

The testosterone receptor doesn’t work well, making it very dependent on high amounts of testosterone being present.The synthetic progesterone in newer birth control pills blocks the testosterone receptor at high doses.The pill causes the ovaries to produce less total testosterone in a usable form.There are a few potential issues for women with this genetic variant who take the birth control pill, The effects are not obvious until testosterone levels become lower than normal, which can also occur in women who take the pill. This means that some women require higher levels of testosterone to keep the vulva and vaginal tissue healthy and for their glands to function normally. Research shows that 5% of women have a genetic variant that results in a defective or inefficient testosterone receptor. Quick tip: use a silicone-based lubricant (like one from Female Founded, Female Led Pulse ) or apply a hormonal cream (which can be prescribed by your doctor) to the opening of the vagina to reduce dryness. Testosterone contributes to lubrication in the vagina but birth control pills lower a woman’s testosterone levels produced by the ovaries, which leads to vaginal dryness.Įstrogen also helps keep your vaginal tissues lubricated, so when there is less of it, this means there is less blood flow to the tissue, resulting in dryness of either the vagina or vulva. Pills with low levels of estrogen that ALSO contain drospirenone, desogestrel, or norgestimate seem to have a negative impact on libido and vaginal dryness. Vaginal Dryness & the Birth Control Pillīetween 3-5% of women on low-dose birth control pills encounter vaginal dryness.ĭepending on the type of birth control pill you are on, some may be better than others.

Some women feel these symptoms daily, while others only notice when they’re unable to get “wet” (lubricated) before or during sex. Its symptoms include discomfort, itchiness or burning, and pain during sex. While vaginal dryness is most commonly associated with menopausal women (45-55 years old), women of all ages can experience it. Luckily, vaginal dryness is a condition that can be easily identified and treated if you know what is causing it.

This may be due to an allergic reaction to a cosmetic product such as soap or perfume, your menstruation cycle, or even your birth control pill. There are many reasons why you may be experiencing a vaginal dry spell. Updated on DecemWhat Causes Vaginal Dryness? Medically reviewed by Sophia Yen, MD, MPH – Written by Pandia Health Editorial Team.
