Vaginal Dryness

Vaginal dryness is commonly caused by a reduction in the production of estrogen. This is usually the case during perimenopause and post menopause period. This problem not only affecting middle aged women but it can also affect women at all ages. However, it is more pronounced in women at middle age. Vaginal atrophy means your vaginal walls are thinning and drying. Some women who are not sexually active may be able to cope with this problem but for those that are still sexually active, the vaginal dryness can become distressing as there is no resistance to friction. Any insertion can become painful and may turn to severe scarring.

You will first notice vaginal dryness during intercourse but sometimes you may become aware of it as it can cause itching, burning sensation or irritation. As vaginal dryness is caused by a lack of moisture, most women will automatically resort to lubricating jelly. In helps in the short term but it cannot stop your vaginal issues from cracking. Some resort to estrogen therapy usually in the form of cream. Estrogen cream if used must be with caution and in small amounts. It usually takes time to work. Make sure that progesterone is included as one of the ingredient as estrogen alone is a dangerous medication that can cause cancer. Estroil is the only one that studies have shown does not cause cancer. Both estrogen and progesterone combine made up what we usually refer to as hormone replacement therapy (HRT).

To reduce the risk of side effects from HRT, you can adopt to try natural medications to deal with vaginal dryness. Apricot oil and vitamin E capsule insertion may also reduce the pain. Use water based lubrication and stay away from petroleum jelly as not only it does not help, it can even be harmful to your body. Herbs that are famous for its menopause remedial properties can also help. Dong quai and motherwort are believed to increase vaginal lubrication. Wild yam and chickweed can soothe and cool the hot vaginal tissues. Try to lubricate your vagina with aloe vera or slippery elm as it soothes and nourishes the skin.

Drink plenty of water to keep the body cool and feeling moisturized naturally. Flax seeds that are rich in essential fatty acids are found to be helpful in some vaginal dryness cases. Exercise help to alleviate many of menopause symptoms including dry skin especially doing daily pelvic floor exercises to strengthen the vaginal tissues.

If you have vaginal dryness, it is important to remember that sexual arousal and orgasm will become slower during menopause. Don’t let this problem refrain you from enjoying sex as there are many ways to lubricate the skin and keeping it healthy. In addition, it is important that you communicate this problem with your partner. Tell him what you are experiencing and ask him for support and help. Get creative and explore new things to try on bed with your partner. Be patience and take things slowly to overcome your vaginal dryness.