Vaginal Health Pearl MS
Vaginal Health
As most women age, they may experience problems with vaginal dryness or irritation because of the thinning of the vaginal mucosa that happens as hormone levels decline and may experience irritation to some extent or another during sex or just every day activities. Severity of symptoms differ from woman to woman, even if their vaginal mucosa appears similarly affected. Some women experience only occasional discomfort while for others, symptoms are unbearable. Thank goodness for most women, this bane of existence, is overcome with time, but if you are one of those unfortunate woman who experience symptoms of vaginal tissue thinning, like itching, irritation, burning, or pain that may be constant, or perhaps only during intercourse, there are several options for reducing or resolving the discomfort and that can aid you in your vaginal health .
Conventional therapy typically comprises of estrogen replacement therapy which means that you take estrogen supplements or use a topical cream that can help to reverse menopausal changes in the vaginal mucosa. It is believed, in the medical community, that local application of estrogen creams or gels does not carry the same risks as oral estrogen, yet has an effective local action at the vaginal tissue. Often women find they can use vaginal estrogen products sparingly and still have adequate response.
There are numerous pathways for you to follow if you would like a non-hormonal approach to vaginal health, or are looking for complementary therapies to use in conjunction with estrogen replacement therapy. Natural solutions may be in the form of lifestyle changes, herbal remedies, or nutritional supplements. A successful approach strives to increase circulation to the pelvic area, re-hydrate tissues, soothe and support damaged tissue, strengthen cell walls and thicken cellular layers.
An easy first step is to drink more water which will increase your vaginal moisture. A minimum of two quarts a day should be a part of every woman's daily intake. Increasing circulation to the pelvic area can provide tissues with much needed nutrients and can be easily accomplished through the practice of Kegel exercises. Kegel exercises are recommended for vaginal tightening and toning the pubic muscle, which can improve urinary continence and provides structural support for the bladder and uterus. Toning the pubic muscle involves contracting it throughout the day, holding for three seconds, and then releasing. Start with 25 contractions morning and night and work your way up to 50. Circulation is further improved by aerobic physical exercise.
If you need extra moisture and lubrication during lovemaking, a personal lubricant can reduce friction and irritation. One that includes herbs and nutrients can nourish tissues as well.
And on a more positive note ladies, the best way to maintain vaginal tissue health is with frequent sexual stimulation, which promotes the thickening of the vaginal tissue as well as stimulating blood flow and the secretion of moisture and disease fighting enzymes.