Embarrassing sex-related problem

[danedane]

Warning - this is a very personal problem and I'm going to have to be quite graphic to describe it. Also not sure whether this is more one for the general health section, but here goes...

In all of my sexually active life, I have never - not once - produced ANY lubrication when aroused. I never get wet, ever.

There, I said it.

Sex is often painful, but perfectly doable with the help of something out of a tube, or (apologies - if it wasn't already, this probably is TMI now..) lots of saliva.

I've never really talked about this with anybody except my husband and a GP once when I was much younger (who was useless and patronising, and blamed the immature and inexperienced boys I was doing it with..) so I don't know how uncommon it is. I know its common for women after the menopause, but at least these women were ok once, if you see what I mean.

I feel as though maybe I'm missing the gland that produces moisture, if there is such a thing, but I have normal vaginal discharge so perhaps not. Does anybody else have any ideas?

Does anybody else under the age of 45 share my problem?

What's wrong with me?????!!

There are 2 glands near the opening to the vagina which produce the lubricant, I know cause i once had to have one removed! I have not suffered from this but i understand it is common.

Hope someone can offer comfort/support soon.

It is quite a common problem, please don't be embarrassed to go and see a different GP. They won't be quite so patronising I promise. I have a blocked bartholins gland (the gland that produces moisture), so do struggle with moisture issues in bed. Lube helps, usually but there has been times when its been painful

There is creams and things now that the dr can prescribe, so please do go and see them

I can sort of relate to this after my bartholins gland got blocked last year(talk about excuriating pain at the slightest touch). Interestingly, I was still able to produce vaginal lubrication, so it seems there is more than one gland responsible for these secretions.

I skipped the GP and went to a sexual health clinic. Much more knowledgeable, understanding and sympathetic.

Thank you for your replies - thank goodness for clued up Mumsnetters! Imnotaslimjim have you always had this problem? And does the blockage itself cause you pain? Because I've never had any pain...

You could use something like Replens, which is a continuous vaginal moisturiser, for want of a better term.
It does sound like a physical condition, so do see a sexual health nurse/practictioner.