Vaginal dryness can be an uncomfortable or even painful condition, making sexual intercourse undesirable. There are many underlying conditions that can contribute to decreased natural lubrication of the vagina and several ways you can manage the condition.
Consider The Actual Problem
If this is the first time you have experienced vaginal dryness, it is not necessarily indicative of a significant problem. You need to consider if your lack of lubrication correlates with lack of desire. If you are disinterested in sex, but are trying to appease your partner, you may experience inadequate lubrication. Have a candid discussion about your feelings and physical needs with your partner. Maybe you need more preparation before sex, such as a romantic dinner, showering together, or other forms of physical intimacy before you are aroused enough to have sex comfortably.
Other concerns that can contribute to decreased vaginal lubrication, but are not necessarily permanent problems, are some prescription and retail medications. Antihistamines and diuretics can have a drying effect throughout your body. If you are taking medications, consider increasing your fluid intake or discuss with your doctor if there are alternative medications that may be equally effective without reducing hydration.
Rule-Out Systemic Problems
Vaginal dryness is often discussed as it relates to the perimenopausal and post-menopausal years due to the changes in hormones responsible for keeping the vaginal tissue malleable and lubricated. If you have no reason to think you are approaching menopause, you should rule out autoimmune causes of vaginal dryness, especially if it occurs with other symptoms. Sjogren's syndrome is an autoimmune disease that attacks the mucous-secreting glands, which includes glands in the eyes, mouth, and vagina. If you notice issues with dry eyes and a dry mouth that cannot be attributed to allergies or allergy medications, you should bring this issue up with your doctor for further testing.
Try Retail Or Prescription Treatments
The most accessible method of increasing vaginal lubrication is to use water-based lubricants found at retail outlets. Since they do not have any impact on hormones, they can be used with a low risk of side effects. Water-based lubricants are usually available as a gel or cream formula or may be available as a suppository. For some women, the downside of using lubricants is they can reduce the spontaneity of sex. Other options for increasing vaginal lubrication are typically used in post-menopausal women, such as creams containing estrogen. Since there are risks associated with adding estrogen, you will need to weigh the long-term risks of hormone therapy with the potential benefits.
Women of any age may experience short-term or long-term problems with vaginal dryness. Any problems should be discussed with your gynecologist to rule out significant health problems. Otherwise, there are various products available to help make sex more comfortable. For more information, contact a business such as Charlotte Center for Pelvic Health.
Share15 August 2016
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