Vaginal Dryness

Changes in the vagina occur in response to a woman's hormonal cycle. Estrogen causes the skin lining the vagina to thicken. Blood vessels bring nutrients and oxygen to the vagina. These maintain vaginal flexibility and health.

The amount of mucus and vaginal secretions produced is influenced by many factors, including:

• bacteria and viruses
• blood vessels and nerves
• exercise and sweating
• female hormones
• irritants, such as feminine hygiene products
• sexual arousal
• stress

Vaginal dryness may cause the following symptoms:

• dyspareunia, or painful intercourse
• frequent vaginal yeast or bacterial infections, with abnormal vaginal discharge
• itching or burning of the vagina

Vaginal dryness is often caused by changes in the level of female hormones. Situations that alter these levels include:

• breastfeeding
• oral contraceptives
• menopause

Other factors that may cause vaginal dryness include:

• an allergic reaction to latex in condoms
• damage from childbirth
• inadequate foreplay before intercourse
• irritation from feminine hygiene products or tampons
• medication or drug side effects
• previous pelvic or abdominal surgery
• psychological issues, such as past or current sexual abuse

Vaginal dryness can sometimes be prevented by treating the underlying cause. Some ways to prevent vaginal dryness include:

• Avoiding irritating chemicals or products.
• Following treatment plans for diabetes and other diseases.
• Obtaining counseling for psychological problems.
• Using hormone replacement therapy for menopause.

Diagnosis of the cause of vaginal dryness begins with a medical history and physical exam. The healthcare professional may perform a pelvic exam and Pap smear.

Vaginal dryness is not contagious and poses no risk to others.

Hormone replacement therapy can minimize vaginal dryness. Hormones may be taken orally. Estrogen creams, such as estradiol (i.e., Estrace vaginal, Estring, Femring, Vagifem) may be inserted into the vagina. An estrogen patch (i.e., Alora, Climara, Estraderm, Menostar, Vivelle, Vivelle-Dot) may be applied to the skin. Vaginal moisturizers may be used. Water-soluble lubricants may be inserted before intercourse.

Hormone replacement therapy may increase a woman's risk for breast cancer and uterine cancer. Products used to treat vaginal dryness may rarely cause allergic reactions.

Treatment of vaginal dryness may be lifelong.

Any new or worsening symptoms should be reported to the healthcare professional.