Ask the Experts- May 2019

By: Red Hot Mamas

Published: May 14, 2019

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Dear Red Hot Mamas,

I’m a bit perplexed. Could you please tell me what causes vaginal dryness? Thank you.

Eileen

.Dear Eileen,

Estrogen keeps the lining of the vagina healthy, thick and elastic. At menopause, there is a drop in estrogen levels which reduces the amount of moisture. This drop in estrogen also makes the vagina thinner and less elastic which caused vaginal atrophy.

It’s not only menopause which causes estrogen levels to drop. It can also drop from childbirth, breastfeeding, radiation or chemotherapy treatments, the surgical removal of the ovaries, and certain anti-estrogen medication that treat endometriosis or uterine fibroids.

Other causes of vaginal dryness include: douching, allergy and cold medications, Sjögren’s syndrome and lack of enough foreplay before sexual intercourse.

Vaginal dryness can be extremely uncomfortable and can lead to itching, burning and painful intercourse. This discomfort may warrant a call to your doctor or gynecologist.

Thank you for writing to Red Hot Mamas. I hope this information is of some help to you.

Red Hot Mamas