Vaginal dryness is a common problem in women; however, many people still don’t know the truth about it. But don’t worry, we are here for you. Let’s bust the common myths about vaginal dryness in this article. Schedule an appointment at Doral Health and Wellness – Women’s Health Center.

Myths and facts about vaginal dryness

Here are the most common myths and facts about vaginal dryness that you should know. It includes:

Myth 1. Only menopause causes vaginal dryness.

Fact. Many individuals believe that vaginal dryness only happens when women go through the menopause stage of life. But that’s not true, the only cause is menopause. In fact, vaginal dryness can occur at any age due to a variety of reasons such as:

• Birth control pills or any form of hormonal birth control.
• Cancer treatments like chemotherapy, hormone therapy, and radiation therapy.
• Medications such as anti-estrogen medications are used to treat uterine fibroids or endometriosis. Some antidepressants and antihistamines are used to treat itchy eyes and runny noses.
• If you remove your ovaries surgically (oophorectomy).
• If you develop an autoimmune disorder that causes dryness throughout the body.
• Not being sexually aroused before penetrative sex.
• Using scented or perfumed soaps, sprays, and washes around or in your vagina.

All these factors affect estrogen levels that decrease the natural lubrication of the vagina (besides menopause). So, no matter your age, it’s important to take care of yourself and seek help if you experience vaginal dryness. Many treatment options and home remedies are available to treat vaginal dryness and make you feel comfortable and confident again.

Myth 2. Vaginally dryness happens when you’re not sexually aroused.

Fact. While it’s true that not being sexually aroused is one of the signs of vaginal dryness. However, vaginal wetness is not the only indicator of how aroused someone is during sex because a person can feel aroused but still experience vaginal dryness due to many factors. In some cases, the vagina may be naturally less lubricated during sex. So, don’t consider this as the only factor. Remember, vaginal dryness is not a medical condition, you can easily manage your symptoms and keep your sex life healthy and enjoyable.

Myth 3. Douching can help you manage vaginal dryness.

Fact. Douching will never help with vaginal dryness. It can make it worse by disrupting the natural balance of bacteria in the vagina and causing an imbalance in pH levels. This can also lead to an overgrowth of yeast or other common vaginal infections which can further increase irritation, itching, burning, and dryness. Additionally, it can wash away the natural lubricants found in the vagina, making it difficult to maintain moisture on its own.

Myth 4. Using a lube makes you dependent on it.

Fact. People typically feel worried, that once they start using lube, they have to depend on it permanently, however, this is not true because lube works as a supplement that keeps natural lubrication in place, which may reduce many factors like hormonal imbalance, stress, medications, age, and other causes for dry vagina. It doesn’t mean you need to become reliant on it, you just need to use it to enjoy sexual activities comfortably. It is not like a drug that makes you addicted or dependent on it in any way but helps you enjoy sex with less pain.

Myth 5. There’s nothing you can do about vaginal dryness.

Fact. This is not true. There are many options available to prevent and treat vaginal dryness to alleviate its symptoms. However, you need to know the causes of vaginal dryness to address the symptoms properly. For example, one of the most common causes of vaginal dryness is hormonal changes especially occur during menopause or pregnancy. In these cases, the doctor may prescribe hormonal therapy to restore the balance of hormones and natural lubrication. Additionally, changes in medications such as birth control, antidepressants, etc. can prevent the effect on vaginal health.

You can also use certain strategies to alleviate vaginal dryness and improve overall discomfort, including:

• Stay hydrated:

This is the simplest and most effective way to combat vaginal dryness. Keeping your body hydrated allows your body to produce lubrication secretions, so aim for drinking at least 8 glasses of water every day. You should increase your water intake if the weather is hot, or you perform intense physical activity. While drinking water doesn’t eliminate vaginal dryness, your whole body thanks you for keeping it hydrated.

• Use lubricants:

Using a high-quality lubricant during sexual activity can significantly improve vaginal dryness. Make sure you choose a lubricant that’s free of harsh chemicals and additives. Apply the lubricant as instructed to increase comfort and reduce friction during intercourse. However, if you’re using condoms, then be cautious because using oil-based lubricant can make the condom weak or tear.

• Try vaginal moisturizers:

With or without lubricants, you can use vaginal moisturizers during sexual activity. You can use moisturizers in your daily routine to get ongoing relief from vaginal dryness. Vaginal moisturizers are made to restore and maintain moisture levels, providing long-term comfort. Always use moisturizers that are made for vaginal use, fragrance-free, and hypoallergenic.

• Avoid irritants and choose cotton underwear:

Certain products and substances can irritate your genitals and worsen vaginal dryness including harsh-scented soaps, scented feminine hygiene products, douches, and perfumed toilet paper. These products can disrupt the natural pH balance of the vagina and cause dryness and irritation. Instead choose mild, unscented cleansers, and wear cotton underwear to promote proper airflow and minimize irritation.

• Stay active:

Regular exercise or physical activity not only keeps you physically well overall but also improves vaginal health. Exercise boosts blood flow to the pelvic area, which increases vaginal moisture and reduces dryness. So, engage in activities like walking, swimming, yoga, or cycling, or ask your doctor for exercises that increase your blood flow to the pelvic area to support vaginal health.

• Communicate with your partner:

Having open and honest communication with your partner about vaginal dryness is important so that it helps you alleviate your anxiety and ensure both partners understand the situation. Your partner can help you with this problem by using additional lubrication and engaging in extended foreplay to increase natural lubrication.

If your symptoms don’t improve, get professional help.

Vaginal dryness is a common problem in women however, there are many treatment options available to alleviate your symptoms and decrease your discomfort during sex. If your symptoms don’t improve with home remedies and lubricants, seek professional help. They prescribe treatment based on your vaginal dryness. Usually, estrogen therapy is given in the form of gel, cream, and ointment form and changes are made in your medications.

Need help with vaginal dryness issues, visit our gynecology clinic in Brooklyn to get professional medical help. Call us to book your appointment today.

At Doral Health and Wellness – Women’s Health Center, we have the best GYN doctor in Brooklyn, and we provide women with quality health care services. To schedule an appointment, you can visit us at 1797 Pitkin Avenue, Brooklyn, New York 11212 or call us on 1-347-384-5690. You can also visit our website at http://www.gynecologistbrooklyn.com/.