How common is the vaginal condition "dry vagina" and who is more likely to suffer from it. First it is a familiar condition that can be remedied, and secondly, it can occur in any woman. Some women produce a lot more vaginal secretion naturally, whereas others simply don`t, either of which does not constitute an abnormality. Like with most vaginal issues there are methods/products available to treat the problem. This is not a time to be embarrassed to talk to your doctor if you seek a solution.
Vaginal dryness is caused by lack of natural vaginal lubrication. Vaginal moistness prevents the sides of the vagina from rubbing together. How is dry vagina recognized? Like other ailments by the symptoms.
Vaginal dryness can cause:
1 Dyspareunia: Pain while having sexual intercourse (women.) Painful intercourse is not a healthy sign so therefore talk to your GP. The genital area is where it normally hurts or deep inside the pelvis. The pain is often described as sharp, burning or akin to period pains. Vaginal atrophy is described most often as pain in the vagina, such as during intercourse.
2 Repeat episodes of vaginal yeast or bacterial infections, with abnormal vaginal discharge
3 Itching or burning of the vagina. Both symptoms need determining for fear caused from something other than vaginal dryness.
Vaginal dryness is often caused by change in the level of female hormones. Level change can derive from breastfeeding oral contraceptives (the pill) and the menopause. Vaginal change happens in response to a woman's hormonal cycle. Estrogen causes the vaginas lining to thicken. A supply of nutrients and oxygen come via blood vessels to the vagina which in return maintains vaginal suppleness. Oestrogen is accountable for the fatness of the lining of the vagina, for the flexibility of the tissues and for the production of the moisture from the cervix. In the menopause oestrogen levels decrease and the vagina seems to tighten. Because the vagina loses elasticity, the lining thins therefore the feeling of dryness.
One primary reason a solution for vaginal dryness is sought after is more times connected to that of a sexual nature. Vaginal dryness can cause discomfort for both parties in the bedroom. The good news is a dry vagina can be lubricated making sexual maneuvering less painful.
Water-soluble, starch-based lubricants (KY jelly) and vaginal moisturizers are more acceptable treatment types than petroleum-based products. Petroleum-based creams/gels can interfere with natural secretions. Water based lubricants are considered the most safe and more popular because they don't damage condoms and they flush out and off the body more easily than oils. Like all type products we have differences. Differences in relation to water based lubricants: are - feel and consistency, ingredient content and how long they last. Personal preference will have you choose what best suits you.
Apply lubricant to your vaginal opening or to your partner's penis before intercourse. You must not use too much as you can expect a slippery road ahead. Vaginal moisturizers last longer than lubricants; they decrease dryness for up to three days with a single application whereas lubricants last about 7 hours.
Before applying lubricant make sure you are certain it is vaginal dryness that is the issue. Your doctor will do tests to determine this. The tests may involve a pelvic examination and Pap test, the pap is where samples of cervical cells are taken and sent on for further testing. A Sample of vaginal secretion may also be taken to see if vaginal inflammation (vaginitis) or to confirm vaginal changes related to estrogen deficiency. You may be asked to give a sample of urine. The pelvic testing will have your GP feel your pelvic organs and visually examine your external genitalia, vagina and cervix.
Some women tend to become despondent over their vaginal dryness and jump in head first at the first opportunity they see as a way of remedying their problem. This is not safe. Always seek medical advice before trying unfamiliar methods or medications.
Dong Quai is often considered the female Ginseng. Dong Quai, Astragalus and Chaste Tree are believed to help balance hormone levels and prevent tiredness. Soy Isoflavones is known to fabricate a weak estrogen-like effect. Black Cohosh has been traditionally used for easing symptoms of vaginal dryness.
One menopausal woman says she swears by "comfrey salve" going on to further comment that there are many topical lubricants to treat vaginal dryness but they provide only symptomatic relief. Comfrey contains allantoin, which not only soothes irritated tissues, but also stimulates healthy new cell growth. She would apply about 1/2 teaspoon to her vaginal tissues every day after bathing. If you suffer from vaginal dryness, it's also important to make sure you're getting enough essential fatty acids. Flaxseeds and fatty fish like salmon and sardines are excellent sources of omega-3 fatty acids.
