Vaginal Dryness: Causes, Comfort and Treatment Options

A common and treatable problem

Vaginal dryness is far more common than many people realise, and it is nothing to feel embarrassed about. It happens when the tissues of the vagina become less lubricated and less elastic, which can cause itching, soreness, discomfort during sex and sometimes urinary symptoms. The good news is that it is usually very treatable once the cause is understood.

Why it happens

The lining of the vagina relies partly on oestrogen to stay moist and supple. When oestrogen levels fall, the tissues can become thinner and drier. Common reasons include:

• The menopause and perimenopause
• Breastfeeding and the period after childbirth
• Certain medical treatments, including some cancer therapies
• Some medicines, such as particular antidepressants or allergy treatments
• Conditions that affect the immune system

Non-hormonal factors play a role too. Stress, not enough arousal before sex, smoking and some soaps or perfumed products can all contribute.

How it can affect daily life

Vaginal dryness is not only about sex. It can cause day-to-day discomfort when sitting, exercising or passing urine. Some women notice increased urinary frequency or a greater tendency to urinary infections. Because the symptoms can affect intimacy and confidence, they are worth raising with a clinician even if they feel minor.

Self-care and everyday measures

Several simple steps can ease symptoms:

• Use water-based or silicone-based vaginal lubricants during sex
• Try regular vaginal moisturisers, which work over several days rather than just at the moment of use
• Avoid perfumed soaps, douches and harsh washes; plain water or a gentle emollient is kinder
• Allow plenty of time for arousal, which naturally increases lubrication
• Consider stopping smoking, which can affect tissue health

Lubricants and moisturisers do different jobs. Lubricants give immediate relief during sex, while moisturisers help maintain comfort over time. Many women use both.

When medical treatment may help

If self-care is not enough, particularly around the menopause, a doctor may suggest a local vaginal oestrogen. This is applied directly to the area and acts mainly on local tissues. It comes in several forms and is a different approach from whole-body HRT, although the two can be used together. Some women managing wider menopausal symptoms also explore systemic HRT; our menopause and HRT overview explains how these fit together.

Any hormonal treatment should be chosen with a clinician, who will consider your symptoms and medical history and help you read the relevant patient information leaflet.

When to see a doctor

Make an appointment if:

• Symptoms are persistent or affecting your wellbeing
• You have unusual discharge, bleeding or pain
• You notice bleeding after sex or after the menopause
• Over-the-counter products are not helping

New bleeding after the menopause always needs to be checked, as it can have causes that are best investigated promptly.

Talking about it

Many women put up with vaginal dryness for years because they feel awkward mentioning it. Clinicians and pharmacists discuss these issues routinely, and effective options exist. If you would like to browse general intimate-care and wellbeing products, see our shop all range, and our FAQ covers common ordering questions.

With the right combination of self-care and, where appropriate, medical treatment, most women find their comfort improves considerably.

General information only — not medical advice. Always read the patient information leaflet and consult a doctor or pharmacist before starting any medication.