9 Vitamins That May Help With Vaginal Dryness

Vaginal fluid, also known as lubricant, is produced in the vagina. The hormone estrogen is responsible for producing vaginal fluids and maintaining the thickness of the vaginal lining.

Vaginal fluid or lubricant helps:

• Vaginal health
• Prevent infections
• Facilitate sperm movement
• Reduce friction during sex

Symptoms of vaginal dryness

Symptoms of vaginal dryness can vary, and a woman may not experience all of them simultaneously.

Common symptoms include:

• Dryness, stinging, burning, or itching in the vaginal area
• Loss of libido or sexual interest
• Discomfort during intercourse
• Decreased lubrication during intercourse
• Bleeding after intercourse
• Urinary tract infections

9 vitamins for vaginal dryness

Both hormonal and nutritional factors can affect vaginal secretions. Proper immune function is crucial for vaginal health.

1. Vitamin B complex
2. Vitamin B complex contains all eight forms of vitamin B and promotes immune function.
3. Vitamin B can be taken as a supplement or obtained from foods such as poultry, fish, potatoes, and bananas.
4. However, excessive intake can cause muscular weakness, gastric problems, and painful sores.
5. Vitamin D
6. Skin cells naturally synthesize vitamin D when exposed to sunlight.
7. Vitamin D may aid in vaginal lubrication, and studies suggest that taking supplements or using suppositories can help with vaginal dryness during menopause.
8. Using vitamin D as a suppository for eight weeks has been shown to improve vaginal lubrication.
9. Vitamin E
10. Vitamin E is important for eye, brain, and skin health, but it may also help with lubrication and alleviate vaginal dryness.
11. Using a vitamin E suppository for 12 weeks can improve the health of the vaginal walls.
12. Supplements containing vitamin E, D, and A have shown to relieve symptoms of vaginal atrophy in cancer patients.
13. Omega-3 fatty acids (fish oil)
14. Omega-3 fatty acids may improve lubrication, especially during menopause.
15. They can also help hydrate and moisturize the skin.
16. A study on postmenopausal breast cancer survivors showed that consuming 3.5 grams of omega-3 fatty acids daily for six months improved vaginal dryness.
17. Omega-3 fatty acids may enhance estrogen levels and improve vaginal lubrication.
18. Hyaluronic acid
19. Hyaluronic acid is a natural chemical commonly used in skin care products. It can also be taken as a supplement to increase vaginal lubrication.
20. A study found that postmenopausal women who took 5 mg of hyaluronic acid sodium salt for eight weeks experienced improved vaginal lubrication.
21. A supplement containing hyaluronic acid and other vitamins can improve vaginal dryness in young women.
22. Sea buckthorn
23. Sea buckthorn is a plant rich in vitamins and active compounds used in medicine to treat skin diseases.
24. Sea buckthorn oil may protect against water loss and strengthen the vaginal membrane.
25. A three-month trial involving postmenopausal women found that consuming three grams of sea buckthorn oil daily improved vaginal lubrication and elasticity.
26. The necessary fatty acids in sea buckthorn oil improve vaginal tissue integrity.
27. Probiotics
28. Probiotics benefit gut health and may also be beneficial for vaginal conditions.
29. Oral probiotic usage can maintain vaginal health by preventing a reduction in protective vaginal flora, which can cause dryness and discomfort.
30. DHEA
31. DHEA is an important estrogen source that regulates the female reproductive system.
32. Research suggests that daily use of suppository DHEA for 12 weeks can help alleviate vaginal dryness and maintain libido.
33. Boron
34. Boron, a nonessential mineral found in certain foods, may affect sex hormones.
35. Research has shown that boron supplements can increase blood estradiol levels, which can help alleviate vaginal dryness, irritation, and itching in menopausal women.

QUESTION

8 possible causes of vaginal dryness

Vaginal dryness occurs naturally as estrogen levels decrease with age, particularly during menopause.

A dry vagina can cause pain during sex and increase the risk of urinary tract infections.

Low estrogen levels can be caused by:

1. Breastfeeding: Estrogen and progesterone levels drop immediately after childbirth.
2. Cancer treatment: Medications and treatments for breast and uterine cancer can inhibit the release of estrogen.
3. Birth control pills: These pills decrease testosterone levels and increase the release of a protein that binds sex hormones.
4. Hysterectomy: The removal of the cervix and cells that produce vaginal secretions during a hysterectomy can result in vaginal dryness.
5. Over washing the vagina: Excessive washing with water can dehydrate the vagina. The vagina cleans itself through natural discharges and secretions, and gentle washing of the vulva with water is sufficient.
6. Smoking cigarettes: Cigarette smoking has been linked to early menopause in smokers.
7. Sjogren’s syndrome: This autoimmune condition affects the glands’ ability to produce adequate moisture.
8. Other causes: Stress, lack of sexual desire, alcohol intake, douching, diabetes, and certain medications like antidepressants, cold medications, and antihistamines can also contribute to vaginal dryness.