You may have noticed as you’ve gotten older that you’ve been a bit dryer ‘down there’. A lack of vaginal lubrication is a sign of vaginal atrophy (atrophic vaginitis), which means that the vaginal walls are thinning due to a decline in oestrogen.
It is completely normal, and in fact around 40 per cent of post-menopausal women experience vaginal dryness.
Unfortunately a decline in natural lubrication can mean discomfort and soreness when you have sex or even day to day.
Here are some natural ways to combat vaginal dryness:
More sex
If you have very bad vaginal dryness, this is not advised. However, if your dryness is only mild, sex can make it promote natural lubrication.
Aloe vera gel
A mixture of aloe vera gel and fresh milk can treat vaginal dryness if applied to the area regularly.
Flaxseeds
This nutritious food can be added to meals and is a herbal cure for vaginal dryness as it enhances lubrication. Flaxseed oil can also be taken according to the instructions on the bottom, and is a good alternative for those with mild vaginal dryness.
Fatty acids
A diet high in fatty acids may aid in producing additional vaginal lubrication. Consider eating pumpkin, sesame seeds, sunflower seeds, and fish (especially salmon, mackerel and tuna) as these are all high in fatty acids. Vitamin A and B supplements and beta-carotene also have high levels of omega 3 fatty acids.
Coconut oil
Coconut oil is a healthy fat that helps restore the body’s natural level of hydration. This treatment can be used as a lubricant or supplement to treat dryness.
Omega 3 fatty acids
Eat more omega-3s! Raw pumpkin, sunflower seeds, mackerel, tuna or salmon and even sesame seeds too help cure the vaginal dryness issue over time.
Water
Drink at least 8-10 glasses of water every day – reduce coffee and alcohol consumption as much as possible.
Olive oil
Olive oil is the closest remedy to a woman’s vaginal moistening. A teaspoon of olive oil rubbed twice a day around the vagina can work to encourage lubrication.
Strengthen your pelvic floor
Pelvic exercises target the muscles of the pelvic floor that support the rectum, vagina, and the urethra in the pelvis. Not only will doing these lead to a better sex life, they also strengthen your pelvic floor providing better urine control and fewer urgent trips to the bathroom.
And remember: while it may seem embarrassing to bring up the topic of vaginal dryness with your doctor, it is an important medical condition. If it is affecting your life and is making you feel very uncomfortable, see your doctor.
And although home remedies may not cure the cause of vaginal dryness, they do provide some relief, especially for women who choose not to use HRT.