Sex Life Dried Up?

‘If you have a vagina there is an 80% chance you will experience vaginal dryness at some point in your life’!

This is far more common than many people realise, and can cause problems that many women just put up with. It is unlikely to come up in conversation with friends over a coffee. Well maybe after a few gins if you’re feeling brave enough? Although it may not seem like a big deal, it can actually cause daily discomfort or soreness, irritation, burning, stinging or bleeding.  As a result it can lead to painful sex (dyspareunia) or persistent pelvic pain.

What causes vaginal dryness?

Vaginal dryness isn’t necessarily due to lack of arousal and is actually very common in the postnatal period, especially if you are breast feeding. Perimenopause and post menopause are also prevalent times for this. This is due to natural hormonal changes and low oestrogen levels. Some may even notice being dryer at certain times of the month.

It can also be caused by fatigue, (who could be more tired than a new mum)? Anxiety, depression and stress can all play a role in making it can be hard to ‘get in the mood’. As well as affecting the body’s ability to lubricate itself.  Some infections or illnesses such as cancer and it’s treatments can also have an impact. Medications, including some contraceptive pills, can also have an affect. I’m sure their effectiveness was not intended to put women off sex altogether by making it painful!! Some antidepressants can also affect your hormones creating vaginal dryness while incontinence medicines can cause dryness all over your body. It could simply be due to scented soaps or washing powders that can affect the pH of the vagina causing dryness.

What can you do about it?

Of course firstly, if you are suffering with any of these symptoms, it is important to be assessed by a professional to rule out any other conditions or causes.

You could try changing to use un-perfumed products to see if that helps. If stress and anxiety are a factor then try creating some time to take the pressure off, de-stress, relax and reconnect with your partner.

Dietary changes can help, supplements such as oral soy or probiotics that enhance vaginal health but it would be wise to consult a nutritionist or naturopath for advice on this.

You can also try using something to ease the dryness such as vaginal lubricant or vaginal moisturiser. They are absorbed by the vaginal tissue to hydrate, protect and moisturise vaginal and vulval tissue effectively soothing the area.

Vaginal lubricants during intercourse are key. You can use water-based lubricants if using condoms and oil based if not using condoms, or you can use a combination of both creating a ‘double glide’! I recommend you choose a natural organic product.

Some women require vaginal oestrogen treatment which is highly effective and can be prescribed by the GP or a gynaecologist.

Please send me an email if this is something you need help or advice with. You do not need to live with the symptoms.