Vaginal dryness

The internal surfaces of the vagina are covered with a clear and slippery liquid and kept moist.
Estrogen helps the health of the vagina by controlling the amount of this fluid.
A decrease in the level of estrogen hormone leads to a decrease in vaginal moisture and dryness.
A decrease in estrogen hormone levels occurs for different reasons and at different ages.
In addition to burning and itching, vaginal dryness can cause painful sex.

Causes of vaginal dryness

Menopause

At least one person out of three households experiences a decrease in estrogen and vaginal dryness during menopause.

Childbirth and breastfeeding

Childbirth and breastfeeding can lead to vaginal dryness.

Oophorectomy

Surgery on the ovary can be accompanied by vaginal dryness.

Anti-estrogen drugs

Taking anti-estrogen drugs to treat uterine fibroids and endometriosis.

Cold medicines

Some compounds such as antihistamines can cause vaginal dryness.

Depression medications

Taking some anti-depression medications.

Vaginal douche

Using a vaginal douche to wash the vagina.

Stress

Stress as an independent factor can cause vaginal dryness.

Diagnosis of vaginal dryness

Any itching or burning (irritation) may be a sign of vaginal dryness.
The definitive diagnosis of vaginal dryness is made by the doctor after receiving the patient's history and if necessary, examination and even sampling.
Vaginal dryness and some urinary infections have some common symptoms and should not be confused.

Estrogen treatment of vaginal dryness

Treatment can be done with non-local (systemic) or topical estrogen-containing drugs (such as the following).

EST RING

Flexible rings that are placed in the vagina by the patient or doctor and create a sufficient and stable flow of estrogen in the place. These rings are replaced every 3 months.

Topical estrogen-pills

A pill containing estrogen is inserted into the vagina with an applicator (once a day during the first two weeks of treatment and then twice a week until the end of the treatment period).

Topical estrogen (cream-gel)

Cream or gel containing estrogen is injected into the vagina using an applicator. Use daily for the first two weeks of treatment, and then one to three times a week with the doctor's advice.

Warning

Medicines containing estrogen can cause side effects such as vaginal bleeding and breast pain. Therefore, they should be taken under the supervision of a doctor.

The use of drugs containing estrogen is not recommended in the following cases :

For those with breast cancer, particularly individuals who are prescribed aromatase inhibitors.
Individuals with a previous history of endometrial cancer
those who suffer from any unexplained vaginal bleeding
childbirth or breastfeeding

Non-estrogenic treatments:

Using non-estrogenic vaginal moisturizers which typically contain ingredients such as glycerin, vegetable oils, and polycarbophils.
Not using foaming detergents, scented soaps and lotions in the vaginal area
Not using vaginal douches to wash the vagina
When it comes to experiencing vaginal dryness during sex, it's important to consider the impact of stress on your body. Stress can lead to dryness in both the oral and vaginal mucous membranes. To address this, focusing on mental preparation and adopting relaxation techniques can be helpful in reducing stress levels.