3 Reasons Why Our Vulva and Vaginal Health Changes (and What You Can Do About It)

Vulva and vaginal health naturally shift throughout our lives. From hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle, peri-menopause or menopause, to the effects from hormonal birth control, the foods we eat or even the way we move. There are so many factors that influence how our vulva and vagina feel and function.

Understanding why vaginal health changes can help you feel be more prepared and more in tune with your body.

 

1. Hormonal Changes: Menstrual Cycle and Menopause

Menstrual cycle changes

• Estrogen and progesterone levels rise and fall each month, which affects vaginal discharge, natural lubrication, and pH balance.
• During ovulation (when estrogen peaks), lubrication usually increases. Before and during menstruation (when hormones drop), the vagina can feel drier, itchy or more irritated. 
  • Salve can help with topical discomfort associated with dryness and irritation
• Research shows that the bacteria in the vaginal microbiome also shift, potentially affecting how vaginas and vulvas may feel.

Aging and menopause

• As estrogen levels decline in perimenopause and menopause, the vaginal walls thin, lubrication decreases and pH rises.
• These changes can lead to dryness, discomfort, or increased susceptibility to infections.

 

Explore Menopause Support

 

2. Hormonal Birth Control and Vaginal Health

Hormonal contraceptives like the pill, patch, ring, or hormonal IUD change hormone levels, which can influence vaginal tissues and the microbiome. They can also present symptoms of discomfort on the vulva. 

• Estrogen-containing contraceptives often support Lactobacillus, the “good” bacteria that protect against infections, and may lower the risk of bacterial vaginosis (BV).
• Progestin-only methods can sometimes increase irregular bleeding, dryness, or changes in vaginal flora.
• Individual responses will vary, some people notice irritation, others see improved stability.
• It's important to remember to talk with your provider to choose a birth control that works for you. 
• (A study in the change of the vaginal microbiome on women with PCOS)

 

Read: The Birth Control Breakdown

 

3. Lifestyle Factors That Influence Vulva and Vaginal Health

Your daily habits directly impact vulva and vaginal balance.

• Diet: High-sugar diets can feed yeast and increase risk of infections, while nutrient-rich, fiber-filled, and probiotic foods support a healthier microbiome. 
• Exercise: Physical activity improves circulation and hormone balance, but staying in sweaty or tight clothes too long can cause irritation or yeast overgrowth.
• Other habits: Stress, sleep, hydration, and hygiene choices (like avoiding harsh soaps or douching) all affect vaginal pH and comfort.
• We use salve whenever we are feeling off and need a little extra support to comfort our vulvas

 

How To Create A Simple Routine Vulva and Vaginal Wellness Routine

Vulva and vaginal health changes are norma and influenced by hormones, birth control, and lifestyle factors. By understanding these shifts, you can take small, supportive steps to maintain balance and comfort at every stage of life.

 

Shop: Our Bestselling Vulva and Vaginal Care

 

Further Reading 

Stuff You Should Know: Sex & Aftercare by Lina Dune (she/her)

The Intersection of Sexual & Mental Health

Mind the Pleasure Gap: Gender Inequality in the Bedroom

Learn the Difference Between Your Vagina & Vulva