Five Easy Ways To Treat Vaginal Dryness
Posted on: 18 July 2016
Vaginal dryness can be caused by a number of circumstances that affect the amount of estrogen in a women's body. The most common is ageing, but dryness can also be the result of childbirth, breastfeeding, certain medical treatments like chemotherapy and radiation and medications such as those used to reduce fibroids. Even some allergies can cause dryness. Whatever the reason, vaginal dryness can make intercourse painful and difficult. Fortunately, there are a number of ways to combat this common issue.
- Estrogen therapy. The most common treatment for vaginal dryness is estrogen therapy. This can take many forms, including tablets, creams and even a ring that can be inserted into a women's body and slowly release estrogen for up to 90 days before having to be replaced.
- Over the counter lubricants. Some women are not able or are unwilling to use prescription estrogen products, such as breast cancer patients or those with concerns about heart disease. For these women, over the counter products can be useful.
- Natural oils. A more natural remedy for vaginal dryness is to use natural oils, such as grapeseed, sweet almond, olive and/or coconut oils.
- Vitamin E suppositories. Yet another homeopathic remedy for vaginal dryness is vitamin E. These vaginal inserts, made of naturally-sourced (not synthetic) vitamin E, work almost instantly and are an excellent alternative to prescription estrogen therapy.
- Black cohosh tea. Millions of women of a certain age swear by black cohosh for combating the inconvenient side effects of menopause, particularly hot flashes. If you suspect that your vaginal dryness may be a result of going through the "change," a tea brewed from black cohosh may help make sex more comfortable (as well as reduce those hot flashes.)
In addition to prescriptions and supplements, your diet can affect your reproductive health. Staying hydrated is important to combating dryness in all parts of the body. What's more, a diet rich in Omega 3 fatty acids (from foods such as salmon, mackerel, and tuna) can help keep the walls of your vagina supple and pliable.
While not life-threatening, vaginal dryness can seriously affect a woman's quality of life by making intercourse difficult and/or painful. You can combat this issue by talking with your doctor to see if you are a good candidate for estrogen therapy. If not, consider over the counter lubricants, essential oils, vitamin E products and/or black cohosh tea.
For more information, contact professionals like Charlotte Center for Pelvic Health.
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