Suchość pochwy
Objawy

Suchość pochwy to dolegliwość najczęściej związana z obniżonym poziomem estrogenu, szczególnie w okresie menopauzy i postmenopauzy, prowadząca do atrofii pochwy. Charakteryzuje się cienkimi, suchymi i mniej elastycznymi ścianami pochwy, co skutkuje objawami takimi jak uczucie suchości, pieczenie, swędzenie, dyspareunia, podrażnienia, drobne krwawienia po stosunku oraz nawracające infekcje dróg moczowych. Zespół genitalno-moczowy menopauzy (GSM) obejmuje te objawy wraz z dysfunkcjami układu moczowego, a jego częstość wzrasta z wiekiem – od 19,4% u kobiet w wieku 42-53 lat do 34,0% w wieku 57-69 lat. Nieleczona suchość pochwy może prowadzić do powikłań takich jak zwiększone ryzyko infekcji bakteryjnych i grzybiczych, powstawanie ran i pęknięć, a także przewlekły ból miednicy i obniżenie jakości życia seksualnego.

Suchość pochwy – objawy

Suchość pochwy to dolegliwość charakteryzująca się niewystarczającym nawilżeniem tkanek pochwy, co prowadzi do dyskomfortu i bólu. Może pojawić się w każdym wieku, ale najczęściej występuje w okresie menopauzy i po niej, gdy poziom estrogenu spada12. Estrogen jest hormonem, który pomaga utrzymać odpowiednie nawilżenie i zdrową wyściółkę pochwy. Niskie poziomy estrogenu powodują, że ściany pochwy stają się cieńsze i bardziej suche1.

Główne objawy suchości pochwy

Suchość pochwy objawia się różnorodnymi dolegliwościami, które mogą znacząco wpływać na jakość życia kobiety. Do najczęściej zgłaszanych objawów należą34:

  • Uczucie suchości, pieczenia lub swędzenia w pochwie i okolicach sromu
  • Ból i dyskomfort podczas stosunku płciowego (dyspareunia)
  • Podrażnienie pochwy i okolic sromu
  • Drobne krwawienie po stosunku
  • Potrzeba częstszego oddawania moczu
  • Nawracające infekcje dróg moczowych

45

Kobiety doświadczające suchości pochwy często opisują tę dolegliwość jako uczucie drażnienia, pieczenia i bólu w okolicy zewnętrznych i wewnętrznych narządów płciowych67. Tkanka pochwy i sromu może stać się cieńsza i bardziej delikatna, co prowadzi do zwiększonej podatności na stany zapalne i podrażnienia8.

Dyskomfort podczas codziennych aktywności

Suchość pochwy może powodować dyskomfort nie tylko podczas aktywności seksualnej, ale również w trakcie codziennych czynności9. Zmniejszone nawilżenie pochwy prowadzi do zmniejszenia wilgotności w obszarze sromu (zewnętrznych narządów płciowych). Oznacza to, że można odczuwać suchość lub podrażnienie podczas zakładania bielizny lub w trakcie normalnych czynności, takich jak chodzenie czy siedzenie910.

U niektórych kobiet objawy nasilają się podczas codziennych aktywności, takich jak jazda na rowerze czy noszenie obcisłych spodni11. Dyskomfort związany z suchością pochwy może zakłócać normalne funkcjonowanie i wpływać na wszystkie obszary życia12.

Wpływ na życie seksualne

Suchość pochwy ma istotny wpływ na aktywność seksualną. Jest to często najbardziej zauważalna podczas penetracji seksualnej. Bez odpowiedniego nawilżenia pochwy, tarcie podczas stosunku płciowego może powodować ból i dyskomfort1. Bolesne stosunki seksualne mogą prowadzić do zmniejszenia libido i satysfakcji seksualnej13.

Badania wykazały, że 64% kobiet po menopauzie odczuwa ból podczas stosunku, a 30% par wskazuje dyskomfort pochwy jako główny powód zaprzestania współżycia14. Z czasem skojarzenie seksu z bólem może naturalnie osłabić popęd seksualny. Niskie libido z kolei może pogorszyć suchość pochwy, ponieważ poziomy wilgotności pochwy są związane z podnieceniem14.

Progresja suchości pochwy

Suchość pochwy, jeśli nie jest leczona, ma tendencję do pogarszania się z czasem. Objawy często nasilają się wraz z wiekiem i dalszym spadkiem poziomu estrogenu15. W przeciwieństwie do uderzeń gorąca i innych objawów menopauzy, które zazwyczaj poprawiają się z czasem, objawy pochwy zwykle pogarszają się z upływem czasu z powodu starzenia się i przedłużającego się braku estrogenu16.

Zanikowe zapalenie pochwy (atrofia pochwy)

Suchość pochwy jest często pierwszym objawem zanikowego zapalenia pochwy (atrofii pochwy)17. Jest to stan, w którym tkanka wyściełająca ścianę pochwy staje się cieńsza, bardziej sucha i podrażniona z powodu niższego poziomu estrogenu17. Atrofia pochwy może prowadzić do znaczących zmian w tkance pochwy:

  • Ściany pochwy stają się cieńsze, bardziej suche i mniej elastyczne16
  • Wydzieliny zmniejszają się, co prowadzi do bólu podczas stosunku16
  • Pochwa może stać się krótsza, węższa i mniej elastyczna18
  • Może wystąpić mimowolne napięcie mięśni pochwy (waginizm)18

Z czasem, atrofia pochwy może stać się na tyle poważna, że znacząco zwęża wejście do pochwy. Może to utrudnić leczenie atrofii, jeśli zostanie ono rozpoczęte zbyt późno12.

Zespół genitalno-moczowy menopauzy

Suchość pochwy jest często objawem szerszego stanu znanego jako zespół genitalno-moczowy menopauzy (GSM, Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause)19. GSM obejmuje zestaw objawów dotyczących narządów płciowych i układu moczowego, które są spowodowane obniżonym poziomem estrogenu20.

Badania wykazują, że GSM dotyka nawet 5 na 6 kobiet po menopauzie, a suchość pochwy staje się coraz bardziej powszechna w miarę postępu menopauzy20. Częstość występowania suchości pochwy wzrasta z 19,4% wśród wszystkich kobiet w wieku 42-53 lat do 34,0% w wieku 57-69 lat21.

