Dear Jacqui,
I am a 28 year old who is recently been experiencing vaginal itching and some dryness. I have never had this problem before and I am concerned. A few possible conclusions I've come to are that I changed from my regular soap and I just started having intercourse for the first time in 2 years with my boyfriend. Could I be allergic to the natural latex condoms, or is it my age? Or could stress with school and work be a factor? I went to the gyno. and the pap smear came back normal. I don't know what it could be?
Teresa

Dear Teresa,
Vaginal dryness and itching may be caused by several factors: It could be the condoms your boyfriend is using, especially if they are treated with a spermicide. Many women have reported allergic reactions to treated condoms. 1) Consider switching brands containing no spermicide.

2) Hormonal changes can cause itching and vaginal dryness. Estrogen, your primary female hormone, controls to a large degree the moisture in your body, especially in the intimate area. During the first two weeks of your cycle estrogen levels go up until ovulation.

Therefore there is more moisture available. After menstruation hormone levels are lower and many women experience more dryness. I suggest you use an intimate moisturizer, just a few drops applied between the vaginal lips should relieve the symptoms. I am ruling out an infection since you tell me that you recently saw your gynecologist and you had a pap smear. However, it might be a good idea to have your hormone levels checked next time you see your doctor to really know what is going on.

3) And, yes, if you are under a lot of stress it can result in significant hormonal swings and affect your menstrual cycle as well as your vaginal health. How about some relaxation in the form of yoga or listening to a meditation tape here and then?

4) Finally, it could be a product you're using in your vaginal area. Over 30% of all vaginal infections and irritations reported to doctors are caused by inappropriate products used in the vaginal area. I suggest you avoid any product containing fragrance, chemical colors or plant additives.

5) Also refrain from taking bubble baths which are very drying and change the vaginal environment. It is best to use a mild, pH balanced body wash or soap and plenty of lukewarm water. It might also be a good idea to avoid very spicy foods for some time, they can cause bladder irritation and itching. I wish you quick recovery.

Jacqui, women's health and gynecology





	"I've experienced vaginal itching and dryness. Could stress with school and work be a factor?" Dear Jacqui, I am a 28 year old who is recently been experiencing vaginal itching and some dryness. I have never had this problem before and I am concerned. A few possible conclusions I've come to are that I changed from my regular soap and I just started having intercourse for the first time in 2 years with my boyfriend. Could I be allergic to the natural latex condoms, or is it my age? Or could stress with school and work be a factor? I went to the gyno. and the pap smear came back normal. I don't know what it could be? Teresa Dear Teresa, Vaginal dryness and itching may be caused by several factors: It could be the condoms your boyfriend is using, especially if they are treated with a spermicide. Many women have reported allergic reactions to treated condoms. 1) Consider switching brands containing no spermicide. 2) Hormonal changes can cause itching and vaginal dryness. Estrogen, your primary female hormone, controls to a large degree the moisture in your body, especially in the intimate area. During the first two weeks of your cycle estrogen levels go up until ovulation. Therefore there is more moisture available. After menstruation hormone levels are lower and many women experience more dryness. I suggest you use an intimate moisturizer, just a few drops applied between the vaginal lips should relieve the symptoms. I am ruling out an infection since you tell me that you recently saw your gynecologist and you had a pap smear. However, it might be a good idea to have your hormone levels checked next time you see your doctor to really know what is going on. 3) And, yes, if you are under a lot of stress it can result in significant hormonal swings and affect your menstrual cycle as well as your vaginal health. How about some relaxation in the form of yoga or listening to a meditation tape here and then? 4) Finally, it could be a product you're using in your vaginal area. Over 30% of all vaginal infections and irritations reported to doctors are caused by inappropriate products used in the vaginal area. I suggest you avoid any product containing fragrance, chemical colors or plant additives. 5) Also refrain from taking bubble baths which are very drying and change the vaginal environment. It is best to use a mild, pH balanced body wash or soap and plenty of lukewarm water. It might also be a good idea to avoid very spicy foods for some time, they can cause bladder irritation and itching. I wish you quick recovery. Jacqui, women's health and gynecology Copyright 2000 Brandwynne Corporation. All rights reserved.

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