It is not uncommon for women to feel dry down there. This condition also known as vaginal dryness is common among most women. This is especially prevalent when there is a drop in the estrogen levels due to menopause. Usually, the vaginal walls are well lubricated with a thin layer of clear fluid. This fluid is responsible for keeping the vaginal lining healthy and increasing its elasticity.

Although common during menopause, vaginal dryness can occur at any age. The lack of moisture in the vagina leads to irritation and can also affect one’s sex life. Before treating the condition, here are some causes that may be responsible for vaginal dryness.

Medication

There are many types of medications that have a drying effect on the body. This is especially the condition with cold and allergy medicines that contain high levels of antihistamines. They affect the level of moisture in the vagina and thus, lead to lack of lubrication.

Chemicals in soaps

The chemicals that are contained in body hygiene products such as perfumes, soaps, and lotions can interfere with the pH levels of the intimate area. The vaginal area can also be allergic to certain products, and thus, you should not use any types of products that contain harsh chemicals. It is essential to consult your gynecologist before going ahead with the use of any product on the vagina.

Hormonal changes

The most common cause of vaginal dryness includes a decrease in the estrogen levels due to childbirth, breastfeeding, and menopause. The health of the vagina greatly depends on the balance of estrogen levels in the body.

Lack of arousal

During intercourse, if a woman suffers from a sexual problem or low libido, vaginal dryness may be triggered. This causes immense discomfort during the sexual act.

If you experience any discomfort or burning around the vaginal wall, it is essential to visit a gynecologist. After a thorough checkup and a medical history report, the doctor will be able to understand the symptoms and the reason why vaginal dryness is being caused.

Commonly, the treatment that is used for vaginal dryness includes estrogen therapy. In this kind of therapy, the low levels of estrogen are replaced by topical estrogen, which makes up for the estrogen that the vagina can no longer produce. Although topical estrogen therapy is effective, it can only relieve the symptoms of vaginal dryness for a short period. Thus, in case of severe vaginal dryness, one may be asked to undergo oral estrogen hormone therapy. Through this therapy, estrogen is absorbed into the bloodstream to bring relief. Apart from the estrogen therapy, there are few factors that can prevent and aid in vaginal dryness.

Dietary alterations

There are several types of foods that contain a high dose of estrogen. These foods include flax seeds, soya beans, tofu, etc. which are rich in the phytoestrogens and can help in improving vaginal dryness.

Lubricants and moisturizers

There are several kinds of vaginal moisturizers and lubricants that can be used liberally for full effect. However, these products should be used only after consulting the gynecologists. Moreover, one must understand that these products are only meant for short-term use and merely alleviate the symptoms.

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