GSM obejmuje różnorodne objawy22:

  • Suchość pochwy
  • Zmniejszone nawilżenie podczas podniecenia seksualnego
  • Swędzenie lub pieczenie w pochwie
  • Nietypowa wydzielina z pochwy
  • Krwawienie po stosunku
  • Dyskomfort lub ból podczas lub po stosunku
  • Zmiany w kształcie i odczuciu kanału pochwowego

GSM może również powodować objawy układu moczowego, takie jak23:

  • Uczucie pieczenia podczas oddawania moczu
  • Nietrzymanie moczu związane z wysiłkiem i/lub nagłe parcie na mocz
  • Zwiększona częstość infekcji dróg moczowych
  • Swędzenie wokół cewki moczowej

Powikłania nieleczonej suchości pochwy

Nieleczona suchość pochwy może prowadzić do poważnych powikłań54:

  • Zwiększone ryzyko infekcji grzybiczych i bakteryjnych pochwy
  • Powstawanie ranęk i pęknięć w ścianach pochwy
  • Ból podczas stosunku płciowego, który może wpływać na relacje z partnerem
  • Zwiększone ryzyko rozwoju infekcji dróg moczowych (UTI)

Szczególnie niebezpieczne są nawracające infekcje dróg moczowych, które mogą prowadzić do poważnych powikłań zdrowotnych24. Badania wykazują, że stosowanie hormonów dopochwowych może zmniejszyć częstość występowania UTI o ponad 50%24.

Ponadto, nawracające infekcje i stan zapalny związany z suchością pochwy mogą prowadzić do długotrwałego bólu miednicy i dyskomfortu, co znacząco wpływa na jakość życia25.

Czynniki wpływające na rozwój suchości pochwy

Suchość pochwy jest zazwyczaj związana ze spadkiem poziomu estrogenu, ale może być również spowodowana przez inne czynniki26. Zrozumienie tych czynników może pomóc w identyfikacji przyczyny suchości pochwy i wyborze odpowiedniego leczenia.

Zmiany hormonalne

Główną przyczyną suchości pochwy jest spadek poziomu estrogenu27. Estrogen jest hormonem, który pomaga utrzymać nawilżenie pochwy, elastyczność tkanek i odpowiednią grubość błony śluzowej8. Niski poziom estrogenu może wystąpić w różnych okresach życia:

  • Podczas menopauzy i perimenopauzy3
  • Po porodzie28
  • W okresie karmienia piersią3
  • Po usunięciu macicy (histerektomii)3
  • Podczas leczenia nowotworów, np. chemioterapii3
  • Przy stosowaniu leków antyestrogenowych28

Badania wskazują, że postępujący etap menopauzy, menopauza chirurgiczna i lęk są dodatnio związane z rozwojem suchości pochwy, niezależnie od aktywności seksualnej z partnerem21.

Leki i zabiegi medyczne

Niektóre leki i zabiegi medyczne mogą przyczyniać się do suchości pochwy329:

  • Tabletki antykoncepcyjne – niektóre rodzaje mogą obniżać poziom testosteronu, co prowadzi do suchości pochwy30
  • Leki przeciwdepresyjne3
  • Leki przeciwhistaminowe (stosowane w leczeniu alergii)31
  • Leki na przeziębienie i grypę32
  • Leki na astmę31
  • Chemioterapia i radioterapia33
  • Leki hormonalne stosowane w leczeniu endometriozy34

Jeśli zauważasz suchość pochwy po rozpoczęciu przyjmowania nowego leku, skonsultuj się z lekarzem w sprawie możliwości wypróbowania innego rodzaju leku29.

Choroby współistniejące

Niektóre schorzenia mogą przyczyniać się do wystąpienia suchości pochwy3:

  • Zespół Sjögrena – choroba autoimmunologiczna, w której gruczoły wydzielające płyny przestają prawidłowo funkcjonować3536
  • Cukrzyca35
  • Zaburzenia tarczycy37
  • Infekcje pochwy, takie jak infekcje drożdżakowe, które mogą zakłócać równowagę flory bakteryjnej pochwy37
  • Choroby przenoszone drogą płciową37

U kobiet z zespołem Sjögrena suchość pochwy występuje 2-3 razy częściej niż u kobiet w podobnym wieku bez tego zespołu36.

Czynniki psychologiczne i styl życia

Suchość pochwy może być również spowodowana przez czynniki związane ze stylem życia i stanem psychicznym3:

  • Stres, lęk i depresja mogą wpływać na poziom hormonów i przyczyniać się do suchości pochwy38
  • Niewystarczające podniecenie podczas stosunku seksualnego3
  • Używanie perfumowanych mydeł, płynów do higieny intymnej lub irygacji pochwy3
  • Odwodnienie organizmu30
  • Palenie tytoniu, które może wpływać na krążenie krwi6

Wysoki poziom lęku lub stresu może znacząco przyczyniać się do suchości pochwy32. Badania wykazały, że jednoczesne objawy lęku były niezależnie związane z rozwojem suchości pochwy, ale relacja między jednoczesnym lękiem a suchością pochwy była słabsza u kobiet aktywnych seksualnie w porównaniu do tych, które nie były aktywne seksualnie39.

Kiedy zgłosić się do lekarza

Suchość pochwy, choć powszechna, często pozostaje nieleczona. Ponad 50% kobiet z objawami suchości pochwy nie zgłasza ich lekarzowi39. Kobiety powinny skonsultować się z lekarzem w następujących przypadkach4041:

  • Gdy suchość pochwy utrzymuje się przez kilka tygodni i środki stosowane we własnym zakresie nie przynoszą ulgi
  • Gdy suchość pochwy wpływa na codzienne życie
  • Gdy występuje nietypowa wydzielina lub krwawienie z pochwy
  • Gdy pojawia się krwawienie po stosunku lub między miesiączkami

Ważne jest, aby nie ignorować objawów suchości pochwy, ponieważ mogą one wskazywać na poważniejsze problemy zdrowotne, takie jak infekcje pochwy, stany zapalne skóry lub reakcje alergiczne, które nie są spowodowane suchością pochwy42.

Ponadto, jeśli suchość pochwy występuje wraz z objawami ze strony układu moczowego, takimi jak zwiększona częstość lub bolesne oddawanie moczu, również należy skonsultować się z lekarzem23.

Rozpoznanie suchości pochwy

Diagnoza suchości pochwy obejmuje zazwyczaj badanie fizykalne i rozmowę o objawach. Lekarz może również przeprowadzić badanie miednicy, aby sprawdzić, czy nie występują podstawowe problemy, takie jak atrofia lub infekcja43.

Rozpoznanie zanikowego zapalenia pochwy jest dokonywane przez proste badanie ścian pochwy, które wyglądają na cienkie, blade i błyszczące, a nawet mogą wykazywać małe obszary krwawienia. Badania krwi ujawniają niższe poziomy estrogenu44.

