Picture your vagina as its own little eco system going on about its day to day functions for the most part without a hitch until...
Birth control
Menopause
Breastfeeding
Illness
Surgery
Or Medications changed things.
What happened?
Most of the time the issue is Estrogen.
Estrogen levels may have been affected by any of the conditions listed. Estrogen levels are the main reason our vaginas stay well lubricated. It helps to maintain the shape and size of our vaginas.
Can I Fix Vaginal Dryness?
Is it possible that you just need more lube?
With our busy lives and not setting time aside for sex, we tend to jump right into it without any warmup… and we need the warmup.
If you're having dryness all the time, you’ll want to consider using a moisturizer or lubricant, and/or estrogen…
the reason for this dryness can be because of Menopause, illness, or breastfeeding. All of this cause a decrease in our estrogen levels contributing to dryness down there. Also, certain medications can play a role in that area. Did you know taking any type of decongestant can also dry out your vagina.
Moisturizers
These products work by ‘sticking’ to the vaginal skin for 24-72 hours. They hold water in place against the vaginal skin until it wears off. Most women find that applying 2-3 times per week makes a difference in reducing their vaginal dryness/irritation. Most moisturizers also have a lower pH. This helps to reduce infection causing bacteria.
Lubricants
Use these products with sex. They will temporarily relieve vaginal dryness during sexual activity. Lubricants help to reduce friction and irritation. Lubricants typically have a shorter duration of action, and therefore may need frequent application and reapplication before and during sex. Some women have experienced vaginal infections with use of lubricants, so test the product on a small patch of skin first or experiment with small amounts of product to make sure you will not react to it. Important fact: Any Petroleum based lubricants will erode condoms, the NuvaRing and anything silicone (toys).
SEX can help your Vagina?
Maintaining regular sexual activity, whether through masturbation or penetration, can help maintain vaginal health by increasing blood flow to the vagina and labia, and thus maintaining vaginal elasticity. Women who are “sexually active” typically respond better to moisturizing therapies.
Prescription Hormone Treatment options
When it comes to Vaginal Estrogen you have a few options.
Vaginal Estrogen: Estring & Femring (ring)
Vagifem (tablet)
Premarin and Estrace (creams)
Local estrogen therapy is effective and well tolerated with minimal side effects.
This is because it is only absorbed into the skin of the vagina and not throughout your entire body. It is being absorbed directly and will help with skin tone and comfort, perhaps aid in preventing urinary tract infections, but will not help with hot flashes or night sweats.
Please talk to your provider to help determine what treatment options is best for you.
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