What are the most common reasons for vaginal dryness?
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The vaginal mucosa is lined with a thin layer of the moist mucosa, which keeps it healthy, shiny, and elastic. With the change in hormonal level, this can change. This can be due to menstruation, pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, or menopause. Surgically removing ovaries can also cause vaginal dryness. During sex, inadequate foreplay can also lead to inadequate lubrication, vaginal dryness, and eventually painful sex. Vaginal moisture is essential to keep the mucosa healthy and free of infections.
What are some functions of the vaginal mucosa being moist?
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The moist vaginal mucosa does more than just make sex pleasurable. It constantly washes the vaginal area of any debris and keeps the area clean. Though this area is rich in bacterial growth, there is not a constant infection in this area. This again is due to the rich mucosal layer which hydrates and keeps the area clean and healthy. Dryness can be managed even artificially through lubricants, which may contain a small amount of female hormone estrogen.
What are some ways to avoid vaginal dryness before sex?
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Vaginal dryness may not be a problem all the time, but can be a major issue during sex. It can cause pain for both the partners and does not allow for an enjoyable experience. One of the mains is a lack of adequate arousal which can be managed through adequate foreplay. If the issue still persists, topical lubrication can be used. Avoid using lubricants without medical guidance, as these may contain chemicals which can further irritate the mucosa.
Having vaginal dryness means never being able to enjoy sexual intercourse.
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While it is true that vaginal dryness affects sexual pleasure, there are ways to manage this. The dryness is often due to lower levels of the female hormone estrogen, and providing this can resolve the dryness. These can be used in rings, tablets, pessaries, or creams. Long-term use of estrogen can lead to complications like breast pain and vaginal bleeding, so use only under medical supervision.
Vaginal dryness medications can be used by anybody
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While an occasional use is permissible for anybody, those who want to use these creams on a regular basis should check with the doctor. These have higher levels of estrogen and should be avoided in women who have breast cancer or endometrial cancer. Pregnant and breastfeeding mothers also should not use these regularly. Ensure you are adequately relaxed and aroused before sex, and in most cases, that takes care of the vaginal dryness. There is a greater emotional component than a physical problem.