Find out what causes irritating vaginal cuts and learn how to prevent them.
Vaginal cuts and tears are a common problem in women who are sexually active. Although usually not serious, vaginal cuts can be uncomfortable and irksome. The good news, however, is that vaginal cuts can be prevented.
"Many women notice vaginal cuts and tears after sexual intercourse, and most of the time these tears and abrasions are normal," says Edwin Huang, MD, a gynecologist at Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston. Vaginal cuts become more noticeable during sex, he says, because semen can sting when it comes in contact with the open cuts.
Even though minor vaginal cuts may not create long-term health issues,, they can negatively affect your experience of sex, and make you uncomfortable. A better course is to learn how to prevent the cuts from occurring in the first place.
Common Causes of Vaginal Dryness and Cuts
So what does cause vaginal cuts? When sexually excited, a woman’s vagina naturally produces fluids that lubricate the area during sexual activity, reducing friction that can irritate or tear the vaginal skin. If the vagina is not sufficiently lubricated, vaginal dryness can result. Dr. Huang says that vaginal dryness is a common cause of vaginal cuts. Other factors that play a role in vaginal dryness include:
- Menopause.
- Not enough foreplay.
- History of abuse.
- Other causes of vaginal cuts.
Prevention of Vaginal Cuts
How can vaginal cuts be prevented? Since vaginal dryness is often responsible, increasing wetness in the vagina during sexual activity is often the best way to prevent vaginal cuts. Ways to do this include:
- Lubricants.
- More foreplay.
- Sexual positions.
With just a few precautions and some knowledge, vaginal cuts can be avoided, and your sexual experience will be more pleasurable and comfortable.
Saturday, February 1, 2020