Running on Empty? Let’s Rehydrate and Rebalance Down below
Vaginal dryness is a common issue, particularly for women going through perimenopause, menopause, or post-menopause, but it can occur at any stage of life. While it might seem like a minor discomfort, vaginal dryness can significantly impact daily life, affecting everything from sexual activity to routine health exams. Understanding why it happens and how to maintain healthy vaginal tissue through balanced pH and good moisture is key to improving comfort and overall vaginal health.
What Causes Vaginal Dryness?
Oestrogen is the hormone responsible for keeping the vaginal tissue lubricated, elastic, and thick. As women age, especially during menopause, the natural decline in oestrogen levels causes the vagina to produce less moisture. This loss of natural lubrication can result in a range of uncomfortable symptoms like itching, burning, soreness, and even pain during sex.
However, vaginal dryness isn’t just an issue for menopausal women. It can also be triggered by other factors such as stress, hormonal birth control, certain medications, or even harsh soaps and douches. In each of these cases, the delicate balance of the vaginal environment is disrupted, leading to dryness and irritation.
The Importance of Vaginal pH Balance
One of the key factors in maintaining healthy vaginal tissue is keeping a balanced pH level. A healthy vagina typically has an acidic pH (around 3.8 to 4.5), which helps prevent harmful bacteria and yeast from overgrowing. This natural acidity supports a healthy vaginal microbiome, keeping infections at bay and ensuring comfort.
When the vaginal pH balance is thrown off, whether due to hormonal changes, infections, or products that disrupt this balance, it can lead to irritation and dryness. Maintaining an optimal pH level helps keep the vaginal tissues hydrated, comfortable, and protected from infections.
Why Moisture Matters
Vaginal tissues need consistent moisture to stay supple and healthy. When these tissues are well-hydrated, they are less prone to irritation and damage, particularly during sexual activity or physical movement. Lack of moisture can cause the vaginal walls to become thin and fragile, increasing discomfort during sex and leaving women more susceptible to infections and injury.
Moisturising the vaginal tissues regularly helps maintain their health, promoting elasticity and reducing friction. Products like YES VM are specifically designed to restore natural moisture and provide long-lasting relief from vaginal dryness. This moisturiser is pH-balanced and free from harmful chemicals, making it ideal for sensitive skin and for maintaining vaginal health.
How to Support Vaginal Health
The key to alleviating vaginal dryness and maintaining healthy tissue lies in ensuring both proper hydration and pH balance. Here are a few steps you can take to support vaginal health:
Avoid harsh soaps and douches: Many soaps, washes, and douches can disrupt the delicate balance of the vaginal microbiome and pH. Stick to gentle, unscented products designed for sensitive areas.
Stay hydrated: Just as your skin needs water to stay healthy, so does your vaginal tissue. Drink plenty of fluids throughout the day to support overall hydration and vaginal moisture.
Talk to your GP: If you’re experiencing severe vaginal dryness, speak with your doctor. They can assess whether you need additional treatments like vaginal oestrogen or suggest other remedies to support your vaginal health.
Why Vaginal Health Matters
Supporting vaginal health through moisture and pH balance isn’t just about easing discomfort, it’s about empowering women to feel confident in their bodies, enjoy intimacy without pain, and maintain overall well-being. Vaginal dryness, if left untreated, can lead to more serious issues like vaginal atrophy, infections, and a decrease in quality of life. By taking proactive steps to care for vaginal tissue, women can enjoy better comfort, health, and happiness.
Vaginal dryness is a common but manageable condition. The decline in oestrogen during menopause is a major contributor, but disruptions to the vaginal pH or other lifestyle factors can also play a role. Maintaining the right balance of pH and moisture is essential for healthy vaginal tissues, reducing discomfort, and promoting long-term vaginal health.
