Vaginal dryness is a distressing symptom dreaded by many women going through the menopausal stage. It is expected that as the body ages, hormonal changes, particularly a drop in estrogen levels in women, are expected to come next. The vaginal tissues will go through the thinning process, becomes less elastic, and not be able to produce sufficient lubrication. This occurrence can lead to discomfort and pain during lovemaking. Indeed, this will affect women psychologically and will have a significant impact on women’s intimate relationships. Fortunately, several treatment options are now available for women out there suffering from vaginal dryness.
Over-the-counter vaginal moisturizers and lubricants
One of the first-line treatments for vaginal dryness due to menopause is applying vaginal moisturizers or lubricants, which you can buy over the counter or online. These products contain ingredients that can hydrate and lubricate the vaginal tissues. Where there is enough lubrication, temporary relief from dryness and discomfort will occur. The difference between the two is vaginal moisturizers are typically used on a regular basis to maintain the level of vaginal moisture all the time. While vaginal lubricants are only used when needed or during the time of lovemaking.
Estrogen therapy
If the dryness experienced by a woman is unbearable, vaginal lube or moisturizer is no longer ideal. Therefore, taking a prescription estrogen therapy is now recommended, but with the approval of a healthcare professional, of course. Estrogen is a feminine hormone that diminishes as a woman ages. This can be administered in the form of vaginal creams or tablets. With this method, estrogen hormone is delivered directly to the vaginal tissues. With sufficient estrogen, vaginal moisture and elasticity are restored. Happy Vagina!
Non-hormonal prescription
Aside from estrogen therapy, other non-hormonal options can help alleviate the horror of vaginal dryness. Ospemifene (Osphena) is one of them. It is a medication that causes an increase in blood flow to the vagina. With enough blood flow, the ability of the vagina to lubricate increases. Therefore, making the vagina happy!
Pelvic floor physical therapy
Pelvic floor exercise or Kegel exercise is very helpful in getting rid of vaginal drought. This kind of exercise can strengthen the muscles that support the pelvic organs, that includes the vagina. When Kegel exercise is performed regularly, vaginal tone and elasticity will improve. For sure, the symptoms of vaginal drought and pain during intercourse will be gone.
Vaginal rejuvenation procedures
Another option for women seeking more advanced treatments for vaginal dryness is vaginal rejuvenation procedures. An excellent example of this is laser therapy or radiofrequency treatments. With this procedure, the production of collagen is stimulated, and blood flow to vaginal tissues increases. This will result in the improvement of female genital lubrication, and the vagina tissues become more elastic.
Women, whether they like it or not, will come to a time when they will experience the horror of vaginal dryness at some point in their lives, especially during the onset of menopause. This condition is bothersome. It can rob them of quality of life and a healthy sex life. Regardless of these symptoms, it does not mean that sex life is over. Luckily, the capability of a woman to enjoy and acquire intimate relationships is still possible even at menopause, as there are plenty of treatment options available in the surroundings today. Women can take advantage of many options, such as over-the-counter moisturizers and lubricants, prescription medications, and advanced procedures.
With the right approach, indeed, women can successfully manage vaginal dryness effectively and experience intimacy and overall well-being just like they were 20 years ago.
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