The journey through menopause can be a challenging one for many women, specifically due to modern-day stressors and the typical Western diet. It's marked by numerous physical and emotional changes and among the many challenges women face during this time, one common yet often unspoken issue is vaginal dryness. As oestrogen levels decline, the delicate tissues of the vagina become less lubricated. Both our cervical and our arousal fluids are impacted.
Cervical fluid - produced by the cervix and changes throughout our cycle to prevent or facilitate sperm from making their way to an egg.
Arousal fluid - created within the vagina as part of our sexual response.
Because oestrogen helps to maintain the vagina's elasticity and thickness it means that low levels lead to thinning, drying, and inflammation of the vaginal walls. Also known as vaginal atrophy. As you can imagine, this causes mild to severe discomfort, pain during intercourse, intimacy, burning, itchiness and often diminished sensation (numbness) and pleasure.
While vaginal dryness can be distressing, the good news is that there are natural treatments available to help restore comfort and intimacy, empowering women to reclaim their femininity and embrace this new chapter of life with confidence.
Other Causes of Vaginal Dryness
While vaginal dryness typically shows up during menopause, there are other reasons for vaginal dryness and they include:
A lack of foreplay
Not feeling aroused
Emotional challenges with intimacy such as lack of confidence or unresolved trauma
Relationship problems
Feelings of guilt or worrying about becoming pregnant
Low levels of oestrogen as a result of breastfeeding
Causes that should be further investigated by a doctor include:
Lichen sclerosus or Lichen planus
Vaginal infections
Allergic reactions
Tumours of the urogenital tract
The Consequences of Vaginal Dryness in Menopause
The symptoms associated with vaginal dryness not only affect a woman's physical comfort but can also have a profound impact on her emotional well-being and intimate relationships. The reluctance to engage in sexual intimacy due to discomfort can strain partnerships and contribute to feelings of stress and inadequacy. One of the other key reasons to address vaginal dryness quickly is that it can lead to:
Vaginal bleeding - due to increased tissue fragility.
A change in pH - a vagina that is too alkaline increases the likelihood of infections like bacterial vaginosis and thrush (candida).
Tissue atrophy of the urinary system - The tissues of the vagina and the urinary tract are closely connected, and the decline in oestrogen levels during menopause affects both areas. This is then linked to urinary frequency, incontinence, post-voiding dribble, and non-bacterial urethritis.
Pain or bleeding during and after sexual intercourse - also known as dyspareunia.
Natural Treatments For Vaginal Dryness
While vaginal dryness can be an unwelcome aspect of menopause, it is essential to remember that menopause itself is a normal part of the aging process. This means rather than suppressing the inevitable transition with hormone replacement therapies, by embracing a holistic approach and reaching out for the right support, women can regain control of their bodies and navigate this transition with grace and confidence.
Given the potential risks associated with traditional hormone-based treatments, many women are turning to natural remedies to address vaginal dryness. These alternative approaches aim to stimulate the body's own mechanisms for hormonal balance and promote optimal vaginal health.
Sea buckthorn oil
This oil is rich in essential fatty acids, vitamins, and antioxidants that can help improve vaginal moisture and elasticity. It can be applied topically to the vulva, use intravaginally with a syringe or taken orally. Some studies have shown that sea buckthorn oil can also help reduce inflammation and improve vaginal pH balance.
"A 3gm daily oral dose of SBT oil over three months was found to improve the integrity of the vaginal epithelium and regulate vaginal pH in people confirmed with atrophic vaginal changes."
We sell SBT oil in the Kiyah Clinic.
Fennel Oil
Fennel oil is a natural oestrogen modulator that can help stimulate the production of vaginal fluids. Fennel oil applied intra-vaginally was found to decrease vaginal atrophic changes, dyspareunia (painful sex), and overall improved vaginal mucosal health. When combined with a vaginal probiotic we see incredible results in women overcoming their symptoms. This is something we use so much in the Kiyah Clinic that we have bundled it up and sell it in the Kiya Store for you ~ The Vital Vagina Bundle.
Vaginal Probiotic
This is different to the usual probiotics that are designed for gut health. This type of probiotic contains bugs that naturally reside in the vagina and thus help to restore the natural balance of bacteria. Supplementation can reduce the risk of infections, reduce inflammation, normalise pH and improve overall vaginal health. It's a game changer for women suffering with vaginal dryness and re-current vaginal infections.
Green Tea
Green tea is another natural remedy that can help improve vaginal dryness. It is a prebiotic which has been shown to encourage the growth of vagina specific bacteria and inhibit the growth of pathogenic bacteria. Green tea also contains antioxidants that can help improve blood flow and reduce inflammation in the vaginal area. Drinking strong, organic green tea regularly is encouraged to help promote overall vaginal health. It can also be cooled and used in a spray bottle externally.
Lactulose
Lactulose is a non-absorbable sugar that acts as a prebiotic in both the gut and the vagina. This can help improve vaginal pH balance and reduce the risk of infections. Research and clinical use support the use of small amounts of lactulose applied intra-vaginally to broadly and specifically stimulate beneficial vaginal bacteria. It can be used on a tampon, in a capsule or as a gentle laxative.
Vitamin E
Vitamin E suppositories are another natural remedy that can help improve vaginal dryness. Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant that can help improve skin elasticity and reduce inflammation in the vaginal area. Some women find that a high-quality Vitamin E capsule inserted into the vagina at night helps to relieve itching and irritation of the vaginal lining. The capsule will dissolve with the heat of the body and the oil will lubricate the lining and reduce the discomfort associated with the dryness. Remember to wear a panty liner.
Finally, Some Lifestyle Suggestions
Avoid wearing synthetic underwear. Choose natural fibres such as organic or bamboo cotton as these reduce sweating and irritation in the genital area.
To protect vaginal tissues, avoid anything that irritates the mucous membranes such as harsh soaps, bubble baths, douches and feminine hygiene sprays. Also, refrain from using harsh laundry detergents when washing your underwear.
Avoid using antihistamines and diuretics as these can further deplete the body and tissues of fluids.
Ensure you are adequately hydrated with filtered water to flush out wastes and keep tissues moisturised.
If you require extra lubrication during sexual intercourse, you can purchase a natural lubrication fluid from health food stores. Yes yes yes and Olive & Bee are petroleum-free, gentle and natural lubricants for personal use.
Choose feminine hygiene products carefully. Many products available have dyes, fragrances, petroleum and other ingredients that can cause the delicate vaginal tissues to dry out.