Embracing Your Well-Being: Nurturing Vaginal Health During and After Cancer Treatment 

October 14th, 2024

Written By: Oncology Simplified Team

Disclaimer: This information is general and may not meet individual needs. For a personalized plan tailored to your unique lifestyle and clinical requirements, book a free introductory call at 437-500-5000.

Navigating cancer treatments can be challenging, and one area that might need extra care is vaginal health. Treatments like chemotherapy, radiation, and hormone therapy can lead to side effects and issues such as vaginal dryness, thinning tissues, and changes in vaginal pH. But don’t worry—there’s a lot you can do to support your body and find relief. Let’s explore how diet and lifestyle changes can help improve your vaginal health and ease some of these side effects. 

Common Vaginal Health Issues After Cancer Treatments 

  1. Vaginal Dryness

Cancer treatments can lower estrogen levels, leading to vaginal dryness. This can make you more prone to infections like UTIs, and can also make sex uncomfortable or even painful. If you’re dealing with this, you’re not alone—there are ways to manage it and find relief. 

  1. Vaginal Atrophy

Vaginal atrophy is the thinning and inflammation of the vaginal walls, often caused by reduced estrogen. This can also result in dryness, pain, and itching. It’s a common side effect, but there are solutions that can help. 

  1. Changes in Vaginal pH and Microbiome

Just like your gut, your vagina has its own ecosystem of microbes. Some treatments can disturb this balance, increasing vaginal pH (making it less acidic). and making you more susceptible to infections like yeast infections and bacterial vaginosis. 

  1. Vaginal Stenosis

Radiation therapy can cause vaginal tissues to become less elastic (weaker) and form scar tissue. This can shorten the vaginal canal, leading to discomfort and difficulties with gynecological exams. 

  1. Pain During Intercourse

Painful sex can be caused by dryness and scarring, but emotional stress from cancer treatment can also play a role. It’s important to address both the physical and emotional aspects of this issue. 

Food-Based Methods to Improve Vaginal Health 

Taking care of yourself through diet can make a big difference. Here are some tasty ways to support your vaginal health: 

Probiotic Foods 

Probiotics help maintain a healthy balance of bacteria in your vagina, which can prevent infections. Some probiotic-rich foods, like kefir, contain various lactobacillus strains that support the restoration of healthy vaginal bacteria. These beneficial bacteria compete with harmful ones, helping to create a balance that can reduce the risk of annoying infections. 

 Try adding these probiotic-rich foods to your diet: 

  • Greek yogurt with honey and berries 
  • Yogurt parfait with granola and sliced almonds 
  • Kefir smoothie with spinach and banana 
  • Strawberry kefir popsicles 
  • Sauerkraut on whole grain crackers 
  • Kimchi fried rice 
  • Kimchi and vegetable stir-fry. 
  • Miso soup with tofu and seaweed 
  • Tempeh stir-fry with broccoli and bell peppers. 
  • Tempeh lettuce wraps with hoisin sauce. 

Probiotic Berry Smoothie Recipe 

Ingredients: 

  • 1 ½ cups frozen berries 
  • 1 cup plain kefir 
  • ½ banana (medium) 
  • 1 tbsp sunflower seed butter 

Directions: 

Blend all ingredients until smooth and enjoy! 

Prebiotic Foods to Boost Healthy Bacteria 

Probiotics add beneficial bacteria to your gut and vagina, while prebiotics provide the nourishment those good bacteria need to grow and stay healthy! 

Prebiotic Rich Foods 

  • Garlic 
  • Onions 
  • Asparagus 
  • Green bananas 
  • Chicory root 
  • Jerusalem artichokes 

Prebiotic Snack Ideas: 

  • Green banana smoothie with spinach 
  • Garlic hummus with carrot sticks 
  • Roasted garlic spread on whole grain bread 
  • Grilled asparagus with lemon zest 
  • Jerusalem artichoke chips 
  • Caramelized onions on whole wheat toast 
  • Chicory root tea or coffee alternative 
  • Apple slices with almond butter 
  • Oatmeal topped with flaxseeds and berries 
  • Leek and potato soup 

 Additional Tips for Vaginal Health Post-Cancer Treatment 

Changes in Intimacy 

Your desires and ability to have sex may shift during treatment due to biological changes, reduced energy, or emotional stress. Talk to your oncologist about how to safely manage intimacy, and consider working with a sex therapist to explore new ways to connect with your partner. 

Other Helpful Tips: 

  • Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to keep tissues healthy and lubricated. 
  • Limit Sugar: Reducing sugar helps prevent harmful bacteria and yeast overgrowth. 
  • Use Vaginal Moisturizers and Lubricants: These can alleviate dryness and discomfort. 
  • Regular Check-ups: Keep up with your healthcare provider for personalized advice. 
  • Avoid Douching: This can disrupt the natural balance of vaginal bacteria. 

Conclusion 

Managing the side effects of cancer treatment can feel overwhelming, but you have options to support your vaginal health. Incorporating beneficial foods into your diet and making a few lifestyle adjustments can help ease your symptoms. You’re not alone in this journey—there’s support available, and you’ve got the strength to navigate it. 

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