Dealing with Vaginal Dryness

The female body normally discharges lubricating fluid when engaged intercourse. The purpose of this fluid is to lessen the friction caused while intercourse. When the body is fails or inadequately produces this fluid, this is a case of vaginal dryness. The level of lubricating fluid in the vagina differs from one female to the next, but this is normal. Its absence or low level, though, should be a cause for concern as this brings a feeling of uneasiness and pain especially when engaging in intercourse. In the United States, records show that at least 33% of women in their mid 30s until their early 60s have suffered from dryness of the vagina.



Causes of Vaginal Dryness

There are a lot of factors that could lead to vaginal dryness. 1. Reduction of a woman’s normal estrogen level - Estrogen is what makes the female body nurture vagina healthy. It helps keep the acid content in the vagina in its usual level. As the level of estrogen drops, the lining within the vagina becomes thinner resulting to dryness.


Estrogen reduction may result from any of the following reasons
  • a. Perimenopause - the period of 3 to 6 years before a woman’s menstrual cycle actually ends.
  • b. Menopause - vaginal dryness is one of the symptoms for women approaching their menopausal years.
  • c. Removal of the ovaries as well as abnormal function of the ovary as an adverse effect from chemotherapy or radiation treatment
  • d. After giving birth and as a result of breastfeeding, estrogen is lost.
  • e. Disorders involving the body’s immune system
  • f. Irregularity in the frequency of intercourse
  • g. Smoking of cigarettes



2. Reaction to other chemicals - The use of soaps that has high alkaline content tends to adversely affect the normal acidity degree of the vagina.

3. Allergens - Your allergic reaction to some of the stuff you use. The frequent sources of allergens are scented, patterned toilet papers as well as detergents with fragrances.

4. Some skin disorders

Symptoms
If you are exhibiting or experiencing any of the succeeding signs and symptoms, then you are suffering from vaginal dryness.

  • 1. Dryness
  • 2. Itching
  • 3. Irritation
  • 4. Tension
  • 5. Burning
  • 6. Pain during intercourse or bleeding during intercourse
Treatments for Vaginal Dryness
1. Engaging in intercourse on a regular basis during perimenopause as well as during menopause would greatly help you in preventing or at least reduce the drying side effect. In the alternative, women who are experiencing vaginal dryness should look for substitute lubricating fluids. It is recommended that these should be water-based.


You can also try hormone replacement therapy (HRT) like estrogen. For estrogen therapy, you have the option of using creams, rings, tablets, and skin patches. There are lubricants and moisturizers that are available for sale over the counter. There are also oral hormone medications available.


2. It is advisable to use non-alkaline soaps. Stick to soaps that are ph-balanced and not fragranced or dyed. Avoid taking bubble baths.


3. Avoid products containing allergens. You should instead use toilet papers that are unscented. Make sure that you rinse your clothes thoroughly after washing them with your fragranced laundry bar.


4. Consult your dermatologist as your dryness may be tied up with a certain skin condition. Generally, such condition can be cured with antibiotics or by applying creams.