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Why does vaginal dryness
happen during menopause?
Vaginal dryness is a common symptom during the stages of menopause and can affect comfort, sexual activity and daily life. It occurs as hormone levels, particularly oestrogen, decline.
Vaginal dryness is one of the most common symptoms of genitourinary syndrome of menopause, a condition caused by lower oestrogen and androgen levels that affects vaginal and urinary tissues following the menopause milestone.
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Understanding why vaginal dryness happens, and how it can be managed, can help women maintain intimate comfort and sexual wellbeing together with overall quality of life.
Although this symptom is common, it is often under-discussed, and many women are not aware that effective treatment options are available.
What causes vaginal dryness during menopause?
Hormones play a vital role in maintaining the thickness and elasticity of vaginal tissues while supporting natural lubrication. During the transition towards the menopause milestone, falling oestrogen levels can lead to several distinct changes such as the thinning of the vaginal walls and a significant reduction in natural lubrication.
These shifts often result in decreased elasticity and increased fragility of the tissues which can make the vagina feel dry, tight or sore.
Over time these changes may contribute to persistent discomfort during sexual activity or lead to minor irritation and small tears in the delicate tissue.
Common symptoms of vaginal dryness in menopause
Vaginal dryness can present in several ways and symptoms can range from mild to more intense discomfort. Many women experience a persistent sense of burning or itching in the vaginal area alongside pain or discomfort during sexual activity.
Other frequent signs include a feeling of tightness or irritation and an increased susceptibility to minor irritation from hygiene products or friction.
It is important to recognise that the severity of these symptoms varies between individuals and dryness often develops gradually over time rather than occurring suddenly.
Managing vaginal dryness during menopause
Several treatments and strategies can help relieve vaginal dryness and improve overall tissue health. Non-hormonal moisturisers and lubricants can be applied regularly or specifically during sexual activity to improve comfort and reduce friction. For more targeted care, local oestrogen treatment such as vaginal creams or tablets can be prescribed by a doctor to restore moisture and elasticity.
Sexual activity or vaginal stimulation also helps maintain blood flow to the area while avoiding irritants like scented soaps or douches prevents further discomfort.
Additionally maintaining a balanced diet and staying hydrated can support vaginal comfort from the inside out.
When to see a doctor
You should arrange a menopause consultation if you experience persistent dryness or pain during sex that affects your quality of life. This can provide clarity and help address symptoms effectively.
It is also important to seek professional guidance for vaginal irritation, itching that does not improve with simple measures or recurrent urinary tract infections.
A doctor can recommend appropriate treatments to rule out other causes and provide clear guidance on both safe hormone and non-hormone treatment options.
Key points
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Vaginal dryness is common during menopause due to hormonal changes and is part of genitourinary syndrome of menopause.
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Symptoms include burning, itching, tightness and discomfort during sex.
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Non-hormonal moisturisers, local hormonal therapy and sexual activity can help improve symptoms.
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Avoid irritants and practise gentle care to support vaginal health.
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It is recommended that you consult a doctor if you experience persistent or painful symptoms.
Medically reviewed by Dr Susana Rodriguez, menopause clinician at ClaraSana Women’s Health, Perth.
Our content is based on up-to-date Australian guidelines & may differ from information on other sites.