A strong physical connection is one of the most important aspects of fulfilling romantic relationships, and central to this connection is sexual desire and intimacy. When we are younger, we don’t consider how changes in our bodies will affect these relationships; we focus on the relationship itself. But as we age, physical and emotional changes can begin to manifest and cause problems.
One physical problem that has a direct impact on the quality of a sexual relationship is vaginal dryness. Vaginal dryness refers to the inability of the vaginal walls to produce sufficient lubrication for intercourse. This causes pain and discomfort during penetration, lowering satisfaction for both partners. While there are many types of lubricants available to help deal with occasional dryness, these don’t solve the underlying problem. Below, we will explore some ways to help you understand and address the root cause of vaginal dryness.
Irritants
The vagina is a complex organ that requires a delicate balance to function properly. Accordingly, that balance can be disrupted by outside irritants and allergens. When dealing with a case of vaginal dryness, one of the first things to consider is whether you may be causing irritation to the vagina through use of soaps or detergents. Many of these products contain chemicals that can upset the pH balance in the vagina and cause irritation, dryness, and even infection.
Another irritant that many women don’t consider is douching. Marketed as a way to clean and refresh the vagina, douching actually disrupts the natural chemical balance necessary for proper function. It is much better to see a gynecologist for any potential problems in the vagina rather than use a douche.
Anxiety
Believe it or not, anxiety can actually lead to vaginal dryness. Stress from work and other factors can build, creating a myriad of physical symptoms. In the case of vaginal dryness, stress causes constriction of the blood vessels, which reduces vaginal lubrication during arousal.
Hormones
Hormone balance plays a key role in the regulation of bodily functions, including vaginal lubrication. If irritants and emotional stress are ruled out, you may consider looking in to hormone therapy. Hormone therapy helps to raise hormone levels that have dropped due to a variety of factors and can help you fight the symptoms of vaginal dryness.
At the Women’s Wellness Institute of Dallas, we use the simple and effective BioTE hormone pellets to safely and evenly release hormones into the body. Additionally, we provide the revolutionary MonaLisa Touch vaginal laser procedure to help stimulate the vaginal walls and reverse the effects of vaginal dryness and aging. If you are experiencing vaginal dryness, give us a call today to schedule a consultation; our friendly, all-women staff looks forward to helping you reclaim your natural vaginal health!