What Causes Vaginal Dryness and Treatment Options?

People of all ages might experience the uncomfortable condition of vaginal dryness. It can be brought on by menopause, nursing, a drop in hormone levels, or certain drugs. Depending on the underlying cause, this condition may be treated with hormone treatment, lubricants, or moisturizers.

What is vaginal dryness?

When the vagina’s natural lubrication is reduced, it causes vaginal dryness, which may result in discomfort during sexual activity and irritability, itching, and burning feelings.

Research has shown even before menopause; vaginal dryness causes problems for 17% of people aged 18 to 50 who are given the gender assigned at birth (AFAB). Additionally, more than 50 % claim that menopause causes vaginal dryness.

How hormones Affect Vaginal dryness

Hormones play a major role in vaginal lubrication. Vaginal dryness can result from low levels of estrogen and progesterone, two hormones that help keep the vagina moist. Due to the normal decline in estrogen and progesterone levels during menopause, this is more prevalent in female patients.

Vaginal dryness and HGH directly affect each other. Low human growth hormone levels (HGH) can cause vaginal dryness in older women. A lack of HGH may cause a decrease in libido because it is crucial for overall health and well-being, including sexual wellness.

Causes of vaginal dryness

1. Breastfeeding

Due to the hormonal changes that take place during lactation, breastfeeding may result in a reduction in vaginal lubrication. The body produces hormones in response to milk production that may disrupt the hormonal balance and reduce vaginal lubrication.

Because of this, it could be more challenging for the vagina to lubricate itself sufficiently during sexual activity. This might be unpleasant and cause pain or discomfort while having sex. It is advised to use a water-based lubricant, increasing foreplay, or take regular breaks during intercourse to help alleviate this problem.

2. Birth control pill

Birth control drugs have been linked to vaginal dryness by interfering with the body’s normal estrogen production. The quantity of natural lubrication created during arousal may be decreased by birth control tablets, which makes it more challenging for the vagina to become sufficiently lubricated.

Drinking plenty of water, using a water-based lubricant during sexual activity, and discussing birth control choices with your doctor can help lessen these adverse effects.

3. Cancer treatments, including chemotherapy and hormone therapy

Chemotherapy and hormone therapy are two cancer therapies that can significantly affect vaginal lubrication. These medications may disrupt the body’s normal hormonal production, reducing lubrication and making sexual activity uncomfortable, if not painful.

Vaginal dryness can also lead to a decrease in natural secretions, which might raise the risk of infection. The use of lubricants or vaginal moisturizers is one option for managing the adverse effects, which is why it’s crucial for cancer patients receiving these therapies to discuss their needs with their healthcare professionals.

4. Diabetes

Due to changes in hormone levels brought on by diabetes, which can interfere with the body’s normal estrogen synthesis, women with diabetes may be more susceptible to vaginal dryness. Diabetes may cause more severe vaginal dryness symptoms in women, including pain during sex, recurrent UTIs, and a higher risk of ripping and other types of vaginal tissue damage.

Women with diabetes should seek medical guidance and keep a healthy lifestyle to lessen the symptoms of vaginal dryness. Keeping a healthy lifestyle includes maintaining a healthy weight, working out frequently, and managing diabetes with medication and lifestyle changes.

5. Oophorectomy

In an oophorectomy, one or both of a woman’s ovaries are surgically removed. Vaginal dryness may result from decreased estrogen production, a hormone that helps maintain the vagina wet and lubricated.

6. Sjogren’s Syndrome

Sjogren’s Syndrome is a chronic autoimmune disorder that affects the body’s mucous membranes, tears, and saliva glands. It is one of the most common causes of dry eyes and can affect other organs, such as the vagina. Women with Sjogren’s Syndrome may experience vaginal dryness caused by decreased lubrication of the vagina due to reduced secretions from the glands.

7. Not being sexually aroused

Women who are not sexually aroused experience dryness and pain during sexual activity because their bodies do not produce enough natural lubrication in the vagina. Physical and psychological conditions like stress, exhaustion, sadness, anxiety, interpersonal conflicts, or medication use can all lead to low arousal.

When to seek medical help

If you suffer persistent vaginal dryness, which is linked to a recognized cause, such as menopause, or dryness that is causing pain or discomfort, you should seek medical attention. Your doctor might suggest hormone therapy, lubricants, or creams to manage the symptoms. In addition, the doctor might advise dietary adjustments or changes to your way of life to aid with your symptoms.

How is vaginal dryness treated?

Depending on the cause, there are numerous treatments to cure vaginal dryness. Modifying one’s lifestyle, such as refraining from bubble baths, fragrant soaps, and douching, can help treat mild symptoms. Also, to help with mild symptom relief, over-the-counter lubricants and moisturizers may be used.

Prescription drugs, such as topical estrogen creams, pills, or vaginal rings, may be required for more severe cases. Additionally, some medical professionals might advise laser therapy or vaginal dilators as treatment. In order to determine the best course of treatment for you, it is crucial to speak with a doctor.

Conclusion

Any female can have vaginal dryness, a common condition that can be uncomfortable. In order to get the right treatment, it’s crucial to understand the condition’s underlying cause. Possible treatment choices include hormone replacement therapy, vaginal lubricants, moisturizers, and other drugs.