Despite common belief, vaginal dryness is not just a symptom for menopausal women. It can also be a problem for younger women, which can often be linked to other health issues or occur at particular periods of change. Luckily there are many solutions for vaginal dryness including water-based lubricants and intimate moisturisers, but first let’s take a further look into the most popular causes:
A change in hormones
Women’s hormones play a factor for a whole host of uncomfortable and often distressing symptoms. Big changes occur in women’s oestrogen levels during menopause, breastfeeding and post childbirth. A significant drop of these particular hormones can often lead to a decrease in vaginal lubrication. Often these stages in a woman’s life can result in a low libido; causing a lack of interest in sex, while further contributing to low levels of lubrication production.
Medication
Many medicines and drugs have counter-effects which can unfortunately have adverse side effects that can’t be predicted or avoided. One of the most common forms of medication, which may have a side-effect of vaginal dryness is antihistamine. Antihistamines are often prescribed for symptoms caused by allergies such as hay-fever, dust, or reactions to certain pets. This type of medication has a drying effect internally and as such can cause dryness around the genital areas too. Adding a lubricated condom can help counter the effects and give both you and your partner a pleasurable intimate experience.Anxiety & Stress
As well as changes in hormones or medication, emotional factors can also play a big part in reducing a woman’s sexual appetite; hence the negative effects on a woman’s normal vaginal lubrication. If a woman feels upset, anxious or depressed they are unlikely to feel turned on or sexy. This not only impacts the way they deal with their partner but can limit the natural production of lubrication needed for sex. Another factor that can impact arousal is stress. Often linked to a reduction in blood flow around the body, stress can interfere with moisture levels in the vaginal area. To avoid this, make sure to find outlets to help you unwind and de-stress for an enjoyable night with your partner.
The wrong partner
Sex with the right partner should be fun, intimate and enjoyable for both people. If you are beginning to dislike sex or if you find it hard for your partner to turn you on, then chances are there may be some issues with your relationship which needs to be addressed. A lack of enjoyment in sex can most often lead to vaginal dryness as the body finds it hard to produce lubrication with no interest in arousal or stimulation.
Vaginal dryness is an inconvenient and often painful condition, which is most often linked with other symptoms. Always be sure to talk to your GP about your symptoms as they are best suited to advise on all possible treatments and cures.
