Vaginal dryness: how can you increase your vaginal lubrication?

In women, the mucous membranes of the vagina and the cervix secrete substances that act as natural lubricants. These substances facilitate penetration during sexual intercourse but they also prepare the uterus and vagina for reproduction however, in some cases the production of these substances is reduced or does not occur at all, which is the cause of vaginal dryness.

Vaginal dryness is when the vagina does not have sufficient lubrication. It is primarily menopausal or pregnant women or young mothers that are affected by this phenomenon. Different women experience varying degrees of lubrication.

Women normally achieve lubrication with the aid of oestrogen. Vaginal dryness is therefore caused by a reduction in oestrogen production, which leads to a lack of vaginal lubrication.

Vaginal dryness can cause susceptibility to gynaecological infections. The main symptoms of vaginal dryness are:

• A burning sensation in the vagina
• Pain during sex
• A feeling of irritation in the vagina
• Vaginal itching

Vaginal dryness: what are the causes?

Vaginal dryness is primarily caused by a lack of oestrogen production in women. This is the hormone responsible for lubricating the vagina. This is why vaginal dryness tends to occur after a significant hormonal change, such as during menopause or after pregnancy.

Certain medicines can also cause vaginal dryness. For example, some antihistamines and antidepressants can contribute to a loss of vaginal lubrication.

But poor hygiene in the vaginal area can also cause dryness. Indeed, if the intimate products used are too aggressive they can cause an imbalance in the vaginal flora.

Repeated sexual intercourse without foreplay can also result in vaginal dryness.

Finally, stress can also cause vaginal dryness as can extreme fatigue or even clothes that are too tight.

Vaginal dryness: how can you treat it?

Timely treatment can allow women suffering from vaginal dryness to live a normal life again. That said, these treatments sometimes do not work or are insufficient to treat vaginal dryness. So, if moisturising creams and ovules are not enough, you need to look into cosmetic medical treatments.

In most cases, laser treatment enables the sufferer to return to normal life. Laser treatment is also recommended to regenerate the vaginal cells and remove the dry surface layers.