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Vaginal dryness

Vaginal dryness is a standard problem that multiple women go through at some point in their lives, but certain things can help the dryness.

Vaginal dryness symptoms

You might have vaginal dryness if you:

  • Feel itchy or sore in or around your vagina
  • Feel discomfort or pain during intercourse
  • Urge to pee often than usual
  • Keep developing urinary tract infections

These symptoms can also lower your sex drive.

Vaginal dryness causes

Common causes of vaginal dryness are:

  • Menopause
  • Breastfeeding
  • Antidepressants or contraceptive pills
  • Hysterectomy (womb removal)
  • Chemotherapy (cancer treatment)

 

Vaginal dryness causes

These things can also cause a change in your hormone levels and have an impact on how much vaginal discharge or fluid you have. You may also develop vaginal dryness if:

  • You aren’t aroused during sex
  • You use perfumed soaps or washes in and around your vagina
  • You have any underlying conditions like diabetes or Sjögren’s syndrome

Vaginal dryness self-preventions

  • Use water-based lubricants before intercourse
  • Use vaginal moisturizers
  • Use unperfumed soaps and washes in or around the vagina

Consult a doctor if

  • You have had vaginal dryness for more than a few weeks
  • It affects your daily life
  • You have vaginal discharge or bleeding
  • You are bleeding after sex
  • You are bleeding between your periods

Reviewed by – Dr. Priyanka, MBBS MD Microbiology
Page last reviewed: 16 JULY 2022