Vaginal Dryness

Vaginal Dryness

It's hard to determine which aches more because of this condition--your vagina or your feelings. Sex becomes a lot less fun if you lack the natural lubrication to enjoy lovemaking. In fact, it may get downright painful. But there's also the self-doubt, depression and even anger that you and your partner might feel because of it.

Instead of blaming yourself (or him), you might want to point the finger at a lack of estrogen. During menopause, you can expect estrogen to be in short supply. But if that's not the only reason for the problem, other causes might include a low-grade vaginal infection, taking birth control pills or even the natural aging process. Besides getting estrogen replacement therapy from your doctor, here are some natural ways to make intercourse go more smoothly.

Toss out the cigs. "Smoking destroys estrogen in the body," says Ellen Yankauskas, M.D., director of the Women's Center for Family Health in Atascadero, California. Since the most common cause of vaginal dryness is lack of enough estrogen, smoking only makes the problem worse.

Choose the right lubricant. You can remedy vaginal dryness with a commercial lubricant, but avoid anything scented or oil-based. "You want a lubricant that's water-soluble, unscented, colorless, odorless and tasteless," says John Willems, M.D., associate clinical professor of obstetrics/gynecology at the University of California, San Diego, and a researcher at the Scripps Clinic and Research Foundation in La Jolla. "After that, it's a matter of personal choice." He and other experts recommend Astroglide, SurgiLube, Lubrin vaginal inserts, Gyne Moisturin and the more familiar K-Y jelly. Another recommended product is Replens, a moisturizer that can be used on a regular basis. The key is to stay away from oil-based products like petroleum jelly or cocoa butter--or homemade recipes. "Some people use whatever is on the night table-things like suntan oil," says Dr. Willems. "But they aren't good for the vagina and can cause problems."

Go for fatty acids. Eating foods that are rich in fatty acids can be a big help. Among the best sources are raw pumpkin, sesame and sunflower seeds. Also eat fish that contain lots of fatty acids: Salmon, tuna and mackerel are all good choices, because they help retain estrogen in the body, says Susan Lark, M.D., medical director of the PMS and Menopause Self-Help Center in Los Altos, California.

Don't douche. Most douche products have a drying effect, which contributes to vaginal dryness, adds Dr. Yankauskas. "In general, you shouldn't douche unless you feel it's absolutely necessarily--and it's usually not."

Savor the moment. "Give yourself more time for foreplay," says Dr. Willems. As women age, he points out, their response to sexual stimulus is slower. You don't lose sexual response--it just occurs at a different pace.