Vaginal dryness often is caused due to hormonal changes in the body. The glands in the vagina secret fluids which are meant to keep the vaginal mucosa hydrated. Hormonal changes or infection tend to hamper the ability to these vaginal glands to produce mucus to keep the region hydrated.
Causes of Vaginal Dryness
One of the leading causes of vaginal dryness is the fall in the levels of estrogen, a hormone which is produced by the ovaries.
- Menopause is the most common reason for vaginal dryness attributed to fall in estrogen levels. More than 75% of women above the age of fifty years suffer from this condition.
- Breast feeding is often associated with lower levels of estrogen in the body which in turn results in vaginal dryness
- General symptoms like prolonged stress, extreme exhaustion and dehydration are responsible for vaginal dryness
- Ovarian disease and certain prescriptions and chemotherapy drugs are also associated with vaginal dryness.
Vaginal Dryness Creams
Creams can be used to keep the vagina lubricated and prevent the occurrence of secondary infection or vaginal atrophy.
For long hormone replacement therapy was considered as a best alternative for the treatment of this condition. However recent study findings have indicated the various risks associated with hormone replacement therapy, which has now made the use of vaginal creams for management of vaginal dryness more preferred and safer
Home Remedies for Vaginal Dryness
There are certain substances that can help in ensuring vaginal lubrication and help alleviate the symptoms of vaginal dryness. These natural remedies include,
- Local application of creams comprising of wild yam is considered beneficial.
- Herbal supplements containing black cohosh are also considered effective. There is no scientific information available about the efficacy of black cohosh in increasing estrogen levels, but it has been found beneficial in many cases of vaginal dryness
- A research study has indicated the benefits of Kudzu, a herb in improving the symptoms associated with vaginal dryness
- Including foods that contain ‘isoflavones’ is believed to improve symptoms of vaginal dryness. Soy is rich in isoflavones which in turn are considered to improve the symptoms due to their impact on the endocrinal system.
- In cases of infection associated with vaginal dryness local application of turmeric or tea tree oil is considered beneficial. Both, turmeric and tea tree oil are considered to have strong anti-bacterial properties which in turn can improve the infection. However a physician opinion is always recommended, especially when dryness is associated with infection.