Vaginal Dryness FAQ

Though vaginal dryness is a common symptom of menopause, many women feel embarrassed or shy to ask friends or medical professionals about this condition. It is important to know that vaginal dryness is a completely normal and often temporary condition. Understanding more about the symptoms, causes, and treatment options can help many women work towards alleviating this troublesome menopausal symptom.

Continue reading to discover the answers to the most frequently asked questions about vaginal dryness during menopause.

Vaginal Dryness	Q: What is vaginal dryness? A: Vaginal dryness, known medically as "atrophic vaginitis," is defined as insufficient moisture of the vaginal walls and opening. The body naturally produces a thin layer of moisture to lubricate the vagina. It does so by secreting a clear liquid from the walls of the blood vessel in the vagina. When the body produces less lubrication, as occurs with the menopausal drop in estrogen levels, a woman can experience the unpleasant symptoms of vaginal dryness. Read on to learn more about these symptoms. Q: What are the symptoms of vaginal dryness? A: While each woman experiences the symptoms of vaginal dryness differently, the following are the most common symptoms of vaginal dryness:
Vaginal Dryness Overview About Vaginal Dryness What is vaginal dryness? Symptoms Risk factors Causes of Vaginal Dryness Estrogenic causes Other hormonal causes Other causes Vaginal Dryness Treatments

Symptoms of vaginal dryness

When a woman experiences severe symptoms, those that persist for a long time, or those that significantly effect physical, sexual, and emotional health, it is a good idea for her to speak with a qualified health care professional. Read on to learn about the possible causes of vaginal dryness.

A: The number one cause of vaginal dryness during menopause is diminishing levels of estrogen in the body. As women age and approach menopause, the body begins to produce less and less estrogen.

As a result, the vaginal tissues become less moist, thinner, and less elastic. This can lead to vaginal dryness. Lowered estrogen levels also cause changes in Ph levels from acidic to more alkaline, which can cause irritation and increase the risk of infection.

Keep reading to learn about other potential causes of vaginal dryness.

A: In addition to hormonal changes during menopause, other factors can cause or contribute to vaginal dryness. Some are also related to hormone changes, while others involve other physiological and environmental factors.

Hormonal Causes: • Pregnancy/childbirth • Breastfeeding • Hormonal birth control • Hormone Replacement Therapy • Cancer treatment (i.e. radiation,   chemotherapy, hormonal therapy) • Hysterectomy • Medical and surgical menopause

Other Causes: • Douching • Allergic reaction • Autoimmune disease • Infection • Certain medications • Smoking • Alcohol consumption • Stress • Unresolved emotional issues

A: Vaginal dryness is a very common symptom of menopause. While statistics vary slightly by source, most experts estimate that 40 to 60 percent of women will develop vaginal dryness at some point during the menopausal transition.

Some women experience this symptom before the cessation of menstruation, while others will experience vaginal dryness in the years following menopause. The average age of menopause is approximately 52; thus, the onset of vaginal dryness is typically ages 40 through 55.

As it is such a common symptom of menopause, women may be interested in learning how to cope with this frustrating symptom. Keep reading to learn about simple measures that can be taken in the privacy of one´s home to alleviate the effects of vaginal dryness.

A: Fortunately, self care measures can drastically alleviate the symptoms of vaginal dryness. The following is a list of Dos and Don'ts in managing vaginal dryness.

DO • Drink more water • Use a water based lubricant • Eat a balanced diet • Exercise more frequently • Utilize stress reduction techniques • Reduce/eliminate alcohol, caffeine,   and smoking • Communicate with your partner • Talk with your doctor

DON'T • Douche (vinegar, yogurt, or other   preparations) • Use harsh chemicals (i.e. soaps, bath   products, detergents) • Use unnecessary over the counter   cold remedies • Use oil based lubricants or hand and   body lotions

A: It is never a bad idea to speak with a health care provider about the symptoms of menopause, including vaginal dryness. Menopausal women who have questions or concerns about their symptoms, those for whom vaginal dryness is severe, persistent, or life impeding, and those with other unexplained symptoms are urged to speak with a health care provider

In addition to the self care tips listed above, women have several options available in treating vaginal dryness. Lifestyle changes can make a huge difference in alleviating symptoms. However, these aren't able to treat the underlying hormonal cause of vaginal dryness. Luckily, natural remedies can treat this principle cause safely and effectively.

Return to home page and learn more about the 34 Menopause Symptoms.