Vaginal dryness is a problem that many women are embarrassed to talk about, but it has a huge impact on their lives. Today, we will talk openly about this discomfort that can be felt not only during sex, but also when just standing, sitting, walking, and wearing underwear. Don't think that this is something that only happens to you, this is a very common condition. So there is no reason to be afraid or ashamed.
What is vaginal dryness?
Simply put, to understand this, we first need to understand how the vagina normally works. The walls of a healthy vagina are constantly wet with a thin, moist fluid, which is thick and slightly elastic. Much like the saliva in our mouths. This natural moisture, or lubrication, is what keeps the vaginal tissues healthy and comfortable.
But when vaginal dryness occurs, this tissue becomes dry, thin, and loses moisture. This causes discomfort and pain in that area, especially during sexual intercourse.
Why is this happening? What are the reasons for this?
The main and most common cause of this is a decrease in the hormone estrogen in the body . Estrogen is a very important hormone for the female body. This hormone helps keep the walls of the vagina healthy, thick, and moist.
As we age, especially during and after menopause , estrogen levels naturally decrease. This is the main cause of vaginal dryness. In medical terms, we call this condition Vaginal Atrophy .
But it's not just menopause, there are many other reasons that can affect this.
| The reason for the dryness | A simple explanation |
|---|---|
| Breastfeeding and childbirth | Hormonal changes during this time can temporarily lower estrogen levels. |
| Some birth control methods | This condition can occur in some women, especially due to birth control pills or other methods that contain hormones. |
| Cancer treatment | Things like chemotherapy and hormone therapy can affect estrogen levels. |
| Diabetes | The effects of diabetes on the nerves and blood vessels can also affect vaginal moisture. |
| Some medications | Some medications for depression, antihistamines for allergies, and medications for conditions such as endometriosis can cause dryness. |
| Oophorectomy (surgery to remove the ovaries) | The ovaries produce the most estrogen. When they are removed, estrogen levels drop dramatically. |
| Sjögren's Syndrome | This is an autoimmune disorder that affects the glands that produce moisture in the body. This causes dryness in the mouth, eyes, and vagina. |
| Scented Soap and Douching | Scented soaps, body washes, various sprays, and douching can disrupt the natural balance of the vagina and cause dryness. |
| Lack of sexual stimulation | If you don't receive enough stimulation before sex, the secretion of natural lubricant will decrease. |
What are the symptoms of this condition?
The main symptoms of vaginal dryness are pain and discomfort, but there can be several other symptoms as well.
- Inflammation and itching: A burning or itching sensation in the vagina and surrounding area (vulva).
- Slight bleeding after sex: Dry, thin vaginal walls can become delicately injured by the friction caused during sex, and even a slight scratch can cause bleeding.
- Frequent urinary tract infections (UTIs) or yeast infections: The natural defense system of the vagina is weakened, making it more susceptible to infections.
- Frequent need to urinate.
- Decreased interest in sex: Pain can lead to fear and aversion to sex.
- Vaginal pain (Soreness).
This discomfort is not limited to the vagina. You may also feel dryness and pain in the area around the vagina while wearing underwear, walking, or sitting.
How does a doctor diagnose this?
Don't be shy about talking about this. When you go to see a doctor, he will ask you a few questions and, if necessary, perform a simple test to diagnose this condition.
- Talking about your symptoms: The doctor will ask you about your symptoms, the medications you are taking, and your health history.
- Pelvic Exam: This involves examining the inside of your vagina. The doctor can check to see if the walls are thin, red, or dry.
- Blood tests: A blood test may be done to see if changes in hormone levels or another medical condition are causing this.
- A vaginal discharge test: Sometimes a sample of vaginal discharge may be tested to confirm whether there is an infection.
What are the treatments for this?
The good news is that there are many safe and effective treatments for this. These can be divided into two main categories.
Prescription Treatments
These work by replacing the hormone estrogen or something similar. These should only be taken with a doctor's prescription .
- Low-dose estrogen: These come as a cream, tablet, or ring. Because they are inserted directly into the vagina, the hormone is less likely to travel to other parts of the body. The cream and tablet are usually prescribed to be used daily at first, then once a week. The ring can be left in the vagina for up to 3 months.
- Ospemifene (Osphena): This is an oral pill that acts like estrogen in the body and reduces pain during sex.
- Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA): This is also a vaginal suppository. It is also given as a treatment for painful intercourse caused by menopause.
Very important: Estrogen-containing treatments are not suitable for everyone. Especially if you have had breast cancer or are at high risk for it, you should definitely discuss the pros and cons of these treatments with your doctor before making a decision.
Over-the-counter (OTC) products
These can be purchased at a pharmacy or supermarket without a doctor's prescription. There are two types to be aware of here.
1. Vaginal Moisturizers: These are like a moisturizer for your face. They are not meant to be used before sex. They are applied to the inside of the vagina every few days to help retain moisture and keep the tissue healthy. (Ex: Replens™, Luvena®)
2. Vaginal Lubricants: These are used just before sex . Their purpose is to reduce friction and pain during sex. They come in several types: water-based, silicone-based, and oil-based. (Example: Astroglide®, KY® Jelly)
Are there any natural things you can do at home?
- Drink plenty of water: Keeping the body well hydrated helps with overall health and tissue hydration.
- Natural oils: Natural oils like coconut oil and olive oil can be used as an external lubricant before sex. But remember one very important thing . If you use oil-based lubricants, they can damage condoms . Therefore, if you are using condoms to prevent pregnancy, it is safest to use a water-based lubricant .
- Foreplay: Take enough time before sex to get both of you aroused. This will increase the production of natural lubrication. Talk openly with your partner about this.
Should I see a doctor?
This is usually not a sign of a serious medical condition. However, if it is affecting your life, you should definitely seek medical advice. You should definitely see a doctor if any of the following occur:
- If this discomfort affects your daily activities .
- If it affects your sex life or relationship with your partner .
- If the treatments you get from the pharmacy don't help .
- If you have unusual or heavy vaginal bleeding .
Take-Home Message
- Vaginal dryness is a very common condition, especially with menopause. So don't be ashamed of it or suffer alone.
- Although the main reason for this is a decrease in the hormone estrogen, other factors can also play a role.
- Lubricants available at the pharmacy can provide great relief from painful sexual intercourse.
- There are very effective medical treatments for this, so don't be afraid to talk openly about it with your doctor.
- Talking about this with your partner is very important for both of you're happiness and your relationship.
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