriptyline helpful for anxiety.
I hope you feel a bit better after your appointment.
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Hi everyone
Thanks so much for all your replies.
The good news is my mum's funeral went well and we gave her a good send off.
So on Monday I stopped the Utrogestan and took 5mg diazepam at night, carried on with eostrogel, vagifem and coconut oil as normal. Did the same on Tuesday night. I took the diazepam as I needed to get through my mum's funeral in the best way I could.
I did have some pain and discomfort but it was much more bearable for those two days. I was obviously very emotional because it was my mum's funeral.
Yesterday still off the Utrogestan, didn't take the diazepam and felt pretty bad with pain and discomfort. Today it is off the scale and I had a bad night. I am also starting to get really irritable and angry. Like I'm getting pmt.
So in conclusion it looks like the diazepam helped as it relaxed my muscles and eased the nerve pain. Because of this I am now convinced I need the amitriptyline, I think I may need to start taking the Utrogestan
Again too as my bladder is no better and I'm feeling very tetchy and aggressive now. I guess I've got to chose between weepy and more anxious versus angry and aggressive, but am hoping the amitriptyline will help with my pain and my mood. Just need to get an appointment now to ask for it. Hopefully early next week fingers crossed.
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Hi everyone
Thanks so much for all your replies.
The good news is my mum's funeral went well and we gave her a good send off.
So on Monday I stopped the Utrogestan and took 5mg diazepam at night, carried on with eostrogel, vagifem and coconut oil as normal. Did the same on Tuesday night. I took the diazepam as I needed to get through my mum's funeral in the best way I could.
I did have some pain and discomfort but it was much more bearable for those two days. I was obviously very emotional because it was my mum's funeral.
Yesterday still off the Utrogestan, didn't take the diazepam and felt pretty bad with pain and discomfort. Today it is off the scale and I had a bad night. I am also starting to get really irritable and angry. Like I'm getting pmt.
So in conclusion it looks like the diazepam helped as it relaxed my muscles and eased the nerve pain. Because of this I am now convinced I need the amitriptyline, I think I may need to start taking the Utrogestan
Again too as my bladder is no better and I'm feeling very tetchy and aggressive now. I guess I've got to chose between weepy and more anxious versus angry and aggressive, but am hoping the amitriptyline will help with my pain and my mood. Just need to get an appointment now to ask for it. Hopefully early next week fingers crossed.
I am so pleased your Mum's funeral went well.
What a shame you are now feeling anger. It does seem the Diazepam was helpful so I can now see why you are considering amitriptyline. With the bladder not improving it could very well be VA as I have bladder pain.
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Thanks Flossieteacake
Yes I think I need more than HRT
I am getting myself worked up as I am worried I will lose my job so need something to help with the extreme anxiety and nerve pain. Hopefully it will help to take the edge off!
Hope you are not in too much discomfort.
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So pleased that your Mum's service is over and went well. Now the grieving begins! :foryou:
I can't remember what you are using for the VA :-\. Meno brain here.
Don't forget pain relief if necessary, when I get that nip as the urine flow stops, I take 'nurofen'.