الثلاثاء، 14 يونيو 2011

Vaginal Dryness


Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors

Vaginal dryness is a lack of natural lubrication in the vagina.
What is going on in the body?
Changes in the vagina occur in response to a woman's hormonal cycle. Estrogen causes the vagina to thicken. Blood vessels bring nutrients and oxygen to the vagina. These maintain vaginal flexibility and health. The amount of mucus and vaginal secretions produced is influenced by many factors. These factors include:
  • bacteria and viruses

  • blood vessels and nerves

  • exercise and sweating

  • female hormones

  • irritants, such as feminine hygiene products

  • sexual arousal

  • stress


    • What are the causes and risks of the condition?
    Vaginal dryness is often caused by changes in the level of female hormones. Situations that alter these levels include:
  • breastfeeding

  • low-dose oral contraceptives

  • menopause



    • Diseases and conditions that may cause vaginal dryness include:
  • cancer of the pelvic organs, such as uterine cancer

  • depression

  • diabetes

  • high blood pressure, with or without medication side effects

  • multiple sclerosis, a degenerative nerve disorder

  • uterine prolapse, a condition in which the uterus drops down into the vagina


    • Other factors that may cause vaginal dryness include:
  • allergic reaction to latex in condoms

  • damage from childbirth

  • inadequate foreplay

  • irritation from feminine hygiene products or tampons

  • medication or drug side effects

  • previous pelvic or abdominal surgery

  • psychological issues, such as past or current sexual abuse

    • Symptoms & Signs

    What are the signs and symptoms of the condition?
    Vaginal dryness may cause the following symptoms:
  • dyspareunia, or painful intercourse

  • frequent Candida albicans,\ \Candida tropicalis,\ \Candida glabrata,\ and \Candida parapsilosis.\ ',CAPTION,'Vaginal Yeast Infection');" onmouseout="return nd();">vaginal yeast infections, with abnormal vaginal discharge

  • itching or burning of the vagina

    • Diagnosis & Tests

    How is the condition diagnosed?
    Diagnosis of the cause of vaginal dryness begins with a medical history and physical exam. The healthcare provider may perform a pelvic exam and Pap smear.

    Prevention & Expectations

    What can be done to prevent the condition?
    Vaginal dryness can sometimes be prevented by treating the underlying cause. Following are some ways to prevent vaginal dryness.
  • Avoid irritating chemicals or products.

  • Control high blood pressure.

  • Follow treatment plans for diabetes and other diseases.

  • Obtain counseling for psychological problems.

  • Use hormone replacement therapy for menopause.


    • What are the risks to others?
    Vaginal dryness is not contagious and poses no risk to others.

    Treatment & Monitoring

    What are the treatments for the condition?
    Hormone replacement therapy can minimize vaginal dryness. Hormones may be taken orally. Estrogen creams, such as estradiol, may be inserted into the vagina. An estrogen patch may be applied to the skin. Water-soluble lubricants may be inserted before intercourse.
    What are the side effects of the treatments?
    Hormone replacement therapy may increase a woman's risk for breast cancer and uterine cancer. Products used to treat vaginal dryness may rarely cause allergic reactions.
    What happens after treatment for the condition?
    Treatment of vaginal dryness may be lifelong.
    How is the condition monitored?
    Any new or worsening symptoms should be reported to the healthcare provider.

    Attribution

    Author:Eva Martin, MD
    Date Written:
    Editor:Ballenberg, Sally, BS
    Edit Date:05/31/01
    Reviewer:Carlos Herrera, MD
    Date Reviewed:05/14/01
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