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No sex? Be Wary of Vaginal Atrophy
"A healthy sex life is therefore very important for us, women, whether it is with a partner or with ourselves," says Louise Mazanti. The London-based sex therapist advises women without a partner to invest in good vibrators. "And use them, because it is about using massage and touching the vagina wall so that the blood flows and the elasticity stays."
Two Times Depressed
When the cells in a vaginal wall don't get enough blood flow (by getting aroused) there is also not enough oxygen in the cells. This causes the problem that the cells can't eliminate waste and toxins from the tissue. This buildup of toxins prevents vital nutrients from getting to the cells, which can all lead to a thinner vaginal wall, thus vaginal atrophy: in medical terms vulvodynia (Depressed Vagina Syndrome). DVS can be a very painful thing. Also, not engaging in sex can cause depression because women can start doubting their own sexual appeal. According to The Sun, U.S. research shows that more than 25% of women, at some point in their lives, will experience vulvodynia. More than 8% will suffer it at least once.
Symptoms of Vaginal Atrophy
- Itching and burning without any sign of an infection or skin condition;
- Difficulty peeing or urgency to pee;
- Pain triggered by touch (having sex, putting a tampon in);
- Incontinence;
- Pain during and or light bleeding after sex;
- Dryness and discomfort during sex.
Women at Risk of Vaginal Atrophy
- Women going through or having been through menopause. In this period, the body produces less estrogen, which effects the vaginal wall (getting dryer and thinner);
- Those having no sex;
- Those who have had treatment for breast cancer, especially those women who had hormone treatments;
- Smokers;
- Women who have never had a vaginal birth.
Treatment of Vaginal Atrophy
- Use the vagina. Have sex. One way or another;
- Vaginal moisturizers and lubricants can help to treat dryness. They also help to improve your sex life;
- Get diagnosed and rule out other medical issues such as vulval cancer;
- When nothing helps, see a doctor and ask for estrogen therapy;
- Use cotton underwear;
- Avoid scented hygiene products to clean your vagina, including soaps;
- Get physiotherapy and counseling, because living with constant pain can be stressful.
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