Vaginal dryness (atrophic vaginitis) is a fairly common problem among women. It mainly occurs in the premenopausal and postmenopausal periods. As a result, there are a lot of problems, such as pain during intercourse or the addition of a secondary infection. But the main thing is that dryness in the vagina is not a sentence at all, but a small inconvenience that must be dealt with.
Causes of vaginal dryness
Dryness of the intimate area occurs in women of any age. Here are the main reasons for its appearance:
Age over 40. Before menopause, during or after its end, the amount of the female hormone (estrogen) decreases sharply. It is estrogen that promotes the production of mucus in the vagina, blood supply and the creation of an acidic environment.
Medications. Certain cardiovascular, desensitizing, and diuretic drugs cause vaginal dryness.
Allergic reactions. Perfumes, lotions, and soaps can cause vaginal allergies and dryness.
The end of the menstrual cycle. Before menstruation, there are not enough female hormones in the body, and the amount of progesterone rises.
Oral contraceptives. This problem is often caused by a group of contraceptives containing only progesterone (mini-pills).
Malignant diseases, stresses and depression, the postpartum period, surgical removal of the ovaries, chemotherapy or radiation treatment for cancer, Sjogren's syndrome, frequent douching.
Smoking and alcohol can also cause vaginal dryness. These bad habits can disrupt the work of internal organs, as well as change hormonal levels.
Diagnosing vaginal dryness
Itching and burning are the first signs of dryness in the intimate area. A small amount of lactobacilli leads to the appearance of pathological microflora in the vagina. Sexual intercourse is accompanied by unpleasant painful sensations. Over time, the desire to have sex disappears.
All these symptoms are an excellent reason to visit a gynecologist, who will advise on how to properly restore the microflora.
Vaginal dryness treatment
If dryness is due to a decrease in hormone levels, experts prescribe hormone replacement therapy based on estrogen, which restores the function of the vagina and regenerates the protective layer. Some doctors prescribe oral and topical medications (suppositories or vaginal ointments).
A few days after hormone therapy, women feel a positive result. Increases blood flow to the hip region and the amount of natural lubrication.
If hormone therapy is contraindicated, mixtures of medicinal plants are used that have a positive effect on the hormonal background.
Women who suffer from vaginal dryness are advised to:
Use non-hormonal or low pH lubricants during intimate hygiene. They do not lead to inflammation of the mucous membrane, but preserve the normal microflora.
Drink at least 8 glasses of water a day. Water helps to eliminate toxins and maintains moisture in the vagina.
Do not completely exclude the use of fat. After 40 years, be sure to include soy products in the diet.
Regular sex is a good prevention of vaginal dryness. Sexual arousal promotes blood flow to the internal genital organs. After this, vaginal lubrication is released. In addition, regular intercourse improves a woman's well-being, improves her quality of life and keeps her vagina elastic.
