Vaginal Dryness
November 17, 2009
Frequent vaginal dryness is not just uncomfortable but it is painful too at times. It is important to understand the cause to cure the trouble completely.
Causes
Common causes of vaginal dryness are excess consumption of alcohol, caffeine and tobacco (in form of smoking). These substances are drying in nature. Reduced levels of estrogen in the body tend to make the vaginal dry.
Smoking contributes in decreasing the level of estrogen. The hormone level decreases when menopause is commencing.
Vaginal dryness may be indication of a health disorder. It may appear as symptoms of diseases like tumor, Sjoren’s syndrome, chronic yeast infection, sexually transmitted diseases or certain vaginal infection.
Medications prescribed for ulcers, high blood pressure, depression and cancer may cause vaginal dryness as a major side effect.
Prevention
Do not use over the counter vaginal lubricants excessively. These are said to increase the lubrication temporarily but cause increased dryness afterwards. Certain bathing chemicals are strong enough to disturb the chemical balance of the private parts.
Daily supplementation of vitamin A, B and zinc helps significantly in improving lubrication. Foods rich in these nutrients and phytoestrogens; whole grains, apple, nuts, flaxseeds, soy and alfalfa; also increase lubrication.
Home Remedies
Boil 1 tbsp of fenugreek seeds in a glass of water. Stain it and drink this solution every day. Apart from increasing lubrication and increasing desire, this remedy helps during menopause as well.
The herb Gingko Biloba, ashwagandha and aloe vera are very helpful for vaginal dryness. These herbs can be taken in form of tea and as powdered preparation.
Drinking enough water (8 to 10 glasses a day) primarily solves the dry vagina problem. Drinking warm milk just before bedtime may just to the trick. Increasing healthy fats in your diet may increase lubrication.
Risk Involved
If left ignored, the problem of vaginal dryness may increase itching and burning sensation in and around the vaginal region. Due to the disturbed balance of the chemicals ad the pH in the vaginal region, the vaginal infection may occur very easily.
Sex life is considerably affected with excess pain in the genitals and pelvic region during sex (dyspareunia).
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