Problem of Vaginal Dryness in Women

Vaginal dryness and sex problems in women are very common. Vaginal dryness is also known as atrophic vaginitis. This condition is very common in women. However, it is not common in postmenopausal woman. Vaginal dryness can occur at any point of time and in any women.  Sometimes uncomfortable symptoms of vaginal dryness are shown by women. These include pain with sex, itching, burning vaginal discomfort and abnormal vaginal discharge.

Fortunately, various effective treatments are available for vaginal dryness. If a woman thinks that she has vaginal dryness, she must talk to her healthcare provider regarding the treatment which is right for her.

Causes of vaginal dryness

The vagina is kept moist due to estrogen. The occurrence of vaginal dryness is found when there is a decreased production of estrogen from the ovaries. This may occur many a times in a woman’s life. This may be temporary or permanent. The times when less estrogen is produced are:

• As a woman will near menopause or after menopause
• After the ovaries are surgically removed
• After having a baby and breast feeding
• While using various medications.

The moisture in the vagina is also affected by cigarette smoking. Due to this, vaginal dryness and sex problems in women can become worse.

Treatment of vaginal dryness
There are two options for treating vaginal dryness. These include the vaginal estrogen and the lubricants or moisturizers. These treatments for vaginal dryness have a temporary effect. This problem can reoccur when the treatment is stopped. More estrogen is made by the ovaries.

Lubricants
A woman can purchase vaginal agents and lubricants without any prescription. Hormones are not contained in these products. There are no side effects as well. Lubricants are specially designed for reducing discomfort and friction from dryness during intercourse. Women can apply the lubricant inside the vagina or the penis. This can be done before having sex.

Body and hand lotions must not be used for relieving vaginal dryness. Many a times, they can prove to be very irritating to vaginal dryness. Vaseline is not recommended as a lot of damage can be caused to the diaphgrams and condoms.

Vaginal estrogen
Vaginal estrogen is a very effective treatment option for many women. Many a times, a healthcare provider prescribes vaginal estrogen. A woman must use very low doses of vaginal estrogen.

These treatments can help in preventing vaginal dryness and sex problems in women.