vaginal dryness
Vaginal dryness can occur at any point in a woman’s life however it is more likely during menopause due to decreasing levels of oestrogen. One of the characteristics of menopause can be a change in the moisture levels within the body including the vaginal area.
The most effective treatment for vaginal dryness is hormone therapy – replacing the oestrogen which is no longer being produced is the most proven way to reverse these symptoms.
This can be done by using:
Systemic oestrogen – this hormone therapy can replace natural oestrogen as your body adjusts to menopause, easing your symptoms.
Local oestrogen – if vaginal dryness is your only symptom, oestrogen delivered through a cream, tablet or ring placed directly into the vagina may be your preference. Oestrogen is then only absorbed in the genital area.
If the hormonal replacement method is your preference you should discuss your thoughts with your doctor in the first instance.
There are of course non-hormonal methods you could try such as:
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Lifestyle changes – dietary adjustments or a different exercise program and participating in stress reduction techniques ie meditation, biofeedback, homeopathy, hypnosis or yoga can all help you to relax if the vaginal dryness is brought on from emotional causes. Eating a balanced diet: increase soy and flaxseed consumption and keep hydrated by drinking plenty of water. |
Try to avoid vinegar, and yogurt, caffeine and alcohol which can dry out bodily tissues. Communication with your partner is also highly recommended.
Vaginal lubricants – vaginal dryness can be improved by using lubricants especially when participating in sexual activities. You can choose from water-based and silicone-based products. Water based products are less likely to cause an allergic reaction and silicone-based are known to last for a longer period of time. Lubricants are short-term remedies.
Vaginal moisturisers – vaginal moisturisers work for several days. They should make the vagina and surrounding tissues more pliable/stronger. Applying them regularly can help prevent dryness and thus decrease symptoms.
Avoid hand lotions, soaps, bubble baths and oil based products such as petroleum jelly and baby oil.
Vitamin E oil – helps to lubricate the vagina, heal cracks and soreness and keeps the tissues elastic.
Participate in sexual activities regularly – this is a great way to bring blood to the area nourishing your vaginal cells. Lots of foreplay and gentle stimulation, as well as masturbation, can keep the area lubricated and healthy.
Perform pelvic floor exercises – exercises such as the kegel exercise and some pilates exercises are excellent for keeping the vaginal area strong.
Herbal supplements – are the easiest alternative treatment to follow. There are two types of herbs ie phytoestrogenic and non-oestrogenic. Phytoestrogenic herbs contain oestrogenic components produced by plants which treat the hormonal imbalance by introducing these plant-based oestrogens into the body. As a result of adding outside hormones a woman’s body becomes less capable of producing oestrogen. Therefore non-oestrogenic herbs stimulate a woman’s hormone production. This ultimately results in balancing not only oestrogen but also progesterone and testosterone.
Your doctor or nurse at your doctor’s surgery are there for you to talk to over personal menopausal symptoms such as vaginal dryness: you need to be comfortable with your body and continue to have a normal sex life. If you feel a little embarrassed about bringing up your symptoms with your doctor/nurse please remember you have a lot to gain from doing so - don’t let your embarrassment stop you from getting the support you need in order to live a comfortable and fulfilled life.
Information written by the talkhealth medical panel
Last Reviewed: 14 February 2011
Next Review Date: 14 February 2013
