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AH!YES® Guide
Understanding and Treating Vaginal Dryness
Understanding Vaginal Dryness and Finding Relief
Many women (as much as 90% of post-menopausal women!) experience vaginal dryness. Many are searching for a natural remedy for vaginal dryness, and others seek medical intervention to find relief. Finding relief for vaginal dryness means first understanding exactly what it is and why it can occur. Vaginal dryness is common and it can happen at any time in a woman's life. It is sometimes referred to as vaginal atrophy, or atrophic vaginitis, these are slightly different conditions that can include vaginal dryness as a symptom.
While vaginal dryness is very common during perimenopause and menopause, it is not limited to midlife.
Vaginal dryness can cause itching, burning, dryness and pain during sex or day-to-day life. It can significantly affect a woman's quality of life, and some may struggle with sex and intimacy as a result. The great news is vaginal dryness can be easily managed and is not something anyone should have to suffer with.
Your intimate health guide
How to increase vaginal moisture naturally
No one should experience the uncomfortable effects of vaginal dryness. Learn about gentle options and when to speak with your doctor.
Natural vaginal moisturizers such as AH! YES® VM can be used daily to manage symptoms of dryness. Moisturizers may be applied externally or internally and can provide relief for up to three days.
If dryness causes pain during sex or penetration, a lubricant can help. Water-based lubricants rehydrate delicate tissues, oil-based lubricants can be nourishing and long-lasting, and silicone-based lubricants provide lasting lubrication but do not rehydrate dry tissue.
If dryness is hormonal, your doctor may discuss HRT or estrogen therapy. Vaginal estrogen may be prescribed for GSM and is available as pessaries, ovules, creams or a ring. Speak with your oncologist before using vaginal estrogen after estrogen receptor positive breast cancer.
Educational guide
Symptoms & Causes of Vaginal Dryness
Symptoms of vaginal dryness
- Dryness, burning, stinging, swelling, chafing, and bleeding are common symptoms.
- Discomfort may be caused by inflammation of the vulva.
- Pain during sex is also called dyspareunia.
- Infection and discharge may occur. When normal vaginal mucus, acidity, and tissue elasticity are reduced, natural defences against vaginal and urinary tract infections are also reduced.
- Itching and scratching can create a cycle that weakens the skin around the vulva and causes inflammation.
Hormonal factors
- Menopause and perimenopause
- Post menstruation
- Pregnancy
- Childbirth
- Breastfeeding
Medical factors
- Autoimmune conditions such as Sjögren's syndrome, which affects moisture-producing glands.
- Cancer treatments such as chemotherapy, hormone therapy, and radiation therapy.
- Medications such as antidepressants or antihistamines, including hay fever remedies.
- Hormonal treatments such as hormonal contraceptives can affect estrogen production.
- Hysterectomy, including removal of the womb and ovaries.
- Diabetes.
Lifestyle factors
- Use of harsh soaps or douches in the vulval area.
- Smoking or alcohol use.
- Lack of physical activity.
- Tampon use.
- Emotional stress.
If you feel you have an infection, such as bacterial vaginosis, it is important to see a doctor.
A simple anatomy guide
Vulva vs vagina: what's the difference?
These two terms are often used interchangeably, but they describe different parts of the body. Open each card to learn more.
The vulva is the external part of the genitals. It includes the mons pubis, labia majora, labia minora, clitoris, urethra and the opening of the vagina.
The vagina is an internal, muscular canal that extends from the cervix to the vaginal opening. It contains moist mucous membranes, like other sensitive areas of the body.
Why ingredients matter
Vulval tissue combines normal skin and mucous membranes. Because mucous membranes have less protective barrier, they can be more sensitive to irritation and dryness. Choose gentle, pH-balanced products made for intimate care.
The smart-moisture difference
Osmolality: hydration that works with your body
Osmolality describes how strongly a formula attracts or releases water. The right balance can help support comfort without pulling too much water from delicate tissues or pushing too much into them.
Hyper-osmotic
Some glycerin-containing lubricants and moisturizers can draw water out of already dry tissues, which may contribute to irritation.
Iso-osmotic
A balanced formula is designed to match the osmotic pressure of the tissues it touches and replenish moisture as the body needs it.
Hypo to iso-osmotic
A lubricant should release hydration more quickly, ideally with an osmolality close to the tissues to support comfortable intercourse.
Why AH! YES VM is designed differently
AH! YES VM prioritizes iso-osmolality. It adheres gently to vaginal walls and is designed to release hydration as your body requires it over 1 to 3 days, rather than creating a constant wet feeling.
For a sperm-friendly lubricant, the ideal osmolality is close to that of semen, which is slightly higher than typical human tissues. Formulas should be evaluated for their intended use.
This educational information is not medical advice. If you experience persistent dryness, pain, or irritation, consult a qualified healthcare professional.
Intimate health guide
How to Balance Vaginal pH
You may be familiar with the concept of the gut microbiome, but what often goes unnoticed or isn't well understood is the vaginal microbiome. The vaginal microbiome is a complex micro-ecosystem that plays a vital role in maintaining vaginal health and protecting against infections.
What Are Lactobacilli?
Lactobacilli produce lactic acid, which helps maintain vaginal pH. Several factors can affect their presence, including vaginal dryness, antibiotic use, hormonal changes, sexual activity, harsh soaps, underlying medical conditions, and stress.
Vaginal pH
The natural acidic pH of the vagina helps protect against infections. Avoid douching and harsh soaps, and choose products that are pH-balanced specifically for the vagina.
If you notice unusual odor, discharge, itching, pain, or recurring symptoms, speak with a qualified healthcare professional.
Why Choose AH! YES® to Treat Vaginal Dryness Naturally
Many women with sensitive skin may experience adverse reactions to the ingredients in glycerine/glycol based lubricants, but can use all AH! YES® products with confidence due to their guaranteed pure, natural and gentle ingredients.
All AH! YES® products:
- Are formulated with ingredients that have proven track records as skin foods, so you can trust that your delicate tissues will be treated tenderly.
- Are free from all known skin irritants: certified organic and pH-matched to the vagina.
- AH! YES® OB is deeply nourishing and plant-based.
- AH! YES® WB & AH! YES® VM provide soothing relief from burning, irritation and discomfort.
- AH! YES® WB & AH! YES® VM are suitable for use as an intimate moisturizer and sexual lubricant.
- AH! YES® WB & AH! YES® VM are hormone, paraben and glycerin free.
AH! YES® is recommended by healthcare professionals. AH! YES® WB & VM are recommended by a wide range of healthcare professionals.
VM Vaginal Moisturizer Applicators
$23.99
WB Water Based Lubricant
$21.99
Ah! YES Starter Set
$55.22
