Vaginal dryness
Symptoms, assessment, options and preparation for your visit.
Illustrative imageVaginal dryness may relate to menopause, breastfeeding, medication or other conditions. Burning and discomfort during sex can occur; symptoms are not explained by ageing alone.
Symptoms and starting the conversation
When symptoms started, how often they recur and their effect on everyday life matter. The examples below are topics you can discuss; they do not establish a diagnosis on their own.
- Dryness and burning
- Discomfort during sex
- Changes around menopause or breastfeeding
How is assessment approached?
Life stage, products, medication and any bleeding or discharge are discussed. Examination can help distinguish dryness from infection or skin conditions.
Which options are discussed?
Suitable moisturisers and lubricants, hormonal support where appropriate and follow-up may be discussed. Choices depend on health history; laser treatment or a procedure is not assumed to be necessary.
Risks, limitations and follow-up
No method is assumed to suit everyone. If medication or a procedure is considered, assessment includes health history, possible pregnancy and current medication. Discuss potential side effects, alternatives and follow-up. Worsening or new symptoms are reasons to review the plan.
Preparing for your visit
Note when symptoms started, their triggers and their effect on your life. Bring available examination or operation reports and a medication list. Prepare questions about options, the purpose of tests, benefits and risks. Do not enter health records into appointment or contact forms.
Moisturisers, lubricants and local treatment
Lubricants reduce friction during sex, while vaginal moisturisers are used regularly for dryness. Low-dose vaginal oestrogen may be considered for menopausal tissue changes in suitable people. Their aims and use differ.
Age alone does not explain every symptom; breastfeeding, medicines, infection and skin disease may contribute. New bleeding, sores, persistent itching or significant pain needs examination. A cancer history also requires individual discussion of local treatment.
Frequently asked questions
Does dryness occur only after menopause?
No. It may also relate to breastfeeding, medication or other circumstances. Life stage and health history guide assessment.
Can I diagnose myself using this page?
No. Similar symptoms may have different causes. This information helps you prepare for consultation; individual diagnosis and care require assessment.
Make your plan clear.
- Note how symptoms affect sleep and everyday life.
- Discuss options in relation to your health history.
- Ask how new symptoms should change your follow-up plan.
Follow-up, care and return to everyday activities depend on assessment and the approach chosen. Before leaving, clarify the next step and how to contact the clinic.
Prepare your own list.
Select topics, write your notes in the fields below and download your personal preparation list as a PDF.
Your notes stay on this page; they are not sent to the clinic or saved. They are cleared when you close the page. The PDF may contain personal information; keep it on your own device.