Why do I have vaginal dryness and mood swings?

If you’re uncomfortable from vaginal dryness, self-care measures can help:

Lubricants and moisturizers If vaginal dryness makes sexual intercourse uncomfortable, try an over-the-counter product such as:

Lubricants (Astroglide, K-Y). Water-based lubricants like these lubricate your vagina for several hours. Apply the lubricant to your vaginal opening or to your partner’s penis before intercourse. Moisturizers (Replens, Lubrin). Vaginal moisturizers help moisturize your vagina and last longer than lubricants do; they may decrease dryness for up to three days with a single application. Occasional vaginal dryness during intercourse may mean that you aren’t sufficiently aroused. Make time to be intimate with your partner and allow your body to become adequately aroused and lubricated. It may help to talk with your partner about what feels good. Having intercourse regularly also may help promote better vaginal lubrication.

Avoid certain products Though you may be willing to try just about anything to relieve your discomfort, avoid using the following products to treat vaginal dryness, because they may irritate your vagina:

Vinegar, yogurt or other douches Hand lotions Soaps Bubble baths

Some alternative therapies that have been suggested for treating vaginal dryness include isoflavones, black cohosh and wild yam. However, there’s no convincing evidence that any of these therapies are effective. More research is necessary to determine the safety and effectiveness of these approaches for treating vaginal dryness.

Always check with your doctor before using alternative therapies, especially if you’re already taking other medications or are pregnant or nursing.