Whether your body is undergoing a hormonal change, menopause, stress, or simply isn’t producing enough natural moisture for some reason; vaginal dryness can be a pain, literally. Vaginal lubricants are essential for comfortable and pleasurable sexual intimacy. Yet, like many naturally occurring properties in our body, we may produce less lubrication as we age. A lack of sufficient vaginal lubrication can lead to painful, dry intercourse. And let’s face it, nobody wants to experience that.
The vagina secretes moisture through fluid from the cervix and Bartholin glands. These are two small glands located at the entrance of the vagina. When aroused, those trust glands secrete extra fluid to reduce friction to the area.
What Causes Vaginal Dryness?
There are many different culprits. The first is menopause or perimenopause, as the body shifts through this biological change and produces less natural vaginal lubricant. However, other factors can contribute to vaginal dryness.
- Medications such as antihistamines, antidepressants, and hormonal birth control can interact with our biological systems and cause vaginal dryness. Talk to your practitioner if you suspect your medications could be causing vaginal dryness.
- Cigarette smoking has been linked to vaginal dryness.
- If you are breastfeeding, your body is pooling resources to support your baby, and vaginal dryness may occur.
- If you are undergoing chemotherapy or have an autoimmune disorder like Sjogren’s syndrome
- If you do not drink enough water. That’s right; water consumption has a direct link with vaginal lubricants!
- Aging has been mentioned, but vaginal tissues lose elasticity and become thinner as we age, contributing to vaginal dryness.
Luckily, there are many different vaginal lubricants on the market and some natural, non-evasive procedures to boost vaginal moisture. Lubricants reduce itchiness, dryness, chaffing, pain, and burning caused by vaginal friction. But when it comes to application, you will want to know the ingredients before applying to one of the body’s most sensitive areas.
A Look at Different Types of Lubricants
All vaginal lubricants are not equal, and you may find your body responds better to one type over another. There are several different types of vaginal lubricants commercially available:
- Water-based vaginal lubricants are the most common. These lubricants will dissolve in water and work well with latex condoms, silicone sex toys, and of course, the vagina. Water-based lubricants are a safe bet when you’re just starting with lubricants. They are lightweight and do not stain surfaces. These types of lubricants also have a long shelf life. However, if you plan on getting intimate in a pool, hot tub, or shower, you’ll want to skip the water-based lubricant as they will dissolve in water, rendering them useless. Also, keep an eye out for glycerin-based water lubricants. If you’re prone to yeast infections, the glycerin will destroy the good bacteria in your vagina and may trigger a yeast infection.
- Oil-based vaginal lubricants are derived from natural oils found in organic sources like plants. Every so often, these lubricants may contain synthetic oils. They are long-lasting, waterproof, and very comfortable. There is one caveat, however. Oil-based lubricants are not compatible with most condoms, so keep that in mind, and they can stain your sheets if you’re not careful.
- Silicon-based vaginal lubricants are great for sensitive skin. Typically, a synthetic polymer made from silicon, carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen serves as the base for this type of lubricant. These vaginal lubricants are thicker than water-based lubricants and last for quite some time. They are also hypoallergenic.
- Hybrid lubricants are just that, a mixture of silicone and oil or water and silicone. While hybrid lubricants are long-lasting, they cannot be used with silicone toys and may stain surfaces. They also may contain additional ingredients which can irritate sensitive skin.
- Warming, flavored, sensitizing, and novelty lubricants are also an option; just be sure to read the ingredients before using them to make sure you are not allergic to any additives.
- Natural vaginal lubricants are usually paraben-free and made of organic materials, such as aloe or unrefined coconut oil. These are typically skin-safe and environmentally friendly, but their shelf life is shorter due to their natural content. You can find organic and natural lubricants at the store or create your own with household items. Be careful what products you choose, as not every lubricating substance is considered safe for the vagina. Avoid anything containing baby oil. Mineral oil, vegetable oil, lotions, essential oils, petroleum jelly, or Vaseline should not be applied to one of your most sensitive bodily areas.
Boosting Vaginal Lubricants, the Natural Way
Not in the mood for lube? You may want to consider the O-Shot®. The O-Shot® is a non-surgical treatment designed by Charles Runels, MD. The O-Shot® is performed to increase sexual arousal, resulting in more robust and frequent orgasms, increased natural lubrication, and a more significant response to clitoral stimulation.
Considered a platelet-rich-plasma treatment, The O-Shot® is made up of your very own growth factors that are sourced from your blood. The procedure is non-evasive and a completely natural solution for sexual enhancement. It has been clinically proven for nearly a decade, with thousands of patients worldwide achieving enhanced sexual benefits and elevating their sexual health to new heights.
First, you will provide a blood sample used for your treatment. Your practitioner will take your blood sample and place it in a specialized centrifuge that isolates the platelets from the blood. Once isolated, the platelets are collected for your vaginal injection.
Now, the thought of having an injection near your clitoris, labia, or G-spot may sound painful, but thanks to a topical numbing cream, most patients feel no discomfort during the injection process. Patients report feeling a gentle pinch or warming sensation. Typically, you will receive an injection underneath the hood of your clitoris and an injection near the upper vaginal area.
Once injected into the tissues, the growth factors from the platelets will start to work right away—the platelets’ active stem cell growth, causing the treatment area to regrow and rejuvenate tissue. There is also an increase in blood flow to the area, causing some plumping and firming. You can expect your procedure to last about 30 to 40 minutes, and you can resume regular activity after your appointment. Some patients experience minor spotting, which should only last a few hours or less after the procedure.
Results can be noticeable immediately after treatment. However, most patients experience improvement within the first three weeks after treatment. Tissue regrowth and regular lubrication can take some time. You can expect the tissue to regrow fully after about three- or four months post-treatment. Results can last anywhere from 12 to 18 months. Whether you are in your 20’s or 60’s, the O-Shot® is a proven method to elevate your sexual wellness.
Sexual Health is Wellness
Gone are the days when women are expected to “just deal with” the changes in their bodies. Menopause doesn’t mean your sex life is over or you have to deal with rough, sandpaper-like intimacy. You just need to give your body a little boost with the lubricant of your choice.
Not sure where to start, or considering the O-Shot®? Then book a consultation with First Impressions Rejuvenation Clinic to learn how we can help. The knowledgeable practitioners can recommend treatment options that best fit your lifestyle and individual needs.
Sexual intimacy is one of the joys of life. No woman should feel like they’re missing out. Remember, you are worth it.
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Many women just “deal with” sexual dysfunction for months or even years. But you don’t have to be one of them! You can start experiencing a passionate love life and regain sexual intimacy without going under the knife now. Learn more when you download our FREE ebook, Bring It Out of the Bedroom: Give Your Love Life the Boost You Both Deserve with Save, Proven Treatments for Sexual Rejuvenation.