Women and vaginal dryness

Vaginal dryness is a common and irritating symptom of menopause, affecting over 50% of US women between ages 51 and 60. However, there are a range of methods available for combating vaginal dryness caused by menopause. Read over the following paragraphs for more information on the causes and cures for vaginal dryness.

What is vaginal dryness?

The vagina is typically lubricated by glands in the cervix that keep the vagina supple and moist. The moisture seeps slowly down through the vagina – serving to keep it clean and remove dead cells. In addition, the vaginal moisture is acidic, preventing nasty infections such as thrush. During sex glands at the entrance of the vagina (Bartholins glands) produce extra moisture to facilitate sexual intercourse.

However, after menopause all women find that their bodies start to change. For example, the levels of the female hormone estrogen start to decrease, leading to reduced lubrication during sexual activity. This is because without the production of estrogen, the skin and vulva of the vagina become thinner, dryer, and less elastic.

The medical term for women experiencing vaginal dryness is vagina atrophy.

What are the symptoms of vaginal dryness?

Pain during intercourse can be both physically difficult and place an undue strain on relationships. The thinning of the skin often means that more damage can be done during sex, and when lubrication is poor, friction can cause pain and discomfort. This often has the consequence of reducing sexual desire.

Furthermore, vaginal dryness symptoms in women may also include:

• Pain at other times, making it difficult to sit, stand, or exercise.
• Change in the overall look of the vagina.
• Change in vaginal discharge (often becomes more discolored and watery)

What can I do about the symptoms of vaginal dryness?

Given that women spend over one third of their lives in a post menopausal state it is vital they ensure to maintain their quality of life over this period. Vaginal dryness should most certainly NOT be treated as an inevitable consequence of growing old, especially since there are so many treatments available.

Some typical treatments include:

• Local estrogen, which is is available in the form of small tablets inserted into the vagina with an applicator, vaginal rings, creams and pessaries. However, one should visit their medical practitioner before proceeding with this treatment.

• Creams made to treat skin irritation.

• Vaginal lubricants, which can be especially useful for women who are not suited to estrogen replacement. They need to be applied each time prior to intercourse in order to be effective.

• Taking more time during sexual intercourse to give the Bartholins gland enough time to produce the maximum amount of lubrication.

Also, because vaginal dryness is caused by low levels of estrogen in the body, any treatment should focus on restoring estrogen back to stable levels. A healthy diet and exercise regimen often contribute greatly to this goal. Alternative medicines are also enjoying great popularity for treating the symptoms of menopause. Some alternative remedies work by stimulating the body´s own hormone production systems, thus eliminating the need for outside estrogen sources.

Click on the following link to learn more about treatments for vaginal dryness in women.

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Vaginal Dryness Help
Vaginal dryness in post menopausal women
Lubricants for vaginal dryness
Vaginal Dryness Intercourse