5 Ways to Manage Vaginal Dryness

Vaginal dryness is a common problem: 17% of women age 18-50 report vaginal dryness, and 34% of women over 50 report dryness. But only 4% of women with vaginal dryness seek treatment. These statistics highlight a bleak reality: Many women suffer in silence.

Dr. Essam Taymour and our team at Gynecology and Obstetrics Medical Group in Long Beach, California, understand that vaginal dryness isn’t just a nuisance. It can affect your self-esteem, your sex life, and even increase your risk of developing urinary tract and vaginal infections.

The good news is that vaginal dryness is treatable. Here are five ways to manage vaginal dryness. 

1. Hormone replacement therapy

Vaginal dryness is a common symptom of menopause. Dryness occurs as estrogen levels start to decline during the natural aging process. Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is a common option in menopause management, balancing your hormones to help to alleviate unwanted menopause symptoms — including vaginal dryness.

2. Vaginal treatments

Vaginal treatments can also help restore lubrication and moisture. Treatments that contain low-dose hormones include:

• Vaginal estrogen cream
• Estrogen ring
• Tablets

Not sure which vaginal treatment is right for you? We can suggest the appropriate option for you based on your needs, your overall health, and the cause of your dryness.

3. MonaLisa Touch® vaginal rejuvenation

The MonaLisa Touch system is designed specifically to combat vaginal dryness and other related symptoms such as itching, burning, and discomfort. During your treatment, a vaginal probe delivers laser energy directly onto your vaginal wall. The burst of energy stimulates a healing response in your tissues, which then restores lubrication.

The procedure, which is performed in-office, takes just a few minutes. Many women notice an improvement after the initial treatment.

4. Vaginal lubricants during intimate times 

One of the most frustrating parts of vaginal dryness is its effect on intimacy. If vaginal dryness bothers you, consider adding using a lubricant during intercourse as well as during foreplay. While topical hormone creams are applied on a daily basis, these lubricants are applied prior to intercourse. 

There are many types of lubricants available, but be sure to use only products designed specifically for lubrication during intercourse. Note that oil-based lubricants increase the risk of tears in condoms, stain your sheets, and increase your risk of infection. Water-based lubricants don’t weaken condoms.  

5. Evaluate your body care products

Did you know that body care products can irritate vaginal tissues and contribute to dryness? Fragrances and harsh cleansing agents in soap, body wash, and even laundry detergent may contain ingredients that dry out your delicate tissues. 

Avoid vaginal washes and douches. Although these products are marketed to cleanse the vagina, they can lead to irritation, dryness, and even infection if they wipe out all of the beneficial flora.

According to the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, the best way to cleanse your vagina is to:

• Wash the exterior of your vagina with warm water (even mild soap can contribute to dryness)
• Avoid scented products, including scented pads and tampons

Remember, the vagina is self-cleaning! 

Our team at Gynecology and Obstetrics Medical Group is dedicated to helping women enjoy optimal vaginal health at every stage in life, whether that’s pregnancy, post-childbirth, or during menopause. If you’re experiencing vaginal dryness, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment with us by calling 562-247-3038 or using our convenient online booking tool.