Vaginal Dryness

Vaginal dryness is a common problem for women in later life due to a lack of the estrogen. If vaginal dryness develops, contact board-certified gynecologist Kristen Matsik, MD, at Women’s Wellness and Sexual Health in Charleston, South Carolina. Dr. Matsik specializes in menopause treatments, providing several effective solutions to distressing intimate dryness and the consequent discomfort it can cause. If you’re concerned about vaginal dryness, book a consultation at Women’s Wellness and Sexual Health using the online booking feature today.

What causes vaginal dryness?

Vaginal dryness can develop when you have low estrogen (female sex hormone) levels. Your vaginal walls produce natural secretions, creating a clear coating that lubricates the tissues. Estrogen created by your ovaries stimulates fluid production and promotes vaginal wall elasticity.

If you lack estrogen, your body doesn’t make as much lubricating fluid, and your vagina dries out. Vaginal dryness can cause uncomfortable itching and burning and makes sexual intercourse painful.

Why would I get vaginal dryness?

Falling estrogen levels that trigger vaginal dryness can occur for several reasons, including:

• Childbirth
• Breastfeeding
• Cancer treatment
• Oophorectomy (surgical ovary removal)
• Sjögren’s syndrome (an autoimmune disorder)

The most common trigger for vaginal dryness is menopause – when you stop producing eggs and can no longer bear children.

This natural event occurs around age 50 but starts several years before with perimenopause. Estrogen and progesterone production slows, causing problems like hot flashes, night sweats, and vaginal dryness.  

What can I do about vaginal dryness?

A simple solution to vaginal dryness is using a vaginal moisturizer day-to-day and a lubricant when you wish to have sex.

The majority of women will require topical estrogen after age 50 to increase natural lubrication and vaginal elasticity. This is a good solution for women who don’t want or need to take BHRT because the estrogen is not systemically absorbed and doesn't raise estrogen levels in the bloodstream.

Several methods are available for applying topical estrogen, including creams, pills, and a flexible ring you insert into your vagina where it gradually releases estrogen for three months. 

Which vaginal dryness treatment is best for me?

Your Women’s Wellness and Sexual Health provider will discuss your options so you can make an informed decision.

Call Women’s Wellness and Sexual Health or book an appointment online today for expert relief from vaginal dryness.