Vaginal Dryness

Vaginal dryness is a common condition that can affect women at any age, though it occurs most often during and after menopause. It may cause itching, burning, or pain during intercourse, which can affect both comfort and emotional well-being.

The good news is that relief is possible. At Legacy For Women in Henderson, NV, our OBGYN team provides personalized, effective care to restore comfort, improve intimacy, and support your vaginal health.

What Is Vaginal Dryness?

Vaginal dryness occurs when the tissues of the vaginal wall become thinner and produce less natural lubrication. This change often happens when estrogen levels decline, reducing moisture, elasticity, and the natural pH balance of the vagina.

Common Symptoms

Vaginal dryness can cause a range of symptoms, including:

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

Symptoms may develop gradually or appear suddenly, especially during hormonal transitions such as perimenopause or menopause.

What Causes Vaginal Dryness?

The most common cause of vaginal dryness is low estrogen. This may occur due to:

• Perimenopause or menopause
• Breastfeeding or postpartum hormonal changes
• Certain medications such as antidepressants, antihistamines, or cancer treatments
• Surgical menopause (ovary removal)
• Smoking, which affects blood flow to vaginal tissue

Vaginal dryness is not limited to menopause. Younger women may also experience it due to lifestyle, medical, or hormonal factors.

When to See a Provider

You should schedule a visit at our women’s health clinic in Henderson if you:

• Have ongoing vaginal discomfort or pain
• Avoid intimacy because of dryness or pain
• Notice new vaginal changes after menopause, childbirth, or medication use
• Want professional treatment beyond over-the-counter lubricants

Even mild symptoms should be evaluated early to prevent worsening and improve overall sexual health.

Diagnosis

Your provider will start with a detailed review of your symptoms and a pelvic exam. This may include:

• Assessing the condition of the vaginal tissue
• Checking for thinning, irritation, or infection
• Ruling out other causes of discomfort

In some cases, your OBGYN may recommend additional tests to check hormone levels or evaluate for recurrent infections.

Treatment Options

Treatment depends on the cause and severity of symptoms.

Non-hormonal treatments:

• Vaginal moisturizers to maintain hydration
• Water- or silicone-based lubricants for intercourse
• Lifestyle changes such as drinking more water, quitting smoking, and avoiding harsh soaps

Hormonal treatments:

• Low-dose vaginal estrogen cream, tablet, or ring to restore moisture and tissue health
• DHEA vaginal suppositories, a non-estrogen option that supports tissue repair
• Systemic hormone therapy for women with broader menopausal symptoms

Other advanced options:

• Laser vaginal therapy such as CO₂ or erbium treatments to stimulate collagen and restore tone
• Pelvic floor therapy if tightness or pelvic pain accompanies dryness

Your provider will help you choose the safest and most effective treatment for your body and needs.

You Deserve Comfort and Confidence

Vaginal dryness is common, but you do not have to live with it. At Legacy For Women in Henderson, NV, we offer comprehensive care to help restore moisture, relieve pain, and improve intimacy.

Schedule an appointment today to speak with a provider and take the first step toward lasting comfort and confidence.