Q&A
Breastfeeding And Vaginal Dryness
Question:
Since I started breastfeeding, I've experienced vaginal dryness. Are the two connected somehow? What can I do?
Many breastfeeding mothers experience vaginal dryness, which is generally due to naturally lower levels of estrogen during nursing. Estrogen helps keep vaginal tissue lubricated and elastic, so when the hormone levels drop, vaginal tissue becomes drier and thinner.
Lubricants like KY-jelly can help relieve dryness. But if lubrication doesn't seem to help, check with your health care provider. He or she can help pinpoint other potential causes such as a yeast infection and give you the approporiate treatment.
