Vaginal dryness is a common symptom in women who are moving into menopause. The cause of dryness at this stage is usually a decreased production of the hormone estrogen. There are several things you can do to offset the symptoms of menopause, and both prescription and nonprescription treatments are available to specifically help alleviate vaginal dryness.
Significance
Menopause is sometimes called a "change of life" because a woman's body experiences many changes during this time as her ovaries gradually produce less of the hormones estrogen and progesterone. These changes are normal. Some women are bothered by menopausal changes and side effects, while some may have no troublesome side effects at all. One of the changes that result from falling estrogen levels is the skin in and around the vagina becomes thinner and dryer. In addition to general discomfort, this lack of lubrication and fragility makes intercourse painful and difficult and if left untreated may contribute to a lack of sexual desire.
Features
Vaginal dryness may be a symptom of diminished lubrication, but it also has symptoms of its own. These include itching, irritation, painful intercourse and discomfort from wearing certain types of clothing, such as pants that put pressure on the affected area.
Time Frame
By their late 30s or early 40s, women begin to experience the hormone fluctuations that ultimately lead to menopause. This period of time, up until menopause, is called perimenopause and can last anywhere from three months to 10 years. During early perimenopause, vaginal dryness may be a minor problem. Vaginal dryness tends to get worse toward the end of the perimenopause period and after menopause.
Treatments
You can combat vaginal dryness with water-based lubricants available in drugstores, pharmacies and health supply stores. Oil or petroleum-based lubricants are not advised because they can create an environment that leads to vaginal infections. A study reported in the June 2002 "Journal of Clinical Pathology" confirmed the findings of several clinical studies that Replens brand vaginal moisturizer, used regularly, not only alleviates dryness when applied, but also eliminates dry skin cells and replenishes natural moisture in the area over time.
Prevention/Solution
Short-term, low-dose hormone therapy helps reduce some symptoms of menopause, including vaginal dryness, and may have other benefits as well, such as reducing the risk of developing the bone-thinning disease osteoporosis, also associated with menopause. Hormone therapy is not safe for all women, however, because it can increase the risk of developing breast and endometrial cancer, gall bladder disease and blood clots that can lead to heart attack or stroke. Your doctor can help you decide if hormone therapy is an option for you.
