Vaginal Dryness Treatment Specialist in Los Angeles

Vaginal dryness affects a considerable number of women between 18 and 50. While most women assume that dryness isn’t something they must worry about until menopause, it can affect you much sooner. There are many potential causes of vaginal dryness, and each one requires attention.

A dry vagina can lead to a host of problems. In addition to feeling general soreness and discomfort, this problem can lead to pain during sex, an increased urge to urinate, and a higher risk of vaginal and urinary tract infections. It’s not an issue you want to ignore. Luckily, a vaginal dryness specialist such as a urogynecologist or gynecologist can help determine the root cause and recommend appropriate treatments to provide relief.

Many women will experience dryness at some point in their lives. The vaginal lining is usually well-lubricated to keep tissue strong and elastic. The tissue becomes thin and more sensitive when dryness occurs, resulting in noticeable discomfort. But what causes this issue?

 

1. Menopause and Postmenopause

Menopause and postmenopause are the most common culprits for women between 45 and 55. During menopause, estrogen and progesterone levels drop dramatically. These hormones play a critical role in maintaining vaginal lubrication and elasticity.

As hormone production decreases, women will experience a wide range of menopausal symptoms. Vaginal dryness is one of the most prevalent. In postmenopausal women, the ovaries cease to produce those hormones entirely, causing the dryness to persist or worsen.

Similar issues can occur in younger women after childbirth. Estrogen levels typically drop after birth with breastfeeding, but production typically recovers in the following days and weeks.

 

2. Medications

When you see a vaginal dryness specialist, they’ll likely inquire about your medications. Several medications can cause issues. Hormonal birth control pills can throw your estrogen/progesterone ratio off balance, causing dryness. The same goes for estrogen modulators and anti-estrogen medications used to treat other health conditions.

Antidepressants, heart or blood pressure medications, and over-the-counter drugs can also cause dryness issues. A big part of vaginal dryness treatment is determining how your medications influence vaginal health. Here are some of the most common medication categories known to cause dryness:

• Antihistamines
• Sedatives
• Hormonal birth control
• Beta-blockers
• Calcium channel blockers
• Decongestants
• Estrogen modulator
• Benzodiazepines
• Some cancer drugs
• Antiseizure drug

 

3. Lifestyles

Several lifestyle habits can also affect natural vaginal lubrication. One of the worst offenders is smoking. Smoking affects how blood flows to your body’s tissue. Reduced blood flow to vaginal tissue often causes dryness.

Douching and using water-based lubes can also cause dryness. These activities interfere with the natural mucus that keeps tissue well-lubricated.

Interestingly, dryness is also a byproduct of stress and anxiety. When you’re overwhelmingly stressed, hormone levels in your body change, resulting in dryness and discomfort.

 

4. Ovary Removal Surgery

Women who undergo ovary removal surgery (oophorectomy) often require vaginal dryness treatment. Most of the estrogen produced in the body comes from the ovaries. Removing the ovaries results in a dramatic change in hormonal production, affecting how the tissue stays lubricated.

A vaginal dryness specialist can provide a diagnosis after performing an exam and going through your medical history. They may perform blood tests to understand hormone levels in your body, go over commonly used medications, and more. From there, they can recommend the right course of action to combat dryness and help you live more comfortably.

There are many possible treatments available.

 

1. Dr. Tahery’s Silk Vaginal Treatment

Dr. Tahery’s Silk vaginal treatment is a non-hormonal option that is safe and highly effective in restoring the health of the vaginal mucosa, increasing natural lubrication. Silk is a naturally compounded formula designed by Dr. Tahery. Silk is highly gentle to the soft and delicate vaginal tissue and hypoallergenic. It can be used on a regular basis or as needed for a safe and effective lubrication and vaginal health. 

 

2. Laser And Radio-Frequency Vaginal Treatment

Dr. Tahery uses effective technology to rejuvenate the vaginal tissue and restore lubrication. The treatment is safe and painless and provides a convenient and quick option for women suffering from irritated vaginal and vulvar tissue. 

 

3. Hormone Therapy

When indicated, Dr. Tahery uses bio-identical Hormone therapy in combination with other treatments to restore vaginal and vulvar health. Hormone therapy aims to replace the hormones your body no longer produces. It’s an effective choice for menopausal and postmenopausal women but can benefit those dealing with other dryness issues.

Dr.Tahery, a vaginal dryness specialist may recommend medications like selective estrogen modulators or dehydroepiandrosterone. These medications act like estrogen in your body.

 

4. Lubricants and Moisturizers

Lubricating products and specialty vaginal moisturizers are over-the-counter products that can provide relief when you need it most. Vaginal moisturizers help improve elasticity and tissue hydration while maintaining a healthy pH balance.

Vaginal lubricants address pain and discomfort during intercourse. There are many oil-based, water-based, and silicone-based options available. A specialist can help you choose a product that addresses your unique needs.

 

5. Lifestyle Changes

Finally, a vaginal dryness treatment plan may include lifestyle changes. If you smoke regularly, your healthcare provider will likely suggest taking steps to quit. They may also recommend staying sexually active to increase blood flow to the vaginal tissue and avoid products that could negatively impact natural vaginal lubrication.

If you need vaginal dryness treatment in the Los Angeles area, don’t hesitate to contact the office of Dr. Tahery. Dr. Michael Tahery is a vaginal dryness specialist with over two decades of experience. As a board-certified OB/GYN and urogynecologist, Dr. Tahery has extensive knowledge of complex issues concerning vaginal dryness and more. Contact our office today to schedule your consultation and get the vaginal dryness treatment you need.