Introduction
Vaginal dryness can happen throughout pregnancy and after delivery. A soft, flexible lining surrounds an elastic, muscular canal in the vagina. Its surface remains moist and lubricated because of the production of a clear fluid, estrogen. A reduction in the amount of estrogen hormone can alter the function of the mucous membranes, which may be the cause of vaginal dryness and itching. Additionally, if the vagina is dry, having intercourse may hurt.
Is Vaginal Dryness During Early Pregnancy Normal?
It is normal for the vagina to become momentarily dry throughout pregnancy and the postpartum period. This occurs as a result of a decrease in estrogen. Higher estrogen levels during pregnancy naturally maintain the slightly acidic, mucus-rich vaginal fluid. During sexual activity, the fluid provides lubrication and feeling. Additionally, it serves as a physical and immunological barrier that prevents infection and promotes the growth of beneficial vaginal bacteria or natural flora.
How Does Hormone Affect Postpartum Vaginal Dryness?
The primary site of production for progesterone and estrogen is the ovaries. They set off menstruation and breast growth, as well as puberty. During the menstrual cycle, they also contribute to the accumulation of a lining in the uterus. Estrogen and progesterone levels decline, and the uterine lining sheds during menstruation if a fertilized egg is not placed in this lining.
During pregnancy, levels of progesterone and estrogen rise dramatically. The placenta develops from the uterine lining rather than being thrown away. Additionally, progesterone and estrogen are produced by the placenta. After delivery, progesterone and estrogen levels sharply drop. Twenty-four hours after giving birth, they are back to their pre-pregnancy levels. The body reduces estrogen even more when nursing because it may hinder milk production.
The increased blood flow to the genitalia and increased vaginal lubrication caused by estrogen play a major role in sexual desire. Many of the symptoms women encounter after giving birth, such as vaginal dryness, night sweats, and hot flashes, are brought on by a deficiency of estrogen. To combat this, some women decide to take supplements containing estrogen. Some decide against taking one since it raises their risk of blood clots and other problems, including cancer.
What Are the Causes of Vaginal Dryness During Pregnancy?
Despite being a transient condition during pregnancy, vaginal dryness can be brought on by many different circumstances. During pregnancy, a few of the reasons for vaginal dryness include:
1. Stress: Several physical changes from pregnancy can be stressful. Vaginal dryness is directly caused by stress, which affects the hormonal system.
2. Elimination of Foreplay During Sexual Activity: To secrete vaginal fluid during sexual activity, one must be aroused. Therefore, even in its absence, vaginal dryness may continue.
3. Smoking: Smoking can influence how well blood reaches the important organs, impacting how lubricated the intimate areas are. Smoking may also affect the level of sexual excitement, which may affect vaginal fluid discharge.
4. Medication: Vaginal dryness is a possible adverse effect of some cold, allergy, depression, and hormone therapy drugs.
5. Microbial Infections: Vaginal dryness may result from microbial colonization during pregnancy. In addition to pregnant women, vaginal dryness can also affect menopausal women, nursing mothers, and anyone taking birth control tablets.
What Are the Symptoms of Vaginal Dryness?
Symptoms of vaginal dryness can include but are not limited to, general dryness and itching in the vaginal area.
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Discomfort when standing, sitting, or working out.
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Discomfort when urinating.
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Frequent urinal impulses.
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Inconvenient sexual relations.
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Urinary tract infection (UTI).
Who Is More Prone to Vaginal Dryness?
Vaginal atrophy, commonly known as dry vagina, is a condition that is more common in menopausal women, but it can also occur in women who are still fertile, particularly if:
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Nursing.
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Consume tobacco products.
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Feel depressed and under constant stress.
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Experience an immune system illness like SJ syndrome.
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Sjögren syndrome (it is an autoimmune condition where healthy cells are attacked by the immune system).
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Perform intense workouts.
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Required a hysterectomy (it is the surgical excision of the cervix and, most likely, the uterus).
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Received treatment for cancer.
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Pain and discomfort during intercourse and dry, itchy skin in the vaginal area are symptoms of vaginal atrophy.
What Are the Treatments for Vaginal Dryness During Pregnancy?
Treating vaginal dryness and maintaining a particular lifestyle may help restore the moisture content of the organ. Inquiring about lifestyle choices can help the gynecologist rule out other potential causes and recommend the best action.
The following therapies may be able to lessen the symptoms of vaginal dryness.
1. Maintaining Hydration: Water consumption of six to eight glasses each day will assist in maintaining the lubrication of all tissues, including subcutaneous ones. Because mucus is 90 percent water, it will keep the vagina moist.
2. Lubricants: To get over the issue during intercourse, utilize water-based lubricants with a short half-life. In an attempt to lessen the pain that occurs during intercourse, many women turn to personal lubricants.
3. Moisturizers: Using a vaginal moisturizer can provide immediate relief for many women who have vaginal dryness regularly, not just during sexual activity. Moisturizers can be applied once a day or two to three times a week to help moisten the tissues in the vagina.
4. Vitamin E: Natural antioxidant vitamin E has been shown to help reduce inflammation and stop vaginal tissue aging.
5. Exercise for the Pelvis: Exercises for the pelvis do not endanger pregnancy and can be quite beneficial in encouraging increased blood flow to the vagina.
What Should One Avoid to Ease Vaginal Dryness During Pregnancy?
To relieve vaginal dryness during pregnancy, some things to be avoided are:
1. It is not advised to utilize hormone therapy, such as Estradiol cream, when pregnant. Talk with the healthcare practitioner about the dangers associated with hormone therapy.
2. Refrain from applying scented lotions, deodorants, and soaps around the vagina. These items could cause irritation, worsening the dryness.
Conclusion
During pregnancy, vaginal dryness is normal and can be treated. Pregnancy-related vaginal dryness can have several causes, including increased estrogen levels, microbial infections, and some drugs. Common symptoms include discomfort during sexual activity, recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs), frequent urges to urinate, and pain during urination. Vaginal dryness can be treated and even prevented by drinking enough water, using lubricants and moisturizers, and wearing loose cotton pants.