W zależności od objawów i podejrzewanej przyczyny, lekarz może zalecić różne badania, w tym badania krwi, aby sprawdzić poziom hormonów43.

Podsumowanie

Suchość pochwy to powszechna dolegliwość, która może dotknąć kobiety w każdym wieku, choć najczęściej występuje podczas i po menopauzie1. Objawy mogą obejmować dyskomfort, pieczenie, swędzenie, ból podczas stosunku płciowego oraz zwiększone ryzyko infekcji dróg moczowych5.

Główną przyczyną suchości pochwy jest spadek poziomu estrogenu, ale mogą przyczyniać się do niej również inne czynniki, takie jak leki, choroby współistniejące, stres i styl życia26.

Nieleczona suchość pochwy może prowadzić do poważnych powikłań, w tym zwiększonego ryzyka infekcji, bólu podczas stosunku i obniżonej jakości życia12. Dlatego ważne jest, aby skonsultować się z lekarzem, jeśli objawy utrzymują się lub wpływają na codzienne funkcjonowanie41.

Z odpowiednim leczeniem większość kobiet może skutecznie zarządzać objawami suchości pochwy i poprawić swoją jakość życia4. Dostępne są różne opcje leczenia, w tym nawilżacze dopochwowe, lubrykanty, terapia hormonalna i inne metody, które mogą przynieść ulgę40.

Kolejne rozdziały

Zapraszamy do dalszego czytania naszego leksykonu.

Wybierz kolejny rozdział z menu poniżej, aby otworzyć nową podstronę kompedium wiedzy i uzyskać szczegółowe informację o leku, substancji lub chorobie.

