Why You Can’t Lubricate and What to Do About It

If you’re not lubricating naturally before having sex, this is vaginal dryness. Vaginal dryness may not sound like a serious problem, but it has a huge impact on your sex life and puts a strain on your relationship with your partner. Are you aware of vaginal dryness causes?

Vaginal dryness is more common than you may think. It’s not something most women talk openly about with each other. But it doesn’t need to be a serious problem, as it’s something you can easily treat.

There are a number of possible vaginal dryness causes , both physiological and psychological. Here are some of the most common reasons you can’t lubricate, and what you can do resolve this issue:

Not Enough Foreplay

Lack of foreplay is one of the most common reasons why women aren’t lubricating enough before intercourse. Maybe you have an over-eager partner, are still getting to know your own body, or it’s just something you aren’t aware of.

Every woman requires a different amount of foreplay to reach a level of sexual arousal that stimulates enough lubrication. It’s about finding out what works best for you.

What to do about it – You need to talk openly with your partner about foreplay and explain your situation. It’s a subject that can dent a man’s ego, so approach it tactfully and suggest experimenting with a few things you both enjoy while finding out what works.

One of Your Medications

Vaginal dryness is a side effect of some medicines. Even some of the common medicines that you probably don’t think about, such as antihistamines, asthma medicines, and cold treatments, can have this side effect.

What to do about it – First, read the instruction leaflet for the medicines you currently take. If it states vaginal dryness as a side effect, you have your answer. If not, it’s still worth discussing this with your doctor and trying some alternative medicines.

You’re Just Not into Your Partner

How much are you really into the person you’re having sex with? Our bodies respond to sexual excitement and desire by increasing blood flow to our genitals. This is what stimulates your vagina to lubricate itself in anticipation of penetration. If none of the above are happening, it may be a lack of sexual excitement.

What to do about it – This is something you need to have an honest conversation with yourself about. Is there something in particular that turns you off about your partner? If so, can it change? If not, and it’s just them, it’s time to cut ties and find someone you’re attracted to. Of course, this isn’t as easy if you are married, nor may it even be something you entertain as an option.

Low Estrogen Levels

Estrogen is the hormone that maintains the thickness of your vaginal lining and produces lubrication. Women often experience a drop in estrogen levels when they go through menopause, after giving birth, and due to some medications.

What to do about it – Discuss this problem with your doctor so they can determine if you actually have low estrogen levels. If so, they will likely prescribe estrogen tablets or a cream to restore your levels.

You Might Be Allergic to Something

Fragranced products smell nice, but the chemicals used to add a fragrance may be causing an allergic reaction. The same goes for the fabric of your underwear, as it directly contacts your skin. Vaginal dryness is a common side effect of having an allergic reaction to something coming into contact with your genitals.

What to do about it – As with any allergies, start changing or stop using any products that are coming into contact with your vulva. This includes underwear and any products you use on your skin around your genitals.

If You Still Can’t Lubricate Naturally – Use Lubrication

Some women just don’t lubricate naturally.

In fact, around 17% of women ages 18-50 experience vaginal dryness despite doing all the right things to resolve this issue.

So, don’t stress over the causes of vaginal dryness – you’re not alone. The good news is, there is no shortage of lubrication products on the market designed to enhance your sex life. The decision over which type, feel, flavor, and sensation you want is going to be more difficult than opting to use lube itself.