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Vaginal Dryness (VD)

Vaginal Dryness (VD): Causes, Symptoms, and Evidence-Based Treatments

Vaginal Dryness (VD), often linked to low estrogen levels, affects millions of women, causing discomfort, pain during sex, and increased infection risk. Below is a synthesis of its causes, symptoms, and management strategies, supported by clinical guidelines and research.

Causes of Vaginal Dryness

1. Hormonal Changes:
   • Menopause: Declining estrogen thins vaginal tissues, reducing natural lubrication346.
   • Breastfeeding: Temporarily lowers estrogen, often resolving post-weaning23.
   • Ovarian removal or cancer treatments: Chemotherapy/radiation disrupt hormone production46.
2. Medications:
   • Antidepressants, antihistamines, and anti-estrogen drugs (e.g., for endometriosis)26.
3. Underlying Conditions:
   • Sjögren’s syndrome, diabetes, or autoimmune disorders impairing moisture production23.
4. Lifestyle Factors:
   • Harsh soaps/douching: Stripping natural oils26.
   • Insufficient arousal: Reduced lubrication during sex34.

Symptoms

Common Symptoms	Associated Risks
Burning, itching, or soreness	Urinary tract infections (UTIs)25.
Pain during sex (dyspareunia)	Vaginal tears or infections15.
Discomfort during sitting	Vaginal atrophy (thinning of tissues)46.
Reduced elasticity	Loss of intimacy due to pain45.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis relies on symptom history, physical exam, and pelvic evaluation to rule out infections or structural issues45. No single test confirms vaginal dryness, but vaginal swabs may identify infections5.

Treatment Options

1. Lubricants and Moisturizers

• Water-based lubricants: Reduce friction during sex (e.g., K-Y, Sliquid)14.
• Vaginal moisturizers: Replenish moisture (e.g., Replens, Vagisil)14.

2. Hormonal Therapies

• Topical estrogen: Creams, suppositories, or rings (e.g., estradiol) restore vaginal elasticity146.
• Hormone replacement therapy (HRT): Systemic estrogen for menopausal women14.

3. Non-Hormonal Alternatives

• Laser therapy: Stimulates collagen and blood flow (e.g., MonaLisa Touch)1.
• DHEA supplements: Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) improves vaginal health4.

4. Addressing Underlying Causes

• Medication adjustments: Switch antidepressants or antihistamines if linked to dryness26.
• Hygiene practices: Avoid douching or perfumed products26.

When to Seek Help

Consult a healthcare provider if experiencing persistent pain, recurrent UTIs, or unexplained bleeding57.

Conclusion
Vaginal dryness is treatable, with options ranging from lubricants to hormonal therapies. Early intervention improves comfort and reduces complications like infections.

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References

1. Vejthani Hospital: Remedies
2. NHS: Vaginal Dryness
3. healthdirect: Vaginal Dryness
4. Cleveland Clinic: Vaginal Dryness
5. Medical News Today: Vaginal Dryness
6. WebMD: Vaginal Dryness
7. Healthline: Vaginal Dryness