  1. 18.04.2026
  2. www.leksykon.com.pl

Materiały źródłowe

  • #1 Vaginal Dryness: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment
    https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/21027-vaginal-dryness
    Vaginal dryness is a painful symptom that affects your quality of life. It can cause pain during sitting, exercising, peeing and sexual intercourse. […] Vaginal dryness occurs at any age. Its most common during or after menopause when estrogen levels decline. The hormone estrogen helps keep your vaginal lining moisturized and healthy. Low levels of estrogen cause your vaginal walls to become thin and dry. This is a common condition of menopause called vaginal atrophy. […] Vaginal dryness is usually most apparent during sexual penetration. Without enough vaginal lubrication, the friction (or rubbing) during sexual intercourse can cause pain and discomfort. […] Vaginal dryness causes discomfort and pain in your vagina, especially during sex. A dry vagina may also cause burning and itching.
  • #2 Patient education: Vaginal dryness (Beyond the Basics) – UpToDate
    https://www.uptodate.com/contents/vaginal-dryness-beyond-the-basics/print
    Vaginal dryness is a common condition in people who have been through menopause (when a person no longer gets monthly periods). Some people start to experience vaginal dryness during the transition to menopause. Vaginal dryness is also common in people who have had both of their ovaries surgically removed, for example, to treat or prevent cancer. […] In some cases, vaginal dryness can lead to other bothersome symptoms, such as pain with sex, vaginal burning or itching, or abnormal vaginal discharge that is thin, white, and non-foul-smelling. Vaginal discharge that is yellow, gray, or has an odor is not typically caused by vaginal dryness and should be evaluated by your health care provider. There may also be related urinary symptoms, such as frequent or painful urination. These symptoms may lead to less satisfying sex and avoidance of sexual intimacy.
  • #3 Vaginal dryness
    https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/vaginal-dryness/
    Vaginal dryness is a common problem that many women have at some point in their lives. […] You may have vaginal dryness if you: feel sore or itchy in and around your vagina […] feel pain or discomfort during sex […] need to pee more often than usual […] keep getting urinary tract infections (UTIs). […] These things may make you feel less like you want to have sex. […] You can get vaginal dryness if you: go through the menopause […] are breastfeeding […] take contraceptive pills or antidepressants […] have your womb removed (a hysterectomy) […] have cancer treatments, such as chemotherapy. […] These things can cause a change in your hormone levels. This change can affect how much vaginal discharge or fluid you have. […] You can also have vaginal dryness if you: are not aroused during sex […] use perfumed soaps, washes or douches in and around your vagina […] have an underlying condition, such as diabetes or Sjgren’s syndrome.
  • #4 Vaginal dryness Information | Mount Sinai – New York
    https://www.mountsinai.org/health-library/diseases-conditions/vaginal-dryness
    Vaginal dryness is present when the tissues of the vagina are not well-lubricated and healthy. […] If estrogen levels drop off, the tissues of the vagina shrink and become thinner. This causes dryness and inflammation. […] Symptoms include: Burning on urination, Light bleeding after intercourse, Painful sexual intercourse, Slight vaginal discharge, Vaginal soreness, itching or burning. […] Proper treatment will ease symptoms most of the time. […] Vaginal dryness can: Make you more likely to get yeast or bacterial infections of the vagina, Cause sores or cracks in the walls of the vagina, Cause pain with sexual intercourse, which may affect your relationship with your partner or spouse, Increase your risk of developing urinary tract infections (UTI). […] Contact your provider if you have vaginal dryness or soreness, burning, itching, or painful sexual intercourse that does not go away when you use a water-soluble lubricant.
  • #5 Vaginal dryness: MedlinePlus Medical EncyclopediaLock
    https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/000892.htm
    Vaginal dryness is present when the tissues of the vagina are not well-lubricated and healthy. […] Symptoms include: […] Burning on urination […] Light bleeding after intercourse […] Painful sexual intercourse […] Slight vaginal discharge […] Vaginal soreness, itching or burning. […] Proper treatment will ease symptoms most of the time. […] Vaginal dryness can: […] Make you more likely to get yeast or bacterial infections of the vagina. […] Cause sores or cracks in the walls of the vagina. […] Cause pain with sexual intercourse, which may affect your relationship with your partner or spouse. […] Increase your risk of developing urinary tract infections (UTI). […] Contact your provider if you have vaginal dryness or soreness, burning, itching, or painful sexual intercourse that does not go away when you use a water-soluble lubricant.
  • #6 Vaginal dryness: Causes, symptoms, and treatment – Flo
    https://flo.health/menstrual-cycle/health/vaginal-discharge/vaginal-dryness
    Experiencing vaginal dryness and all the symptoms that come with it including soreness, itching, and painful sex is a discomfort many of us are familiar with. […] Vaginal dryness is most commonly linked to menopause, which is all about changes in hormone levels. […] Vaginal dryness is essentially what it sounds like dryness caused by a lack of moisture in the vagina. […] The production of this fluid all depends on the blood flow to your vagina. […] Vaginal dryness can be a contributor to pain with sex too, as natural lubrication can make sex easier and more enjoyable. […] Vaginal dryness may be most closely linked with menopause, as that’s when your natural estrogen levels drop permanently. […] A recent study looked into the impact that it has on the quality of life of premenopausal and postmenopausal women. It found that people who experienced vaginal dryness were more likely to say that it impacted their life at work and at home.
  • #7 Vaginal dryness: Causes, symptoms, and treatment – Flo
    https://flo.health/menstrual-cycle/health/vaginal-discharge/vaginal-dryness
    The main symptoms to look out for include: A sensation of dryness in the vulva and vaginal area (you might describe the feeling as irritated, inflamed, itchy, sensitive, or tender). […] If you’ve been experiencing low libido alongside vaginal dryness and pain, then you certainly aren’t alone. […] The tissue in your vulva and vagina may also become thinner and more delicate. […] The result? The walls of your vagina become less flexible and are more vulnerable to becoming inflamed and irritated. […] In addition to vaginal dryness, other common menopause symptoms include a lower libido and hot flashes. […] If you’ve noticed unusual discharge, bleeding after sex or in between periods, or vaginal dryness interfering with your everyday life, then reach out to your health care provider.
  • #8 Vaginal dryness: Causes, treatments, and natural remedies
    https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/321615
    Vaginal dryness can occur during and after menopause. There are also various other possible causes affecting vaginal lubrication. Examples include certain medications, some cancer treatments, stress and anxiety, and more. […] Vaginal dryness usually results from low estrogen levels. Estrogen is the hormone that keeps the lining of the vagina lubricated, thick, and elastic. […] Vaginal dryness is a common problem, but many people do not seek help, as they may not realize it is a health issue for which they can get help. […] It can lead to pain during intercourse, contributing to a loss of sexual desire. It can also cause discomfort during sports and other physical activity, and increase the risk of vaginal infections. […] People with vaginal atrophy and vaginal dryness may experience: vaginal itching, burning, irritation, pain during sex, discomfort during physical activity, a higher risk of vaginal infections and urinary tract infections.
  • #9 Vaginal Dryness: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment
    https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/21027-vaginal-dryness
