You are not alone. Many women experience vaginal dryness.
If you are experiencing vaginal dryness, which can cause burning, itching and painful intercourse, you aren’t alone. Every day, our Dallas ObGyns treat patients with these same issues.
We are here to help because we know that vaginal dryness can impact your physical comfort, relationships and self-esteem.
A drop in estrogen levels can cause vaginal dryness
A common cause of vaginal dryness is a drop in estrogen levels. Normally, the walls of the vagina are lubricated with a layer of clear fluid. This thin layer of fluid is maintained by the hormone estrogen. When estrogen levels drop, the vagina begins to lose moisture, thickness and elasticity.
This condition is called vaginal atrophy, and is often caused by menopause and hysterectomies. However, these aren’t the only causes of vaginal atrophy. Childbirth, breastfeeding and cancer treatments can also cause this problem.
Causes of vaginal dryness include certain medications and body products
While vaginal atrophy is a common cause of vaginal dryness, there are several other culprits that could be responsible.
Certain medications for allergies, colds and even depression can sometimes cause vaginal dryness; as can douching or using scented body products around your sensitive vaginal area. You may also experience vaginal dryness if you don’t engage in enough foreplay to become fully aroused before having intercourse.
Dallas ObGyns treat symptoms of vaginal dryness or discomfort
If you’re experiencing vaginal dryness, itching or discomfort we recommend that you make an appointment with one of our Dallas ObGyns. Your physician will begin the appointment by asking you questions about your health history and lifestyle. He or she will then perform a pelvic exam to help determine the cause of your vaginal dryness.
Treatments for vaginal dryness
The treatment options for vaginal dryness vary depending on the cause. Sometimes, painful intercourse can be remedied by something as simple as increasing the amount of foreplay before intercourse or using over-the-counter lubricant.However, if your vaginal dryness is caused by a lack of estrogen due to menopause or certain cancer treatments, other types of treatment are necessary.
Traditionally, doctors have treated vaginal dryness due to low estrogen with either oral medications or topical estrogen therapy. The goal is to replace some of the estrogen that your body is no longer making. The three types of vaginal estrogen include: the vaginal estrogen ring, the vaginal estrogen tablet and the vaginal estrogen cream.
Now, our Dallas ObGyns have another treatment option for vaginal dryness. This treatment is called MonaLisa Touch® and it is an FDA approved office laser treatment that requires a series of three five-minute treatments. This exciting treatment improves vaginal function from the cellular level.
If you’re experiencing vaginal dryness, please contact Health Central Women’s Care for more information about treatment options.