What is vaginal dryness?

Qu’est-ce que la sécheresse vaginale ?

Vaginal dryness refers to a lack of lubrication in the vagina, resulting in a lack of moisture. One woman in six suffers from this condition, which can affect all women, but particularly menopausal women, young mothers and pregnant women.

Vaginal dryness can also increase vulnerability to gynaecological infections and make sexual relations difficult due to the pain they cause, often resulting in a drop in sexual activity, as well as psychological effects.

The vagina is lined internally with a mucous membrane and several glands that ensure lubrication, under the effect of ovarian hormones. At the cervix, glands secrete a viscous liquid which flows down the vagina to "clean" it, removing any germs and dead cells. Bartholin's glands, for their part, moisturize the vagina and labia minora.

However, all these secretions vary according to the time of the menstrual cycle, as well as sexual activity. Indeed, during intercourse, blood circulation increases, as does moisture as the vagina lubricates itself. Anything that disrupts these hormonal secretions can contribute to vaginal dryness.

What causes vaginal dryness?

Vaginal dryness is caused in particular by hormonal changes (mainly a drop in estrogen levels), as is the case during pregnancyafter childbirth, during breast-feeding or the menopause. For example, during the menopause, vaginal secretions decrease, making the vaginal mucosa less moist, less thick and more rigid. This is due in particular to the cessation of ovarian activity, resulting in a rapid drop in estrogen levels (which keep the vagina moist).

But vaginal dryness can also be caused by other factors, such as wearing tight-fitting clothes, fatigue, stress, alcohol consumption, smoking or drug use, certain medications (antidepressants, antipsychotics, treatment of breast cancer, endometriosis, etc.), or a combination of these.endometriosisfibroids or infertility, etc.). But also contraceptives, genital infections, disturbances of the vaginal flora, psychological factors, inappropriate and too aggressive intimate hygiene, wearing tampons throughout the period, etc. This is why we have launched our brand of period panties in organic cotton. Our customers use them as classic protection to replace their disposable pads, or as a complement to the cup or free instinctive flow.

In addition, repeated and prolonged intercourse, overly rapid penetration or the use of unlubricated condoms can also irritate the vaginal mucosa.

However, vaginal dryness should not be confused with lack of lubrication, which in this case is linked to sexual arousal and therefore only occurs during intercourse. So it's possible to have a lack of lubrication without actually suffering from vaginal dryness.

What are the symptoms of vaginal dryness?

Vaginal dryness manifests itself as a lack of moisture in the vagina, often resulting in redness of the vulva, itching, irritation or local inflammation and a burning sensation in the vagina.

It can also cause pain during intercourse, as well as minor bleeding and, in the long term, if left untreated, can lead to a reduction in libido, notably through fear of pain.

It can also lead to urinary and vaginal infections, stress, depression and pain during sports.

Here's a great post to treat vaginal dryness :)

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1 comment

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The information contained in the articles on www-elia-lingerie.com is general information only. Although reviewed by health professionals, this information is not error-free, does not constitute health advice or consultation, and is not intended to provide a diagnosis or suggest a course of treatment. Under no circumstances may this information be used as a substitute for medical advice or consultation with a healthcare professional. If you have any questions, please consult your doctor.