    Less moisture in your vagina leads to less moisture in your vulvar area (external genitals). This means you can feel dryness or irritation when putting on your underwear or during normal activities like walking or sitting. […] Vaginal dryness is a common symptom you’ll likely experience at some point in your life. Several conditions and factors cause your vagina to become dry such as menopause or taking certain medications. This dry feeling can lead to painful sex or burning, itching and soreness in your genitals.
  • #10 Ways to Treat Vaginal Dryness Symptoms
    https://mydoctor.kaiserpermanente.org/mas/news/ways-to-treat-vaginal-dryness-symptoms-2156866
    Vaginal dryness and its symptoms can also lead to discomfort while sitting and exercising. […] Though it’s hard to pinpoint exactly how many women experience vaginal dryness because so many women are reluctant to talk to their doctors about this issue, we do know that vaginal dryness is extremely common in the years leading up to menopause and in the years thereafter. One study showed that 84 percent of women experienced vaginal dryness six years after menopause. If you are experiencing symptoms of vaginal dryness, reach out to your doctor for advice. Getting treated can reduce the discomfort and improve your quality of life.
  • #11 Osphena® (ospemifene) – Moderate to severe vaginal dryness and/or painful intercourse due to menopause – Osphena
    https://osphena.com/
    Osphena is the first and only once-daily, oral, non-hormonal treatment for moderate to severe vaginal dryness and/or moderate to severe painful intercourse, symptoms of changes in and around your vagina due to menopause. […] 79% of women with VVA report symptoms of vaginal dryness, including discomfort riding a bike or even wearing pants. […] Falling estrogen levels due to menopause cause vaginal changes referred to as Vulvar and Vaginal Atrophy (VVA). The two most common bothersome symptoms of VVA are vaginal dryness and painful intercourse (dyspareunia). […] Osphena is a prescription oral pill that treats moderate to severe painful intercourse and/or moderate to severe vaginal dryness, both symptoms of changes in your vagina, due to menopause.
  • #12 Vaginal Atrophy: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis & Treatment
    https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/15500-vaginal-atrophy
    Vaginal atrophy can’t be cured, but you don’t have to live with the discomfort. With proper diagnosis and treatment, the symptoms can be managed. […] Yes, it can. That’s why prompt treatment is important. The sooner you get treatment, the less likely it is that your vaginal atrophy will worsen. For example, the longer you go without estrogen, the dryer your vagina will become. Without treatment, your vaginal atrophy may get worse. Occasionally, atrophy can become so severe that it can significantly narrow your vaginal opening. This may make it harder to treat the atrophy if treatment is started too late. […] Vaginal atrophy can seriously affect your quality of life in general, not just your sex life. The pain, dryness, burning/itching, spotting, bleeding, urinary problems, UTIs and discharge can make you very uncomfortable and interfere with your daily living. One in 4 women report that vaginal atrophy has had a negative impact on other areas of their lives including their sleep, sexual health and general happiness.
  • #13 Vaginal Dryness: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatments
    https://www.health.com/vaginal-dryness-8774193
    Pain from vaginal dryness can cause significant feelings of distress around sex. Vaginal dryness is also associated with a lower-than-normal sex drive and a decrease in sexual satisfaction. […] Vaginal dryness typically causes discomfort and pain but no other medical complications. However, untreated vaginal dryness may be associated with certain complications. […] Vaginal dryness can cause an increased risk of urinary tract infections (UTIs) and recurring UTIs. Vaginal dryness can also cause serious pain with sex, which can lead to avoiding sex, intimacy issues, and less pleasurable sex. […] Vaginal dryness occurs when estrogen decreases in your body. It most frequently happens during menopause and perimenopause. […] Vaginal dryness can also occur after childbirth, during breastfeeding, or when you’ve had your ovaries removed. Cancer treatments and certain medications can also cause vaginal dryness. […] Vaginal dryness can cause irritation, burning, itching, and painful sex. Effective treatments are available, including vaginal lubricants, moisturizers, and hormonal options.
  • #14 Vaginal Dryness, Painful Sex—and How to Make It Better
    https://www.joinmidi.com/post/vaginal-dryness-painful-sex-and-how-to-make-it-all-better
    Vaginal dryness is a common symptom of menopause, driven by declining estrogen levels that thin and dry out the vaginal walls. This can lead to discomfort, burning, itching, painful sex, and recurrent UTIs. […] Vaginal dryness is one of those topics we should just talk about already, because more than half of all women experience it during the years leading up to and following menopause. The official name for this common symptom is vaginal atrophy and the effects range from mild discomfort to serious pain. […] A study of 1,000 postmenopausal women and their male partners found that 64 percent of women experienced pain during sex and 30 percent of couples cited vaginal discomfort as a main reason for stopping intercourse. Over time, this association between sex and pain can naturally quash sex drive. Low libido, in turn, may make vaginal dryness worse, since vaginal moisture levels are tied to arousal.
  • #15 Vaginal Dryness: Causes and Moisturizing Treatments
    https://www.webmd.com/women/vaginal-dryness-causes-moisturizing-treatments
    Vaginal dryness is common symptom of menopause — and close to 1 in 3 women deal with it while going through „the change.” It becomes even more common afterward. It also makes the vaginal tissue thinner and less elastic. This is called vaginal atrophy. […] No matter what the cause, vaginal dryness can be extremely uncomfortable. It can lead to itching, burning, and painful intercourse. […] Without treatment, vaginal dryness usually worsens over time. You can try these home remedies for vaginal dryness that may help relieve your symptoms and discomfort: […] One of the best ways to reduce vaginal dryness is to use a vaginal moisturizer. These are special moisturizers that are designed specifically for this sensitive area of the body. Using a vaginal moisturizer every few days can help keep your vagina moist and relieve vaginal dryness symptoms.
  • #16 Treating Vaginal Dryness | El Camino Health
    https://www.elcaminohealth.org/services/womens-health/specialty-programs/menopause-care/treating-vaginal-dryness
    Decreased estrogen due to menopause is a major contributor to vaginal dryness, itching, burning, discomfort and pain during intercourse. […] Vaginal atrophy is the medical term that describes vaginal dryness and discomfort in postmenopausal women. Symptoms of vaginal atrophy may significantly affect your quality of life, sexual satisfaction and relationship with your partner. […] Menopause-related vaginal symptoms may affect you early in your menopause transition or start after several years of decreased estrogen levels. Unlike hot flashes, which generally improve with time, vaginal symptoms typically worsen with time due to both aging and a prolonged lack of estrogen. […] Vaginal tissue becomes thin, dry and less elastic, and secretions decrease both of which can lead to pain during intercourse or pelvic exams.
  • #17 Vaginal Atrophy: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis & Treatment
    https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/15500-vaginal-atrophy
    Vaginal atrophy is a condition where the lining of your vagina gets drier and thinner. This results in itching, burning and pain during sex, among other symptoms. The condition also includes urinary tract problems such as urinary tract infections (UTIs) and urinary incontinence. […] Vaginal dryness is typically the first indication that you’re developing vaginal atrophy. […] The tissue that lines the wall of your vagina becomes thin, dry and inflamed when you have vaginal atrophy. Often, the first sign is less lubrication (dryness), which you may notice during sex. […] Vaginal atrophy can affect your quality of life and your relationship with your partner(s). There are physical and emotional side effects of GSM. Physical symptoms like pain, burning, itching and leaking pee can disrupt all areas of your life.
  • #18 Treating Vaginal Dryness | El Camino Health
    https://www.elcaminohealth.org/services/womens-health/specialty-programs/menopause-care/treating-vaginal-dryness
