How Your Vagina Will Change in 2024

Your vagina is constantly changing. And yet, thanks to long-held taboos and a lack of clear information on these topics, many people are unaware and unprepared.

As the new year rolls in, Newsweek spoke to Valentina Milanova, women's health expert and founder of the gynecological health company Daye, about what to expect from our vaginas in 2024 and how we can keep them healthy.

"As women and assigned female at birth (AFAB) individuals age, they experience various changes in their vaginas," Milanova told Newsweek. "It's important to note that these changes are natural and part of the aging process, but they can vary from person to person."

Whether you just got your period or you're midway through menopause, knowing what to expect from your vagina is an important part of understanding your overall and gynecological health.

"These changes include increased discharge in the 20s and 30s and reduced elasticity and moisture in the vaginal tissue in the 40s and beyond," Milanova said. "The shape of the vagina may also change due to decreased fat and collagen, resulting in looser labia and a drier vagina."

She continued: "One of the most common changes associated with aging is a decrease in natural lubrication. This can lead to vaginal dryness, which may result in discomfort, itching, or pain during sexual intercourse. Vaginal dryness is caused by the hormonal changes associated with perimenopause and menopause. It is important to adjust vaginal care based on these changes."

In over half of postmenopausal women (and 15 percent of women pre-menopause) these hormonal changes can also cause the vaginal walls to become thinner and less elastic, resulting in a condition known as vaginal atrophy.

"It can result in symptoms such as vaginal dryness, irritation, and discomfort," Milanova said.

The muscles and tissues that support the vagina and other pelvic organs, known as the pelvic floor, can also become weaker as we age.

"This may lead to conditions like urinary incontinence or pelvic organ prolapse," Milanova said. "To prevent this, you can engage in exercises that support the health of your pelvic floor."

So, based on these changes, what can you do in 2024 (and beyond) to maintain a healthy vagina?

• Practice Good Hygiene: "Clean the external genital area with mild soap and water," Milanova said. "Do not use douches or deodorants as these can disrupt the health of your vaginal microbiome."
• Stay Hydrated: "Drink plenty of water to help maintain vaginal moisture."
• Use Lubrication: "To combat vaginal dryness, using water-based lubricants during sexual activity can provide comfort and reduce friction. Ensure that the lubricant you use has a pH level that is suitable for vaginal use."
• Kegel Exercises: "These help maintain pelvic floor strength and improve elasticity."
• Regular gynecological checkups: "Regardless of age, it's important for individuals to have regular gynecological checkups, including regular STI and HPV screens."
• A diet rich in probiotic foods: "Maintaining a diet rich in probiotic foods like kefir and kimchi can increase the production of lactobacilli—the good bacteria that keep your vagina protected against infections."
• Open and honest communication: "Maintaining open and honest communication with your healthcare provider and your partner, if applicable, can be essential in addressing any concerns related to vaginal health as you age."

Is there a health issue that's worrying you? Do you have a question about vaginal health? Let us know via health@newsweek.com. We can ask experts for advice, and your story could be featured on Newsweek.