Diseases

Vaginal lubrication is the naturally produced lubricating fluid that reduces friction during sexual intercourse. Vaginal dryness is the condition where this lubrication is insufficient.

Persons most commonly affected: Women of all ages.
Organ or part of body involved: Vagina
Symptoms and indications: Dryness, itching, burning, irritation, feeling of pressure, and pain or light bleeding with sex.
Causes and risk factors: Low estrogen levels, or lack of sexual arousal. Certain medications, including some over-the-counter antihistamines, as well as life events such as pregnancy, lactation, menopause, aging or diseases such as diabetes, will inhibit lubrication. Medicines with anticholinergic or sympathomimetic effects will dry out the \"mucosal\" or wet tissues of the vagina. Such medicines include many common drugs for allergic, cardiovascular, psychiatric, and other medical conditions.
Prevention: 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 for you. Having intercourse regularly may help promote better vaginal lubrication.