    Women with discomfort from vaginal atrophy often have less frequent intercourse, which can cause the vagina to become shorter, narrower and less elastic. This can cause involuntary tightening of vaginal muscles (vaginismus), a learned response to pain that often contributes to uncomfortable intercourse. […] While symptoms of vaginal dryness and atrophy can uncomfortable, the good news is that effective treatment options are available including low-dose estrogen creams applied directly to the vagina, as well as non-hormonal treatments. […] Improvements usually occur within a few weeks; although, complete relief may take several months. […] Increase the thickness and elasticity of vaginal tissue. […] Relieve vaginal dryness and discomfort with sexual activity.
  • #19 Experiencing Vaginal Dryness? Here’s What You Need to Know. | ACOG
    https://www.acog.org/womens-health/experts-and-stories/the-latest/experiencing-vaginal-dryness-heres-what-you-need-to-know
    Some women also have increased urinary frequency or repeated urinary tract infections (UTIs) along with vaginal dryness. When this group of symptoms happens during menopause, ob-gyns call it genitourinary syndrome of menopause. […] For vaginal dryness by itself, I recommend trying over-the-counter moisturizers and lubricants. […] I often talk with patients about hormonal treatments when vaginal dryness comes along with urinary symptoms or menopausal symptoms, such as hot flashes.
  • #20 Vaginal Dryness: Causes, Symptoms, and More
    https://www.healthline.com/health/vaginal-dryness
    Hormonal changes, such as those that occur with aging, are the most common cause of vaginal dryness, though other causes exist. […] Vaginal dryness is the most common symptom of genitourinary syndrome of menopause, a set of symptoms that affects as many as 5 in 6 women postmenopause. A 2018 study also notes that vaginal dryness becomes more common as people progress through menopause. […] Vaginal dryness can cause discomfort in the vaginal and pelvic regions. Vaginal dryness can also cause: burning, loss of interest in sex, pain with sexual intercourse, light bleeding following intercourse, soreness, urinary tract infections (UTIs) that don’t go away or that reoccur, vaginal itching or stinging. […] If left untreated, vaginal dryness can cause sores or cracking in the vagina’s tissues. […] Vaginal dryness can cause discomfort in the vaginal and pelvic regions. Menopause is a common cause, but various things can cause it.
  • #21 Factors associated with developing vaginal dryness symptoms in women transitioning through menopause: a longitudinal study
    https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6136974/
    The prevalence of vaginal dryness increased from 19.4% among all women at baseline (ages 42-53 years) to 34.0% at the thirteenth visit (ages 57-69 years). […] Advancing menopausal stage, surgical menopause, anxiety and being married were positively associated with developing vaginal dryness, regardless of partnered sexual activity. […] Vaginal dryness, a symptom of the genitourinary syndrome of menopause, increases with age and advancing menopausal stage. […] Vaginal dryness can lead to painful sex, low libido, and decreased sexual satisfaction. […] In these longitudinal analyses, our data support many clinical observations about the relationship between vaginal dryness, menopause, and pain during intercourse, and suggest that reporting of vaginal dryness is not related to androgen level or sexual intercourse frequency.
  • #22 Vaginal atrophy – Symptoms & causes – Mayo Clinic
    https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/vaginal-atrophy/symptoms-causes/syc-20352288
    Vaginal atrophy (atrophic vaginitis) is thinning, drying and inflammation of the vaginal walls that may occur when your body has less estrogen. Vaginal atrophy occurs most often after menopause. […] For many women, vaginal atrophy not only makes intercourse painful but also leads to distressing urinary symptoms. […] Genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM) signs and symptoms may include: Vaginal dryness […] Vaginal dryness typically, the vaginal lining consists of healthy tissues that are several layers thick and naturally moist. A dry vaginal lining becomes thinner and loses natural moisture. […] GSM signs and symptoms may begin to bother you during the years leading up to menopause, or they may not become a problem until several years into menopause.
  • #23 When to See a Doctor About Vaginal Dryness – Southeast Urogyn
    https://www.seug.com/blog/when-to-see-a-doctor-about-vaginal-dryness
    Urinary symptoms can include: Burning sensation during urination, Stress and/or urge urinary incontinence, Increased occurrence of urinary tract infections, Itching sensations around the urethra. […] It’s time to visit with a specialist at Southeast Urogyn when you feel that your life is affected by vaginal dryness, no matter how mild the symptoms. […] Left untreated, dryness could take an increasing toll on your sexual life at a time when it should be full of freedom and enjoyment. […] Make an appointment when you experience urinary tract symptoms along with dryness, or when you have unusual or unexplained vaginal bleeding, discharge, or spotting. […] Don’t ignore recurring discomfort, as it could become pain in the future if you put off treatment.
  • #24 'Vaginal Dryness’ Can Be Fatal. No, Really.
    https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/996829
    I’m here to tell you that vaginal dryness is killing women. I mean it. It’s actually killing women. […] It turns out that all of the genital and urinary symptoms from menopause just get worse over time. […] What are the symptoms of GSM? Some are sexual: a little vaginal dryness, pain with sex, and worsening orgasm. But there are also genital and urinary symptoms that get worse: itching, burning irritation, rawness, an awareness of their genitals that the patient has never had before. […] The thing that kills women is recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs). […] Not preventing UTIs is costing our healthcare system an enormous amount of money and resources. […] Did you know we’ve had safe and effective treatment options for GSM since the 1970s? […] In fact, data show that by using vaginal hormones, we can prevent UTIs by more than 50%.
  • #25 Vaginal dryness: Symptoms, remedies – Mayo Clinic Health System
    https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/vaginal-dryness-symptoms-causes-and-remedies
    Vaginal dryness can cause painful intercourse and persistent pelvic pain, among other symptoms. While it’s more common in menopausal women, it also affects younger women. […] Low estrogen can contribute to dryness. […] Women bothered by vaginal dryness should have a thorough discussion and exam with their health care provider to determine the most likely cause for these symptoms. […] While these recommendations can be helpful for many women, if symptoms persist despite these changes, your health care provider can suggest treatment options for vaginal dryness. This is a manageable condition for most women, and treatment can be life-changing for those with severe symptoms.
  • #26 Vaginal dryness
    https://www.mayoclinic.org/symptoms/vaginal-dryness/basics/causes/sym-20151520
    Reduced estrogen levels are the main cause of vaginal dryness. Estrogen is a hormone that helps keep vaginal tissue healthy by maintaining normal vaginal lubrication, tissue elasticity and acidity. […] Other causes of vaginal dryness include certain medical conditions or hygiene practices. […] Causes shown here are commonly associated with this symptom. Work with your doctor or other health care professional for an accurate diagnosis.
  • #27 Vaginal dryness – treatment and symptoms | healthdirect
    https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/vaginal-dryness
    Vaginal dryness is a common problem, especially after menopause. […] The most common cause of vaginal dryness is lower levels of oestrogen. […] Vaginal dryness can cause burning, itching and pain during sex. […] When you have vaginal dryness, you may need to urinate (wee) more often than usual or keep getting urinary tract infections. […] You may have vaginal dryness if you: feel sore or itchy in and around your vagina, feel pain or discomfort during sex, need to urinate (wee) more often than usual. […] You may also keep getting urinary tract infections (UTIs). These things may make you feel less like you want to have sex. […] Vaginal dryness occurs when your body does not produce enough oestrogen. […] Vaginal dryness can also be caused by: the use of hygiene products, such as feminine sprays and harsh soaps, an underlying condition, such as diabetes, not enough foreplay or arousal before sex.
