Topics related to female sexuality are becoming less and less taboo. One of them, very common in gynecological consultations, is that of vaginal dryness; the lack of lubrication that causes pain during intercourse. In addition, it can also cause itching and an increased susceptibility to vaginal infections.
Causes of vaginal dryness
Vaginal dryness can be caused by different factors. Sometimes it is a consequence of punctual factors that as soon as they disappear the vaginal dryness will also disappear. Some examples are:
- Medications or hormones used in the treatment of breast cancer, endometriosis, uterine fibroids or infertility.
- Radiation therapy to the pelvic area
- Chemotherapy
- Severe stress, depression or rigorous exercise
- After childbirth or during breastfeeding, since estrogen levels are lower.
- Tobacco, tampons and condoms can cause or worsen vaginal dryness.
- Lack of sexual desire, as lubrication is produced in response to sexual stimulation. Sometimes, as in postmenopause, lubrication is a permanent problem resulting from decreased estrogen levels.
However, at other times we know that the lack of lubrication in the intimate area will be a permanent problem, as happens during postmenopause as a result of the decrease in estrogen levels that comes with it (estrogens are what keep the tissues of the vagina lubricated and healthy, and their decrease causes the vaginal tissue to shrink and become thinner, a fact that causes vaginal dryness).
The fact that our body changes after menopause should not be a reason for our life to change as well. Postmenopause is another stage that we must know how to face and, of course, enjoy! In addition, sexuality should be part of this new stage, just as it was before, and even, if you hurry, it should be even better after leaving behind the “fear” of pregnancy.
How to treat vaginal dryness
To treat vaginal dryness and enjoy a full life, in Aesthetic Medicine we have very effective specific treatments that allow us to get the area to lubricate again:
- Hyaluronic acid injections. With them, the vagina recovers the lost hydration and smoothness. In addition, it has no side effects and the results are long lasting. With this technique we manage to rehydrate and stimulate the intimate area, recovering comfort, reducing the associated dryness, itching and tightness.
We must learn to enjoy life to the fullest, and not allow it to stop after menopause.