Simple Solutions For Vaginal Dryness That Provide Instant Relief

Estrogen and progesterone are needed for your vagina to naturally lubricate.  Due to hormones shifts that start in perimenopause and menopause, dryness is common as secretions diminish.

Progesterone levels tend to decrease first, which can artificially elevate estrogen.  As menopause progresses and estrogen drops, vaginal dryness becomes more of an issue because estrogen is more involved than progesterone in keeping the vagina lubricated.

Prescription hormone therapy is one option to alleviate vaginal dryness, but there are some natural solutions that can help too. 

For immediate relief, consider natural topical solutions like these:

Vitamin E Vaginal Suppositories. These over the counter suppositories can be soothing and helpful in increasing lubrication.  Use nightly, as directed on the package.  Choose a naturally sourced vitamin E product.

Natural Oils. Cold-pressed, organic coconut, olive, sweet almond, sunflower, or jojoba oils are gentle, natural lube options. Apply them when you shower or use more specifically to make sex more comfortable.  Do note that oils can degrade latex and cause condoms to break.  In the postmenopausal period, pregnancy may not be an issue, but STD’s may be. 

Sylk.  Sylk is a natural personal lubricant made from kiwifruit vine. It is free from parabens and propylene glycol.

For long-term relief, try the following suggestions before or in conjunction with hormonal support.

Hydrate! A body that is constantly dehydrated will never be well lubricated. Alcohol and caffeine add to dehydration, so avoid them and see if you notice an improvement. Always keep a bottle of filtered water handy and drink up!  8 eight-ounce glasses a day!

Eat. A balanced diet that includes plenty of healthy fats will help boost estrogen production. Sugar causes a ton of hormonal imbalance and should be avoided; if you need something sweet, opt for a fiber-rich whole fruit like berries!  

Phytoestrogens. Whole soy products are controversial, but they may boost your hormones enough to relieve vaginal dryness, as can other foods high in phytoestrogens (nuts, flaxseed, apples, celery, cherries).  Black cohosh, red clover, and kudzu may also be beneficial sources.