The primary reason for loss of the genitals, which includes the clitoris and also the labia minora and majora too, is the loss of estrogen. Levels of this hormone decline with menopause, whether it occurs naturally or because of surgery or other medical treatment. It’s estimated through clinical scanning and imaging that women lose up 80 percent of the volume of the genitals in menopause over time.
Stimulation helps somewhat to maintain the blood supply that’s a contributing factor so the “use it or lose it” phenomenon comes into play here as well as in vaginal comfort. But the primary factor is hormonal. Localized estrogen can also be helpful to maintaining the health of genital tissues.
This is another aspect of menopause that doesn’t get a lot of attention, so it’s not surprising that you’ve been surprised!
Dr. Barb DePree, M.D., has been a gynecologist and women’s health provider for almost 30 years and a menopause care specialist for the past ten.
7 comments
I’m 65 now and the last three years has taken my girlie parts away. My clitoris and labia minora have disappeared up into my labia majora. In fact, one side of my labia minora is almost only half the size of its mate. Embarrassing! Do nurse practitioners and doctors look at this and think it’s weird,? I’m embarrassed to get a pap smear.
I am very grateful because I was very surprised why is happening to me at the age of 59.