Tips for dealing with vaginal dryness in post-menopause

Vaginal dryness affects, on average, 60% of post-menopausal women, and is often the symptom that continues to bother women the most after menopause. Women tend to hit post-menopause between the ages of 47-55, so being sexually active is still very much in the cards, and a very important part of their relationship. However, a lot of women become embarrassed to deal with their vaginal dryness, and are too sensitive to talk about it. Rest assured, a lack of adequate moisture in the vagina is very normal in post-menopause, and there is a reasonable explanation for it; the estrogen that aids the production of lubrication, is no longer being produced in the same quantity so nor is the lubrication.

There is no need to worry too much about vaginal dryness. Yes, it can indeed be very frustrating because it causes pain during sex, or the itching can be irritating, but there are simple solutions to relieve these distressing and uncomfortable symptoms, so read on to find out more.

Five tips to alleviate vaginal dryness post menopause:

Use lubrications/moisturizers.

Don’t be embarrassed to buy over-the counter lubrications; this is why they are there to buy and people of all ages use them. If you are experiencing painful intercourse then purchase a water-based lubricant and apply before sex, and during if you need it. It will immediately make the vagina moist and make sex, or any intimate activity, more pleasurable. Alternatively, if you are suffering with irritation and itchiness in the genital area then use a moisturizer which will relieve this.

Have sex

Funnily enough, having more sex comes highly recommended for coping with vaginal dryness, even during post-menopause, and this is good news because women often have a higher sex drive after menopause. Lubrication will probably have to be used, but if you participate in more sexual activity then it will encourage blood flow to the right areas. However, make sure that sex isn’t rushed because time is needed to encourage natural lubrication.

Keep hydrated.

Keeping hydrated is important because lubrication works on a healthy body. Try to drink the recommended eight to ten, 8oz glasses of water daily.

Add soy to your diet

Soy products are high in isoflavones and lignans which are known to help vaginal dryness and is considered one of the best ways to treat it. Add more soy milk, edamame, and tofu to your diet and feel its effects.

Vaginal estrogen therapy

This is a highly effective way to reverse the effects of post-menopausal vaginal dryness and can be used in tablet, cream, or the ring form. All three forms thicken the lining of the uterus and increase lubrication, by supplying estrogen to the vagina. The cream and tablets are inserted into the vagina, usually at bedtime and will provide vaginal moisture for about three days. The ring is placed in the upper part of the vagina by a health practitioner and can remain there, even during intercourse and bathing, releasing a constant dose of estrogen over a period of three months. Consult your doctor before trying vaginal estrogen therapy. Women who are already taking other hormone therapy shouldn’t need to use it.

Recommendation:

Post-menopausal vaginal dryness is a result of the severe hormonal changes that have taken place in your body, and is nothing to be embarrassed about. Take control, follow these simple tips, and notice a substantial difference. Follow this link to find out more about the symptoms of post-menopausal vaginal dryness.