Vaginal dryness may occur for a variety of reasons; however, menopause is the most common cause, as natural hormone levels change and their balance is altered. Vaginal dryness may not be noticeable to some women, and to others it may cause serious problems like painful intercourse and a source for infections. Certain herbal, homeopathic and natural supplements may improve vaginal dryness and restore suppleness to delicate tissues. Consult your health practitioner before starting new herbal treatments, which may also cause side effects.
Phytoestrogens
Vaginal dryness, along with hot flashes and night sweats show a marked improvement after being treated with phytoestrogens, according to a study published in the "Minerva Ginecologiche" journal in 2005, with 141 women, at the University of Naples, Italy. Phytoestrogens come from plants and are used as a natural replacement for estrogen lost due to decreasing hormones. Phytoestrogens are present primarily in soy products like soy milk, tofu, fermented soy products and soy beans. In addition, phytoestrogens are found in the herb red clover, flaxseed and flaxseed oil; and to a lesser extent in apples, nuts, cherries, seeds and legumes. You may notice names like lignans and isoflavones, which are names for specific types of phytoestrogens thought to be helpful in relieving vaginal dryness. The suggested minimum amount of phytoestrogens consumed is 45 g daily. If you use soy products, only use those that are labeled organic. All other soy products may contain pesticides and be genetically modified, which may change their phytoestrogen content.
Water
Many women do not drink enough water each day to stay properly hydrated, which can contribute to drying out of vaginal tissues, especially during menopause. Drink at least 1/2 oz fresh water per pound of body weight each day to avoid dehydration, suggests "Modern Nutrition in Health and Disease." In other words, if you weight 150 lbs. you will need 75 oz. of water to meet your body's needs. This also equates to 8 to 10 glasses of water daily. Ideally, you should drink filtered or pure spring water and avoid city tap water, which may contain numerous chemicals and impurities.
Vitamin E Oil
Using vitamin E oil topically may help strengthen delicate vaginal tissues, restoring suppleness and improving blood circulation to the area. Suppositories are available or you can use vitamin E oil gel caps, inserting them as you would a suppository. The University of Virginia recommends 400 IU to 600 IU daily for topical application. In addition, make sure to get enough vitamin E in your diet. Foods high in vitamin E are wheat germ oil, peanut butter, vegetable oils and most all nuts and seeds.
Wild Yam
Wild yam has been used traditionally by herbalists for generations to treat vaginal dryness. Many women attest to its efficacy; and although there is not much scientific research, anecdotal evidences indicates it may provide relief for some women. Wild yam acts both as an estrogen and progesterone replacement, and can help balance hormones, according to "The Natural Menopause Handbook." Certain products have a chemical added that is a derivative of progesterone, called synthetic medroxyprogesterone acetate, or MPA added. Do not use products. Only buy 100 percent natural wild yam from a reputable herbal supplier. Check with your herbal practitioner or an herbal representative at the store for directions for use and dosage.
References
- University of Virginia Health System: "Alternative Complementary Therapy for Midlife Women"; Catherine Zuver; Sept 2009
- Woman to Woman: Menopause and Perimenopause
- "Minerva Ginecologiche"; The Effects of Phytoestrogen Therapy on the endometrium in Postmenopausal Women; L Caserta, et al; Oct 2005
- MedLine Plus: Vaginal dryness treatment
- "Modern Nutrition in Health and Disease"; Maurice Shils; 2005
