Written By: Debjani Arora | Updated : August 9, 2016 10:32 AM IST
Read this in HINDI
This typical problem is believed to be an old woman s concern. However, vaginal dryness could also affect the young and middle-aged equally. The prime reason is low level of estrogen that triggers dryness, sometimes accompanied by itching and a burning sensation in severe cases. Here Dr Pooja Khatri Mehta, consultant gynaecologist, Paras Hospital, Gurgaon lists out the causes that lead to this unpleasant condition.
1. Menopause: Vaginal dryness is common during menopause. If you suffer from premature menopause, this could turn to be worse. Low estrogen level in these cases is the culprit. Vaginal lubrication depends on this hormone, that also plays a key role in many physiological functions like development of bones, skin health, etc. In fact, women in the premenopausal phase are equally prone to this condition. Here are 11 signs of early menopause that every woman should know.
2. Breastfeeding: During breastfeeding, the two hormones secreted are prolactin and oxytocin. Both help to regulate breast milk supply. Prolactin, in particular, blocks ovulation and hence there is a dip in production of estrogen, making dryness down there inevitable. However, for some women, the condition might not be as severe and can be ignored without requiring any attention. However, here are eight ways in which breastfeeding keeps the mother healthy too.
3. Pregnancy: Your vaginal health during pregnancy could be tricky. Depending on the way your hormones behave, you can either suffer from vaginal discharge or dryness. Both conditions are normal and settle post delivery without any long term effects. Here are 15 things that happen to you after the delivery that no one tells you.
4. Medications: Antihistamines or even medications used to treat respiratory diseases have a drying effect on the body that makes your vagina lose its natural lubrication. Sometimes drugs used to treat conditions like uterine fibroids and endometriosis also lower estrogen level. Prolonged use of antibiotic can lead to imbalances in the bacterial culture of the vagina and lead to dryness.
5. Lack of sexual interest: This is just a temporary phase, but some experts believe that lack of action in your life can also be a cause of vaginal dryness.
6. Stress: Stress and anxiety can cause some gynaecological problems and vaginal dryness could be just one of them. While stress can hamper smooth hormonal functions, it also leads to muscle rigidity and stiffness (as your body gets into a fight or flight mode) which reduces blood circulation and leads to poor blood flow to your privates which can cause dryness. Here are 13 reasons to take your stress seriously.
7. Douching: Some vaginal douches that promise floral fragrance, better hygiene and clean vagina are usually loaded with chemicals and irritants that might not be healthy for your sensitive zone. These can further rob the natural lubrication of the area and make it dry. Here are seven tips to keep your vagina healthy.
8. Surgical removal of ovaries: This medical procedure is often suggested to women who might suffer from some malignancy either in the uterus or the ovaries. However, this procedure is usually done on women over 50 years of age.
What should you do when you experience vaginal dryness?
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