What are dry mucous membranes in the abdomen?
Dry mucous membranes in the lower abdomen, also known as vaginal dryness, is a condition where the mucous membranes in the vagina and vulva lose their natural moisture and lubricating properties. This can lead to unpleasant symptoms and affect the woman's sexual well-being and quality of life.
What causes dry mucous membranes in the abdomen?
One of the main causes of dry mucous membranes in the abdomen is a lack of estrogen. Estrogen is a hormone that plays a crucial role in maintaining the normal function and health of mucous membranes in the vagina and vulva. During menopause, the period when a woman's ovarian function declines and menstruation ceases, estrogen levels drop markedly. This can lead to the mucous membranes becoming thinner, less elastic and less able to produce moisture. Dry mucous membranes can also occur during pregnancy, breastfeeding, hormonal imbalance or as a side effect of certain medical treatments such as birth control pills.
What symptoms do dry mucous membranes in the abdomen cause?
Dry mucous membranes in the abdomen can give rise to a number of different symptoms, some of the most common symptoms are:
- Itching and irritation in the vagina and vulva.
- Burning or stinging sensation in the abdomen.
- Discomfort or pain during intercourse (dyspareunia).
- Increased susceptibility to infections and inflammation.
- Urinary tract problems and increased frequency of urinary urges.
Why does sexual intercourse hurt when you have dry mucous membranes?
When the mucous membranes are dry and thin, they become less elastic and more susceptible to damage and irritation. During intercourse, the friction between the dry mucous membranes and the penetration can cause pain and discomfort. This can also lead to small microscopic damages in the mucous membranes, which can worsen the problem and make it even more painful during future intercourse.
What can be done to discover if symptoms of dry mucous membranes are due to estrogen deficiency?
If you experience symptoms of dry mucous membranes in the vagina and suspect that it may be related to estrogen deficiency, you should consult a medical expert, such as a gynecologist. The doctor can carry out a thorough assessment of your symptoms and you can also carry out various tests, including blood tests to measure your estrogen levels. This can help determine if estrogen deficiency is the underlying cause of your symptoms.
What can you do yourself with dry mucous membranes?
There are several measures and lifestyle changes that you can consider if you suffer from dry mucous membranes in the vagina:
- Use moisturizing products: There are over-the-counter vaginal moisturizing creams and lubricants that can help relieve discomfort and pain during intercourse.
- Change washing habits: Use mild, unscented soaps and avoid excessive washing of the genital area so as not to dry out the mucous membranes further.
- Regular sexual activity: Regular sexual activity can help increase blood flow to the vagina and promote natural moisture production.
- Diet and health: A balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle can have positive effects on hormone balance and general health.
- Avoid tobacco and alcohol: Tobacco and excessive alcohol consumption can affect the hormonal balance and worsen dry mucous membranes.
- Estrogen treatment: In more severe cases of dry mucous membranes, the doctor may recommend estrogen treatment in the form of vaginal creams, rings or tablets to restore the health of the mucous membranes.
Dry mucous membranes in the abdomen is a common problem that in many cases can be linked to estrogen deficiency, especially during and after menopause. By understanding the causes behind this condition and by taking appropriate measures, both on your own and with the advice of a medical expert, you can find relief and improve your quality of life.
