5 Effective Remedies for Vaginal Dryness

While discussing vagina dryness may be awkward, it’s something that many women experience and a condition that can interfere with your quality of life. About 17% of women 18 to 50 experience it at some point, and about half of all women experience vaginal dryness, also called vaginal atrophy, during and after menopause. 

Several factors can contribute to this condition, including hormonal changes, certain medications, menopause, childbirth, stress, or other medical conditions. Fortunately, you don’t have to suffer from painful and uncomfortable symptoms. 

At Female Health Associates of North Texas in Fort Worth, Texas, board-certified urogynecologist Jeffrey Hantes, MD, has extensive experience identifying the cause of vaginal dryness and recommending personalized treatment plans. Here, Dr. Hantes shares five effective ways to relieve vaginal dryness.

Hydration and diet

Drinking water and fluids helps your whole body, including your vaginal area, stay hydrated and lubricated. Keeping your vaginal area well hydrated also helps ward off urinary tract infections. 

Additionally, incorporating foods with good bacteria, such as yogurt and kombucha, and avoiding foods that destroy good bacteria, such as sugar and processed foods, can help prevent yeast infections and dryness. 

O-Shot

The O-Shot is a procedure that specifically treats vaginal dryness and also enhances sexual sensation. The O-Shot is a quick, in-office procedure that uses platelet-rich plasma (PRP) to increase blood flow to your vaginal walls, which increases elasticity and lubrication. Dr. Hantes offers the O-Shot at his Fort Worth office to also treat urinary incontinence and boost sexual enjoyment. 

Hormone therapy

During perimenopause or menopause, reduced or fluctuating estrogen production can lead to a reduction in vaginal lubrication during sexual intercourse. To remedy the lower levels of estrogen in your body, Dr. Hantes may recommend hormone replacement therapy, which can restore vaginal lining health and moisture. 

Lubricants and moisturizer

Applying a vaginal lubricant just before sexual intercourse or a vaginal moisturizer every few days can help prevent vaginal dryness and make sex less painful. You can also use both of these products. 

Natural remedies 

Certain natural remedies, such as olive, grape seed, or coconut oil can help lubricate the external vaginal area. These home remedies can be used in a similar way as store-bought lubricants. 

If you’re experiencing vaginal dryness, don’t be embarrassed to discuss your issues with Dr. Hantes. For more information on treatment options, call us at Female Health Associates of North Texas to make an appointment or request one online.