Vaginal Dryness and Drugs

Americans, and a lot of Western societies, like their drugs. Well, this is a tragic mistake in most cases as drugs generally cause more problems than they solve.  This is particular true in the bedroom and we have covered this topic in my page on Erectile Dysfunction and Drugs. 

Unfortunately, this is not just an issue that plagues males only:  the sex life of females is often disturbed by pharmaceuticals as well.  In my link on Female Libido and Hormones, I discuss various drugs that can effect female libido negatively and here I want to discuss another frequent drug-induced issue for women:  vaginal dryness.

Vaginal dryness, like a fire in a concert hall, can destroy even your most magnificent performance. Even "mild" vaginal dryness can result in irritation and infections leading a woman to sour on the idea of diving under the covers.  Furthermore, it can create a vicious cycle, because the slowdown in sexual activity actually can contribute to increased vaginal dryness and, in addition, the stress and negative feelings often worsen a woman's natural lubrication as well. 

Let's start with antihistamines.  Most guys don't realize that the drying properties of antihistamines can make or even initiate prostatitis and, in still other cases, lower erectile strength as well.  Likewise, most woman do not realize the same holds true for the walls of the vagina.  These drugs can dry up much more than your sinuses!

Similarly, antidepressants, which often cause erectile issues in males, can also lead to lack of vaginal lubrication. Obviously, if you were fighting depression, it isn't going to help you if your medication is sabotaging your sex life as well.  Tranquilizers and sedatives are also similar.  Finally, the same "sin" drugs that cause males erectile issues, such as narcotics, alcohol and nicotine (smoking), can also result in lack of lubrication for a woman as well. 

Yes, this is just one more example as to how drugs can sabotage all your hard work in the bedroom.

So, if Big Pharma can lead us down this path of sexual troubles and difficulties, can still other medical technology rescue us from the same dilemmas?  The answer, fortunately, is "yes" and are good ol' fashioned lubricants.  Of course, don't forget foreplay you silly boy, but lubricants are arguably as essential to the bedroom and, well, the bed.

Of course, most guys know a heck of a lot more about the lubing their vehicle than lubricants of a more intimate nature.  (Yes, I know some of you are pretty intimate with your car.)  Well, this ought not to be the case.  Here's what you need to know:  water-based lubricants are generally better than silicon.  Silicon does things that women don't like, such as leaving a nasty coating on the skin and staining sheets.

Glycerin-based lubricants are effective and long-lesting but can sometimes irritate the skin and I don't need to tell you that we're talking about some sensitive areas here.  In addition, they break down into sugars and can lead to yeast infections, which will shut down your sex life for days or even weeks while she recovers. But if you're a glycerin fan Astroglide is probably king.

What is generally recommended instead are the water-based lubricants.  Although a little shorter-lasting than the above, they are non-greasy and healthy for the vagina.  Top selling brands includeProbe All Natural, K-Y Warming Personal Lubricant, Liquid Silk Personal Lubricant and Good Clean Love

Again, there's plenty of choice out there, so pick one and get busy.