In this interview, Dr. Francisco Montes de Oca, Director of Ginefem, tells us about the options available to treat vaginal dryness.
Vaginal dryness, also known as vaginal atrophy, has become one of the most frequent reasons for consultation. This pathology is associated in most cases with menopause, however it can appear at any age. In fact, it is estimated that half of the women who suffer from it are under the age of 50.
Normally, the walls of the vagina remain lubricated with a thin layer of clear fluid. The hormone estrogen helps keep that fluid and keeps the vaginal lining healthy, thick, and elastic.
A drop in estrogen levels reduces the amount of moisture available. It can occur at any age from several different causes.
It may seem like a minor irritation. But a lack of vaginal moisture can have a huge impact on your sex life. Fortunately, there are several treatments to relieve vaginal dryness.
What are the effects of vaginal dryness?
Vaginal dryness can cause discomfort in the pelvic and vaginal regions. Vaginal dryness can also cause:
- Burning.
- Loss of sexual desire.
- Pain in sexual intercourse.
- Light bleeding after intercourse.
- Pain.
- Urinary tract infections (UTIs) that do not go away or that keep coming back.
- Vaginal itching or stinging.
Causes of vaginal dryness
The drop in estrogen levels is the main cause of vaginal dryness. Women begin to produce less estrogen as they age. This leads to the end of menstruation during a period called perimenopause.
However, menopause is not the only condition that causes a decrease in estrogen production. Other causes include:
- Breast-feed
- Smoke
- Depression
- Stress
- Immune system disorders, such as Sjögren's syndrome
- Delivery
- Some cancer treatments, such as radiation to the pelvis, hormone therapy, or chemotherapy.
- Surgical removal of the ovaries.
- Some medications can also reduce secretions in the body.
- Douching can also cause dryness and irritation, as can some creams and lotions that are applied to the vaginal area.
In this video interview the Dr. Francisco Montes de Oca, Director of Ginefem, explains how vaginal dryness is treated.
