Who is society trying to fool, honestly? Humans are sexual beings by nature, and reproductive health literally makes the world go ‘round! Yet the word “vagina” still causes more cringe than curiosity, and conversations about vaginal health can feel anything but natural.

If you are experiencing vaginal dryness, no matter what stage of life you are in, you’re not alone. And if you shy away from asking questions or seeking medical treatment, you’re not alone in that regard, either. Using knowledge as an antidote to shame and embarrassment, let’s debunk myths and talk tips about vaginal dryness, a treatable and manageable experience that can equally impact sexual pleasure and peace of mind.

Myth #1: Vaginal dryness won’t affect me until I hit menopause.

Vaginal dryness isn’t strictly limited to the menopausal transition. In addition to peri/menopause (low estrogen), vaginal dryness can be caused by breastfeeding, medications, autoimmune disorders, eczema, childbirth, dehydration, inflammation, stress, psoriasis, surgical hysterectomies, smoking, and certain cancer treatments.

Myth #2: Vaginal dryness is embarrassing.

With the global menopause market expected to hit $24.4B by 2025, the midlife transition is having a moment. This isn’t your mama’s menopause! The experience of vaginal dryness is a natural companion to the evolving narrative of our bodies. Self-acceptance is the first step to dismantling the women’s health stigma on a larger scale.

Myth #3: Vaginal dryness will ruin my love life.

The female sexual response cycle (and lube production) can be initiated by physical arousal. That said, vaginal dryness may be a good reason to stay sexually active! Some might say, “if you don’t use it, you lose it.” Regular sexual activity can help stimulate blood flow, maintain natural lubrication, and keep the vaginal tissues elastic, too.

(PS: self-pleasure counts!)

Hormone Hacks for Vaginal Dryness

• HRT (Hormone Replacement Therapy)
• A libido-awakening herbal aphrodisiac tincture can help support arousal and healthy hormone production.
• Topical estrogen therapy and estrogen creams, rings, or tablets (prasterone) can help restore estrogen and relieve dryness when applied to the vaginal tissues.

Routine Tips to Keep Your ‘V’ Happy

• Regular water intake will keep the vaginal tissues hydrated, along with fruits that have a high content in water.
• One hour of yoga a day has been shown to increase desire, arousal, lubrication, orgasm, satisfaction, and relieve pelvic pain.
• Use a gentle vaginal moisturizer the same way you use lotion to minimize dryness on your skin. (Moisturizers are not the same as lube.)

Go From Dry to Wet on the Fly

• A topical arousal formula will absorb directly into the tissue and facilitate immediate blood flow. Natural ingredients like cardamom and cinnamon can help get your juices flowing, too.
• “It’s better to have lube and not need it, than to need lube and not have it.” Lube can enhance pleasure, and a few drops can help your body self-lubricate temporarily.

These are just a handful of treatments to try. If you aren’t getting what you need from your current healthcare provider, find a practitioner who is knowledgeable and supportive.  Ultimately, education, self-compassion and action are the keys for a happy “V”.

Casey Murphy is a certified sex educator, pleasure product expert, copywriter, and a marketing strategist for the sexual wellness industry. Learn more about her work at thecaseymurphy.com or @thecaseymurphy.

Photos: Shutterstock 

We may earn commission from links on this page, but we only recommend products we believe in. Pricing and availability are subject to change.