Vaginal dryness in menopause: causes, symptoms, and treatment

Learn why vaginal dryness occurs in menopause, what symptoms it can cause, and what options exist to safely relieve it.

Vaginal dryness is common during perimenopause and menopause, but that does not mean it should be normalized if it causes pain, itching, burning, or discomfort during intercourse. There are care options and treatments that can improve quality of life.

The main cause is usually related to the decrease in estrogen, which can make vaginal tissues drier, more sensitive, and less elastic. Still, vaginal symptoms can also be due to infections, irritation, medications, or other conditions.

This content is informative and does not replace consultation with a healthcare professional.

What vaginal dryness is

Vaginal dryness is the decrease in lubrication or hydration in the vaginal area. It can appear occasionally or persist over time. In menopause, it can be part of the genitourinary syndrome of menopause, which can also affect the vulva, vagina, bladder, and urethra.

Why it appears during menopause

Estrogens help maintain the thickness, elasticity, and lubrication of vaginal tissues. When they decrease, dryness, fragility, discomfort, itching, or pain during intercourse can appear.

Common symptoms

  • Dryness or tightness.
  • Itching or burning.
  • Pain during intercourse.
  • Small bleeding after intercourse.
  • Discomfort when urinating.
  • Need to urinate more frequently.
  • Recurrent urinary infections.

How it can affect daily and sexual life

Vaginal dryness can affect desire, comfort, self-esteem, and relationships. If there is pain, many women avoid sexual intercourse, which can increase emotional tension. Discussing it with a professional can open treatment options.

Options to relieve it

Vaginal moisturizers

They are used regularly to improve hydration of the area. They are not the same as lubricants, as their effect aims to last longer.

Lubricants

They are applied before or during intercourse to reduce friction and discomfort. They can be water-based or silicone-based. It is advisable to avoid irritating or perfumed products.

Medical treatments

The gynecologist can assess local treatments or other options depending on symptoms, history, and preferences. It is not advisable to self-medicate with hormones or use products not intended for the vaginal area.

Care habits

It can help to avoid harsh soaps, vaginal douches, intimate perfumes, very tight clothing, or irritating products. Hygiene should be gentle.

Quick table of options

OptionWhat it can be used forComment
LubricantSexual intercourseOccasional use
Vaginal moisturizerPersistent drynessRegular use
Local medical treatmentModerate or severe symptomsRequires assessment
Gentle careAvoid irritationAvoid perfumes and vaginal douches

When to consult a gynecologist

Consult if there is pain, bleeding, intense itching, foul-smelling discharge, recurrent infections, persistent urinary discomfort, pain during intercourse, or symptoms that do not improve.

Also consult before using hormonal treatments if you have a history of hormone-dependent cancer, are taking hormone therapy, or have relevant illnesses.

Frequently asked questions

Is vaginal dryness normal during menopause?

It is common, but it should not be normalized if it causes pain or affects your life.

Are lubricants and moisturizers the same?

No. Lubricants are used to reduce friction; moisturizers are used regularly for dryness.

Can it cause pain during intercourse?

Yes. If it happens, it is advisable to consult.

Can there be bleeding?

It can occur due to tissue fragility, but bleeding should be evaluated, especially after menopause.

Do supplements solve dryness?

They should not be presented as a solution. There are local care and more specific medical treatments.

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Tatiana Novichkova

Tatiana Novichkova

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