  • #28 Experiencing Vaginal Dryness? Here’s What You Need to Know. | ACOG
    https://www.acog.org/womens-health/experts-and-stories/the-latest/experiencing-vaginal-dryness-heres-what-you-need-to-know
    Vaginal dryness can cause irritation, burning, and pain with intercourse. Its common after menopause, and it also can happen in the years leading up to menopause. Often, my patients notice symptoms when they havent been sexually active for a long time. Then they are intimate with a partner and find that sex is painful. […] After and around the time of menopause, your body makes less estrogen. Estrogen is a hormone that helps maintain the vaginas lubrication, elasticity, and thickness. Low levels of estrogen can cause thinning, drying, and inflammation of vaginal walls. This is called vaginal atrophy. […] Low estrogen and vaginal dryness can happen at other times. Estrogen levels can fall after childbirth, with breastfeeding, during cancer treatment, or with anti-estrogen drugs. […] Dryness isnt always just inside the vaginal canal. Less estrogen means less natural vaginal moisture. This can dry and irritate the vulva, the external female genital area. Women with vulvar dryness often notice irritation when theyre putting on their underwear.
  • #29 11 causes of vaginal dryness | Livi
    https://www.livi.co.uk/your-health/causes-of-vaginal-dryness/
    Nearly 17% of women experience vaginal dryness symptoms before menopause, and more than half of women do so after. Vaginal dryness is very common. Around 17% of women aged 18-50 and more than half of post-menopausal women over the age of 51 experience vaginal dryness. The most common vaginal dryness symptoms include: Vaginal discomfort, tenderness and pain, Pain during penetration, Itching in and around the vagina. Reduced moisture in the vagina can also upset the balance of vaginal flora the bacteria living inside the vagina which can increase the risk of issues like urinary tract infections, vaginitis and bacterial vaginosis. During perimenopause and menopause, the body produces less oestrogen. This can cause the mucous membranes in the vagina which are usually moist, elastic and pink to become increasingly dry and pale. Vaginal dryness during menopause is also called vaginal atrophy, explains Dr Rosen. It affects more than 50% of all post-menopausal women. This can cause stinging and itchiness, as well as pain during sex. It can also affect the urinary tract, making you pee more often or leading to recurrent UTIs. You might notice vaginal dryness alongside symptoms like irregular bleeding, hot flashes or a change in libido. If youre experiencing vaginal dryness, you can speak to a doctor about trying a different type of medication. If youre experiencing these symptoms after having a hysterectomy, talk to a doctor, says Dr Rosen. Local oestrogen can help tremendously. Speak to a doctor about vaginal dryness symptoms. They may be able to offer solutions during your treatment. If vaginal dryness is affecting your daily life, book an appointment to speak to a doctor.
  • #30
    https://www.naydaya.com/blogs/naydaya-hub/menopause-guide-vaginal-dryness-symptoms-and-treatment?srsltid=AfmBOorlXsO88XrdwLPCAC8HgyiZkLjiy-n7XaB6bWPORjhnRlL-Iewi
    The birth control pill is taken by millions of women around the world. One of the side-effects for some types, is that it can lower a woman’s testosterone levels, resulting in vaginal dryness. […] Certain medication or cancer treatments (like chemotherapy) may impact your body’s natural balance. […] It’s also worth noting that vaginal dryness in your sex life is common, if you have not reached an arousal state. In a study, as many as 17 per cent of women (aged 18-50) experienced dryness during sex. […] Whatever is happening to your skin on the outside, is likely to reflect on the inside. Ergo, being dehydrated can have a knock-on effect on your vaginal moisture levels. Once again, this may manifest in itching or yeast infections. […] One of the implications of having a hysterectomy, is that a woman is no longer able to produce oestrogen. This can result in discomfort, as well as painful intercourse, impacting on dryness. […] Please don’t suffer in silence if you’re experiencing vaginal dryness, you’re not alone with it.
  • #31 5 Reasons You’re Experiencing Vaginal Dryness – Raleigh-OBGYN
    https://www.raleighob.com/5-reasons-youre-experiencing-vaginal-dryness/
    The Mayo Clinic suggests that during menopause, your vaginal tissues become thinner and easily irritated, resulting from the natural decline in your bodys estrogen levels. […] Both menopause and perimenopause can decrease your natural vaginal lubrication. […] A few medications known to hinder your ability to get wet include antihistamines, Accutane, and antidepressants. […] Additionally, birth control pills can affect lubrication in a way similar to antidepressants, as a low-dose birth control pill can decrease levels of estrogen in the body. […] There are many reasons you may be experiencing vaginal dryness, both psychological and physiological.
  • #32 Vaginal Dryness Treatment in Detroit, MI | Henry Ford Health – Detroit, MI
    https://www.henryford.com/services/gynecology/sexual-health/vaginal-dryness
    A healthy vagina normally produces its own lubrication. When it no longer does, the result is vaginal dryness. This dryness irritates the vaginal tissue and can be painful. […] The main symptom of vaginal dryness is little to no vaginal lubrication. This can often bring about its own set of symptoms, including: […] The discomfort associated with vaginal dryness can make daily life difficult. […] As a woman gets older, she becomes more likely to develop vaginal dryness. Younger women can also have this issue. […] A woman often has low libido and then develops vaginal dryness. Once she has vaginal dryness, the low libido will continue. […] High levels of anxiety or stress can contribute to vaginal dryness. Medications can also play a big role in how lubricated the vagina is. Some antidepressants, antihistamine allergy treatments, asthma medications, and cold and flu medications are especially big culprits. […] This can cause temporary or longer-term vaginal dryness.
  • #33 What Causes Vaginal Dryness? | Replens
    https://www.replens.com/Blog/What-Causes-Vaginal-Dryness.aspx
    Vaginal dryness occurs when there is a decline in estrogen, affecting the amount or consistency of vaginal moisture. […] Unfortunately, lower estrogen levels remain post-menopause and vaginal dryness continues and tends to worsen over time. […] Chemotherapy, hormonal therapy, and ovarian shutdown or removal can all lead to vaginal dryness because they cause premature menopause-like symptoms. […] Now that you understand the causes of vaginal dryness and the available solutions, its time to take action!
  • #34 Vaginal dryness – symptoms, causes & treatment
    https://www.drwolffsvsan.com/en-gb/symptoms/vaginal-dryness
    Younger women may also be affected by vaginal dryness, for example after uterine or ovarian surgery, when breastfeeding or taking the pill. Furthermore, chemotherapy, radiation and medication used to treat cancer can also have the side effect of vaginal dryness. Vaginal dryness can also occur under stress or as a side effect of some medication, e.g. for treating diabetes, depression, asthma or endometriosis.
  • #35 Vaginal dryness
    https://www2.hse.ie/conditions/vaginal-dryness/
    Vaginal dryness is a common problem that many women have at some point in their lives. […] You may have vaginal dryness if you: feel sore or itchy in and around your vagina, feel pain or discomfort during sex, need to pee more often than usual, keep getting urinary tract infections (UTIs). […] Vaginal dryness is often caused by things that change your hormone levels, including menopause, breastfeeding, taking contraceptive pills or antidepressants, having your womb removed (a hysterectomy), cancer treatments, such as chemotherapy. […] The change in hormone levels can affect how much vaginal discharge or fluid you have. […] You can also have vaginal dryness if you: are not aroused during sex, use perfumed soaps, washes or douches (to wash out the vagina) in and around your vagina, have an underlying condition, such as diabetes or Sjgren’s syndrome (a condition where the glands that produce fluid stop working properly). […] If vaginal dryness is because of changes in your hormone levels, your GP can prescribe you low dose oestrogen. This can come as a cream or a pessary (a type of medicine that is inserted into your vagina).
