Is Vaginal Dryness Normal?

Vaginal dryness occurs when its natural moisture content is reduced. Additionally, the blood circulation in the vagina plays a decisive role in ensuring adequate moisture. Therefore, a lack of blood circulation is often another indirect trigger of vaginal dryness. 

Vaginal dryness is normal in some circumstances, such as when you’re going through menopause and estrogen levels have dropped. The most common cause of vaginal dryness is hormonal balance in women. At Viva Health Group, OB/GYN expert Dr. Aleksander J. Bodnar wants you to feel comfortable in your own body at every stage of life.

Noticing vaginal dryness

Vaginal dryness occurs for many reasons. Estrogen levels decrease when a woman goes through menopause. This has a variety of consequences. Among other things, the blood flow to the vagina and labia decreases, which promotes a dry vagina. The lack of vaginal moisture is noticeable by itching and burning.

In addition, you may notice there’s a lack of sufficient moisture during sexual intercourse. Sexual stimulation increases the blood flow to the vagina, which leads to increased vaginal moisture (lubrication) within seconds. This reduces the friction and thus the risk of injury during intercourse. Accordingly, vaginal dryness leads to painful sex.

Vaginal dryness due to illness

Vaginal dryness can also occur as an accompanying symptom of an underlying disease or a side effect of medical treatment. 

Diabetes

The increased blood sugar level in diabetics can damage nerves and blood vessels over time, which can significantly impact sexuality. In particular, the lubrication of the vagina can then be slowed down or be weaker overall. Some diabetes medicines also affect libido.

High blood pressure

Inadequately treated, high blood pressure causes lasting damage to the vessels, including those responsible for lubricating the vagina. In addition, some high blood pressure medications can reduce sexual interest or arousal.

Multiple sclerosis (MS)

MS is a chronic disease in which the nerve structures, in particular, are plagued by inflammation. In the later stages of the disease, this can lead to disorders of the sexual functions. Vaginal dryness is one of the symptoms that can occur.

Endometriosis

This disease results in benign growths of the uterine lining outside the uterus, for example, the fallopian tubes. Vaginal dryness is a possible side effect of the disease.

Sjogren's syndrome

This is an autoimmune disease that primarily affects women going through menopause. Immune cells attack the salivary and lacrimal glands, among other things. Accordingly, those affected suffer from dry eyes and dry mouth. Vaginal dryness can also be a symptom.

Vaginal dryness as a result of lifestyle

You may also experience vaginal dryness as a result of lifestyle choices.

Alcohol and nicotine

These stimulants also affect the blood vessels. Their consumption can therefore cause vaginal dryness, among other things.

Excessive intimate hygiene

Women who wash excessively in the intimate area (especially with ordinary soap) can get a dry vagina as a result.

Try avoiding excessive washing, alcohol, and smoking if you’re experiencing vaginal dryness.

When do you need to see a doctor for vaginal dryness?

Especially in connection with sexual complaints, many women still shy away from seeing their OB/GYN at an early stage when struggling with vaginal dryness. However, if you feel that your vagina is too dry, you should make an appointment with us at Viva Health, because in most cases, Dr. Bodnar can treat vaginal dryness easily and quickly. 

To schedule an appointment, call us or use our online booking tool. We have offices in Linden and Clifton, New Jersey.