Here are some of the signs and symptoms to watch out for that can help you find out why
Hormonal imbalance and bad hygiene are some of the factors that can lead to vagina dehydration. So what can one do to counter these problems?
One of the most delicate parts of a woman’s body is the vagina. Carelessness and neglecting good hygiene can have a harmful effect on it. The resulting issues include itching, burning sensation, foul odor and infection. Pain during sex also signifies the vagina needs medical attention. Research has proven that many things could lead to vaginal dehydration, of which discomfort and pain during sex is a common symptom.
The vaginal microbiome consists of good yeast and bacteria, and not consuming enough water can alter the vagina’s hormonal balance. You become more prone to yeast infections if the good bacteria has been significantly altered.
5 signs and symptoms of a dehydrated vagina to be watched out for:
- If you feel a burning sensation while urinating
- If the vulva area becomes sore and red
- If, during sexual intercourse, you experience pain and discomfort
- Vaginal inflammation
- Unusual discharge from the vagina
- Passing out urine frequently
- When urinary tract infections (UTIs) keep reoccurring
What are the primary causes of vagina dehydration?
1. Douching
Douching means cleaning and washing the vagina with water, and it is a method that often leads to vagina dehydration. Applying chemical-based soaps, creams and perfumes on or around the vagina area could lead to vagina dehydration.
2. Hormonal fluctuation
Chemotherapy and radiotherapy are two leading causes of vagina dehydration; a woman’s vagina can also get dehydrated when she’s in her postnatal stage or breastfeeding.
3. Contraceptive
Taking contraceptives could lead to dryness in a woman’s vagina. Health experts advise that women should avoid taking contraceptives regularly.
4. Smoking
Smoking harms a woman’s lungs and other internal organs. Regular smoking promotes vaginal dehydration in a woman.
5. Stress
Anxiety and stress are among the factors that promote vaginal dehydration in a woman. When a woman is stressed and anxious, there’s a change in the pH balance as a result of hormonal balance, and this can lead to vaginal dehydration.
6. Hysterectomy
Going under the surgery to remove your ovaries is a factor that could lead to dryness around the vagina.
7. Chemical based products
Applying chemical-based products such as; perfumed soaps, fragrances of different kinds, feminine hygiene products, and chemicals promotes vaginal dehydration.
8. Low estrogen levels
Estrogen is a minute hormone found in a woman’s body. Even in small amounts, they play a significant role in ensuring that a woman’s health is in check. Estrogen has a lot of functions in the woman’s body, amongst which are; vaginal elasticity and thickness. It also helps in maintaining the lubrication of the vagina. If the body doesn’t get the required amount of estrogen, it will lead to dehydration and inflammation of the vagina. One other factor that can’t be neglected when discussing vagina dehydration is menopause– it’d lead to vaginal dehydration.
If you are experiencing any of the signs or symptoms of vaginal dehydration talk with your health care provider.
