Self-Care for Women: 6 Remedies for Vaginal Dryness

One of the problems many women experience at some point in their lives is vaginal dryness. Women often experience it when they enter Menopause and estrogen levels in the body are low. But this medical condition can occur at any age. Besides menopause, there are other contributors to vaginal dryness, including hysterectomy, certain medications like oral contraceptives, and breastfeeding.

This condition can be pretty uncomfortable. Vaginal dryness can cause your vagina to feel itchy and have a burning sensation. You may also feel the urge to urinate more than usual or experience recurring urinary tract infections (UTI). Take note that vaginal dryness typically won't go away and worsens over time without treatment.

Treatment Options

Usually, women make an appointment with their doctor for treatment options. Their physician may recommend inserting local estrogen directly into the vagina to help with the condition. Some forms include a vaginal tablet, a vaginal cream, a vaginal gel, and a vaginal ring. Your doctor can discuss all these options in detail and help you choose the right one for you.

Another common remedy that a doctor may recommend for vaginal dryness is ospemifene. This is a prescribed medication that you need to take once a day to minimize the effects of vaginal dryness. If you are experiencing moderate to severe symptoms, your doctor may recommend this medication. However, note that ospemifene is not suitable for individuals who are at high risk for breast cancer or have had breast cancer.

Some doctors may also recommend a vaginal rejuvenation laser procedure, a non-surgical treatment designed to improve and repair by tightening the vaginal wall, ending incontinence, and eliminating dryness.

On top of making an appointment with a physician, women experiencing vaginal dryness may try the following home remedies to help alleviate symptoms and discomfort:

1. Pelvic Floor Exercises

These forms of exercises can help fortify the weak muscles in the vaginal area. These muscles weaken over time, especially when the body has low levels of estrogen. Exercises, such as kegels, can help strengthen weak muscles and relax tight muscles. What's more, they help boost blood flow to the vagina.

2. Cotton Underwear

Undergarments made using synthetic materials can be clingy and lead to restricted airflow and increased irritation in the vaginal area. Cotton underwear provides enough air to the vagina and helps ease discomfort.

3. Foods High in Phytoestrogens (or Phytoestrogen Supplements)

Phytoestrogens are compounds that are similar in function to estrogens. They may help improve vaginal dryness and hot flashes. Foods high in phytoestrogens include tofu, needs, and soy. You can also consume cruciferous vegetables that you can plant in a home garden. A few examples include cabbage, broccoli, and cauliflower.

4. Regular Sexual Activity

Regular sexual stimulation can help boost your overall vaginal health. You can do this with a trusted partner or by yourself using a device, such as a vibrator. This kind of activity helps bump up vaginal secretions and blood flow, which helps alleviate vaginal dryness.

If you're making love with your partner, consider engaging in foreplay. This can help promote secretions and blood flow to the vagina.

Pro-tip: before any sexual activity, don't forget to apply a water-based lubricant in your vagina, as well as on your partner where there will be contact. Using this handy product can help alleviate discomfort or pain that you may typically experience during intercourse since you're giving this part of the body the moisture it needs.

When shopping for a water-based lubricant, opt for ones that do not contain glycerin or petroleum jelly. Glycerin can irritate your vagina. On the other hand, petroleum jelly may cause condoms to break or weaken during sex. The friction, therefore, may abrade the vagina. In addition to choosing the right water-based lubricants, you can also explore a range of personal lubricants designed to provide extra moisture and enhance comfort. These products can further help you maintain a healthy, pleasurable experience, ensuring that your vaginal health is prioritized.

5. Vaginal Moisturizers

Another way to minimize vaginal dryness is to use a vaginal moisturizer. This is a unique moisturizer specifically designed for this sensitive area of the body. Using this product every few days can ease vaginal dryness symptoms and help keep your vagina moist. 

You can apply the vaginal moisturizer a few times a week before hitting the hay. Apply this product around the vaginal walls and allow the body to absorb it.

6. Avoid Hygiene Products or Perfume Soaps

Some hygiene products on the market contain fragrances, dyes, and chemicals that can, unfortunately, dry out vaginal tissues. So, make sure that you only apply the moisturizer intended for the vagina. Refrain from using scented soaps and other toiletries.

Although vaginal dryness is not likely to have significant consequences on your health, it can be a source of discomfort. What's more, this problem can negatively affect your quality of life. Consult your doctor and consider these six remedies to help alleviate your condition.

Related Articles:

• Natural Remedies for Urinary Tract Infection
• Pelvic Mesh 101, Understanding the Benefits and Complications