A woman’s body can be just as unpredictable as the weather. When it comes to preparing for sexual activity, sometimes women can become naturally lubricated fairly easy – other times it can be quite difficult. It is important to engage in plenty of foreplay to encourage emotional connection and physical arousal. However, there may be times when a woman remains uncomfortably dry despite the best efforts of her partner to stimulate the receptive area. It can be embarrassing, inconvenient, and even painful if you don’t have a ‘back-up’ personal lubricant handy. Using a lubrication product can be fun and stimulating, especially when you introduce it into your foreplay. You’ll enjoy applying it on one another, adding a slippery pleasurable prelude to intercourse.
What causes a woman to produce natural lubrication at certain times and not others? We women know that during our ‘younger’ years, vaginal dryness is generally not a problem. When we become sexually aroused, our natural lubrication increases significantly in preparation for easy penetration. Located just inside the vaginal opening are numerous glands within the labia minora, or inner lips, which secrete these lubricating fluids. This is a very sensitive area with high concentrations of blood vessels and nerve endings. Deeper inside the vaginal canal are the microscopic Bartholin’s glands which also release lubricating fluids. Approximately two weeks after menstruation, production of these fluids normally increases with a noticeable discharge from the cervix. This produces a mucous during ovulation to support potential conception.
A woman’s ability to produce vaginal lubrication shifts over the course of her lifetime. It is affected by a host of factors including age, overall health, medication, contraceptive use, stress, anxiety, drug use, alcohol consumption, etc. Menstruation and menopause also affect the consistency and amount of lubricating fluids produced. Antihistamines in particularly tend to hinder mucous secretion. Excessive use of tampons can also absorb naturally-produced fluids leading to vaginal dryness and irritation. Menopause, breast feeding, cancer treatment, smoking, immune dysfunction, and ovarian surgery all result in decreased estrogen levels. This causes vaginal walls to thin and lose elasticity, also leading to vaginal dryness.
How to Help Prevent Vaginal Dryness
Even though many of the issues surrounding vaginal dryness are genetic, hormonal or health-related, there are steps that can be taken to help mitigate it. Avoid using products that have a drying effect on delicate tissues, such as feminine hygiene spray, powder, douche and bubble bath. Certain medications (especially diuretics) can dry out the body as can excessively salty foods. Wear natural cotton clothing and avoid tight jeans and spandex. Anything that’s too tight against the body can cause yeast infections and/or dry out the vagina.
It is a good idea to practice Kegel exercises on a regular basis to keep the muscles tight and maintain moisture in the vaginal tissues. Consuming soy products instead of dairy is also recommended as they are high in protein and a much healthier option. It is believed that soy increases estrogen levels and brings natural moisture back. Of course it is important to drink plenty of water to stay properly hydrated, especially when you’re more physically active.
Even if you’re extremely conscious of what you consume and use on or in your body, you may still struggle with the discomforts of vaginal dryness. And this, of course, can directly impact your sex life. It may be necessary to use an additional lubricant to augment the sexual experience, increase pleasure, and reduce irritation.
Recommended Lubricants
Carrageenan is the only 100% natural personal lubricant formulated to support women’s sexual wellness with additional health benefits far and above the relief of vaginal dryness. It includes the ingredient carrageenan, an algae-derived compound that may also help prevent cervical cancer and various sexually-transmitted diseases. Carrageenan Personal Lubricant is a water-based formula also containing Organic Aloe – naturally soothes and sustains healthy sensitive tissue; Organic Agave Inulin – prebiotic that helps women maintain healthy microflora; Vitamin E – fights free radicals and soothes and sustains healthy sensitive tissue.
This all-natural, sea plant-based product, is designed to replicate the body’s own natural fluids and contains NO silicone, petroleum-based glycol, parabens, glycerin or other harsh chemicals. Carrageenan™ is a rich gel that dispenses easily and feels silky, smooth and sexy.
Carrageenan™ Personal Lubricant is available for purchase on-line at: http://www.oceanusnaturals.com/all-natural-lubricant.php?source=Blog
Also at national retailers such as Albertsons, Hi-Health, Whole Foods, H-E-B, Meijer, etc. You can find your closest retailer using the store locator at OceanusNaturals.com.
Allura Joy has worked with women of all ages and of diverse backgrounds for many years in offering support, holistic therapy and relationship counseling, as well as sharing valuable resources and useful information in the areas of women’s sexuality, health & wellness. Allura has facilitated various women’s groups, retreats, conferences and special events for women to come together in community to share, connect and support one another.
Allura also works with women individually to help resolve personal issues around relationships and intimacy, specializing in helping women who may have emotional and/or physical issues and insecurities with sexual expression and experiencing orgasm. She enjoys helping clients explore their passions in finding a sense of purpose and to manifest their dreams and desires. She is a certified Hypnotherapist, Life Coach, NLP Master Practitioner, Licensed Massage Therapist and Yoga Instructor.
Allura enjoys writing articles to empower women in their sexuality, promoting a healthy fulfilling sex life - with or without a partner! Check out my blog, Straight UP Girl Talk with Allura at: http://www.oceanusnaturals.com/blog/