Why does this happen? On one hand, the lack of estrogen hormones alters the vaginal acidity (the famous pH), opening the door to any germs present in feces (remember that it is always important to wipe from front to back in order to avoid contamination of the most sensitive intimate areas). On the other hand, it causes vulvar dryness and weakens the mucous membrane of the vagina and urethra (the duct through which urine comes out), making it thinner, more fragile and easily irritated. Additionally, the lack of estrogen deprives the urethra of that “shock absorber,” with its protective functions, which is normally created by the congestion of blood vessels during sexual intercourse. This is why it is also easier to trigger cystitis 24-72 hours after sexual intercourse.
