Hi and welcome to MM
Yes, absolutely. Lack of oestrogen is the cause of urogenital atrophy and symptoms of thrush, BV and UTI type symptoms. Soreness, dryness etc. are all part of the joys of the menopause and often start when we begin the peri meno stage. How old are you? HRT would definitely help but if you are already getting urogenital issues then local oestrogen would be a good idea alongside the systemic HRT.
IF you are in early peri meno stage, then a different type of PCP e.g. Qlaira or Zoely might be a good start, as these would give you contraception but also give you the bio identical oestrogen that you need to balence things and help prevent menopause symptoms in the early stages. You could have some local oestrogen e.g. Vagifem, right now, as well to help with the current issues. Vaginal moisturisers are good idea as well (SYLK or the YES products are best and you buy these online) and if you do get thrush, itching or soreness then buy some Multi Gyn Actigel (online) to use for a few days to help restore the flora balance.
HRT experiences vary from women to women - it is about finding the right HRT for you - don't be too alarmed about some of the posts on this forum as it tends to be the ladies who have difficulties with HRT that do the posting - there will be thousands of women out there getting on with life really well thanks to HRT.
If I were you I'd try the Qlaira or Zoely BCPs first - your GP is unlikely to know about these, so you may have to find the info online and print off to show him/her and explain that these are relatively new but recommended for early peri meno when oestrogen is dropping. DG x
