A number of problems can cause vaginal dryness, which can be quite uncomfortable and prove devastating for your love life. It can also affect the overall quality of your life. The condition can affect a woman at any age, but it usually affects women after the menopause. A significant decline in the estrogen level is usually a common cause of vaginal dryness, but many other factors may also play a role. Many women look for a natural remedy for dry vagina, but end up trying things that aggravate the whole situation. Let's find out what you can do in this regard.

What Causes Dry Vagina?

Postmenopausal women are usually at a greater risk of developing vaginal dryness, but it can affect others too. Here are some of the most common causes of dry vagina:

• Decreased Estrogen: A reduction in the levels of estrogen is usually the main cause of vaginal dryness, as the hormone is responsible for maintaining proper elasticity, acidity, and lubrication in the vagina. Estrogen level can drop during childbirth, after menopause, and while breastfeeding. Smoking is also a risk factor.
• Medications: Women who take certain medications may experience dry vagina. This could happen when taking cold and allergy medicines, but those who take antidepressants may experience the same.
• Other Causes: Vaginal dryness could also be the result of using harsh chemicals. Using a store bought douche or vaginal cleanser may also cause this problem. Women with an autoimmune disease called Sjogren's syndrome may have to deal with dry eyes, mouth, and vagina.

Natural Remedies for Dry Vagina

Knowledge about what causes dry vagina may help find a right treatment option, but you can also pick a natural remedy for dry vagina to help improve your condition.

1.    Be Careful with Washing Products

Many women are under the impression that the use of scented soaps, shower gels, and vaginal douches can help keep vagina clean. That is not true actually. These products can irritate the vaginal tissue and increase your risk of developing an infection. Your body has its own way to keep your vagina clean, especially after menstruation and intercourse. If you really want to do something, just soak a non-abrasive washcloth in lukewarm water and use it to clean your vaginal area.

2.    Find Comfortable Underwear

Failing to choose proper undergarments can make you feel uncomfortable and increase your chance of developing infections. If you wear underwear made of lace or other types of synthetic materials, you are likely to have dry vagina because these materials rub against your vagina and lead to irritation. Also, certain types of underwear limit the flow of air to the vaginal region, which makes vaginal dryness worse. It is better to wear underwear made of cotton or other breathable fabrics.

3.    Use Aloe Vera Gel

Thanks to its anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, it helps treat vaginal dryness and clear any infection. Simply add some aloe vera gel to fresh milk and apply it directly to the vaginal region to treat vaginal dryness. You can also drink a cup of diluted aloe vera juice to control your symptoms.

4.    Use Tea Tree Oil

With its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, tea tree oil may be a good natural remedy for dry vagina. All you have to do is take tea tree oil and apply it to the affected area a couple of times to find relief.

5.    Opt for Dong Quai

You can use many herbs to treat vaginal dryness and Dong Quai is a good option to consider. It has been used in the traditional Chinese medicine to treat menopausal symptoms for ages. To make it even more effective, you can combine it with some other herbs, such as chasteberry, black cohosh, and Siberian ginseng. Regular use may also help reduce vaginal dryness and hot flashes.

6.    Enjoy Sex

Not having sex often may well be the underlying cause of vaginal dryness. Many women stop having sex because of vaginal dryness, which makes the experience quite painful. However, it is important to note that engaging in sexual activities is actually quite beneficial and even helps treat vaginal dryness. In a state of arousal, there will be an increase in blood supply to your vaginal region, which is likely to stimulate the release of moisture. This in turn will help combat dryness. If it feels painful, you may want to try a water-based lubricant before engaging in vaginal sex. Moreover, your partner can spend more time in foreplay to help reduce vaginal dryness.

7.    Try Calendula and Comfrey Ointments

You are likely to develop different infections because of vaginal dryness, especially when it is caused by a decline in estrogen levels. Using calendula and comfrey works as a natural remedy for dry vagina and helps clear any bacterial or fungal infections. Regular use may actually help promote tissue regeneration. You can easily purchase calendula and comfrey salves, but it is possible to make it at home as well.

8.    Eat Food Rich in Phytoestrogens

You know that vaginal dryness is the result of a reduction in estrogen levels, but you can tackle this situation by changing your diet and eating food rich in phytoestrogens. Some good examples include tofu, soymilk, seeds, and nuts. By regulating hormonal production, you may be able to treat vaginal dryness in a better way.