Facts on Treating Vaginal Dryness

1. Use the Lube

Most times, vaginal dryness can be treated by using an over-the-counter lubricating product. These lubricants prove especially helpful for use during sexual activity. When using the lubricant, place a moderate amount of the substance on your partner's penis or on the exterior walls of your vagina. If you do decide to use a lubricant for vaginal dryness, consider a water-based kind without any harsh chemicals. Many women rely on K-Y or Astroglide to lubricate their vagina. The effects of the lube typically last for several hours.

2. Moisturize the Vagina

You can use a moisturizer on more than just your face. A vaginal moisturizer can offer a temporary solution to your vaginal dryness. Pick up an over-the-counter vaginal moisturizer, like Replens, at any drugstore. You insert the moisturizer into your vagina with the included applicator. You won't feel any discomfort; the applicator used is the same type as a tampon. You can expect the dryness to clear up for several days after application.

3. Avoidance Is Key

Finding the cause of your vaginal dryness often leads to the best way to treat the problem. Certain substances can cause your body's natural lubrication to halt. Use a limited number of scented soaps, bubble bathes and body washes while bathing. These products have all been linked to vaginal dryness. You must also take care not to douche. Douching can irritate the vagina and lead to vaginal dryness.

4. Hormone Therapy May Prove Beneficial

When you go through menopause, your hormone levels often go out of whack. Since estrogen levels dip in menopausal women, they start experiencing problems with vaginal dryness. Your doctor may recommend taking estrogen in different forms to treat vaginal dryness. Many women take a pill infused with estrogen to replace the decreased hormone level. With an estrogen cream, you put the cream via applicator into your vagina. A third option your doctor may consider involves inserting a ring into the upper part of your vagina. Over the course of three months, the ring will release estrogen into the vagina. Through these hormone therapies, many women find a successful treatment option for their vaginal dryness.

5. The Natural Way

In some cases, proper arousal can help treat a woman's issue with vaginal dryness. Couples should use foreplay as a way to make sure the woman is properly aroused for intercourse. You can also try sensual massage to help lubricate the vagina in preparation for sex. Try different positions and techniques to discover what feels good. Communication with your partner often helps with the dryness.