Do you have a dehydrated vagina? Look for these signs and symptoms to find out

The vagina is a very delicate part of your body. A simple mistake can take a toll on its health. Experiencing infection, itching and burning sensation are some of the common problems that your vagina may have. However, if you’re feeling pain down there during the sex, it can be something big. It could actually mean that you may be experiencing vaginal dehydration.

HealthShots spoke to Dr Surabhi Siddhartha, Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist, Motherhood Hospital Kharghar, Mumbai, to discuss this vaginal condition.

She says, “One may have a dehydrated vagina. In fact, dehydration tends to disturb the balance of good yeast and bacteria present in the vaginal microbiome. And, the disruption of bacteria can even invite yeast infections.”

Watch out for these 5 signs and symptoms of dehydrated vagina

1. A burning sensation while urinating.
2. Redness or soreness in the vulva area.
3. Experiencing pain during sexual intercourse.
4. Vaginitis leads to the inflammation of the vagina and itching.
5. Abnormal vaginal discharge.
6. Frequent urination.
7. Recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs).

So, what causes the vagina to become dehydrated?

1. Douching

Douching is a practice that can lead to dehydration of the vagina. In fact, using perfumed or chemical based soaps down there can also make your vagina dehydrated.

2. Hormonal fluctuations

“Hormonal fluctuations when a woman is in the postnatal stages, breastfeeding, or going through chemotherapy and radiotherapy can also lead to the dehydration of the vagina,” says Dr Siddhartha.

3. Contraceptives

Contraceptives have some side effects and it affects women differently. Some women experience dehydrated vagina due to contraceptives.

4. Smoking

Smoking is not only harmful to the lungs but also causes vaginal problems such as vaginal dryness.

5. Stress

Stress and anxiety are also some of the causes of a dehydrated vagina. This happens because stress leads to hormonal imbalance which can cause changes to pH balance, leading to vaginal dryness.

6. Hysterectomy

“Having your ovaries surgically removed will also lead to vaginal dryness,” says Dr Siddhartha.

7. Chemical based products

Irritants like perfumed soaps, feminine hygiene products with a lot of fragrances and chemicals can also lead to a dehydrated vagina.

8. Low estrogen levels

Estrogen is a hormone that is present in small amounts but plays a big role in maintaining your health. It helps to maintain vaginal lubricants, elasticity, and thickness. However, low estrogen levels can cause dryness and inflammation in your vagina. Along with it, menopause too leads to a dehydrated vagina.

Follow these tips for some relief and cure dehydrated vagina

According to Dr Siddhartha, these tips will help you maintain the pH balance of the vagina and cure the dehydrated vaginal condition.

1. Hormonal replacement therapy

Hormonal replacement therapy helps to increase estrogen levels. Vaginal dryness is commonly seen in menopausal women who have low levels of estrogen.

2. Lubricants

Opt for water-based lubricants to keep the vagina hydrated.

3. Moisturiser

Use a suitable moisturizer for the vagina only after consulting the expert.

4. Maintain hygiene

Clean your vagina with plain water instead of using any chemical products or soaps down there, avoid douching.

What if the dryness does not go away?

Remember that if your vulva feels dry and irritated, it is essential to speak to a doctor as to what might be causing dryness and irritation.