Vaginal dryness is a common complaint for women. Normally, a layer of moisture lines the walls of the vagina, but changes in the body may cause this lining to become thin and dry. Hormonal changes, medications and medical conditions can increase the likelihood of a woman experiencing vaginal dryness. Self-care and medications help treat the symptoms associated with the dryness. This treatment is important because vaginal dryness increases the risk of developing infections, according to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.
Causes
Estrogen is a female sex hormone produced by the ovaries. One function of estrogen is to lubricate the vagina. The main cause of vaginal dryness is a reduction in estrogen levels in the body, according to the Mayo Clinic. Decreased levels of estrogen may occur for multiple reasons, such as menopause, breast-feeding, removal of the ovaries and childbirth. Smoking cigarettes may also reduce estrogen levels for women. Medications designed to dry mucous membranes, such as cold medications, may cause vaginal dryness.
Symptoms
In addition to a dry lining, vaginal dryness may cause additional symptoms, including burning or itching. Women may have pain with sexual intercourse. In addition to painful sex, women can have vaginal bleeding from the abrasive action in combination with vaginal dryness. Some women may experience symptoms of urinary urgency and frequency along with the vaginal dryness.
Diagnosis
To diagnose vaginal dryness, the physician performs several tests. A pelvic exam includes the examination of the vagina and cervix. The physician can see evidence of the dry lining of the vagina. The physician may also perform a Pap test in which she collects cervical cells to view under a microscope, according to the Mayo Clinic. During the Pap test and pelvic exam, the physician may also collect vaginal fluid. The samples of cervical cells and vaginal fluid help determine if an infection is causing dryness or if the changes are from a hormone deficiency. A urine test helps rule out or confirm a urinary tract infection for women with urinary symptoms.
Treatment
Treatment for vaginal dryness may include estrogen replacement therapy. Topical forms of estrogen that a woman places directly in the vagina work better for the condition than oral forms of the medication. Available forms of topical estrogen include prescription creams, tablets and a flexible ring. Using estrogen may increase the risk of developing endometrial cancer, according to Medline Plus. Common side effects of using vaginal estrogen include breast tenderness, hot flashes and irritation in the vagina.
Home Remedies
Home treatments help relieve the discomfort associated with vaginal dryness. Using a lubricant or vaginal moisturizer helps increase the moisture in the vagina, especially during sexual intercourse. Avoiding vaginal irritants will help decrease the dryness and additional symptoms. These irritants include douches, bubble baths and harsh soaps.
