Signs of vaginal dryness can appear at any time in life, especially when hormonal changes occur. The inconvenience that this condition causes can affect our intimate comfort and relationships, therefore, it is important to attend to this condition adequately to guarantee our intimate well-being.
Next, we explain the symptoms, causes and treatment of vaginal dryness.
Symptoms of vaginal dryness: signs to pay attention to
There are several factors that help maintain good vaginal health, such as flora and mucus or discharge.
In a non-dry vagina, the vaginal wall, which is lined with mucus, produces a natural lubricant or discharge that helps keep the entire area hydrated. In turn, the vaginal flora protects the area naturally. The imbalance of one or both elements is what produces dryness in the vaginal area.
But what are the symptoms of vaginal dryness? The most common sign occurs during sexual intercourse. During penetrative sexual intercourse, it is important to have the vagina well lubricated so that there is no strong friction, if fluid is not produced in the vaginal mucosa, sexual intercourse could be uncomfortable .
Even so, it is not the only sign that should alert us to intimate dryness. You may notice other signs, such as:
- Inflammation
- Itching
- Irritation
- Annoying sensitivity in the intimate area
Why do I have vaginal dryness?
The possible causes of vaginal dryness are diverse. Hormonal changes, taking certain medications or using perfumed or alcohol-based products in this area can affect the vaginal flora and, therefore, lubrication.
These are some of the most frequent triggers for intimate dryness:
Hormonal changes
Throughout her life, women experience various hormonal changes that, among other things, can cause vaginal dryness.
These changes occur during stages such as puberty, pregnancy, lactation or menopause, therefore during any of these stages intimate lubrication may be affected.
Use of certain medications
This condition can also be caused by taking medications or using certain products that may affect the natural vaginal pH.
Antidepressants, antibiotics, hormonal contraceptives or certain specific cancer treatments are some of the medications that can alter the intimate area.
Scented soaps and douches
Vaginal showers or the continued use of some cosmetic products in the intimate area, such as scented and alcohol-based soaps, can also alter the natural pH and cause dryness.
How to relieve vaginal dryness
Relieving vaginal dryness is a priority to avoid discomfort in the area, so it is advisable to know the treatments that we have at our disposal to achieve it.
Use an intimate lubricant, preferably with prebiotics
Using an intimate lubricant with moisturizing properties can help hydrate the area, something very important during sexual intercourse. Hydration will allow greater elasticity of the mucosa, especially if the gel contains prebiotics, since the vaginal pH balance is favored, improving intimate health and intimate relationships.
Durex Intima Protect lubricant is a 2-in-1 prebiotic lubricant that helps balance vaginal PH and relieve discomfort during sex, making it smoother. Water-based, fragrance-free and dermatologically tested, it is suitable for vaginal, anal and oral sex and can be used with both latex and polyisoprene condoms.
Apply a moisturizing gel daily
There are specific moisturizing gels for the vaginal area, such as Durex Íntima Protect Intimate Balancing Gel, with natural hyaluronic acid for the care and comfort of the vagina, and prebiotics to help balance the vaginal pH, hydrate the vagina and reduce discomfort in the area intimate.
Use specific soaps and maintain good intimate hygiene
On many occasions we use non-specific soaps to wash the intimate area, which can cause great dryness. Therefore, it is advisable that you choose an intimate hygiene gel that helps maintain the natural pH for daily use when washing.
Keep in mind that correct intimate hygiene can help reduce discomfort due to dryness in the vaginal area and prevent it from reappearing.
If the discomfort is still very intense after using these products, we recommend that you go to the gynecologist.
Tips to reduce vaginal dryness
In addition to the above, you can also follow these guidelines to relieve and prevent vaginal dryness:
- Drink an adequate amount of water throughout the day.
- Avoid tobacco and alcohol since, by decreasing estrogen, it can increase dryness.
- Dedicate time to the preliminaries in your sexual encounters, these are essential to promote arousal and therefore improve vaginal lubrication.
- Avoid intimate hygiene products that dry out the area, such as soaps with perfumes or alcohol, scented intimate wipes, etc. It is best to choose hygiene products specially designed for the intimate area and dermatologically tested.
- Do not wear very tight underwear or materials that do not perspire. It is advisable to opt for cotton garments to allow adequate perspiration in the area.
- If after taking hormonal contraceptives you notice changes in your intimate lubrication, consult your gynecologist. Similarly, taking medications without medical supervision should be avoided.
