Although we know that a drop in estrogen levels can lead to vaginal dryness, there are still many possible sources to a woman’s lowered hormone production. Most commonly, vaginal dryness is associated with other typical symptoms of menopause, though it can also be brought on by:
Sadly, many women assume their vaginal dryness to be an unavoidable part of transitioning through menopause, or as a normal side effect from a variety of other sources. There is absolutely no reason to ignore vaginal dryness when there are many treatments offered to women.
If you experience any sort of itching, burning, or general pain in or around the vagina, it is always best to contact your physician to get an accurate diagnosis of your symptoms. Once they perform a standard pelvic examination, Dr. Tapscott will be able to determine if your discomfort is a result of vaginal dryness, or if additional testing is needed to explore other potential causes.
How is Vaginal Dryness Treated?
At the Sexual Health Institute of the Carolinas, our providers understand that no two patients are exactly alike. For this reason, we aim to offer as many different solutions as possible to common sexual health issues, including vaginal dryness.
Lubricants
There are many different types of lubricants that are available over-the-counter, meaning there is no prescription needed to begin finding relief for your vaginal dryness and discomfort. If your body is known to be sensitive to new products or materials, it is recommended that you consult with Dr. Tapscott before trying any OTC lubricants in order to find one that will not irritate the vaginal tissues.
Medications
A majority of women will utilize a deposited tablet, hormonal ring, or topical cream to help manage pain caused by vaginal dryness. All of these options are designed to directly deliver a controlled amount of estrogen to the vagina, though they are not recommended for patients with a history of:
- Breast cancer
- Endometrial cancer
- Unexplained vaginal bleeding
Topical medications in particular are also not advised for patients who are currently pregnant or breastfeeding.
Hormone Replacement Therapy
Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is an excellent treatment option for women experiencing vaginal dryness in addition to other common sexual dysfunction symptoms and side effects. HRT is usually administered by taking a daily oral pill, though it can also be applied via a skin patch, gel, cream, or inserted ring.
Laser Therapy Procedures
In recent years there has been an incredible amount of improvement made for long-lasting vaginal rejuvenation procedures. These treatments involve specially designed tools and devices that apply a controlled amount of heat to the vaginal tissue to jumpstart rapid healing and regenerative properties. This procedure is especially helpful for women that are seeking non-hormonal treatment for vaginal dryness.
To find out what the best treatment is for you, schedule your initial consultation with Dr. Tapscott:
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