Vaginal Dryness Causes & Symptoms - How to Lubricate a Dry Vagina
Posted: Wednesday, March 11, 2009
by Kacycarr
http://www.spotthepimple.com
Vaginal dryness Why is my vagina dry and sore and should I be worried over this. No, it is not a condition to give you reason to panic; however it is reason enough for you wanting to put it right due to any discomforts you may be experiencing. Vaginal dryness is a primary reason why women decline having sexual intercourse with their partner aside from the most common, not liking them. Vaginal lubrication alters in each female, as in the amount each woman releases to moisten her vagina and how much she doesn`t. Natural vaginal fluid is usually clear and odorless. Causes of vaginal dryness also vary.
No doubt during the time of your suffering and while looking for help, you may have read the same thing over and over, in search of something new to treat your vaginal dryness. As we speak there is no quick fix treatment with a difference other than having to practice those same repetitive solutions you have read about over and over.
Just knowing about some of the causes of vaginal dryness will certainly make a big difference to you in your quest to treat or prevent it happening. These below can give rise to the condition
- Soap containing harsh alkaline properties.
- Scented products and dyes can cause an allergic reaction resulting in dryness.
- When estrogen levels lower (menopause) it can cause dryness.
- Certain skin disorders can upset vaginal lubrication
While going through the change (menopause,) estrogen production eases up and comes to a halt. Periods become erratic and then stop. Hot flushes, mood swings, change in voice tone (deeper), and an increase in facial hair can happen at this time. You may well be thinking why we are talking about the menopause when you are here to find out about vaginal dryness. Well this is because it is a common symptom of the change, however not all women will suffer it.
About vaginal moisture: Usually the vaginal walls will keep itself lubricated with a thin lining of clear fluid. The hormone estrogen we spoke of earlier helps protect and maintains that fluid keeping the vagina in a healthy condition, thick, and flexible. It is not only the menopause that is accountable in a drop in estrogen levels, it can happen through:
- Giving birth
- Cancer treatments
- Removal of the ovaries
- Breastfeeding
- Anti-estrogen for treating uterine fibroids or endometriosis
- Douching
Because of the coarse feel inside the vagina it encourages itching burning, and pain during sexual intercourse. Intercourse is one main reason why women come forward with their problem. Both genders indulging in sexual activity and if dryness is present then both can experience severe discomfort from it, even though it is only the woman who is affected by it. Burning and itchiness can also be the result of a vaginal infection, - so it is in your best interest to have your doctor look you over. A diagnosis will be given after your GP has done a pelvic examination and from this he/she will be able to detect any thinning or redness. The importance of this process is to make sure that your problem is not connected to a urinary tract infection. It is most likely your GP will do a Pap test to remove and test cells from your vaginal wall or cervix. This may be done in the doctor's surgery or in your local clinic or hospital.
Depending on severity and the cause of your vaginal dryness, the most regular course of treatment if caused by low estrogen levels is topical estrogen therapy, which its purpose is to put back some of the hormone the body is no longer producing giving relief. Nonetheless it doesn't replace ample enough estrogen in your bloodstream as oral hormone replacement therapy (HRT.) Through personal experience HRT did exactly what it was supposed to do, it dealt with the hot flushes and them somber moods that would never go away. But if HRT is taken for what is considered a time to long then it is best to stop taking the drug. HRT has been linked to an increased risk for breast cancer, heart disease, and strokes.
Estrogen is absorbed through the skin via a patch or cream, or directly into the vagina. There are 3 types of vaginal estrogen:
1. Vaginal estrogen ring is a stretchy ring inserted inside the vagina. Once inside it releases a stable stream of estrogen straight to the vaginal tissues. As with most surgical type insertions they will need replacing from time to time and with this particular one it will need replacing every 12 weeks.
2. Vaginal estrogen pill - For hygienic reasons you would use a disposable applicator to insert a tablet inside the vagina daily for the first 14 days of the treatment course prescribed. Then inserted twice weekly until no longer needed
3. Vaginal estrogen cream (Estrace.) An applicator is provided with this cream which is also too be inserted into the vagina. Treating with Estrace should be done every day for the first 14 days up to 28 days and then one to three times a week.
If you`re vaginal dryness is more a concern at the time of sexual intercourse then use a water-based lubricant like K-Y Jelly or Surgilube during intercourse. Don`t use Vaseline/oils because it can bung up pores. Although K-Y and Surgilube are suitable for sporadic dryness use Replens for safe and constant relief.
Dong quay is an all-purpose sexual and reproductive solution for women who suffer from vaginal dryness. Fennel, fenugreek, anise, and parsley also have estrogen-like qualities. Rewarding properties of vaginal lubricants include:
- Less vaginal tissue tearing
- Less irritation
- Easier penetration
Did you know when you treat your own vaginal infection you rid vaginal odour at the same time.
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Top-level comments on this article: (1 total)This article was helpful for me till I came to the mention of "Replens" product. My doctor recommended it for me; I googled ingredients and found that one of the ingredients was a fancy name for "Mineral Oil". This article here says stay away from products that contain Mineral Oil. A few sentences later it says to use Replens for 'constant relief'. Is there another product LIKE Replens but with safer ingredients? Thank you!You will always find condradictions will rise when talking of products. One says use this while another says that, and because people differ and the severity of their condition you will find what works affectively for one person may not for the other. This is why its best to talk to the chemist assistance. If your GP says to use Replens then I would listen to him or her.(Don`t use Vaseline/oils because it can BUNG up pores. Although K-Y and Surgilube are suitable for sporadic dryness use "Replens for safe" and constant relief,) and because of this is most likely why your GP advised itI hope this has been helpfulKeep wellKacy
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