Vaginal Dryness: Causes, Symptoms & When to See a Doctor

Educational content only. This is not medical advice and is not product labeling. Talk with your clinician about your own symptoms. Medical disclaimer.

Vaginal dryness is one of the most common intimate health concerns women have, and one of the least discussed. It can make everyday activities like sitting, exercising or wearing jeans uncomfortable, and it often makes sex painful. The good news is that it is very treatable. This guide covers what causes it, the symptoms to watch for, and when to see a clinician.

What is vaginal dryness?

Healthy vaginal tissue stays moist, thick and elastic, helped largely by the hormone estrogen. Estrogen supports blood flow, natural lubrication and the layers of cells that line the vagina. When estrogen drops, or when something else interferes with the tissue, the lining can become thinner, drier and more easily irritated. Clinicians sometimes call this vaginal atrophy. When it happens with menopause, it is part of what’s now called Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause (GSM).

Common symptoms

A dry, tight or “raw” feeling in or around the vagina
Itching, burning or stinging
Pain or discomfort during sex (dyspareunia), or light bleeding afterward
Less natural lubrication during arousal
Soreness when sitting, walking or exercising
Urinary urgency, burning with urination or more frequent urinary tract infections
Changes in discharge

What causes vaginal dryness?

Perimenopause and menopause

Falling estrogen is the most common cause (see perimenopause and after menopause). Symptoms can start in the years before your last period and tend to get worse over time if they are not treated. Unlike hot flashes, vaginal dryness usually does not go away on its own.

Postpartum and breastfeeding

Estrogen levels drop after childbirth and stay low while you are breastfeeding. Many new mothers notice dryness and discomfort, especially when they resume intimacy.

Cancer treatment

Chemotherapy, pelvic radiation, surgical removal of the ovaries and anti-estrogen medicines such as tamoxifen and aromatase inhibitors can all cause significant dryness. Women with a history of hormone-sensitive cancer often look for hormone-free options.

Medications

Antihistamines, some antidepressants, some hormonal birth control and other medicines can reduce natural moisture. See medications that cause vaginal dryness.

Other factors

Autoimmune conditions such as Sjögren’s syndrome
Smoking, which reduces blood flow to tissues
Douching, scented soaps, bubble baths and harsh laundry products
Stress, fatigue and not enough arousal before sex
Removal of the ovaries or other causes of low estrogen at any age

When to see a clinician

Talk to a doctor, nurse practitioner or gynecologist if dryness doesn’t improve with at-home care, if sex is consistently painful, or if you notice bleeding after menopause, unusual discharge, sores or recurring urinary infections. These can have other causes that need to be checked.

Looking for relief?

Learn about your options, from everyday moisturizers to prescription therapy and hormone-free serums.

See treatment options

Explore AIRS Serum

Quick answers

Is vaginal dryness normal?

It is very common, especially during and after menopause, but that doesn’t mean you have to put up with it. Effective, safe options are available.

Can younger women have vaginal dryness?

Yes. Breastfeeding, some birth control, medicines, stress and medical treatments can all cause dryness before menopause.

Will it go away on its own?

Dryness from temporary causes, like breastfeeding, often improves over time. Dryness from menopause usually continues or gets worse without regular care.

Vaginal Dryness: Causes, Symptoms & When to Get Help