Vaginal dryness is a difficult topic for many women to discuss. Even when facing this issue, they often feel too embarrassed to speak up, let alone see a doctor. Many women may experience this problem after childbirth or during menopause, primarily manifesting as discomfort or pain during intercourse. So, what exactly causes vaginal dryness? Is it a normal phenomenon or a pathological condition? How can we address this sensitive issue?
Today, SHEYERA aims to delve into vaginal dryness—a common yet frequently overlooked concern.
1. What Is Vaginal Dryness?
Vaginal dryness refers to a gynecological symptom where the vaginal mucosa loses elasticity and lubrication due to degeneration, often due to a decrease in collagen. This situation can occur when the vaginal mucosa is damaged, compounded by the inability to effectively expel toxins from the body, disrupting the natural regeneration capacity of the vagina. If this condition persists, collagen levels in the vagina will gradually decrease, leading to severe dehydration and subsequent dryness symptoms.
Vaginal dryness is more prevalent among postmenopausal and postpartum women. As hormone levels decline, vaginal secretions decrease, and the mucosa becomes thinner and more susceptible to infections and inflammation, resulting in dryness and pain. Symptoms may include pain during intercourse, itching of the vulva, and discomfort in the vagina.
2. Common Causes of Vaginal Dryness
Vaginal dryness is often related to endogenous estrogen levels, as estrogen is a key regulator of vaginal characteristics (such as surface folds, rich blood flow, and moisture). When estrogen levels drop, the permeability of vaginal and surrounding cells decreases, leading to dryness. Here are some common causes of vaginal dryness:
01 - Age Factors
As women age, particularly those over 35, estrogen levels gradually decline. Women approaching or experiencing menopause may experience atrophy of the vaginal walls, thinning of the mucosa, decreased elasticity, and reduced secretions, making them more susceptible to dryness. This is a natural physiological change.
02 - Pregnancy and Childbirth
During pregnancy, hormonal levels change significantly. Especially the variations in estrogen can affect the health and lubrication of vaginal tissues. Moreover, vaginal delivery may lead to damage or changes in vaginal tissues, indirectly impacting the natural lubrication capacity.
03 - Breastfeeding
Hormonal changes during breastfeeding (especially increased prolactin levels and decreased estrogen) can lead to vaginal dryness.
04 - Improper Vaginal Hygiene
Not maintaining vaginal hygiene can lead to infections of the urogenital system, causing symptoms like itching and redness. Insufficient lubrication during sexual activity may then exacerbate dryness.
However, excessive or frequent vaginal washing may disrupt the natural ecology, reducing key secretions and beneficial flora, which can also lead to dryness.
05 - Insufficient Sexual Arousal
Insufficient sexual arousal is a common cause of vaginal dryness. In intimate relationships, lack of adequate foreplay, psychological unpreparedness, or male sexual dysfunction can all contribute to dryness.
06 - Unbalanced Diet
Women who are picky eaters or restrict their diet to maintain body shape may suffer from nutritional deficiencies. Particularly, a lack of Vitamin B2 can disrupt mucosal cell metabolism, resulting in dryness.
07 - Endocrine Disorders
Fast-paced living and work stress can lead to endocrine imbalances, raising stress hormones (like cortisol) and affecting overall hormonal balance, especially estrogen and prolactin levels, which may indirectly cause symptoms of vaginal dryness.
3. How to Address Vaginal Dryness
Vaginal dryness is a common problem many women face. Here are several methods to help alleviate this condition:
01 - Estrogen Supplementation
Post-menopause, decreased estrogen levels can lead to reduced vaginal secretions and dryness. Under medical guidance, appropriate estrogen supplementation can restore levels, improve dryness, and protect ovarian and uterine health.
02 - Proper Vaginal Cleaning
Improper use of vaginal washes can disturb the microbial environment. Women should clean the vulva with warm water.
03 - Active Disease Treatment
Conditions like vaginitis and chronic diseases (such as hepatitis, nephritis, diabetes, and hypothyroidism) can cause decreased secretions. Following medical advice to treat the underlying conditions, enhance immunity, and supplement proteins and vitamins is essential for hormone secretion improvement.
04 - Adequate Foreplay
Due to the slower sexual arousal of women compared to men, sufficient foreplay is necessary during intimate encounters. Partners should be gentle and considerate, helping the woman fully awaken her desire for a harmonious intimate life.
05 - Dietary Adjustments
A balanced diet and regular sleep benefit overall health. Consuming foods rich in Vitamin B2, such as liver, egg yolks, eel, and dairy products, can enhance vaginal mucosal function. Under medical guidance, appropriate Vitamin B2 supplementation is also advisable.
06 - Fitness and Exercise
Regular exercise plays an important role in improving overall health and significantly promotes vaginal health. Aerobic exercises like brisk walking, running, and swimming enhance blood circulation in the pelvis, increasing vaginal moisture and alleviating dryness.
Strength training for the pelvic floor, such as Kegel exercises, can also help alleviate vaginal dryness. Kegel exercises strengthen the pelvic floor muscles, improving tissue elasticity and blood supply to the vagina, thus enhancing moisture levels.
07 - Electrical Stimulation Therapy
Appropriate pelvic floor electrical stimulation can strengthen the pelvic floor muscles. These currents mimic natural muscle contractions, improving blood circulation and enhancing vaginal moisture and health, thereby reducing dryness symptoms.
Vaginal dryness is a common issue that affects quality of life and health. Women facing this problem should seek medical help as soon as possible. If dryness is caused by gynecological conditions, receiving appropriate treatment and following daily care recommendations is vital.
SHEYERA encourages women to understand the causes and responses to vaginal dryness, take appropriate actions, and maintain physical and mental health. Let’s eliminate unnecessary shame and prejudice and pursue a life of freedom and comfort!