Vaginal dryness is a nuisance many women face at different stages of their lives. While there are certain medications available to combat this nuisance, vaginal dryness can result in more serious issues such as vaginal atrophy if not addressed properly. Thankfully, there are various natural remedies for vaginal dryness that can save you from the discomfort and uneasiness.
This article explores the causes, symptoms, and natural remedies to treat vaginal dryness. Whether it is lifestyle changes, herbal remedies, or use of natural products, these self-help approaches can help to alleviate vaginal dryness and maintain overall vaginal health.
What Causes Vaginal Dryness?
Vaginal dryness is a common condition many women face. It is a common symptom of menopause, where 1 in 3 women experience this dryness during the “change”. This dryness results mainly owing to a drop in estrogen levels, the hormone responsible for maintaining the thickness, elasticity, and lubrication of vaginal lining.
While there are certain natural remedies for vaginal dryness as a result of dropped estrogen levels, there are a number of reasons why estrogen drops in the first place:
- Childbirth and breastfeeding
- Surgical removal of ovaries
- Radiation therapy for cancer
- Use of anti-estrogen medications that treat uterine fibroids
- Sjogren’s syndrome (an autoimmune disorder where cells that produce moisture in the body are attacked)
- Allergy to cold medications
- Douching
- Use of certain antidepressants
- Premature Menopause
- Stress and anxiety that affects the natural libido
Regardless of the causes, vaginal dryness can prove to be extremely uncomfortable, leading to complications such as itching, burning, and painful intercourse.
Symptoms of Vaginal Dryness
Vaginal dryness can cause discomfort, uneasiness, and even Urinary Tract Infection (UTI). The natural remedies for vaginal dryness can help to avoid these symptoms. The most common indications and symptoms of vaginal dryness are:
- Itching and burning in the vaginal area
- Vaginal irritation or inflammation
- Pain or discomfort during sexual intercourse
- Decreased lubrication during sexual intercourse
- Increased chances of yeast infections
- Bacterial vaginosis
- Light spotting between menstrual cycles
- Feeling the urge to urinate more often
- Difficulty inserting tampons into the vagina
Natural Remedies to Treat Vaginal Dryness
Although medications and lubricating creams relieve the pain and discomfort that comes with vaginal dryness, often natural remedies for vaginal dryness are the best cure. This is because these natural remedies do not have any side effects and can alleviate the dryness symptoms effectively.
Let us look at some of the common natural remedies to treat vaginal dryness:
- Coconut Oil
When it comes to vaginal dryness, coconut oil is a sure shot remedy to treat the dryness. Due to its fatty acids components, it has a moisturizing effect that lubricates the vaginal tissues, reducing the dryness and discomfort. In addition, it also has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that aid in maintaining a healthy balance of bacteria in the vagina. Since coconut oil is free from any synthetic chemicals, it is often recommended by health care experts as a natural remedy for vaginal dryness.
- Soy
Soy is a plant-based food containing phytoestrogens that mimic the working of estrogen in the body. Dietary supplements containing soy, as well as food that contains soy can be beneficial in increasing lubrication in the vagina, thus reducing the dryness and discomfort. However, there is limited evidence to suggest that the use of soy can eliminate vaginal dryness and research suggests that more studies are needed to support its use.
- Olive Oil
Olive oil is a natural lubricant that can help to moisturize and lubricate the vaginal tissues, thus reducing dryness and discomfort. Its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties may aid in soothing irritation and protect the skin as well as mucous membranes from damage. However, it is preferable to use extra virgin olive oil as it retains the most nutrients and is the least processed of all oils.
- Herbal Remedies
Herbal remedies are also among the natural remedies for vaginal dryness. Some of the most common herbal remedies are evening primrose oil, calendula, red clover, chamomile, black cohosh, flaxseed oil, wild yam, and marshmallow extract which relieve the dryness of the vagina. Moreover, these herbal remedies fight against infection and inhibit the growth of yeast. Luckily, many of these herbs are available in the form of capsules so you can easily incorporate them in your daily routine.
- Vaginal Moisturizers
Some vaginal moisturizers are also an effective remedy to combat vaginal dryness. For example, shea butter is rich in fatty acids that help to nourish the delicate walls of the vagina. Other moisturizers such as cocoa butter deeply hydrate and enrich the skin, promoting healing of the skin and reducing inflammation. What’s more, both of these moisturizers are natural lubricants that provide hydration, and moisture to the vagina, reducing dryness and maintaining overall vaginal health.
- Water-based Lubricants
There are a number of natural remedies for vaginal dryness such as water-based lubricants that provide hydration and moisture to the vagina, thus eliminating dryness and irritation. For example, lubricants containing aloe vera should be applied regularly to prevent vaginal dryness and the accompanying irritation.
- Drinking More Water
Although this may sound simple, the key to avoiding dryness is proper hydration and staying hydrated. This can be done by drinking plenty of water throughout the day, as it helps to moisturize the skin and relieves dryness. Proper hydration promotes the production of natural lubrication in the body, helps with circulation, and prevents the risk of Urinary Tract Infection (UTI). Drinking enough water also has numerous health benefits, such as support of immune functions, regulation of hormonal balance, and ease in digestion.
- Regular Exercise
Regular exercises such as pelvic floor exercises can strengthen the weak muscles of the vagina, aiding in lubrication. This is because a drop in estrogen levels over time can weaken the internal muscles of the vagina, increasing dryness. Exercises such as kegels are a helpful way to relax these tight muscles and give strength to the weaker ones. With a regular exercise regime, mood and libido are enhanced, and stress is reduced which is one of the main causes of vaginal dryness.
When to Seek Medical Help?
While it is true that natural remedies for vaginal dryness are effective means to aid in lubrication, you should seek medical guidance if:
- Lubricants and moisturizers are not providing any relief
- There is persistent irritation and inflammation
- If the dryness is accompanied by itching and burning
- If you notice vaginal bleeding or discharge
- Consistent pain and irritation during sexual intercourse
- A change in appearance of the vagina
Conclusion
Vaginal dryness is a nuisance that affects a large number of women. Luckily, natural remedies for vaginal dryness are a huge help in reducing irritation of the vagina. In spite of the large number of women experiencing this nuisance, vaginal dryness is a silent problem that many women are too embarrassed to talk about. However, it is important to seek medical help as this condition can worsen if not taken care of. Moreover, it can interfere with a woman’s daily life, affecting her health, confidence, and self-esteem—all the more reasons to seek professional help.
