Many women contact Sylk with questions about vaginal dryness and intimacy — whether linked to the menopause, recovery from cancer treatment, or dryness at a younger age. Menopause specialist nurse, Kathy Abernethy, offers clear guidance on the causes of vaginal dryness, why it happens in menopause, and the factors that can make it worse. She also highlights effective vaginal dryness treatments, including natural, non-hormonal options like Sylk, recognised as one of the best lubricants for menopause and everyday comfort.
Kathy Abernethy, MClinSci RN
Kathy Abernethy is a specialist nurse with over 20 years’ experience in the field of women’s health. Kathy is an independent prescriber with a Master’s degree in Community Gynaecology and Reproductive healthcare. She is Chair of the UK Menopause Nurse Group and Medical Advisory Member of the British Menopause Society and Director of ‘the menopause course’ - an educational initiative for nurses. She has published a number of articles and papers on the menopause both in the lay and specialist nursing press.
For more information please visit www.kathyabernethy.com
FAQs on Vaginal Dryness (Real Patient Questions)
Are there natural remedies for vaginal dryness after hot flushes stop?
Can Sylk help with vaginal lubrication due to atrophic vaginitis?
What can I do if I’ve gone off sex during menopause?
Can I use Sylk lubricant after breast cancer treatment?
I'm only 30, why do I suffer from female dryness?
Sex is painful because of dryness - what can I do?
After a hysterectomy my libido is gone — is there help?
Expert Advice from Menopause Specialist Nurse Kathy Abernethy
Why vaginal dryness occurs
The lubrication glands in our cervix control natural lubrication and when this process is upset, through hormonal changes or when you experience stress and anxiety, vaginal dryness can be an unwelcome side effect. The itchiness and irritation are often confused with cystitis and thrush, but medications for these conditions will not help the dryness and can in fact make the situation worse.
The problem with lack of natural lubrication during sex
Many women first notice vaginal dryness when making love. It can make penetration painful and uncomfortable and if left untreated, can have a significant impact on relationships and self-confidence.
What causes vaginal dryness? Not just a menopause symptom
Some women are aware that they may experience vaginal dryness during the perimenopause or menopause. However, there are other times when women can suffer from vaginal dryness which tend to be less known and not really talked about.
Other Common Causes of Vaginal Dryness
- When starting a hormone based contraception
- Using tampons for the first time
- During pregnancy and breastfeeding
- Some drugs for cancer treatment can also cause this condition
The vaginal area is very delicate but very tough - delicate enough to be easily irritated by harsh chemicals yet tough enough to withstand the rigours of childbirth. Sylk is a plant based moisturiser made from extract from the kiwi vine designed specifically with your vagina in mind. The pH of the vagina is slightly acidic which is hostile to nasty bacteria. If this balance is upset, infections can take hold.
Sylk Natural Lubricant: An Effective Treatment for Vaginal Dryness
Sylk’s unique female-friendly formula works in harmony with your body to hydrate and soothe. It contains no hormones, parabens or other nasty chemicals, so it is safe to use as often as you need to – even daily. Because it is natural, you are able to use Sylk with internal or external hormone based contraceptives, HRT, when pregnant and breastfeeding and when making love. It is also perfect whenever that little bit of extra comfort is required such as around period time when tampon use can cause discomfort.
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