Dryness during menstruation

During your period, your vagina is at extra risk for dryness and itching. In this article, we explain why this happens and share our best tips on how you can improve your V-zone's well-being!

IS IT NORMAL TO EXPERIENCE VAGINAL ITCHING DURING YOUR PERIOD?

Experiencing vaginal dryness is completely normal and is something that can be easily treated. At best, it can cause discomfort and at worst, pain. Let's change that!

Remember that you are not alone – many women experience the same problem. Learning more about why vaginal dryness occurs during your period and how to treat it is the first step towards feeling better.

A DECREASE IN ESTROGEN LEVELS CAUSES DRYNESS

It may come as no surprise that there is a connection between your menstrual cycle and how your vagina feels. Estrogen, which you may have heard of before, is a hormone that helps keep the vagina moist. The level of estrogen in the body varies depending on where you are in your menstrual cycle. Before and after your period, estrogen levels are generally lower which can lead to vaginal dryness and discomfort.

So now that we know vaginal dryness is linked to estrogen levels in the body, what can we do about it? There are various treatments for vaginal dryness, one of which uses a vaginal cream that helps maintain moisture levels. But there are other things you can do and explore as well to feel better.

OTHER AREAS THAT ALL CONTRIBUTE TO YOUR V-ZONE'S WELL-BEING

ALLERGY OR SENSITIVITY

Although a possible explanation for vaginal dryness may be hormonal levels in the body, it could also be that you have a reaction to the tampons or pads you use - or possibly your soap or lotion. Try different options and make sure to use a cleanser for extra sensitivity. Other causes of allergy or increased sensitivity include:

The material of the underwear
Perfumed detergents or fabric softeners
Condoms
Lubricants

Our best tip? Always make sure to choose products that are fragrance-free and designed for sensitivity.

Stress

Increased stress levels reduce blood flow throughout the body - and the vagina is no exception. In addition to many other negative side effects, experiencing long-term stress, anxiety, and depression can also cause vaginal dryness. Reducing stress can help you regain your moisture – along with a lot of other positive effects, of course.

BIRTH CONTROL

Birth control pills or mini-pills can also affect our hormone levels and cause you to experience dryness. Low levels of estrogen and high levels of other hormones like desogestrel and norgestimate in your birth control pills can be contributing factors. Consult your gynecologist to see if you can switch to a more suitable option.

SMOKING

Like stress, we know that smoking has several negative side effects on your body. Smoking affects hormone levels, which can contribute to vaginal dryness but also mood swings and fatigue. The explanation is that smoking negatively affects circulation, resulting in an increased risk of vaginal dryness.

INTENSE WORKOUT ROUTINES

Physical activities and exercise when you have your period have lots of benefits, such as:

Reduce PMS symptoms
Increased endorphin production
Feel stronger
Improve your mood
Reduce menstrual cramps

But very intense workouts and pushing yourself to the limit can contribute to vaginal dryness. When you have your period, it may be a good idea to slow down a bit. Recommended workouts include, but are not limited to:

Yoga
Pilates
Light jogging
Low-intensity strength training

Of course, the experience of exercising during a period is different for everyone. Some women can continue with their usual workout routine every week of the month, but for some, it can help to slow down and make your exercise less intense.

Every woman is unique, and this will not apply to everyone. The most important thing is to talk about it and not suffer in silence. If you experience discomfort, there are treatments designed to help you - and others to talk to.