Vaginal Lubrication: Causes And Natural Ways To Improve It

To shed more light on this topic, we spoke to Dr Shibani Devi, Consultant Obstetrics and Gynaecology at Manipal Hospital Bhubaneswar, who shared valuable insights on the subject.

Vaginal Lubrication: Causes

Vaginal lubrication primarily originates from two sources:

1. Bartholin glands – These tiny, pea-sized glands are located near the vaginal opening and play a crucial role in preventing dryness. They release moisture to keep the vaginal area lubricated and produce additional fluid when a person is aroused or engaged in sexual activity.

2. The cervix – Throughout the menstrual cycle, the cervix secretes mucus, which changes in consistency depending on the phase. As ovulation nears, cervical mucus increases and becomes more fluid, creating a favourable environment for sperm to reach the egg, thereby improving the chances of conception.

What Is Vaginal Dryness?

Vaginal dryness is a common yet often overlooked medical condition that affects many women. Due to embarrassment and a lack of awareness, many individuals do not seek medical help. This condition can lead to various health concerns, including intense vaginal itching, bleeding, increased risk of infections, discomfort during intercourse, reduced sexual desire, and even emotional distress.

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What Causes Vaginal Dryness?

Dr Shibani explains that oestrogen plays a crucial role in keeping vaginal tissues thick, elastic, and naturally moisturised. When oestrogen levels drop, the vaginal walls become thinner, drier, and less flexible, leading to a condition known as vaginal atrophy. However, menopause isn’t the only factor that contributes to vaginal dryness, several other medical and lifestyle factors can also lead to reduced oestrogen production, including:

• Hormonal changes after pregnancy – Oestrogen levels decline post-pregnancy, often resulting in vaginal dryness.
• Cancer treatments – Chemotherapy and radiation therapy can lower oestrogen levels, negatively affecting vaginal health.
• Medications for breast cancer and endometriosis – These drugs can reduce oestrogen production, causing dryness.
• Surgical removal of ovaries – Ovarian surgeries can lead to a sudden drop in oestrogen, triggering vaginal dryness.
• Certain allergy and cold medications – Some drugs that relieve allergies or colds also reduce bodily secretions, including vaginal moisture.
• Autoimmune disorders like Sjögren’s syndrome – This condition affects moisture-producing glands, leading to vaginal dryness.
• Antidepressants – Some antidepressant medications may cause sexual side effects, including a decrease in natural vaginal lubrication.
• Stress and anxiety – High emotional stress can reduce libido and interfere with the body’s ability to produce natural lubrication.
• Flammer syndrome – A vascular condition that affects stress responses and circulation, potentially impacting vaginal lubrication.
• Smoking – Tobacco use accelerates ovarian ageing, leading to hormonal imbalances that contribute to vaginal dryness.

How To Manage Vaginal Dryness?

Dr Shibani emphasises that several lifestyle changes and natural remedies can help alleviate vaginal dryness and support overall vaginal health. These include:

Ways to Reduce Vaginal Dryness Naturally

• Regular sexual activity – Engaging in sexual intercourse helps maintain vaginal elasticity and stimulates natural lubrication.
• Exercise and pelvic yoga – Physical activity, especially pelvic yoga, enhances blood circulation and helps regulate hormone levels.
• Avoiding harsh hygiene products – Refraining from douching and using scented vaginal products prevents disruption of the vagina’s natural moisture balance.
• Staying hydrated – Drinking adequate water is essential for tissue hydration, including vaginal moisture.
• Quitting smoking – Eliminating tobacco use improves blood circulation and helps maintain hormonal balance.
• Dietary changes – Incorporating phytoestrogen-rich foods, such as flaxseeds, soybeans, nuts, apricots, sesame seeds, garlic, peaches, berries, tofu, and broccoli, can help regulate oestrogen levels.
• Vaginal probiotics – These supplements promote healthy vaginal flora, which supports natural moisture levels.

If vaginal dryness persists, it is important to consult a healthcare provider for diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Medical options may include hormone therapy, vaginal moisturisers, or other treatments. Understanding the causes of vaginal dryness and exploring available solutions can help women maintain their intimate health and overall well-being.

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