Vaginal Dryness During Menopause: What’s Normal and What’s Treatable

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Key Takeaways

• Vaginal dryness is one of the most common menopause symptoms. Declining estrogen affects vaginal tissue, lubrication, and elasticity.
• “Common” does not mean insignificant. Dryness can impact comfort, intimacy, urinary health, and quality of life.
• Symptoms may progress over time. Without treatment, dryness can lead to irritation, tearing, infections, and pain with sex.
• Effective treatment options exist. A menopause-focused OB-GYN can help determine the safest, most appropriate approach for you.

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Vaginal dryness is one of the most common symptoms women experience during perimenopause and menopause, and one of the least openly discussed. Many women notice subtle changes at first: mild irritation, discomfort during sex, or a persistent feeling of dryness.

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Over time, symptoms can become more noticeable and harder to ignore.

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What’s important to know is this: vaginal dryness is common during menopause, but it’s not something you simply have to live with.

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Why Vaginal Dryness Happens During Menopause

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As estrogen levels decline during perimenopause and menopause, vaginal tissues respond. Estrogen plays a key role in keeping vaginal tissue supple, elastic, and well-lubricated. When estrogen decreases, the tissue can become thinner, drier, and more sensitive.

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This may lead to symptoms such as:

• Persistent dryness
• Irritation or itching
• Burning sensations
• Tearing or bleeding
• Discomfort or pain during sex

Estrogen’s primary role in the vagina is maintaining a healthy environment. It supports normal tissue growth, helps maintain vaginal pH by nourishing beneficial bacteria, promotes blood flow essential for lubrication and sexual sensation, and preserves the elasticity of vaginal tissue.

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Is Vaginal Dryness Normal?

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Yes, vaginal dryness is very common during menopause. But “normal” does not mean insignificant.

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For many women, dryness affects intimacy, confidence, urinary comfort, and overall quality of life. Left untreated, symptoms can worsen and may contribute to recurrent vaginal infections, skin breakdown, urinary tract infections, and worsening urinary leakage.

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Because symptoms can overlap with infections or other conditions, persistent dryness should be evaluated rather than dismissed.

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When to See a Doctor

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You should consider speaking with a physician if vaginal dryness:

• Causes pain during sex
• Is accompanied by itching or burning
• Interferes with daily comfort or intimacy

Common indicators that treatment may be appropriate include:

• Vaginal tearing or bleeding
• Discomfort when wiping or urinating
• Painful intercourse
• Dryness that is bothersome throughout the day
• Recurrent urinary tract infections or vaginitis
• Pain with sitting or pressure on vaginal tissues

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A qualified provider can help determine whether symptoms are related to menopause or another condition and recommend appropriate care.

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Treatment Options Are Available

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Treatment for vaginal dryness depends on your symptoms, health history, and personal preferences. Options may include prescription therapies, targeted vaginal treatments, or hormone-based approaches when appropriate.

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A menopause-focused physician can help determine what is safe, effective, and tailored to your individual needs.

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How Gliss Supports Vaginal Health

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At Gliss Wellness, board-certified OB-GYNs provide personalized, virtual care focused on diagnosing and treating menopause-related vaginal symptoms.

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Appointments are designed to allow time to listen, review your history, and recommend evidence-based treatment options without rushing or judgment.

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The Bottom Line

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Vaginal dryness during menopause is common, but it is highly treatable. With the right care, many women experience meaningful improvement in comfort, intimacy, and daily quality of life.

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If these symptoms sound familiar, you don’t have to navigate them alone.
Learn more about vaginal care at Gliss or schedule a virtual appointment to discuss personalized care options.

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