5 Ways to Reduce Vaginal Dryness After 50

As you enter and move through menopause, you’re likely to notice some changes. One of the more disruptive shifts that can occur is vaginal dryness, which can make sex far less enjoyable than it once was. But there’s no need to set aside this essential part of life when there are treatments that can help. 

For women in and around Cary, North Carolina, the team at Cary Laser, Aesthetics, and Center for Hair Restoration is here to help, with compassionate, warm providers who strive to improve your quality of life. Vijaya Polavaram, MD, prides herself on helping women navigate menopause with ease, including improving vaginal dryness. 

Why am I experiencing reduced natural lubrication?

The majority of menopause symptoms are directly linked to shifting estrogen production. As you near the end of your reproductive years, your body naturally begins to produce less estrogen. This can create a number of changes, some of which are easier to manage than others. 

Estrogen helps your body produce the natural lubrication that keeps your vaginal walls thick and moist. This ensures that sex is pleasurable by reducing friction. Lower estrogen levels can lead to thinning of the vaginal walls, and less natural lubrication can allow discomfort and even small tears to develop during sex. 

Menopause isn’t the only thing that can affect natural vaginal lubrication. Childbirth, breastfeeding, medications used to treat certain gynecologic issues, and surgical removal of the ovaries can also cause vaginal dryness at any age. 

What can be done to reduce vaginal dryness?

There are steps you can take to enhance vaginal lubrication and continue a rich and fulfilling sex life. 

Over-the-counter lubricants

There are a wide range of products designed to make sex more comfortable. Try a few options to find the formulation that works best for you and your partner.

Vaginal estrogen therapy

Adding supplemental topical estrogen directly to vaginal tissues can help restore optimal lubrication. These products come in the form of creams, vaginal tablets, and rings that slowly release estrogen over time. 

Hormone replacement therapy

Supplemental hormone therapy uses synthetic hormones to balance your body’s natural estrogen production. There are multiple ways to administer supplemental hormones, including injections and small pellets inserted beneath the surface of your skin. 

Prescription medication

Some women find relief through oral medications that help thicken the vaginal walls. These drugs carry a risk of side effects, however, and are not a good fit for everyone. 

MonaLisa Touch®

This innovative laser therapy offers the chance to improve vaginal dryness as well as a loss of tightness within the vagina. Treatments are safe and comfortable, and you can continue any other menopause treatments at the same time. 

Don’t wait to seek help with vaginal dryness

A healthy sexual connection with your partner is an essential part of overall health and wellness, and also creates and nurtures a strong relationship. If you notice changes related to vaginal lubrication, don’t wait to seek help. 

There are many ways to improve vaginal lubrication and maintain enjoyable sexual experiences. Dr. Polavaram offers personalized consultations to explore treatment options at  Cary Laser, Aesthetics, and Center for Hair Restoration. Booking a visit is as easy as a quick phone call or a few moments on the online booking page.