Vaginal Dryness

Vaginal dryness is a common condition that can affect women at any stage of life, though it is most often experienced during perimenopause, menopause, and after childbirth. Symptoms such as irritation, burning, and pain with intimacy can affect both physical comfort and emotional wellbeing. At Complete Care ObGyn, our Henderson OB/GYN team provides compassionate, individualized care to help restore comfort and improve quality of life.

With the right evaluation and treatment plan, vaginal dryness is highly manageable.

What Is Vaginal Dryness?

Vaginal dryness occurs when the vaginal tissues become thinner, less elastic, and less lubricated. This is most commonly related to declining estrogen levels, which play an important role in maintaining vaginal moisture, tissue strength, and healthy pH balance.

Common Symptoms

Vaginal dryness can present in a variety of ways, including:

• Persistent dryness or tightness in the vaginal area
• Burning, itching, or irritation
• Pain during intercourse (dyspareunia)
• Light bleeding after sex
• Increased frequency of urinary tract infections
• Discomfort during sitting, exercise, or tampon use

Symptoms may appear gradually or develop suddenly during hormonal changes. Noting when symptoms began can help guide diagnosis.

What Causes Vaginal Dryness?

The most common cause is reduced estrogen, which may occur due to:

• Perimenopause and menopause
• Postpartum changes and breastfeeding
• Certain medications, including antihistamines, antidepressants, and cancer therapies
• Surgical menopause after ovary removal
• Smoking, which reduces blood flow to vaginal tissue

While often associated with menopause, vaginal dryness can affect younger women as well.

When to See a Provider

You should schedule an evaluation if you:

• Have ongoing vaginal discomfort or irritation
• Avoid intimacy due to dryness or pain
• Notice new symptoms after menopause, childbirth, or medication changes
• Want treatment options beyond over-the-counter lubricants

Early care can prevent symptoms from worsening and improve both comfort and sexual health.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis begins with a detailed symptom discussion and pelvic exam. Your provider will:

• Evaluate vaginal tissue for thinning or irritation
• Check for signs of infection or inflammation
• Rule out other causes of pain or dryness

Additional testing may be recommended if hormonal imbalance or recurrent infections are suspected.

Treatment Options

Treatment is tailored to symptom severity, underlying cause, and personal preference.

Non-hormonal options may include:

• Vaginal moisturizers used regularly for ongoing hydration
• Water- or silicone-based lubricants for intercourse
• Lifestyle adjustments such as hydration, smoking cessation, and avoiding irritating products

Hormonal treatments may include:

• Low-dose vaginal estrogen (cream, tablet, or ring) with minimal systemic absorption
• DHEA vaginal suppositories to support tissue repair
• Systemic hormone therapy for patients with broader menopausal symptoms

Advanced options may include:

• Vaginal laser therapy to stimulate collagen and restore tissue moisture
• Pelvic floor therapy if dryness contributes to pain or muscle tension

Your provider will help determine which option best fits your needs and lifestyle.

Restore Comfort and Confidence

Vaginal dryness is common, but it does not have to be part of your everyday life. With personalized care and effective treatment options, relief is within reach.

Schedule an appointment with Complete Care ObGyn in Henderson, NV to discuss vaginal dryness and explore treatment options tailored to you.