MongoCat.com

Vaginal dryness

SYMPTOMS

What is vaginal dryness?

Vaginal dryness is a common symptom in women during perimenopause (the period starting around age 45 and lasting until 12 months after menopause) [1]. After menopause, as ovarian function gradually declines, estrogen levels in the body significantly decrease. The vaginal mucosa, deprived of estrogen stimulation, experiences slower growth and metabolism, becoming dry and less elastic, which can lead to a sensation of vaginal dryness [2].

Vaginal dryness often causes symptoms such as painful intercourse, decreased libido, and vaginal atrophy, severely affecting patients' quality of life.

There are many causes of vaginal dryness, including high stress levels, vitamin B2 deficiency, repeated vaginal douching, use of anti-estrogen medications, various gynecological surgeries, and radiation or chemotherapy.

Prolonged vaginal dryness can negatively impact patients' quality of life. Treatment should target the underlying cause and may include psychological therapy and medication.

TREATMENT

How to Relieve Vaginal Dryness?

  1. Purchase vaginal moisturizers from a pharmacy. Moisturizers help vaginal tissues retain moisture more effectively. Apply about three times a week for sustained hydration. Check the label to ensure you’re buying a moisturizer, not a lubricant [2].
  2. Vaginal dryness during intercourse is often caused by insufficient arousal (e.g., lack of foreplay like kissing, hugging, or touching). Male partners should be patient, engage in more communication and foreplay, or use water- or silicone-based lubricants to reduce friction and discomfort [2].
  3. Avoid cleaning the vagina with alkaline products like soap or body wash, as they may worsen dryness.
  4. Maintain a balanced diet with foods rich in vitamin B2, such as apples, strawberries, kiwis, and grapes, to support healthy vaginal mucosa metabolism [3].
  5. Engage in outdoor activities and exercise for at least 30 minutes daily. Choose suitable activities like walking, jogging, running, or yoga to stay happy and manage stress [1].
  6. Wear breathable underwear, such as modal-spandex blends, and change frequently to maintain hygiene.

Note: If these measures fail to relieve vaginal dryness or symptoms worsen, seek medical attention promptly to identify the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment.

DIAGNOSIS

At what stage of vaginal dryness should medical attention be sought?

  1. Persistent or recurrent vaginal dryness and discomfort;
  2. Accompanied by symptoms of vaginitis such as vaginal itching or abnormal discharge;
  3. Accompanied by dyspareunia (pain during intercourse), affecting marital life;
  4. Other severe, persistent, or progressive symptoms, such as significantly reduced vaginal secretions or perineal pain.

Which department should be visited first for vaginal dryness?

Gynecology.

What tests are needed for vaginal dryness?

  1. Medical history inquiry: The doctor will ask about the patient's past medical history and treatment status, the duration of symptoms, and factors that may alleviate or worsen symptoms to make a preliminary diagnosis.
  2. Gynecological examination: Used to preliminarily assess the condition, including observation of vaginal discharge.
  3. Sex hormone testing: Mainly estrogen and progesterone levels to evaluate endocrine status and assist in diagnosis.
  4. Vaginal discharge routine test: Used to determine whether vaginal inflammation is present.

POTENTIAL DISEASES

What are the possible causes of vaginal dryness?

  1. Vitamin B2 deficiency: A lack of vitamin B2 can disrupt the metabolism of mucosal cells in the body's cavities, leading to symptoms of vaginal dryness [3].
  2. High stress levels: Excessive stress can weaken vaginal resistance, increasing the risk of gynecological diseases and contributing to vaginal dryness.
  3. Insufficient sexual arousal: Inadequate foreplay, such as lack of stimulation, may prevent sufficient vaginal lubrication, resulting in dryness.
  4. Excessive vaginal washing: Repeated douching can remove the natural vaginal secretions, leading to dryness.
  5. Vaginitis: Vaginitis can impair the normal secretory function of vaginal mucosa, reducing secretions and causing dryness.
  6. Vaginal dryness caused by decreased estrogen levels may result from the following factors [2]:
    1. Long-term use of medications like medroxyprogesterone or danazol;
    2. Cancer radiotherapy or chemotherapy;
    3. Surgical removal of the ovaries;
    4. Childbirth or breastfeeding;
    5. Ovarian disorders or premature ovarian failure.