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recommend staying sexually active through menopause, as this increases blood flow to the genitals and can help maintain vaginal health. But when sex becomes painful, it’s hard to psyche yourself up for it.

Vaginal dryness is a common symptom of menopause. Thanks to the dramatic drop in estrogen that occurs around menopause, many women experience a decline in their natural secretions. In addition, menopause can also change the acidity of the vagina, leading to dry, thin skin that is easily irritated and less elastic.

If you always took for granted that your body would respond when it was time for sex, this single symptom can be one

Doctorsof the most discouraging. In fact, discomfort during sex is one of the primary symptoms mentioned in advertisements of medications used to treat menopause.

Some women struggle with vaginal atrophy, a condition in which the vagina narrows and the tissue deteriorates, in addition to a lack of lubrication. Thinner tissue can put them at risk for bladder infection, not to mention painful sex.

As when treating other menopause symptoms, what works to relieve vaginal dryness for one woman might not work as well for another. This is another area where personally trying potential solutions is necessary.

Regular use of a waterbased moisturizer can be incredibly helpful to restore and nourish mucous membranes in the vagina. Lubricants are definitely recommended for more comfortable sex, but all lubricants are not created equal, so it’s crucial to read labels.

Common ingredients in many lubricants include propylene glycol (Do you really want to put something that is contained in anti-freeze in your most intimate area?), parabens (which mimic estrogen and shouldn’t be used if you’re avoiding HRT or have had breast cancer), and glycerin, which can irritate mucous membranes and have a drying effect.

Two organic lubricants free of such harmful ingredients are Yes (yesyesyes.org) and Good Clean Love (goodcleanlove.com). From personal experience,

I give a hearty thumbs up to Yes lubricants, which has both water- and oil-based options.

Vitamin E (in suppository form intended for vaginal use) has been shown to help moisturize and protect membranes.

Diet can also help increase your natural lubrication. Drink plenty of water to stay well hydrated. Some experts believe a low-fat diet can make vaginal dryness worse, so make sure you’re eating healthy, unsaturated fats (wild salmon, nuts, avocado, seeds, coconut oil, olive oil, flaxseed, etc.). Avoid caffeine, alcohol and the use of antihistamines, as these are drying to mucous membranes. Phytoestrogenic herbal supplements may also help.