THERE are many different factors that can affect a woman’s natural ability to get and stay lubricated. Under normal circumstances, the vagina naturally produces lubricating fluid that facilitates things like sexual intercourse. Plasma seepage from vaginal walls due to vascular engorgement is considered to be the chief lubrication source, while glands, located slightly below and to the left and right of the opening of the vagina, also secrete mucus to moisten the vagina.
Vaginal dryness occurs when the glands are not producing enough mucus.
It is mostly associated with menopause, but can also be caused from things like stress or the use of birth control pills. It may be a problem during sex only, or it may cause itching or a burning sensation all the time.
Other causes of vaginal dryness are:
•Declining oestrogen levels: The most common cause of vaginal dryness is declining oestrogen production especially in older women, which leads to thinning and drying of the vaginal walls. Other factors include reduced muscle tone and the longer time needed for sexual arousal that is common in perimenopause (time leading up to menopause).
•Underlying medical conditions: Underlying medical conditions can also lead to a dry vagina. It can be a side effect of medical conditions such as chronic yeast infections, bacterial infections, diabetes, antidepressants or some medications.
•Emotional issues: Likewise, if you are depressed or under tremendous stress, this can cause vaginal dryness. Dryness and lack of arousal can also be a signal of unresolved problems in a relationship.
There are a number of ways to tackle this problem.
1. Resolve problems — Talk to your partner about any underlying problem that may be causing you stress.
2. Drink more water — Having an adequate fluid intake will help in the production of mucus.
3. Clitoral stimulation — older women may need a longer time to get stimulated and so men need to spend more time in foreplay.
4. Cunnilingus — This form of clitoral stimulation works wonders in stimulation. A woman is likely to have one orgasm during cunnilingus, and another during genital intercourse.
5. Lubricants — There are lubrications on the market specifically for this purpose that works wonders in getting rid of the dryness.
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