Vaginal dryness
Vaginal dryness is a common problem during or after menopause, although it can develop at any age Vaginal dryness is a characteristic symptom of atrophic vaginitis, in which thinning and inflammation of the vaginal walls develops due to a lack of estrogen.
The vaginal mucosa is constantly wet During sexual arousal, more blood is supplied to the pelvic organs, which increases the amount of vaginal fluid. Hormonal changes during menstruation, aging, menopause, childbirth, and breastfeeding alter fluid volume and consistency.
The conditions listed below contribute to vaginal dryness
Decreased estrogen levels Decreased estrogen levels are the main cause of vaginal dryness Estrogen contributes to vaginal hydration, elasticity and acidity These factors protect you from vaginal and urinary tract infections As estrogen decreases, so does the immune system, which causes the lining of the vagina to become thinner, more easily damaged, and an increased risk of infection.
Decreased estrogen levels can occur for the following reasons:
- Menopause or pre-menopause
- Childbirth
- Breastfeeding
- Ovarian changes due to cancer treatment, such as radiation, hormone and chemotherapy
- Surgical removal of the ovaries
- Immune diseases
- Tobacco smoking
Medications Some allergy and cold medications cause dryness in various parts of the body, including the vagina Anti-estrogen medications used in breast cancer can also cause vaginal dryness
Sjogren's syndrome Sjogren's syndrome is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks healthy tissues It causes dryness of the eyes, mouth and vagina
Use of enema Frequent use of vaginal enema disrupts the natural chemical balance of the vagina and causes inflammation. This can cause vaginal dryness or irritation
Vaginal dryness may be accompanied by the following signs and symptoms:
- Itching around or below the vaginal opening
- Burning
- Discomfort
- Pain with light bleeding during intercourse
- Urine frequency
Schedule a visit to your doctor if you have unpleasant vaginal dryness
