Vaginal dryness can be caused by irritants to delicate tissues, hormonal changes, anxiety, and more. During menopause, estrogen production decreases and then stops. When this happens, unwelcome changes occur in a woman’s body.
Vaginal dryness is just one of the common symptoms caused by menopause. It can also occur at any age. It may start out as a minor irritation but eventually, the lack of vaginal moisture can have a huge impact on one’s sex life. Fortunately, there are nearly as many treatment options for dry vagina relief as there are causes.
What causes vaginal dryness?
Normally, the vaginal walls stay lubricated with a thin layer of clear fluid. The hormone estrogen is the one responsible for maintaining that fluid and keeps the vaginal lining healthy, thick and elastic. During menopause, the drop in estrogen levels reduces the amount of moisture, making the vagina thinner and less elastic. We also refer to this as vaginal atrophy.
According to the August 2015 issue of the Journal of Women’s Health, two-thirds of 800 women over 60 years of age listed vaginal dryness as one of their top two sexual health problems – the other being lack of interest in sexual intercourse.
Other than menopause, estrogen levels can drop due to the following:
- Radiation or chemotherapy treatment for cancer
- Childbirth
- Breastfeeding
- Surgical removal of the ovaries
- Anti-estrogen medications used to treat endometriosis or uterine fibroids
- Allergy and cold medications as well as certain antidepressants
- Douching
No matter what the cause is, vaginal dryness can bring about extreme discomfort. It can also lead to burning, itching and painful sexual intercourse.
How is vaginal dryness diagnosed?
Any itching, burning or discomfort in the vaginal area warrants a visit to a medical professional. However, there are no specific tests available that will determine whether a woman’s vaginal wall has become thinner or less elastic.
Treatment for vaginal dryness depends on the cause. Some women who experience problems with vaginal lubrication due to hormonal changes can benefit from different treatment options provided by medical professionals.
Vaginal dryness is a common and frustrating condition that can be allecviated with FemRenew’s life-changing vaginal laser treatment. Find out how Dr. Weisberg can help. We hope to hear from you today!
