Recurring UTIs, and menopause, Anyone?

I kept having recurring UTIs and was eventually referred to Urologist. I also have Bladder Pain Syndrome which can mimic a UTI. Urologist very happy I was on HRT as the oestrogen does help with keeping urethra (and company) healthy.

I've used Ovestin for about 10 years. Five years ago I had a post meno bleed. Saw a gynaecologist who suggested a coil and going back to using Ovestin twice a week. Had no problems since but I also use the Boots vaginal moisturising gel and alternate with the Ovestin. The Boots one stings a bit so be warned but it means I don't use the Ovestin so frequently if that makes sense.

I was prescribed Replens it made things worse i had a bad reaction to it, i now use Vagifem,i also use Balance activ moisture pessary twice a week and everything is back to normal.

I use Replens for vaginal dryness. I buy it but you can get it on prescription.

I am a bit wary of using topical oestrogen and I understand that you cannot use it long term. I have never taken the pill or been on HRT.

The Replens does work for VA but seems to help prevent UTI's as the lubrication it provides must help to prevent infections taking hold.

I had a few UTIs and had hospital investigations which showed age-related changes. I was prescribed a course of Vagifem pessaries since which I have had no more infections. I hope your friend will find it works for her.

atrophy
you can buy silk or yes or similar over the counter

Ask your doctor about Vagifem . I was constantly wanting to wee , every step was like someone bouncing on my bladder! Night time was the same, up every two hours without fail to visit the bathroom. I was reluctant to use Vagifem , but so glad I started on it. Transformation , still up in the night , but only once, occasionally twice and sometimes not at all.

Yes Vagifem pessaries are a popular recommendation for the problem . Very very low dose oestrogen locally resolves the problem quickly.

Get a douche spray by the loo and use it after using the loo, or having sex.

Lack of oestrogen post menopause often leads to UTIs and vaginal atrophy. HRT counteracts this.

I think things can dry out a bit, so oestrogen helps with that side of things, and makes infections less likely.
I'm not a doc, by the way; just a know-all!