Alright, let's just put it out there – vaginal dryness is not the sexiest topic of conversation, but it’s one that needs more airtime. Here’s the thing – it’s way more common than you’d think - especially post-menopause. But it’s not exclusive to menopause; it can happen at any stage of life. If you’ve been wondering why this happens or how to deal with it, you’re in the right place.
By the end of this read, you’ll know what vaginal dryness is, what causes it, how to treat vaginal dryness, and even some cool natural remedies for vaginal dryness. Plus, there’s a nifty link at the end to Hello Period products that might just become your new best mates.
What is Vaginal Dryness?
Vaginal dryness happens when your vaginal tissues don’t produce enough natural fluids to keep things comfortable. Normally, the vaginal lining stays lubricated with fluids, keeping it stretchy, healthy, and ready to handle all sorts of movement (sitting, exercising, even sex). But when those tissues don’t get the moisture they need, things start to feel uncomfortable.
Symptoms range from mild irritation to downright painful situations – we’re talking vaginal dryness itching, burning, soreness, and even discomfort during sex. You might also experience more urinary tract infections or feel like peeing all. the. time.
It’s important to note that vaginal dryness can happen to anyone, regardless of their life stage – from postpartum parents to those going through menopause and beyond. The culprit? Often, it’s all to do with hormonal changes, particularly a decrease in estrogen.
Causes of Vaginal Dryness
There isn’t a one-size-fits-all explanation for vaginal dryness, but here are the usual suspects:
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Hormonal Changes – Estrogen is the superstar hormone responsible for keeping your vaginal lining healthy and moist. A drop in estrogen, whether it’s from menopause, postpartum, or certain medications, can leave your vagina feeling like the Sahara desert.
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Medications and Treatments – Chemotherapy, radiation, antidepressants, and even antihistamines can mess with your body’s ability to keep things hydrated, including down below.
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Lifestyle and Products – Scented soaps, douches, and even some laundry detergents can irritate sensitive areas, which doesn’t help matters. And don’t overlook smoking’s harmful effects on vaginal health – yep, it’s just another reason to quit.
How is Vaginal Dryness Diagnosed?
It might feel awkward talking about this stuff with your healthcare provider, but remember – they’ve heard it all before. A diagnosis generally involves a conversation about your symptoms and medical history, sometimes supported by a pelvic exam to check for thinning or redness in the vaginal wall.
From there, they might run some hormone level tests or rule out other conditions like infections. The goal is to pinpoint the cause so you can get the right treatment.
Care and Treatment of Vaginal Dryness
Here’s the good news – there are plenty of ways to tackle vaginal dryness. Whether you’re into medications, lifestyle tweaks, or natural remedies for vaginal dryness, you’ve got options.
Medications
Some prescribed treatments directly address hormonal imbalances. These include low-dose estrogen creams, vaginal suppositories, tablets, or rings that deliver estrogen right to the tissues where it’s needed. While effective, it’s crucial to consult your doctor to weigh the pros and cons, particularly if you have a history of hormone-sensitive conditions.
Vaginal Moisturizers
Products designed for long-lasting hydration can be game-changing. Use a vaginal dryness treatment like a vaginal moisturiser a couple of times a week to keep things comfortable. Just steer clear of scented creams or generic moisturizers (those are not friends to your bits).
Water-Based Lubricants
For things like easing discomfort during sex, the best lubricant for vaginal dryness is water-based and free of irritants like glycerin or petroleum jelly. Hello Lube’s offerings, for example, are perfect for sensitive, intimate areas.
Regular Sexual Activity
This might sound counterintuitive if sex is already uncomfortable, but healthy sexual activity—solo or with a partner—helps promote blood flow to the area, which can encourage natural lubrication.
Pelvic Floor Exercises
Strengthen those muscles! Pelvic floor exercises like Kegels improve blood flow to the vagina and can even help with mild cases of vaginal dryness over time.
And here’s a bonus tip—switch to period products that are skin-friendly like the ones from Hello Period. Their menstrual cups, reusable pads, and period undies are designed to keep irritation at bay and maintain comfort. Trust us, your vaginal health will thank you.
Say Goodbye to Discomfort with Hello Period
Speaking of Hello Period, their lineup of sustainable period care products is a must-try. Whether it’s their iconic menstrual cups and menstrual discs or ridiculously comfy reusable pads, these products are all about making life easier for your sensitive areas.
If vaginal dryness has been complicating your day-to-day life (or nights, for that matter), this might just be the shift you need. Switch to products that prioritise comfort and give irritation the boot. Check out their range at helloperiod.com
FAQs
How can I increase my natural wetness?
Staying hydrated is key—keep a water bottle handy and sip through the day. Regular exercise and indulging in some “me time” can also boost circulation and lubrication.
What foods increase female wetness?
Add foods rich in fatty acids to your diet, like avocados, flaxseeds, and nuts. They improve hydration levels and promote overall vaginal health.
What are the signs of a healthy vagina?
A healthy vagina? It’s self-cleaning and maintains a slight acidic pH. No itching, strong odour, or persistent discomfort. Regular check-ups with your GP also help keep things in top shape.
Final Thoughts
Vaginal dryness doesn’t need to hold you back from living your best life. From moisturisers and lubricants to sustainable products like those offered by Hello Period, the solutions are varied and effective.
Remember, it’s your body, so look after it well. And if you’re curious about how Hello Period can complement your care routine, hop onto their website today. Your intimate health deserves nothing but the best!
