Especially common after menopause, vaginal dryness can affect any woman. In fact, Harvard Health Publishing reports that the condition affects about half of postmenopausal women, and that most choose to be discreet about it. If you’re experiencing vaginal dryness with accompanying symptoms such as irritation and pain during sexual intercourse, know that you are not alone. Find relief from this common discomfort through this informational read along with suggestions for treatment.
The Causes: Vaginal Dryness Before & After Menopause
Can you experience vaginal dryness at any time in your life? Yes, and these are the causes.
Before menopause
While estrogen production pre-menopause is more stable than post-menopause, there are other factors such as the following that may lead to vaginal dryness:
- The use of harsh hygiene products such as feminine sprays, harsh soaps
- Exposure to chemicals in swimming pools, hot tubs and washing products
- Taking drug treatments such as antihistamine and antidepressants
- Specific conditions such as pregnancy, breastfeeding, and undergoing medical procedures like hysterectomy and chemotherapy
Hormonal changes tend to be abrupt and dramatic in women who went through chemotherapy, as the procedure can damage the ovaries and permanently interfere with the production of estrogen.
After menopause
Around 58% of post-menopausal women experience vaginal dryness. After menopause, which usually occurs sometime between the age range of 48 – 50, the production of estrogen and progesterone begin to decrease. What follows soon after is vaginal atrophy where the lining of the vagina becomes thinner, drier, less elastic and blue in color.
Ultimately, vaginal dryness is the result of decreased levels of estrogen. Among other bodily effects, the female hormone is responsible for keeping the lining of the vagina lubricated, thick and elastic.
Tips & Suggestions for Treatment
While vaginal dryness is not associated with significant health consequences, the condition can be a source of discomfort. The good news is that there are many treatment options for it. Take these for example:
- Lubricants and moisturizers. Artificial lubricants and moisturizers may help get rid of the discomforts that usually come alongside vaginal dryness.
- Hormone therapy. Hormone therapy comes in different forms which can address vaginal dryness while also keeping bacteria and vaginal pH in check. Consult your doctor for best guidance on which format serves you best.
- If sexually active, take it slow and give the Bartholin glands time to produce sufficient lubrication before intercourse. As preparation for painless penetration and movement, the Bartholin glands produce extra moisture during sexual excitement.
- Some home remedies that may help improve the condition are:
- Avoid fragrant soaps and feminine washes.
- Eat more phytoestrogens. Phytoestrogens are natural compounds in plant-based food that mimic what estrogen does for the body.
- Minimize discomfort by wearing the right underwear. Underwear with synthetic materials can make vaginal irritation worse.
Vaginal dryness is a silent problem. Despite the high number of women experiencing problems related to the condition, many feel embarrassed and uncomfortable to talk to their partners and friends about it. It might be embarrassing and uncomfortable to discuss such personal details, but doctors are used to having these types of conversations.
For the best possible care during and after menopause, regularly check in with your doctor.
Sources:
https://www.health.harvard.edu/womens-health/dont-ignore-vaginal-dryness-and-pain
https://www.womens-health-concern.org/help-and-advice/factsheets/vaginal-dryness/
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/321615
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/menopause/in-depth/hormone-therapy/art-20046372
Share this post on:
