What is vaginal dryness?
Normally, the walls of the vagina stay lubricated with a thin layer of clear fluid. The hormone estrogen helps maintain that fluid, keeping the lining of your vagina healthy, thick and elastic. Unfortunately, when estrogen levels drop, so does the amount of moisture available. Though vaginal dryness may seem like only a minor annoyance, lack of vaginal moisture can have a detrimental effect on your sex life. Fortunately, we at Lotus have treatments to relieve dryness.
What causes vaginal dryness?
Vaginal dryness is a common symptom of menopause. Nearly one out of every three women deals with it while menopausal, and it becomes even more common post-menopause. Estrogen levels, which when low cause dryness, can also drop due to:
- Childbirth and breastfeeding
- Radiation or chemotherapy
- Surgical removal of the ovaries
- Anti-estrogen medications (sometimes used to treat uterine fibroids or endometriosis)
- Sjögren’s syndrome (a disorder that attacks moisture-producing cells in the body)
- Allergy and cold medications
- Certain antidepressants
- Douching
- Not enough foreplay before sex
No matter the cause, dryness can be extremely uncomfortable, leading to itching, burning, and painful intercourse.
When should I call the doctor?
If you’re experience any burning, itching, or discomfort in the vaginal area, you should call your doctor or gynecologist. In addition to asking questions about your past health and symptoms, they’re likely to do a pelvic exam, checking your vagina for any thinning or redness. The exam will help rule out other possible causes for your discomfort, including a vaginal or urinary tract infection. The doctor may also remove cells from your vaginal wall or cervix for a Pap test.
How is vaginal dryness treated?
We at Lotus have multiple methods for treating vaginal dryness; some treatments we offer include:
- Bioidentical Hormone Therapy
- da Vinci Surgery
- diVa Laser Vaginal Rejuvenation
- Minimally Invasive Surgery
- Sexual Medicine
Request an appointment in Austin, Texas
Our gynecological experts at Lotus want you to feel as amazing as possible. If you would like to alleviate vaginal dryness, contact Lotus at (512) 716-0971 or use the form below to request your appointment!
