Definition Vaginal dryness is a feeling of dryness or lack of lubrication. This may cause pain with intercourse, chronic vaginal infections, or feelings of tingling or burning.
What is the information for this topic? Changes in the vagina occur in response to a woman's hormonal cycle. Oestrogen causes the vagina to thicken. Blood vessels bring nutrients and oxygen to the vagina. These maintain vaginal flexibility and health. The amount of mucous and vaginal secretions produced is influenced by many factors. These factors include:
reaction to latex in condoms, rubber, panty liners, personal hygiene products, or tampons
A medical history and physical examination are performed to try and determine the cause of the problem. Any substance causing the dryness should be removed, if possible.
Oestrogen deficiency treatment includes both hormonal and non-hormonal therapies. These include oestrogen replacement therapies and bioadhesive vaginal gels (e.g. replens, KY jelly).
Hormone replacement therapy can be oral, topical or intravaginal. Oestrogen creams, such as oestradiol, or an intravaginal ring is often used. The ring lasts for 3 months. The cream is used every day at first. Then it is used 2 to 3 times a week. Those taking oral oestrogens or an oestrogen patch may still have dryness. The vagina has special needs for oestrogen.
Many women choose not to use oestrogen because of concerns about breast cancer or uterine cancer, or by choice. Many use bioadhesive gels instead. These non-hormonal gels are used three times a week. They improve itching and pain with sexual intercourse. They do not work as well as oestrogen creams. Using other lubricants, such as k-y jelly, during intercourse may help with initial penile penetration. These lubricants are water-soluble and quickly evaporate.
Vaginal dryness and poor lubrication should be discussed with a doctor. Managing the symptoms may improve self-esteem, mental and emotional health and sexual satisfaction.
Author: Eva Martin, MD Reviewer: HealthAnswers Australia Medical Review Panel Editor: Dr David Taylor, Chief Medical Officer HealthAnswers Australia Last Updated: 1/10/2001 Contributors Potential conflict of interest information for reviewers available on request
