October 18, 2024, 9:46 am | Read time: 4 minutes
Vaginal dryness is not only a problem for women going through menopause; it can also occur at a younger age. It is important that in the event of vaginal dryness, you don’t wait too long to have the causes clarified by a doctor. Various home remedies can also provide at least short-term relief.
Unlike a dry vagina, a moist vaginal flora helps maintain a low pH level, preventing unwanted fungi, bacteria, and other pathogens from penetrating easily. During sexual arousal, the production of milky-white secretions can triple within seconds, enhancing blood flow throughout the sexual organ, both internally and externally, which in turn amplifies pleasure.
Expert advice from Prof. Dr. Doris Maria Gruber, a gynecologist from Vienna
Overview
What constitutes healthy vaginal flora?
This process is regulated by the female sex hormone estrogen. If the level drops or fluctuates, as is the case for women going through menopause or during pregnancy, production decreases. But there are other possible causes; one thing is certain: a dry vagina should never be ignored.
When does vaginal dryness begin?
If the condition lasts for more than a few days to a week, there is a need for action. Gynecologists agree: vaginal dryness always exists when a woman experiences it as such. However, the normal amount of fluid produced – depending on the cycle phase – is three to five grams per day.
What are the causes of vaginal dryness?
Hormone balance
Vaginal dryness is an indicator that the hormone balance and blood flow to the vagina is disturbed. This can be facilitated by taking certain medications as a side effect of cancer treatment or by hormonal contraceptives. The micro-pill, in particular, which suppresses ovulation and also contains little estrogen, can ensure that too little moisture is produced.
If you suspect this, you should definitely talk to your gynecologist about whether it makes sense to change or whether it might even be time to stop taking the pill altogether. Pregnant and breastfeeding women often experience dryness due to changes in their hormonal makeup.
Psychological causes
In many cases, it is psychological stress that upsets the balance in the vagina. Stress, sorrow, fears, worries, and traumatic experiences like sexual violence can lead to a decrease in vaginal lubrication. If this is the case, it is not so much the body but rather the soul that urgently needs attention. Sometimes, dryness may simply indicate that the sexual partner isn’t eliciting the desired response. In this case, you should not accept it in silence but communicate your feelings openly.
Sometimes, there is something more serious behind it
Vaginal dryness can also signal underlying health conditions. These include diabetes, high blood pressure, or multiple sclerosis. Sometimes, it is also the first sign of the (premature) onset of the pause. The sooner the true cause is identified, the better the symptoms can be managed.
Other mistakes
Excessive tobacco and alcohol consumption or excessive intimate hygiene can also affect the healthy environment in the vagina. You can often eliminate the problem by not using aggressive washing lotion. No, you really don’t need a shower cream just for down there – lukewarm water is perfectly adequate.
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Home remedies and tricks can help
A dry vagina is nothing to put off. In this state, the sensitive organ is virtually defenseless, and a painful infection can occur very quickly. Don’t delay in making an appointment with your gynecologist to determine the exact causes and explore treatment options. Until then, there are some tried and tested home remedies and tips that can help.
- Opt for loose-fitting underwear made of organic cotton. Bacteria and fungi feel less at home with healthy air circulation.
- Don’t wash excessively; just clean the intimate area with lukewarm water.
- Avoid using tampons and switch to sanitary towels or menstrual underwear.
- Chlorinated water can be harsh on the sensitive vaginal environment, so it’s best to steer clear of public swimming pools for some time.
- Treat yourself to a relaxing self-massage with olive oil, coconut oil, or aloe vera.
- Hormone-free gels, creams, or vaginal suppositories based on hyaluronic acid or lactic acid are available over the counter in pharmacies.
- Ensure a balanced diet with minimal red meat and maintain regular exercise.