Vaginal Dryness: Causes, Treatment and Diagnosis

Dr Disha Sridhar

I am a Gynaecologist Obstetrician ( MD, DNB OBGYN) with an emphasis on INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE.

What is Vaginal Dryness?

Vaginal dryness is a health condition in females characterised by a lack of moisture and lubrication in the vagina. While vaginal dryness affects mostly menopausal women, but it can occur in women of all ages due to things such as – hormone-disrupting exposures, medication and beauty products. 

In this article, we will explore the causes, diagnosis and treatment of vaginal dryness. But first, let’s understand the………

Causes of Vaginal Dryness

• Medication: Steroids, antibiotics, antidepressants and birth control pills 
• Decreased Sexual desire 
• Post Pregnancy Symptoms: Postpartum duration and breastfeeding 
• Beauty Products: Such as perfumes, douching, bubble baths, soaps etc. 
• Hormone Disrupting Activities: Smoking, eating junk food, GMOs and exposure to toxins in the environment. 
• Gut Imbalances: Food allergies and sensitivities
• Stress and Anxiety: prolonged stress disrupts your body's natural hormonal balance.
• Rigorous Exercise: Severe intensity of exercise results into reduced vaginal lubrication. 
• Cancer treatment: Radiation therapy and chemotherapy also lead to vaginal dryness. 
• Sjogren’s symptoms: It is an autoimmune disorder that causes dryness throughout your body, including the vaginal area.

Symptoms of Vaginal Dryness

Experiencing vaginal dryness is a distressing symptom that has a negative impact on an individual's overall well-being. Until the treatment for vaginal dryness is not undertaken, it can cause pain during sitting, exercising, peeing, and sexual intercourse.

Here are some symptoms to keep a watch on as they indicate the Vaginal Dryness

1. You are less naturally lubricated 

2. Burning and itching 

3. Soreness in your vulva region 

4. Need to pee frequently 

5. Prone to urinary tract infection or yeast infections 

6. Bleeding after sex as your vaginal wall tissues breaking get opened 

7. Painful intercourse 

8. Decreased sexual desire 

9. Difficulty achieving orgasm 

10. Vagina discharge that is watery or thin 

11. Difficulty in jogging, riding a bike 

12. Reduced elasticity around the vagina 

These are just the physical signs! The biggest mental drain is when you start feeling older, which can lead to other self-esteem issues like losing your self-confidence, losing intimacy with your partner and just feeling uncomfortable in your own body.

 It is important to consult a healthcare professional if you are experiencing any of these symptoms as they may indicate other underlying medical conditions. Here at TruHealing, we address the ROOT CAUSE of your vaginal dryness so that solution can be long-lasting and clients can embrace a healthier happier version of themselves.

How to Get Rid of Vaginal Dryness?

Dealing with vaginal dryness can be an uncomfortable and distressing experience for many women, impacting both their physical comfort and overall well-being. Fortunately, there are various Self-Treatment options available to address and alleviate vaginal dryness. Hydration plays a crucial role, and increasing water intake can contribute to improved vaginal moisture. Additionally, incorporating omega-3 fatty acids into the diet, found in foods like salmon and flaxseeds, can enhance skin health, including the delicate tissues of the vaginal area. Personal lubricants, specifically those water-based or silicone-based, can provide immediate relief during intimate moments. 

However, it is essential to consult with a Healthcare Professional for a Proper Diagnosis of vaginal dryness, as it can be a symptom of an underlying medical condition. Regular Gynecological Check-Ups are crucial to ensure that any potential issues are identified and treated promptly. Seeking the guidance of a healthcare provider allows for a more tailored approach to addressing vaginal dryness, ensuring a comprehensive and effective treatment plan that meets individual needs.

Vaginal dryness is a sensitive but common issue that can affect comfort, intimacy, and quality of life. In the section below, we aim to empower women with practical knowledge and compassionate guidance on this intimate health concern. We provide in-depth information on self-care practices that may help ease discomfort from vaginal dryness. For persistent or severe symptoms, we explore the potential medical diagnostic approaches and treatments available.

The most common misconception about vaginal dryness is that it will magically go away after a while. However, this really depends on the factor behind the same and if we don’t address the root cause of WHY this issue, we won’t land up with a solution.

But the reality is that it doesn’t go away on its own. In fact, its severity just increases over time and leads to bad consequences.  But hey don’t you worry! You can lead to a pain-free and worry-free life by just understanding the dynamics of what is going on with your body. Here I come up with the natural solutions that will help you win the battle against vaginal dryness. 

Yes! Prudence is to try “the natural stuff first”. So here are the 4 options that can help you:

1. Minimise Toxins to Delicate Lady Parts:

All ladies must understand the fact that their vulva is already nourished. It keeps everything running smoothly. Many bubble baths and soaps contain irritants that wreck the balance of the natural flora of your vaginal area. 

