Vaginal Dryness Doctor in Houston

Vaginal Dryness Doctor in Houston

Vaginal dryness is a common issue affecting many women between the ages of 18 and 50. While it’s often assumed that dryness is a concern only during menopause, it can occur much earlier. Various factors can cause vaginal dryness, each requiring specific attention.

Problems Caused by Vaginal Dryness

A dry vagina can lead to several issues. Apart from general soreness and discomfort, it can cause pain during sex, an increased urge to urinate, and a higher risk of vaginal and urinary tract infections. Ignoring this problem is not advisable. Fortunately, a specialist such as a urogynecologist or gynecologist can help identify the underlying cause and recommend suitable treatments for relief.

Causes of Vaginal Dryness

Many women will experience dryness at some point in their lives. The vaginal lining is usually well-lubricated to keep tissue strong and elastic. When dryness occurs, the tissue becomes thin and more sensitive, resulting in noticeable discomfort. The following are some common causes:

1. Menopause and Postmenopause
   Menopause and postmenopause are the most common reasons for dryness in women aged 45 to 55. During menopause, estrogen and progesterone levels drop significantly, hormones essential for maintaining vaginal lubrication and elasticity. In postmenopausal women, the ovaries stop producing these hormones entirely, causing persistent or worsening dryness. Younger women may experience similar issues after childbirth, though estrogen levels typically recover within days or weeks.
2. Medications
   Specialists will likely ask about your medications as several can cause dryness. Hormonal birth control pills, estrogen modulators, and anti-estrogen medications can disrupt the estrogen/progesterone balance. Other medications like antidepressants, heart or blood pressure medications, and over-the-counter drugs can also contribute to dryness. Common medication categories that cause dryness include:
   • Antihistamines
   • Sedatives
   • Hormonal birth control
   • Beta-blockers
   • Calcium channel blockers
   • Decongestants
   • Estrogen modulators
   • Benzodiazepines
   • Certain cancer drugs
   • Antiseizure drugs
3. Lifestyle Factors
   Certain lifestyle habits, such as smoking, can affect natural vaginal lubrication. Smoking impacts blood flow to the body’s tissues, including the vaginal tissue. Activities like douching and using water-based lubricants can also cause dryness by interfering with natural mucus production. Additionally, stress and anxiety can alter hormone levels, leading to dryness.
4. Ovary Removal Surgery
   Women who undergo ovary removal surgery (oophorectomy) often need treatment for vaginal dryness. The ovaries produce most of the body’s estrogen, and their removal drastically changes hormonal production, affecting tissue lubrication.

Treatment for Vaginal Dryness

A vaginal dryness specialist can diagnose the condition through an exam and medical history review. They may perform blood tests to assess hormone levels and review your medications. Based on the findings, they can recommend appropriate treatments, including:

1. We’s Silk Vaginal Treatment
   This non-hormonal treatment is effective in restoring vaginal mucosa health and increasing natural lubrication. We’s Silk formula is gentle, hypoallergenic, and can be used regularly or as needed.
2. Laser and Radio-Frequency Vaginal Treatment
   This technology rejuvenates vaginal tissue and restores lubrication. The treatment is safe, painless, and provides a quick option for women experiencing irritation.
3. Hormone Therapy
   When necessary, We uses bio-identical hormone therapy alongside other treatments to restore vaginal and vulvar health. Hormone therapy replaces hormones no longer produced by the body, benefiting menopausal and postmenopausal women and others with dryness issues.
4. Lubricants and Moisturizers
   Over-the-counter lubricants and specialty vaginal moisturizers provide relief by improving tissue hydration and maintaining a healthy pH balance. A specialist can help choose the right product for your needs.
5. Lifestyle Changes
   Treatment plans may include lifestyle adjustments, such as quitting smoking, staying sexually active to increase blood flow to vaginal tissue, and avoiding products that could negatively affect natural lubrication.

If you need vaginal dryness treatment in the Houston area, contact We’s office. With over two decades of experience, We, a board-certified OB/GYN and urogynecologist, offers extensive knowledge on complex issues related to vaginal dryness. Schedule a consultation today to get the treatment you need.

Vaginal Dryness Doctor in Houston