WHO IS KNECT FOR: VAGINAL DRYNESS

Vaginas are pretty special. They are completely self-cleaning thanks to the natural lubrication produced by glands in the cervix, which helps to maintain a thin layer of moisture that prevents infections, and aids sperm survival if you’re trying for a baby.

Vaginal lubrication is governed by three hormones:

• Oestrogen
• Progesterone
• Testosterone
  
  

  You might be surprised to see the third one as it’s more commonly associated with men. But testosterone helps to repair reproductive tissues and is essential for sexual arousal. Progesterone, meanwhile, plays a key part in the menstrual cycle. It helps to thicken the walls of the womb, ready to support a fertilised egg. The starring role, however – the same one people with periods have to thank for bloating once a month – goes to oestrogen. 

  When females go through puberty, oestrogen levels begin to rise. This rise kickstarts periods, breast development, pubic hair growth and that natural vaginal moisture. When a female then gets older hormone levels begin to drop, which causes the walls of the vagina to become narrower, decreasing the number of cells capable of producing our natural lubricant.

While age is a factor, some hormonal causes can also lead to vaginal atrophy – the thinning and inflammation of vagina walls as mentioned above. This may be embarrassing for women to communicate to their partners, but trust us - it’s nothing to be ashamed of. Around 17% of women experience vaginal dryness between the age of 18-50, with 56% of women experiencing vaginal dryness between 40-84.

Alongside the menopause, here are a few things which may affect your hormone levels, leading to vaginal dryness:

• Cancer treatments such as chemotherapy, radiotherapy or hormone therapy
• Perimenopause (the years leading up to the menopause)
• Medications such as birth control pills or anti-depressants.
• Breastfeeding (as you have low estrogen during this time)
• If you’re postpartum (read more about this here)
• Using perfumed fragrances (The NHS advise that perfumed soaps, gels and antiseptics can affect the healthy balance of bacteria and pH levels in the vagina, which can cause irritation or dryness)
• Smoking and alcohol, along with many other side effects, can also affect natural vaginal moisture.
  
  

A common reason women may experience vaginal dryness is also stress. We’ve all had those moments where we’re just not in the mood. The kids have tired us out or our jobs are driving us crazy. If you’re not relaxed, you will find it more difficult to become sexually aroused, or again, your body’s ‘fight or flight’ response may inhibit blood flow.

Try not to pressure yourself if you’re not feeling it. Many couples benefit from scheduling ‘date night’, while others may prefer to go with the flow. Focus on the relaxation and the intimacy will come.

You should absolutely not panic if you suffer vaginal dryness during sex or a general lack of moisture down there. It happens to everybody regardless of their age, and anything from natural monthly changes in your hormones to medication could be the issue.

If it’s a long-term problem, for example, if you’re adjusting to life after the menopause, you should try a water-based lubricant like Knect. These are perfectly safe and will ensure you enjoy a healthy, full sex life without pain and irritation.