Ginecoil

Vaginal dryness during sex relations

Lubrication in the vaginal area has several functions such as reducing friction during sex or preserving sperm. The hormone estrogen is responsible for keeping this fluid and the lining of the vagina healthy and elastic.

If the levels of this hormone are altered, vaginal dryness may appear along with other symptoms such as pain with sexual intercourse.

Vaginal dryness in menopause and perimenopause

Vaginal dryness is very common during menopause due to the drop in estrogen levels, thereby decreasing the moisture in the walls of the vagina.

This reduction in estrogen production begins to occur in the transition period to menopause, called perimenopause, until the total disappearance of menopause. This is when the vagina becomes thinner and less elastic.

Vaginal dryness due to stress

Stress can also cause vaginal dryness, since this psychological state generates an increase of cortisol in the blood, producing in turn an imbalance in the secretion of hormones, including estrogen, directly related to the hydration of the vagina.

Vaginal dryness during chemotherapy treatments

Treatments such as chemotherapy can also cause a decrease in estrogen production, in turn causing symptoms similar to those of menopause such as thinning of the vaginal wall and dryness.

Vaginal infections and dryness due to use of synthetic underwear

Certain infections affecting the genital area may also be related to vaginal dryness, as well as to the excessive use of soaps or the use of synthetic underwear.

Vaginal dryness from taking oral contraceptives

This condition can also occur due to the use of medications such as oral contraceptives and antibiotics.

Devices such as IUDs and condom use can also cause vaginal dryness.

Vaginal dryness in pregnancy

During the gestation period the woman’s body undergoes various hormonal changes, generally with an increase in the levels of certain hormones such as estrogen, among others.

As a result, the tissues of the vagina become less elastic and cause irregularities in their normal state.

Estrogen levels can also decrease because of childbirth, which is why vaginal dryness can occur during breastfeeding.

Symptoms of vaginal dryness

Vaginal dryness can cause discomfort which, in turn, can lead to:

• A burning or stinging sensation.
• Pain during sex, which may cause loss of interest in sex.
• Slight bleeding after intercourse.
• Recurring urinary tract infections.

Relieving vaginal dryness

Specific moisturizers for the intimate area are often a good option to help reduce dryness and discomfort. It is important that these products respect the pH of the vaginal flora.

Thus, its formulation must be water-based and specifically for vaginal use, without containing perfumes that may cause irritation.

Similarly, to alleviate the symptoms of vaginal atrophy, which is directly related to reduced vaginal lubrication, the Spanish Association of Gynecology and Obstetrics recommends maintaining proper hygiene and health habits with proper hydration or the use of moisturizers and lubricants.

If the symptoms become very uncomfortable and persist, you should always go to your health specialist for a proper diagnosis.