Tips on surviving vaginal dryness - and save your marriage!

VAGINAL DRYNESS
Dryness of the vagina, burning and irritation is a common symptom of menopause and affects most women to varying degrees. This is caused by the decrease in estrogen levels which happens gradually over time until it stabilizes at a new lower level. Vaginal dryness is usually experienced only a few years after menopause occurred.

RESULTS OF THE ABSENCE OF ESTROGEN
Estrogen plays an important role in keeping the vaginal tissue moist and healthy. As soon as there is a decrease in estrogen, the following happen:

1. The vaginal lining or mucosa becomes thin and is easily damaged
2. Lubrication decreases which leads to slow and poor lubrication during sexual activity
3. The vagina shrinks due to a reduction in vaginal blood supply and it is known as vaginal atrophy
4. Small wounds caused by intercourse will heal very slowly due to poor deliverance of nutrients from the blood
5. The vagina tends to become less acidic, thus yeast and bacterial infections occurs more frequently
6. The area surrounding the entrance to the vagina (vulva) is more sensitive to the changes in estrogen levels and may become thin, dry and cracked.

The result - you don't want to have sex anymore - and this can put some strain on your relationship or marriage. You partner will not understand what's going on or what you're going through, unless you tell him. If he understands that the reluctance to have sex is not his fault but because of vaginal dryness and the mechanics behind it, he will have a better understanding and can give you better support.

SEX AND VAGINAL DRYNESS
Does that mean you have to give up sex? Definitely not!!! There are various ways to help you improve the moisture content of the vagina. Here are a few methods:

1. "Use it or lose it" Yes, as with other things in life this also applies to your vagina. If you do not have intercourse your vagina will lose its moistness, while having intercourse at least once a week will help your vagina to stay moist and healthy. It will also reduce the symptoms of vaginal atrophy. 
2. You can use a lubricant that will reduce friction and the discomfort of intercourse
3. Bioidentical natural estrogen vaginal cream affects the tissue of the vagina and the vulva direct and restores moisture levels over a few weeks.
4. While waiting for the body to naturally restore it's moisture content, a water based lubricant (K-Y Jelly is a good one) can be used for immediate relief. This will make sex more comfortable and relieve the anxiety about painful intercourse. Pain during intercourse can completely kill your urge or desire to have sex. Prevent oil based lubricants such as petroleum jelly and baby oil, as it is not good for the vagina and is also very difficult to remove and maintain a high level of cleanliness and hygiene.
5. Essential fatty acids are very beneficial in preventing or curing vaginal dryness. Of these fatty acids, Omega-3 (Flaxseed oil and fish), Omega-6 (borage oil and evening primrose) and Omega-9 (olive oil) can help to keep the vagina healthy. These fatty acids can also increase hormone production.
6. K-Y Jelly can also be used as a vaginal moisturizer, as it is known for its long lasting effect. A single application can last as long as 72 hours. Some water based lubricants has also shown to increase the acidity of the vagina and thus prevent the growth of infection and increase vaginal secretions.
7. Be careful which soaps you use and avoid harsh soaps.
8. Do not scrub the vulva vigorously as it might cause an irritation. A soft cloth and water will do.
9. The natural form of Vitamin E, instead of the synthetic form, can be very useful for treating vaginal dryness.

THERE IS HOPE
It is a proven fact that sex is an important part of our lives, and that regular intercourse will make you happier, healthier and you will live longer. Don't give up on it or on your marriage, it's worth fighting for. Many women that is in the post-menopausal stage of their life still actively enjoys sex with their partners and are on their way to their happy golden years together.

With good care, perseverance and the right attitude, your sex life may be better now than ever before.