Does menopause cause vaginal dryness?

As oestrogen levels fall during the menopause transition, the vaginal tissues may make less natural moisture and become thinner and less flexible. This can cause dryness, burning, itching, soreness, or discomfort during sex. Some people also notice urinary urgency or repeated urinary symptoms. Symptoms can continue after periods stop and may vary over time.

Dryness is not proof that menopause is the cause. Irritation from scented products, infections, breastfeeding, some medicines, and other health conditions can produce similar symptoms. New, persistent, or troublesome symptoms deserve a clinical assessment, especially when there is unusual discharge or pain.

Use a gentle, unscented cleanser externally and avoid douching or fragranced products. Vaginal moisturisers can provide ongoing moisture, while water-based or silicone-based lubricants may reduce friction during sex. A clinician can discuss local vaginal oestrogen or other treatments if symptoms affect comfort, sleep, sex, or daily life. Tell them about any history that could change treatment choices.

Arrange medical advice for bleeding after sex, bleeding after menopause, pelvic pain, sores, foul-smelling discharge, fever, or burning when passing urine. Seek urgent care for severe pain, heavy bleeding, faintness, or fever with feeling very unwell.

Ask which treatment suits your symptoms, whether an infection or medicine could be involved, and what to do if dryness causes pain during sex or urinary symptoms.