There are many reasons why a vagina is dry. Regardless of the cause, the effect is often the same, uncomfortable sex and tension between partners. Men often feel like they don’t “turn her on,” while women wonder why their natural vaginal lubricant is gone. Too many women are afraid to tell their partner because of the risk of rejection. The first step when you experience discomfort and dryness is a visit to a doctor. Chances are excellent, the difficulty is due to natural changes, but a pelvic exam will rule out the disease. Every woman, at some point, will have to deal with vaginal dryness and itching. There are many simple solutions available at different costs and effectiveness.
Vaginal lubrication occurs naturally when a woman is sexually aroused. The fluid flows from the blood vessels that surround the vaginal area. Arousal brings in more blood, which in turn releases more moisture. But even though you may be emotionally aroused with your partner, sometimes it doesn’t translate to wetness in your vaginal area.
Menopause tends to decrease estrogen, resulting in thin, fragile tissue, less elasticity, and decreased secretions. Not only does sex hurt, but the body becomes more susceptible to inflammation, especially urinary tract infections.
The symptoms of a dry vagina vary among women, with the most common being itching, burning, and painful intercourse. Many feel pain or notice bleeding, particularly after sex. Another symptom may be the need to urinate more often.
Lifestyle changes can lead to significant improvement. Staying hydrated by drinking adequate amounts of water helps. Cigarette smoking is one of the main culprits, as are certain personal care products like douches. Switching to a different method of birth control can also make a big difference. There are many birth control manufacturers, feel free to try others to see if they relieve your dry vagina.
Stress is another big contributor to dryness. With women under more stress than ever, adding the stress of vaginal dryness makes things even worse. Partners are often not understanding and see the problem as a sign of personal problems in the relationship that add even more stress.
Doctors often recommend hormone therapy, including the application of topical estrogen. Diet modifications may provide relief, as low-fat diets decrease estrogen production. Soy products can help increase the lubrication of the vaginal area. Some women turn to herbs, such as black cohosh, as a natural solution.
Using body lotions on the genitals, taking bubble baths, or inserting foods like yogurt or even vinegar will worsen the conditions. Do not use these methods.
Lubricants are also effective in lessening the negative effects of vaginal dryness. Those containing petroleum jelly should not be used, as they will increase dryness over time, as well as interfere with birth control products such as condoms. Choose lubricating products made with natural ingredients. Not only will they naturally help regardless of why the vagina is dry, but they generally contain antioxidants that promote good vaginal health. Natural vaginal lubricants will not only work with your body to increase its natural moisture, but will also increase your “inner sex drive.” They are designed to increase blood flow in and around the vaginal walls and restore what many women call “the fire within.”
