Hormonal changes, such as those that occur with aging, are the most common cause of vaginal dryness, though other causes exist. Treatment may involve lubrication or hormone therapy.

A thin layer of moisture coats the walls of the vagina. This moisture provides an alkaline environment in which sperm can survive and travel for sexual reproduction. These vaginal secretions also lubricate the vaginal wall, reducing friction during sexual intercourse.

In people with vaginas, changes in hormone production that accompany aging can cause the vaginal walls to thin. Thinner walls mean fewer cells that secrete moisture. This can lead to vaginal dryness. Keep reading to learn more about the causes and effects of vaginal dryness.

Vaginal dryness can cause discomfort in the vaginal and pelvic regions. Vaginal dryness can also cause:

Vaginal dryness can be a source of embarrassment. This may prevent people from discussing symptoms with their physician or partner. However, the condition is a common occurrence that affects many people with vaginas.

Falling estrogen levels are the chief cause of vaginal dryness. Females begin to produce less estrogen as they age. This leads to the end of menstruation during a time called perimenopause.

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.

However, menopause isn’t the only condition that causes a decrease in estrogen production. Other causes include:

Some medications can also reduce secretions in the body. Douching may also cause dryness and irritation, as well as some creams and lotions applied to the vaginal area.

Vaginal dryness rarely indicates a serious medical condition. Still, seek help if the discomfort lasts beyond a few days or if you experience discomfort during sexual intercourse. If left untreated, vaginal dryness can cause sores or cracking in the vagina’s tissues.

If you experience vaginal dryness with severe vaginal bleeding, seek immediate medical attention.

Although a primary care doctor can help you with vaginal dryness, they may refer you to a gynecologist, a doctor who specializes in female reproductive health.

During an exam, a doctor may examine the vaginal walls to look for lacerations or feel for thinning skin. They may also take a sample of vaginal discharge to test for the presence of harmful bacteria.

Additionally, hormone tests can determine if you are in perimenopause or menopause.

Many over-the-counter lubricants are available for you to apply to the vaginal area to reduce dryness and discomfort. These lubricants and moisturizing creams can also change the vagina’s pH, reducing the likelihood of getting a UTI.

Choosing a lubricant specifically intended for vaginal use can be better for your vagina. Experts recommend selecting a water-based lubricant. It shouldn’t contain perfumes, herbal extracts, or artificial colors, as these can cause irritation.

Lubricants, such as petroleum jelly and mineral oil, can damage latex condoms and diaphragms used for birth control.

In some instances, a healthcare professional will prescribe estrogen therapy in the form of a pill, cream, or ring that releases estrogen.

Creams and rings release estrogen directly to the tissues. Pills are more likely to be used when you have other uncomfortable menopause symptoms, such as hot flashes.

Because many products can irritate delicate vaginal skin, it’s important to seek evaluation and treatment advice at a physician’s office if the condition persists.

It’s important to know that you can’t prevent age- or reproductive-related changes to the vagina. Still, you may be able to lower your chances of experiencing vaginal dryness by avoiding things that increase your risk. For example:

  • Refrain from using irritating products, such as douches.
  • Avoid condoms that contain nonoxynol-9 (N-9). They have a chemical that can cause vaginal dryness.
  • Quit smoking if you smoke.

Vaginal dryness can cause discomfort in the vaginal and pelvic regions. Menopause is a common cause, but various things can cause it.

Vaginal dryness is rarely serious, and several treatments are available. If you experience vaginal dryness that doesn’t go away, discuss it with a doctor so they can help you find the right treatment.