Is Vaginal Dryness Only a Post-Menopausal Issue?

The SMSNA periodically receives and publishes ‘guest editorials.’ The current article was submitted by Mia Barnes, a freelance writer and researcher who specializes in women's health, wellness, and healthy living. She is the Founder and Editor-in-Chief of Body+Mind Magazine.

Vaginal dryness is often thought of as a problem that only affects women after menopause — but that’s not the whole story. While it’s true that hormonal changes can lead to dryness and discomfort, especially during sex, women of all ages can experience this issue. It’s more common than you think and can affect your comfort, confidence and relationships. The good news is that it’s treatable. Explore what causes vaginal dryness and why it isn’t just a post-menopausal problem. 

What Is Vaginal Dryness? 

Vaginal dryness happens when the tissues of the vagina don’t stay properly lubricated. This natural moisture is important because it keeps the vaginal walls healthy, flexible and comfortable. You may feel itching, burning or irritation when there isn't enough lubrication. 

Some people notice discomfort in everyday tasks like sitting or exercising, and many feel pain or dryness during sex. Others have frequent or recurring UTIs or even urinary incontinence. These symptoms can affect both physical comfort and emotional well-being. While it’s a common condition, especially during certain life stages, it’s not something you have to live with. There are effective ways to treat and manage it. 

Why It’s Common During and After Menopause 

During menopause, the body produces less estrogen, the hormone that helps maintain the thickness, elasticity and moisture of the vaginal walls. As estrogen levels drop, the vaginal tissues can become thinner, less elastic and drier. This natural change is called vaginal atrophy or of menopause, and it affects many women during and after menopause. 

One of the most common symptoms is vaginal dryness, which can lead to itching, irritation and pain. For many women, sex becomes uncomfortable or even painful, which may cause them to avoid intimacy altogether. This can affect relationships and self-esteem, adding emotional stress to a physical issue. 

It’s important to know that these changes are normal, but they don’t have to be accepted as permanent. Treatments are available to relieve symptoms and improve quality of life. Talking to a health care provider can be the first step toward feeling better, physically and emotionally. 

Other Causes of Vaginal Dryness 

Vaginal dryness isn’t just a menopause issue. It can affect people at any age. Hormones play a big role, and shifts can happen throughout life. For example, women who are breastfeeding or have recently given birth often experience lower estrogen levels, which can lead to temporary dryness or genitourinary syndrome of lactation. 

Certain medications can also be a culprit. Birth control pills, antidepressants, allergy medications and treatments for cancer can all interfere with natural vaginal lubrication. Health conditions like autoimmune disorders, diabetes or Sjogren’s syndrome can also cause dryness by affecting how the body produces moisture. 

Lifestyle habits matter, too. Smoking, high stress levels and poor hydration can all impact vaginal health. Even something as simple as using harsh soaps, scented hygiene products or douching can upset the vaginal environment and lead to dryness. 

In short, vaginal dryness can happen for many reasons, and it’s not something only older women experience. Knowing the possible causes can help you or someone you love better understand what’s happening and feel more empowered to speak up and seek support. 

When to Seek Medical Help

If you’re experiencing vaginal dryness, whether it’s occasional or ongoing, it’s a good idea to talk to your doctor. Many people feel embarrassed about bringing it up, but it’s a common issue that health care providers are trained to handle with care and compassion. 

You don’t have to wait until symptoms are severe. If dryness affects your comfort, intimacy or quality of life, that’s reason enough to ask for help. Your doctor can help identify the cause and suggest treatment options that work for your situation. Relief is possible, and you deserve to feel comfortable in your body. 

More Than a Menopause Myth

Vaginal dryness is a common issue that affect anyone, not just those going through menopause. Understanding the many possible causes and knowing when to seek help can make all the difference. You don’t have to suffer in silence. With the right care, comfort can be restored. 

References:

Medical News Today. What Are the Possible Causes of Vaginal Dryness. Carlyn Kay, M.D., May 2023 https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/321615 

Women’s Health Concern. Vaginal Dryness Fact Sheet. Dr Heather Currie. October 2023. https://www.womens-health-concern.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/25-WHC-FACTSHEET-VaginalDryness-OCT2023-B.pdf 

Everday Health. 5 Causes of Vaginal Dryness. Katherine Lee and Kara Smythe, M.D. July 9, 2024. https://www.everydayhealth.com/sexual-health/vaginal-dryness.aspx 

Synergy Wellness. Hormone Therapy for Menopause: Is It Effective? Jan Trobisch. March 29, 2024. https://synergywellnesscenter.com/blog/ultimate-guide-hormone-replacement-therapy-menopause/ 

Health Central. The Link Between Vaginal Atrophy, Low Mood, and Anxiety. Sonya Collins and Ange Wang, M.D. October 24, 2023 https://www.healthcentral.com/condition/vaginal-atrophy/link-between-vaginal-atrophy-low-mood-and-anxiety 

Deems NP, Leuner B. Pregnancy, postpartum and parity: Resilience and vulnerability in brain health and disease. Front Neuroendocrinol. 2020 Apr;57:100820. doi: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2020.100820. Epub 2020 Jan 24. PMID: 31987814; PMCID: PMC7225072. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7225072/ 

Health. 5 Types of Medications That Can Lead to Vaginal Dryness. Anthea Levi, RD and Peter Weiss, M.D. October 25, 2024. https://www.health.com/condition/cold/cold-medicine-cause-vaginal-dryness  

Morsli, M., Gimenez, E., Magnan, C., Salipante, F., Huberlant, S., Letouzey, V., & Lavigne, J. P. (2024). The association between lifestyle factors and the composition of the vaginal microbiota: a review. European journal of clinical microbiology & infectious diseases : official publication of the European Society of Clinical Microbiology, 43(10), 1869–1881. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10096-024-04915-7