There are physical and psychological reasons for vaginal dryness and painful intercourse. Estrogen levels are the most closely associated with vaginal lubrication. But there are many other reasons for this type of sexual dysfunction.
1. Low Estrogen
Most reasons for vaginal dryness are due to lowering estrogen levels. Menopause and perimenopause often lower estrogen levels and since estrogen receptors are highest in the vagina, this is often the first area to be effected. Some women can have transient vaginal dryness when estrogen levels drop before menstruation.
2. Low testosterone
Low testosterone is often the cause of multifactorial sexual dysfunction. Usually testosterone dysfunction is also related to low levels of estrogen. When testosterone is low women usually have vaginal dryness and atrophy as well as lack of desire and inability to orgasm.
3. Stress/Adrenal Fatigue
Stress results in high levels or low levels of cortisol. Altered cortisol levels interfere with all other hormones as well as thyroid levels. When cortisol levels are affected the body ceases production of other hormones in favour or cortisol. This results in vaginal dryness, and other sexual dysfunction due to multilevel hormone insufficiency.
4. Medications
Oral contraceptives are the main cause vaginal dryness. Oral contraceptives not only lower natural estrogen and progesterone levels, but also bind testosterone. This results in low levels of all sex hormones and therefore, sexual dysfunction on several levels.
Alcohol and antihistamines can also affect the natural lubrication of the vagina.
5. Breastfeeding
After having a baby prolactin levels are high. When prolactin levels are high other hormone levels are dampened. Most women have hormone levels return back to normal within months of weaning.
Don’t guess, test! Let me properly assess you and find out the true cause of your sexual dysfunction. Follow the link, https://healthoverall.janeapp.com/#/staff_member/21 in order to book a consultation.
In health,
Dr. Lisa Maddalena, ND