Vaginal dryness, as the name suggests, occurs when the vaginal tissues become dry and less moisturised. This can lead to pain and discomfort, especially during sexual intercourse. While the condition can occur at any age, it is more common in menopausal and postmenopausal women.
Menopause is a reproductive milestone that marks the end of the menstrual cycle. It can lead to various changes in the body, and apart from vaginal dryness, it can cause several symptoms, such as hot flashes, night sweats, sleep problems, mood changes, and a changed body odour.
In this article, we specifically decode the reason behind vaginal dryness in women who are either nearing or have reached menopause. The OnlyMyHealth team got into a conversation with Dr Anitha N, Consultant Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Gynaec Laparoscopic Surgery & Fertility Specialist, SPARSH Hospital, Bengaluru, to unravel the same.
Also Read: Premature Menopause: Understanding Health Risks And Symptoms To Watch Out For
What Causes Vaginal Dryness During Menopause?
Vaginal dryness during menopause is primarily caused by decreased oestrogen levels, said Dr Anitha.
Oestrogen is a hormone that is essential for maintaining the vaginal tissue's moisture, elasticity, and thickness.
According to the doctor, when oestrogen levels drop, the vaginal walls can become thin and dry out, leading to discomfort, irritation, and sometimes bleeding. This is also called vaginal atrophy, which, according to StatPearls Publishing, can affect 15% of the female population before menopause and 40–57% of postmenopausal women.
However, Dr Anitha noted that vaginal dryness can also be caused by factors other than menopause.
These include certain medications, breastfeeding, childbirth, stress, smoking, immune system disorders, and treatments like chemotherapy or radiation.
How To Know If Your Vaginal Dryness Is Due To Menopause
If you're experiencing vaginal dryness and suspect menopause as the cause, consider other symptoms. These include:
- Hot flashes
- Night sweats
- Irregular periods
- Vaginal burning, itching, or discomfort during sex
You can also consult a healthcare professional to discuss your symptoms and medical history and perform a pelvic exam to determine if menopause is indeed the cause.
Also Read: Hot Flashes And Heart Disease: Is There A Link?
Treatment Options
Dr Anitha said, “To manage vaginal dryness, several options are available. These include Over-The-Counter (OTC) lubricants and moisturisers, which can provide immediate relief.”
She also recommended staying hydrated and avoiding irritants like scented soaps.
Moreover, hormonal treatments, such as oestrogen therapy, can effectively address the dryness caused by menopause, she added.
There are also natural remedies that may provide relief, such as using aloe vera gel, coconut oil, and maintaining a diet rich in phytoestrogens (found in soy products).
However, Dr Anitha advised speaking with a healthcare provider before starting any treatment to determine the best and safest option based on individual needs and medical history.
Conclusion
Vaginal dryness is a condition that mostly occurs during menopause, particularly due to a decrease in the oestrogen level in the body. However, other factors, such as childbirth, breastfeeding, smoking, stress, and certain treatments like chemotherapy, can also lead to the condition. Therefore, remember that it is important to determine the cause of your vaginal dryness to determine the best course of treatment.