Stay away from over washing your vulvovaginal area. Our vaginas are known for self-cleaning and henceforth, they don’t need to be cleaned with intimate hygiene soaps or douches. Simply water or a gentle (perfume-free) soap is fine. You must also think of switching to natural detergents to clean undergarments. Trust me, it makes a difference! 

Note: Reading the labels on your beauty products and avoiding the worst ones can help a lot. You can also research online about the toxins that can be found in your personal skin care products, homes and even foods and more. 

 2. Use Natural Lubricants:

I am not denying the fact that lubricants are not effective. But I’d like to caution you against using so many commercial lubricants as they contain additional chemicals that contribute to dryness and discomfort.

 Best are natural lubricants which are readily available at our homes like - ghee and coconut oil. Research has proved that they are so effective in soothing the vaginal tissues. You can also add essential oils to them like lavender, rose, sandalwood, Roman chamomile etc. 

Note: Oil-based lubricants don’t play well with latex condoms, so be sure to find a water-based lubricant that is natural and organic. Remember, never apply essential oils straight to the vagina. 

3. Go for Androgen Therapy/ BIHRT:

You don’t need to be mistaken for estrogen therapy here. But before coming to androgen Therapy, let’s understand estrogen therapy. 

So, with age, our sex hormones, mainly: estrogen, progesterone and androgens, which consists of testosterone and DHEA start declining. Out of them, progesterone and estrogen are the first ones to start declining. That’s when estrogen therapy is prescribed. However, this may help you with hot flashes, but it is not found really helpful with vaginal dryness. Estrogen therapy is also not recommended for women who’ve had breast cancer. 

Hormone experts recommend androgen therapy, instead of estrogen therapy. In androgen therapy, testosterone, the primary ovarian androgen, has been used to treat vaginal dryness. 

Note: Educate. Educate. Educate. You all must know about different alternatives to treat vaginal dryness and go with the best one. Yes! You trust your doctor but, do pay attention to what is or what’s not working for your body. 

4. Add Probiotics and Healthy Fatty Foods to Your Diet:

Now here we come with something interesting. This is actually my favourite tip as it involves eating yummy foods, especially essential fats! Don’t be too influenced by the media and curse Fats. In the end, including essential fats in your diet is essential. You must add foods like – eggs, butter, avocados, salmon and olive oil to your diet. Healthy fats are the best therapy for happy hormones! Go try these ones.

 Note: Include fermented foods in your diet that are naturally rich in probiotics, like - kimchi or pickled veggies.

Diagnosis for Vaginal Dryness

As discussed, vaginal dryness can have multiple causes, including hormonal changes, medications, and even psychological factors. If you are experiencing symptoms of vaginal dryness, it is always recommended to speak with a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment. 

The Doctor Would Perform the Following Tests: 

1. Pelvic exam in order to check whether the walls of your vagina are pale, thin or red. 
2. Blood test to check hormonal levels and other issues that can be a major cause. 
3. Test of vaginal discharge to detect other causes of dryness.

The most common misconception about vaginal dryness is that it will magically go away after a while. However, this really depends on the factor behind the same and if we don’t address the root cause of WHY this issue, we won’t land up with a solution.

But the reality is that it doesn’t go away on its own. In fact, its severity just increases over time and leads to bad consequences.  But hey don’t you worry! You can lead to a pain-free and worry-free life by just understanding the dynamics of what is going on with your body. Here I come up with the natural solutions that will help you win the battle against vaginal dryness. 

Yes! Prudence is to try “the natural stuff first”. So here are the 6 options that can help you:

Prevention of Vaginal Dryness

So, lots of talks have been regarding causes, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment for vaginal dryness. But, I would also like to mention some tips that can help prevent Vaginal Dryness. 

1. Apply water-based lubricants: Using a water based lubricant during sex can help reduce friction and prevent vaginal dryness. But, it is advised to avoid oil-based lubricants as they break down latex condoms. 

2. Stay hydrated: One should drink plenty of water and other fluids to keep the body hydrated. This is one of the easiest treatments of vaginal dryness, which must be made part of your daily routine.

 3. Avoid douching: Douching can disrupt the natural pH balance of the vagina and increase the risk of infections. Also, avoid using harsh soaps that can irritate the genital area. 

4. Maintain a healthy diet: Eating a balanced diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables helps keep your body healthy and prevents vaginal dryness. 

5. Talk to your doctor: To examine effective treatments for vaginal dryness, it's critical to have an open discussion with your doctor about possible causes and treatment options. To help relieve uncomfortable symptoms, your healthcare provider may recommend vaginal moisturisers, hormone therapy, and other medications. Don't be afraid to seek medical advice and support in order to find the best treatment for vaginal dryness that work for you.

When to Contact a Medical Professional?

Best Gynaecologist for the Treatment of Vaginal Dryness

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Originally published March 23, 2023

Updated on December 11, 2023