WeMoms
2 Apr 2024

Vaginal Dryness and Sex: What Should I Do

Pregnancy
Pregnancy follow-up
What if I Experience Vaginal Dryness During Pregnancy?
Hormonal fluctuations, increased blood flow to the pelvic area, and changes in vaginal pH levels can contribute to vaginal dryness during pregnancy.
Understanding the Causes of Vaginal Dryness during Pregnancy
  • Hormonal changes: During pregnancy, hormonal fluctuations can affect vaginal lubrication. Increased levels of estrogen can lead to changes in vaginal moisture levels, potentially causing dryness.
  • Increased blood flow: The increased blood flow to the pelvic area during pregnancy may result in engorgement of blood vessels, which can affect vaginal lubrication.
  • Changes in vaginal pH: Pregnancy can alter the pH balance of the vagina, potentially impacting moisture levels and leading to dryness.
Tips for Managing Vaginal Dryness during Pregnancy
  • Stay hydrated: Drinking an adequate amount of water can help maintain overall hydration and potentially alleviate vaginal dryness. Aim for at least eight glasses of water per day.
  • Use a lubricant: Applying a water-based lubricant can help reduce discomfort during sexual activity and increase vaginal lubrication. It's important to choose a lubricant that is safe for use during pregnancy and does not contain harmful ingredients.
  • Avoid irritants: Steer clear of scented soaps, douches, and other products that may disrupt the natural balance of vaginal moisture. Opt for gentle, unscented cleansers and wear breathable cotton underwear to promote better vaginal health.
  • Discuss with your healthcare provider: If you're experiencing persistent or severe vaginal dryness, it's essential to consult your healthcare provider. They can evaluate your specific situation and provide personalized guidance or recommend appropriate treatments.
  • Consider moisturizers: Your healthcare provider may recommend vaginal moisturizers or creams designed to help alleviate dryness. These products can provide longer-lasting relief and support vaginal health.
  • Foreplay and arousal: Engaging in extended foreplay and allowing ample time for arousal before sexual activity can help stimulate natural lubrication and reduce discomfort.
  • Maintain a healthy lifestyle: Eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly (with your healthcare provider's approval), and managing stress levels can contribute to overall vaginal health and well-being.
When to Seek Medical Attention
In most cases, vaginal dryness during pregnancy is a temporary and manageable issue. However, it's important to seek medical attention if you experience any of the following:
  • Persistent or severe vaginal dryness
  • Itching, burning, or unusual discharge
  • Pain or discomfort during sexual intercourse
  • Any other concerning symptoms
Your healthcare provider can assess your symptoms, rule out any underlying conditions, and provide appropriate treatment if necessary.
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C
Cymphoni
19 Apr 2023

So TMI But I am 23 weeks and sex is painful now. PAINFUL!!!!!!!! I got tested for everything and it all came back negative. I googled and ofc google said vaginal dryness is normal. Is ANYBODY (I pray) experiencing this?

Pregnancy Pregnancy follow-up
2 comments
S
Sophia
Use lube and if it’s that bad stop all together
27 Mar 2024

Answer

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N
Nicole
Excuse me in advance if it's TMI, my doctor told me last week that if my husband is larger then it could mean he's aggravated my cervix. My cervix is tender at this point and we can't be as rough as we used to and he definitely can't go as deep. You could try that if it's not just the dryness. Different positions sometimes help, but he definitely has to take it easy
27 Mar 2024

Answer

c
cricket 😊
22 Jun 2022

Me : google does coconut oil help vag lips when itchy Google : Coconut oil is a popular natural option for relieving vaginal dryness. Some studies suggest that coconut oil is safe to use on the skin, and it is an effective moisturizer. Many people use vaginal moisturizers or lubricants to help ease vaginal discomfort and to make intercourse more comfortable.

Pregnancy Pregnancy follow-up
1 comments
M
Mia
I actually tried it yesterday and it worked for me
27 Mar 2024

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B
Brook
19 May 2022

Sooo tmi but I feel so alone in this. Since I’ve been pregnant I feel like I have zero sex drive and when I do have sex I feel like I experience vaginal dryness and I’ve never really had this problem before. Anyone else the same? Ugh it’s so upsetting 🥺

Pregnancy Pregnancy follow-up
5 comments
L
Liana
Same! And sex hurts for me. I also get swollen after that lasts for a couple hours, and I end up sensitive for about a day. Even wiping 🧻 hurts.
27 Mar 2024

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B
Bailey
Girl same here
27 Mar 2024

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S
Sophie
8 May 2022

Hey everyone! TMI here but have any of you dealt with the vulva being super dry to the point it itches and still have sex the the actual vaginal hole hurts really bad afterwards? Any tips and tricks on how to help with dryness and hurting ?

Pregnancy Pregnancy follow-up
7 comments
J
Janiya
Vagisil or replens can help with the vulva dryness love
27 Mar 2024

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J
Janiya
And low hormone levels can be the cause of the dryness which will cause itchyness and pain during sex ! Low levels of estrogen can cause thinning, drying, and inflammation of vaginal walls. This is called vaginal atrophy.
27 Mar 2024

Answer

a
amanda
3 May 2022

So I don't notice much discharge when ovulating. But there is no dryness during sex can I still get pregnant if I don't notice the discharge.

Pregnancy Pregnancy follow-up
1 comments

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