Vaginal dryness is an uncomfortable feminine condition that affects many women, and can negatively impact everyday life. Not only is it linked to pain with intercourse, but some women also experience pain when sitting, urinating, and exercising. So what causes vaginal dryness?
What causes vaginal dryness?
Vaginal dryness is most often caused by hormonal changes, specifically a deficiency in the hormone estrogen. Low estrogen levels may also be due to other factors such as high levels of stress, excessive exercise, and eating disorders.
The vagina needs estrogen to stay healthy, because it keeps the vaginal mucosa moist and lubricated, and also maintains its thickness and elasticity. The lack of lubrication is often the reason for pain and discomfort during intercourse.
Lack of estrogen contributes to vaginal atrophy, which is a condition that causes the vaginal walls to become thin and less elastic. In some cases the vaginal mucosa may shrink, causing the vagina to narrow and lose flexibility.
Treating vaginal dryness
Treating vaginal dryness is often done with bio-identical hormone therapy, and a customized treatment plan is ideal. Bio-identical hormones are molecularly identical to the hormones that are produced by the body. Hormone therapy restores estrogen to more youthful levels, and this in turn boosts vaginal health.
For optimal results, patients should have an accurate diagnosis done by a board certified gynecologist that specializes in vaginal health, and bio-identical hormone therapy. The gynecologist will be able to craft an individualized treatment protocol based on the results of their assessment. Fowler GYN International (FGI) has just the expertise. FGI is headed by board certified gynecologist Dr. R. Stuart Fowler, who is an expert in vaginal health care. You can reach FGI at www.fowlergyninternational.com, or by calling (480) 420-4001.