It’s most common during this period of life because your estrogen levels decline. Estrogen helps keep your Vag*nal lining moisturized and healthy. Low levels of this hormone cause your Vag*nal walls to become thin and dry. This is a common condition of menopause called Vag*nal atrophy.
You don’t have to live in discomfort. Many safe and effective treatments are available for Vag*nal dryness. Ask your healthcare provider for guidance. They want to help you feel your best.
What does a dry Vag*nal feel like?
Vag*nal dryness causes discomfort and pain in your Vag*nal , especially during sex. It may also cause:
- Burning and itching
- Bleeding after sex due to your Vag*nal wall tissues breaking open
- Soreness in your vulva (genitals)
- Frequent urinary tract infections (UTIs) or yeast infections
- Needing to pee more often
Less moisture in your Vag*nal leads to less moisture in your vulva. So, you may feel dryness or irritation when putting on your underwear or during activities like walking or sitting.
Possible Causes
What are the most common causes of this symptom?
In many cases, Vag*nal dryness happens when estrogen levels decrease. This occurs naturally as you age or during menopause. Other things that can lower estrogen levels include:
- Anti-estrogen medications for uterine fibroids or endometriosis
- Breastfeeding
- Birth control pills or any form of hormonal birth control
- Cancer treatments, like chemotherapy and hormone therapy
- Certain antidepressants
- Removal of your ovaries
- Smoking
Other conditions or situations that may cause Vag*nal dryness or increase your risk of it include:
- Diabetes
- Lichen planus that affects your vulva or Vag*nal
- Lupus
- Sjogren’s syndrome
- Consuming alcohol
- Stress
- Not being sexually aroused
- Using scented or perfumed soaps, sprays and washes around or in your Vag*nal
Care and Treatment
How is this symptom treated?
Many treatments can help Vag*nal dryness and the painful sex associated with it. If you just have Vag*nal dryness, you may want to first try over-the-counter (OTC) moisturizers and lubricants:
