Vaginal dryness can affect women of all ages and usually isn’t fun for anyone involved. While there are many reasons dryness can occur, there are also a number of effective natural remedies that can help alleviate symptoms and support vaginal health.
In this article, we’ll explore ten natural remedies for vaginal dryness. From lifestyle changes to herbal remedies and self-care practices, these holistic approaches can provide much-needed relief and encourage overall vaginal health.
What Is Vaginal Dryness?
Vaginal dryness is a condition characterized by a lack of moisture in the vaginal tissues. It is a common issue experienced by women of all ages, but it's especially prevalent among postmenopausal women.
The main cause of vaginal dryness is a decrease in estrogen levels, the hormone responsible for maintaining the elasticity and moisture of the vaginal walls. When estrogen levels drop, the vaginal tissues can become thin, dry, and less elastic, leading to feelings of discomfort and irritation.
Causes of Vaginal Dryness
Although hormonal changes are the main cause of vaginal dryness, there can be other factors that play a part.
These can include:
- Certain medications
- Douching or using irritating soaps
- Allergies and sensitivities to certain products
- Chronic stress
- Smoking
Symptoms of vaginal dryness can vary from person to person, but they typically include irritation, itching, burning, and pain. There may also be a decrease in natural lubrication during sexual intercourse. If you're experiencing any of these symptoms, we recommend speaking to your doctor to make sure you identify the root cause of your dryness.
How Can You Naturally Address Vaginal Dryness?
Vaginal dryness can be a difficult condition to manage, but there are several natural methods you can try to reduce symptoms and encourage overall vaginal health.
Drink More Water
It may sound simple, but one of the easiest and most effective ways to combat dryness down there is to drink more water.
Staying properly hydrated ensures that your body has enough moisture to keep your skin — including the skin around your intimate area — healthy and supple. Aim for eight to ten glasses of H2O per day, and incorporate more hydrating fruits and vegetables into your diet.
Avoid Harsh Soaps
Many commercial soaps and intimate washes contain harsh chemicals and synthetic fragrances that can strip away the natural moisture from your intimate area, leading to dryness and itching.
To avoid this problem, choose a gentle, fragrance-free soap or an intimate wash specifically designed for sensitive skin. Not sure where to find one? Check out our pH Balancing Cleanser™, an OB/GYN-approved cleanser that gently cleans the vulva without disrupting vaginal flora and pH levels.*
Take Vitamin E Supplements
Vitamin E is an antioxidant powerhouse that can help protect and nourish the skin, making it an excellent addition to your daily routine if you're dealing with dryness down there.
You can find vitamin E supplements in various forms, such as capsules or topical oils — just be sure to get the go-ahead from your healthcare provider before starting a new supplement to ensure it's right for you.
Incorporate Healthy Fats
Adding healthy fats like avocado, nuts, and fish to your diet can help support moisture levels and ease symptoms of vaginal dryness. Healthy fats also provide essential nutrients that can help support skin health and general well-being.
Moisturize with Natural Products
When you're dealing with vaginal dryness, it's important to keep the area moisturized. In general, try to avoid using conventional lubricants, as they can disrupt your vaginal pH balance, and instead opt for natural products.
These include:
- Coconut oil. This is a versatile natural remedy that can be used for many purposes — including as a lubricant for vaginal dryness. It contains antiviral and antibacterial properties that can help protect against infection, and it's also gentle on the skin. Simply apply a small amount to the vaginal area as needed for relief.
- Aloe vera. This ingredient has been known for its incredible healing properties, and it can also be helpful when it comes to vaginal dryness. Aloe contains hydrating properties that can help soothe dry, irritated skin. You can apply a little aloe vera gel directly to the vaginal area or use aloe vera-based products designed specifically for vaginal dryness.
Note: Make sure to do a quick patch test on your skin before applying any natural product to your intimate area, just to make sure you don't have any adverse reactions.
Avoid Stressful Situations
Stress can have a substantial impact on your vaginal health, so it's important to keep stress levels in check to maintain optimal lubrication levels. That means finding small ways to relax and unwind, such as yoga, meditation, and long walks.
Exercise Regularly
Exercising regularly is essential for overall health, and it can also help ease symptoms of vaginal dryness. Regular physical activity can help promote healthy circulation, which can then help support lubrication levels and ease discomfort.
It also releases endorphins — your body's natural feel-good hormones — which can help you relax, find calm, and reduce stress.
Use Comfy Cream
If you're searching for an easy way to keep your vaginal area hydrated, try using a moisturizer specifically designed for the vulva — like our Comfy Cream®. Designed for razor burn, irritated skin, and daily vulva care, this doctor-developed moisturizer can help keep the bikini area silky and smooth.
Pro Tip: Pair this moisturizer with our pH Balancing Wipes™ for a refreshed personal care routine.
Wear Breathable Clothing
While you may be tempted to wear tight-fitting jeans and underwear, it's important to remember that air circulation is key when it comes to vaginal health.
Tight-fitting clothing can cause irritation and impede healthy airflow, making it more difficult for your vagina to self-moisturize. To avoid this issue, opt for breathable fabrics such as cotton or silk and make sure your clothing fits loosely down there.
Herbs for Vaginal Dryness
Herbal remedies have been used for many centuries to soothe a variety of ailments, and they can be beneficial for vaginal dryness as well. Herbs such as calendula and chamomile can help soothe irritation, while marshmallow root extract can help encourage lubrication.
Many of these herbs are available in capsule or tincture form, so you can easily incorporate them into your routine.
The Bottom Line
These natural remedies offer alternative solutions for managing vaginal dryness and encouraging vaginal health. From the moisturizing properties of coconut oil and our Comfy Cream® to the benefits of omega-3 fatty acids and staying hydrated, there are plenty of ways to feel more comfortable in the skin you're in.
Remember, it's always best to consult with a healthcare provider, such as a gynecologist, before starting any new supplement or treatment plan.
Here at Love Wellness, we're dedicated to helping women feel their best. Whether you're looking for natural remedies to soothe vaginal dryness or just need some self-care tips, we have products that can help. Check us out today to show yourself some love down there!
Sources:
Vaginal Dryness: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment | Cleveland Clinic
Experiencing Vaginal Dryness? Here's What You Need to Know | ACOG
Exercise and stress: Get moving to manage stress | Mayo Clinic
The Potential Uses of Omega-3 Fatty Acids in Dermatology: A Review | PMC