Why do I feel dry? What causes vaginal dryness?

Bottom lineVaginal dryness is usually caused by lower estrogen, most often in perimenopause, menopause, after childbirth, or while breastfeeding, and also by certain medications, harsh scented products, insufficient arousal, and some medical conditions. It is very treatable with vaginal moisturizers, lubricants, and prescription vaginal estrogen; see a doctor if dryness affects daily comfort or sex or comes with itching, burning, or abnormal discharge.

Vaginal dryness happens when the tissue produces less natural moisture, usually because of lower estrogen. It's extremely common, affects people at every age, and is very treatable, so it's worth raising rather than enduring.

Common causes

• Low estrogen - the biggest driver. Estrogen keeps vaginal tissue thick, elastic, and lubricated. Levels drop in perimenopause and menopause, after childbirth, while breastfeeding, and around your period.
• Some birth control and other hormonal medications
• Medications - certain antihistamines, antidepressants, and cold remedies are drying
• Not enough arousal before sex
• Harsh products - scented soaps, washes, and douching strip moisture
• Medical treatments - chemotherapy, radiation, or surgery affecting hormones
• Conditions like Sjogren's syndrome

What helps

• Vaginal moisturizers used regularly (not just during sex)
• Lubricants during sex (water- or silicone-based)
• Vaginal estrogen (cream, ring, or tablet) - very effective for menopause-related dryness and prescribed by a clinician
• Stopping scented products and douching
• Enough arousal and foreplay

When to see a doctor

• Dryness that affects daily comfort or sex
• Dryness with itching, burning, or abnormal discharge
• Pain during sex that persists
• Bothersome menopause symptoms

Dryness is not something you have to live with. For menopause-related changes, see our perimenopause and menopause guide.

Track dryness alongside your cycle and stage in Femora to see whether it's hormonal and time conversations with your clinician.