Women have come a long way. Topics like PMS, breast cancer and overactive bladder that were once taboo are now discussed openly. But there is still one big issue that women rarely talk about.
Millions suffer from vaginal dryness, but they keep it a secret. Although lower estrogen levels associated with menopause are a common cause, other factors can also contribute. Certain drugs can have a drying effect on mucus membranes. These include some allergy medicines, antidepressants, antipsychotics and hormone modifiers used to treat breast cancer or endometriosis.
Many women stopped using hormone replacement therapy after a study came out last summer showing it does not protect against heart disease and can increase the risk of breast cancer. As a result, more women and their partners are trying to come up with solutions for vaginal dryness, which can cause irritation or uncomfortable intercourse.
One reader suggests that using estrogen doesn’t have to mean taking pills:
“Lack of estrogen causes the urogenital system to atrophy and the vaginal walls to thin. This causes burning during urination and problems during relations.
“Lubricants are not enough, and estrogen vaginal cream did not work well for me. My solution is Estring, a prescription insert (replaced once every 3 months) that supplies a continuous low dose of estrogen. This is not only safe; it improves the quality of life tremendously.”
Estring is a vaginal ring that releases a total of 2 mg of estrogen over the course of three months. When estrogen is taken orally as Estrace, the dose is often 1 mg per day (90 mg over three months).
Many readers of this column have found that lubricants like K-Y Jelly, Replens, Astroglide, vitamin E oil, Corn Huskers Lotion, or Albolene Moisturizing Cleanser can help significantly. But some women worry about using petroleum-based lubricants like Albolene or Vaseline. For one thing, they can destroy latex and make condoms unreliable.
We have heard of a number of alternatives. One reader found the answer in her pantry:
“I suggest a much more natural lubricant which is not greasy but is good for your body. It is pure olive oil. (It can be edible, too.) I have been using olive oil for this purpose for a couple of years. When my doctor did a pelvic exam, he thought I was taking hormones although I am not. I think olive oil has natural vitamin E to keep women youthful.”
Another reader advised us of an unusual product:
“I am chemically sensitive, so I avoid many products. I found a kiwi-based vaginal lubricant from New Zealand called SYLK [available in the U.S. by calling 602-957-7955]. Just a small amount is needed, and I like it a lot.”
Still another reader waxed enthusiastic about a different water-based product with a similar name: “I came upon something called Liquid Silk. It is incredible. I had forgotten what sex was really supposed to feel like. It’s available through Internet pharmacies like drugstore.com.”
Now that people are talking about sensitive topics such as erectile dysfunction or overactive bladder, it’s time to address vaginal dryness. Lubrication is not the only issue that can affect sexual enjoyment, but it should no longer be kept a secret.