  • #36 Gynecologic Problems : Johns Hopkins Sjögren’s Center
    https://www.hopkinssjogrens.org/disease-information/sjogrens-disease/vaginal-dryness/
    Vaginal dryness is a common occurrence during menopause, women with Sjgrens disease report this symptom 2-3 times more often than comparably aged women without Sjgrens. […] The presence of Sjgrens disease appears to aggravate the symptoms of vaginal atrophy. This may be manifested by thinning of the pubic hair, loss of vaginal rugae, decreased vaginal moisture, and narrowing of the vaginal introitus. […] As a consequence, women with vaginal atrophy may note vaginal burning or itching, pain with intercourse, and vaginal spotting or discharge. […] The treatment of vaginal dryness in the setting of Sjgrens disease includes the use of vaginal moisturizers, water soluble lubricants during sexual activity, and vaginal estrogen creams.
  • #37 5 Reasons You’re Experiencing Vaginal Dryness – Raleigh-OBGYN
    https://www.raleighob.com/5-reasons-youre-experiencing-vaginal-dryness/
    Many stereotypes surrounding intercourse have clouded the general populations understanding of normal performing bodies and healthy sex functions. Vaginal dryness is more common than one may think, rarely harmful, and can be treated in several different ways. […] One main reason you may be experiencing vaginal dryness is due to underlying medical conditions. […] Yeast infections are a medical infection that can interfere with your ability to get wet, as they disrupt the balance of flora in the vagina. […] Other medical conditions that can lead to vaginal dryness include thyroid disorders, immune system disorders, and even STDs. […] Engaging in unhealthy lifestyle habits has a track record of contributing to several underlying illnesses or problems, vaginal dryness included. […] Anxiety, stress, and depression are demons of their own but can also host several side effects.
  • #38 Symptoms of Vaginal Dryness – Dr. Shraddha’s PCOS Clinic
    https://drshraddhapcosclinic.in/symptoms-of-vaginal-dryness/
    Fluctuating estrogen levels, especially during menopause, are a primary cause of vaginal dryness. Estrogen helps maintain the health and elasticity of vaginal tissues, and a decline in its levels can lead to dryness. […] Some medications, such as those used to treat allergies, colds, or depression, can cause vaginal dryness as a side effect. Chemotherapy drugs and hormonal contraceptives can also affect vaginal lubrication. […] Conditions such as Sjogrens syndrome, an autoimmune disorder that affects the moisture-producing glands, can cause vaginal dryness. Additionally, diabetes and other chronic diseases can interfere with vaginal lubrication. […] Stress, anxiety and depression can affect hormone levels and contribute to vaginal dryness. Psychological well-being plays an important role in overall sexual health and comfort. […] Symptoms of vaginal dryness can have a significant impact on a womans quality of life and intimate relationships. By understanding the signs and taking appropriate treatment, women can manage this common condition effectively and regain comfort and confidence in their daily lives.
  • #39 Factors associated with developing vaginal dryness symptoms in women transitioning through menopause: a longitudinal study
    https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6136974/
    We found that concurrent anxiety symptoms were independently related to the development of vaginal dryness, but there was a weaker relationship between concurrent anxiety and vaginal dryness in sexually active women compared to those who were not sexually active. […] Over 50% of women with vaginal dryness do not report this symptom to their health care provider. […] The incidence and prevalence of vaginal dryness, regardless of sexual activity, increased with progression through the MT and with lower E2 levels, and that reporting vaginal dryness both precedes and co-occurs with sexual intercourse pain. […] The development of any vaginal dryness does not appear to be related to androgen levels or sexual frequency.
  • #40 Vaginal dryness – treatment and symptoms | healthdirect
    https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/vaginal-dryness
    See your doctor if you’ve had vaginal dryness for a few weeks and things you’ve tried yourself are not working. […] You should also see your doctor if: vaginal dryness is affecting your daily life, you have unusual discharge or bleeding from your vagina, you have bleeding after sex or between your periods. […] Lubricants and vaginal moisturisers can ease the symptoms of a dry vagina. […] If you have vaginal dryness because of changes in your hormone levels around the time of menopause, your doctor may suggest menopausal hormone therapy (MHT), or hormone replacement therapy (HRT). […] There are things that you can do that will help with vaginal dryness.
  • #41 Vaginal dryness
    https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/vaginal-dryness/
    See a GP if: you’ve had vaginal dryness for a few weeks and things you’ve tried yourself are not working […] vaginal dryness is affecting your daily life […] you have unusual discharge or bleeding from your vagina […] you have bleeding after sex or in between your periods. […] If you’re getting vaginal dryness because of changes in your hormone levels, you may be prescribed creams, gels, patches or medicines to increase a hormone called oestrogen. This is called HRT.
  • #42 Patient education: Vaginal dryness (Beyond the Basics) – UpToDate
    https://www.uptodate.com/contents/vaginal-dryness-beyond-the-basics/print
    Vaginal dryness occurs when your ovaries do not produce enough estrogen. This can be permanent or temporary and can occur at different times throughout life, such as: […] Vaginal estrogen is one of the most effective treatment options for vaginal dryness. Vaginal estrogen requires a prescription from your health care provider, so ask about this if lubricants and moisturizers are not doing enough to relieve your symptoms. […] If sex continues to be painful despite treatment for vaginal dryness, talk to your health care provider. You may have spasms in the vaginal muscles and there may be other things you can try, such as lubricated vaginal dilators which can gradually stretch the vagina. […] Persistent symptoms — If your symptoms do not improve with the above treatments, see your health care provider to check for vaginal infections, skin conditions, and allergic reactions that are not due to vaginal dryness.
  • #43 Vaginal Dryness Solutions
    https://comprehensive-urology.com/womens-health/vaginal-dryness/
    Vaginal dryness is a persistent problem for women after menopause, causing discomfort and painful intercourse. […] Vaginal dryness is a condition that occurs when the vagina stops producing lubricating fluids. This can cause daily itchiness, irritation, and soreness. Lack of lubricating fluid also causes uncomfortable or painful sexual intercourse. […] Vaginal dryness is a common condition that affects women of all ages, but it is most prevalent in postmenopausal women. Symptoms of vaginal dryness include: Pain during intercourse, Burning or itching sensation in the vaginal area, Vaginal discomfort or irritation, Decreased vaginal lubrication. […] Diagnosing vaginal dryness involves a physical exam and a discussion of symptoms. Your doctor may also perform a pelvic exam to check for any underlying issues, such as atrophy or infection. Blood tests may also be used to check hormone levels.
  • #44 Vaginal Dryness
    https://www.uspharmacist.com/article/vaginal-dryness
    Vaginal dryness, a condition also known as atrophic vaginitis, is an inflammation of the walls of the vagina that results from low estrogen levels. Vaginal dryness causes such symptoms as burning or itching of the vaginal tissue, painful sexual intercourse, bleeding after intercourse, and urinary tract conditions, including burning and hesitancy or frequency of urination. […] Symptoms of vaginal burning, itching, pressure, or discharge are the most common complaints. Intercourse is often painful and may be followed by light bleeding. Urinary tract symptoms, including frequency and painful urination, may also accompany this condition. […] Diagnosis of atrophic vaginitis is made by a simple examination of the vaginal walls, which appear thin, pale, and shiny and may even show small areas of bleeding. Blood testing reveals lower estrogen levels. […] If you suffer from vaginal dryness due to low estrogen levels, your doctor can prescribe an estrogen product to relieve the symptoms of this condition.