Vaginal Dryness Itching

vaginal dryness itching Vaginal dryness is a condition that occurs when the vagina isn’t properly lubricated and is accompanied by itching. This itching can make daily activities uncomfortable and sexual intercourse painful. Whilst vaginal dryness occurs in women of all ages it usually affects those going through menopause. Read the following article to learn more about vaginal dryness itching and the best treatments available.

What are the symptoms of vaginal dryness?

Aside from the stated itching, vaginal dryness is often associated with the following symptoms: Burning, irritation, pain or light bleeding during sex, and a feeling of pressure on the vagina.

What are the causes of vaginal dryness?

There are a host of conditions that can be responsible for vaginal dryness. Determining the origin of the vaginal dryness is also important in identifying the most appropriate solution.

• Decreased estrogen levels (such as occurs during menopause)
• Chronic yeast infection
• Douching – the process of cleaning the vagina with a liquid preparation can disrupt its normal chemical balance and cause inflammation.
• Vaginal bacterial infection
• Sjoren´s syndrome
• Medications (including those for allergies, ulcers, cancer, high blood pressure and antidepressants)
• Sexually transmitted diseases (STD´s)
• Vaginal trauma

What are the treatments for vaginal dryness and itching?

Yes, fortunately there are several treatments available for vaginal dryness and itching, each dependent on the cause. Here are a series of recommendations for overcoming vaginal dryness and itching.

Check your soap – The vagina has its own level of biological bacterial control, mainly by maintaining a natural level of pH acidity. Use a hypoallergenic soap with no dies or fragrances that is pH balanced.

Avoid allergens – If your vaginal dryness and itching is a reaction to a substance that you are allergic to, you should try detecting it and then stop exposing yourself to it. Two very common allergens are the fragrances and dyes found in laundry detergent and toilet paper. If perfumed paper is causing the trouble, perhaps change in favor of a soft, white, unscented variety.

Learn how to lubricate – Some women will not lubricate sufficiently when they are sexually aroused, and this is perfectly normal. In such cases it may be useful to dip the finger into the vagina and drawing some of the lubrication out to coat the dry surface. If the dryness is only occasional, use a water-based lubricant like K-Y Jelly during sexual intercourse. However, you should avoid petroleum based solutions (such as Vaseline) which tend to plug up pores.

Check with your doctor – Your doctor may be able to determine what dermatologic problem is responsible for the vaginal dryness and itching given there are a wide range of skin conditions that could be the cause. Your doctor may be able to treat the symptoms with a prescription cream or antibiotic.

Maintain a healthy sex-life – When you have sex on a regular basis the body naturally increases the amount of lubrication and therefore reduces the amount of vaginal dryness and itching. Continuing sexual activity is also important in reducing the thinning and drying effects of menopause on the vaginal tissue.

Given that a decline in estrogen as a result of menopause is often the prime reason for vaginal dryness and itching, it is often worth exploring natural medicines that directly target the issue of hormone imbalance.

Click on the following link for more specific information concerning treatments for vaginal dryness and itching.