Vaginal dryness is more commonly linked to other factors such as hormonal changes related to menopause, breastfeeding, certain medications, stress, or insufficient arousal during sexual activity. Does PCOS cause vaginal dryness ? This is the question bothering many women. Itâs essential to recognize that every individualâs experience with PCOS and its symptoms can vary.
If youâre experiencing vaginal dryness or other reproductive health concerns, itâs advisable to consult with a healthcare professional. They can help identify the specific factors contributing to your symptoms and recommend appropriate interventions or treatments.
What causes vaginal dryness?
The primary cause of vaginal dryness is a decrease in the amount of estrogen that the body produces, which usually happens after menopause or as a result of breastfeeding, childbirth, douching too frequently, or the existence of certain medical diseases such polycystic ovarian syndrome.
What is Polycystic Ovary Syndrome?
The hallmarks of polycystic ovarian syndrome are irregular or nonexistent menstrual cycles, obesity, and symptoms like acne and excessive body hair that are brought on by high amounts of androgens, the male hormone.
Itâs unclear what exactly causes polycystic ovarian syndrome.
According to certain data, it results from an enzyme defect that regulates the synthesis of male hormones. Male hormones, or androgens, are produced in greater quantities as a result of this dysfunction.
The risk of being overweight and the metabolic syndrome, which includes high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and difficulty metabolizing the actions of insulin, are increased by high levels of male hormones.
Signs and Symptoms of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome.
Here are some signs and symptoms of polycystic ovary syndrome.
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- Sometimes, girls with polycystic ovarian syndrome experience inconsistent or nonexistent egg release from the ovaries, and menstrual cycles do not begin at puberty.
- Girls and women who have already begun menstruation may experience intermittent vaginal bleeding or cease having monthly periods.
- Male hormone excess can also cause problems in women known as âvirilizationâ or âmanmanization.â Acne and hirsutism, or an increase in body hair, are common symptoms
- A deeper voice, smaller breasts, bigger muscles, male-pattern hair growth (on the face and chest, for example), thinning hair, or baldness are uncommon alterations.
- PCOS-related androgen excess can manifest both inside and externally. A lot of women gain weight for no apparent reason, and diet and exercise do not help.
- Some people get acne caused by hormones and dry skin on their backs, chests, and jawlines.
- Hair growth on the face and body, or hirsutism, is a common and undesirable symptom. Some even develop prediabetes and male-pattern baldness.
- Lastly, there are a number of symptoms related to reproduction, such as abnormal or skipped periods, infertility, and even cancer.
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Does PCOS cause vaginal dryness ?
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The hormonal imbalances associated with PCOS, including high levels of androgens and disrupted levels of oestrogen and progesterone, can contribute to sexual dysfunction by affecting vaginal lubrication and arousal,â Dr. Katerina Shkodzik, a gynaecologist and expert in reproductive endocrinology, explains.
Itâs not widely known that female sexual dysfunction is a really common PCOS symptom, meaning that many of us feel ashamed of coming up against these physical and mental barriers. And, as sexologist Madalaine Munro puts perfectly, âa lack of information and support can lead to feelings of self-blame and frustration, perpetuating a cycle of disempowerment.â
So, a range of sexologists and PCOS experts have weighed in on different ways to boost your sex life, if various symptoms â particularly issues with low desire, lubrication, orgasm and irregular periods â are holding you back.
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Remedies for vaginal dryness
Several lifestyle modifications can aid in the fight against vaginal dryness and discomfort.
- Engage in frequent sexual intercourse
Having regular sexâwhether by yourself or with a partnerâcan help control vaginal dryness.
Arousal causes an increase in blood flow to the vaginal tissues, which encourages the generation of moisture.
Vaginal dryness can be avoided and sex can be made more pleasurable through sufficient foreplay and excitement prior to intercourse.
- Stay clear of some hygiene products
Fragrances and dyes found in many body care and personal hygiene products have the potential to irritate or dry up vaginal tissue.
The vagina is self-cleaning and has an intricate balance of beneficial microorganisms. Dousing or using scented soaps in the vicinity of the vaginal area is not necessary.
