Vaginal Dryness in Women

Understanding Vaginal Dryness in Women

We get it…this topic is embarrassing. Unfortunately, embarrassment means too many women suffer with vaginal dryness in silence. To anyone reading this we say: You’ve come to the right place. We’re comfortable with this delicate topic; and we can help you to feel more comfortable, too.

Vaginal Dryness Defined

Prior to menopause, mucus membranes within the vagina work to keep it lubricated. Plenty of lubrication equals good elasticity and strong vaginal walls. But during menopause, these mucous membranes begin to produce less fluid. The result is vaginal walls that become thin and dry. This is sometimes called vaginal atrophy.

A vagina that is dry and inelastic generally makes for painful intercourse. Other unpleasant consequences include itching and burning around the vaginal opening, greater susceptibility to bacterial infections, and even incontinence.

Causes of Vaginal Dryness

Vaginal dryness occurs when estrogen levels drop during menopause—particularly estriol. Estriol is one of three estrogens produced by the female body, and it stimulates the mucus membranes we talked about above. So…when estriol levels drop during menopause, lubrication within the vagina also diminishes.

Testosterone also stimulates vaginal lubrication and is another hormone that declines during perimenopause and menopause.

Treatment for Vaginal Dryness

Vaginal dryness is manageable. Most women will get relief by systemically restoring estriol and testosterone to healthy levels. For women who need a little more help, our physicians can prescribe vaginally applied estriol. Your discomfort will be gone, and sex will be enjoyable again.