Vaginal dryness – it’s a common problem, but it’s not something to be ashamed of that you have to deal with forever. So, what causes your vagina to be dry? Why does your vagina not feel wet enough? There are many reasons and many ways to help alleviate this issue.
So, why is Your Vagina Dry?!
As we get older, our bodies change, and our hormone levels do as well. Vaginal dryness especially affects women after menopause and can create painful sexual intercourse. Remember that sex shouldn’t hurt, and that there are so many things available now to help with vaginal dryness!
Do you feel embarrassed that you may take it personally? Maybe you get wet enough but still experience vaginal dryness, discomfort after intercourse or using a sex toy. All of these things are totally normal. There’s absolutely no reason to stress it – your body changes and needs help sometimes! Whether you’re getting on or off your period, extra stressed, or just dehydrated, lubricant is always there to save the day. Many women feel ashamed to need to use these products during intimacy, but it’s very normal, and a fun part of sexual relations.
Vaginal Dryness Treatments.
Lubricants are heaven sent to help those who experience vaginal dryness. Lubricants can enhance your sexual experience and make the burning sensation go away. They also add more slip and slide, and come in variations such as water based, silicone based, and even flavored! Not all lubes are the same for everyone. Water-based lubes are the best choice for most toys, as they don’t affect the integrity of the toys’ material. They are also great for sensitive skin and in conjunction with condoms.
Reasons to use lubricant are so abundant- from what’s listed above, to just extra slip and slide during sex. Either way, these products are made for a reason; to help you and your partner have more fun and feel more confident in sexual settings. Take advantage of the many flavors and kinds of lubricants available. The V for Vibes team has put together a few of their favorite choices for you to try.
Many brands make water-based lubricants, but KY has many versions, some that warm, some that cool, and other options to enhance your sexual experience. These are available easily at a drugstore or Amazon. However, water-based lubes can dry quicker than a silicone version, meaning it may have to be applied more often. If you don’t mind reapplying, water based may be the perfect option for you.
Silicone lubes last longer, which means it doesn’t need to be reapplied as frequently. They don’t evaporate as easily when exposed to air. Since they’re silicone based, they can also be used in the bath or shower. Water and water-based lubes don’t mix for this kind of play. However, silicone lubes can break down latex condoms and toys that have latex. They also can stain clothes and sheets. You’ll need to wash them with soap and water, and they still may leave an odd, greasy stain. If this may bother you, consider using a water-based lubricant instead.
The classic lubricant of most people’s choice is a non-flavored, water-based lube. This fan favorite works well with most toys and is extremely easy to clean off of both toys and bodies. So many brands carry these products; you can find them online, at sex shops, and even most convenience and grocery stores. They’re popular for a reason – most people don’t experience negative reactions to water-based lubricants, and they’re super easy to reapply. The one downside to a water-based lubricant, however, is the need to reapply periodically. They do tend to dry down a little faster, but there’s never harm in applying more.
Another popular kind of lubricant is the silicone-based formula, which is also commonly available. These stay slippery much longer than the water-based types of lubes, but they are not usable on some types of sex toys, such as silicone toys. They’re considered more reactive, and as with all lubes, you should definitely spot test before using them outright. A benefit to a silicone-based lube is being able to keep moisture for longer- less reapplication needed. You can use these with glass and metal sex toys, but they can degrade your silicone and ABS plastic toys, so be cautious.
Flavored lubricants are fun for oral pleasure– but not the best to use. Prone to causing yeast infections when they have internal contact with your vagina, these should stay away from your most used line up. While they can be fun for blow jobs, we wouldn’t recommend using them for anything more than external body play.
Natural lubricants are a tricky topic. While we’re all for using things that are as natural as possible, using your own concoction can be unsafe. Many women swear by coconut oil, but this can actually be clogging to your vaginal walls and can cause reactions and infections. Anytime you want to use something like this, you should consult with your physician first. He or she can guide you the proper route.
Now that you know a few types of sexual lubricants, the possibilities are endless.
One of our favorite ways to use lubricant is to assist in self-pleasure. Using a water-based lubricant on a dildo like the Rhea – 10 Speed Powerful Magic Wand Vibrator/Massager by V For Vibes can make insertion much easier, and more fun! Adding lube to the wand side can also create more fun sensations in the external clitoral stimulation that you experience and prevent any unwanted friction that you may experience. Lubricants can also be used to aid in anal play – whether you are having anal sex, using toys such as butt plugs, or just experimenting with fingering this area. Using a lubricant can prevents any tears and discomfort in that sensitive area.
Are you stressed and unable to get as wet as you used to? Add a little lube to the mix! You can also use these products to help with hand jobs for your partner. Lube is the gift that keeps on giving – endless ways to use it, for endless fun.
Remember that foreplay is an optimal thing regardless of your vaginal dryness or wetness level. Foreplay gets your body aroused and helps get that wetness started by increasing blood flow to the genitals. This is a key point to make sure your body is as ready and wet as possible. The more stimulation you have, the bidder the chance of additional natural lubrication. Try incorporating oral sex into your foreplay to add some artificial wetness, and then move on to clitoral stimulation. Once you feel ready, adding in fingers can really get those juices flowing and your vagina ready for action.
Vaginal Moisturizers might be a solution for vaginal dryness.
Did you know there are vaginal moisturizers? These are created to help balance your vagina’s pH, and to prevent dryness. They don’t treat why you’re dry but can help in your day to day life and increase your comfort levels astronomically.
Estrogen is the key hormone that affects your vagina. When you’re low on estrogen, you’re often low in natural lubrication. Be sure to see your OB/GYN to explore options to assist in estrogen replacement if you feel you’re suffering from this lack of hormone. This doesn’t always happen due to menopause, though that is typically the primary cause. Birth control and other medications can also lead to a hormonal imbalance.
Because vaginal dryness is such a common issue among many women, there’s no reason to feel ashamed or embarrassed. No one should have to deal with painful sexual intercourse, or discomfort down there. Doctors are here to help you overcome any discomfort you may experience, and this is not an issue to sweep under the sheets! You deserve to feel pleasure and happiness.
Legal medical disclaimer: the content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.