Varies
Varies
30 minutes
Vaginal dryness can be experienced at any age, but it is especially common for women to experience vaginal dryness during and after menopause.
The symptoms of vaginal dryness vary, and may not necessarily be constant. They include vaginal discomfort, irritation, burning sensation, or itching. You may notice a lower than normal libido (sex drive), difficulty getting aroused, discomfort during sex or painful penetration.
Your vulva may look paler than usual, and your vagina may shorten or narrow. Increased need to urinate and repeated urinary tract infections (UTI) are also a symptom of vaginal dryness.
The main treatments for vaginal dryness are lubricants or vaginal moisturisers, vaginal oestrogen, which is available as pills, creams, or rings that are inserted into the vagina. Lubricants and moisturisers give immediate effects, and can be used in the short-term, whereas the inserts take longer to produce effects.
For women experiencing menopause, hormone-replacement therapy (HRT) is available as a prescription treatment in pill, patch, or implant form. HRT is usually recommended when there are other menopause symptoms also presenting, as it has a wider effect on the body.
The most common cause of a dry vagina is menopause, which causes levels of the sex hormone oestrogen, which is responsible for vaginal lubrication, to decrease. This can cause continual vaginal dryness, vaginal atrophy, or atrophic vaginitis.
Other causes include:
Breastfeeding, which also reduces oestrogen levels
Hormonal contraceptives such as the combined pill or a contraceptive injection
Cancer treatments including chemotherapy and radiotherapy;
Lack of arousal before sex, which can lead to lack of lubrication and uncomfortable or painful intercourse
Underlying conditions such as diabetes or Sjögrens syndrome, which affect the bodys fluid-producing glands.
Treatment will depend on your individual needs and symptoms. Our gynaecologists are here to help you find the method of care that is best suited to your needs.
Give us a call to make an appointment.
Use our online booking engine or book your test by giving us a call.
On the online booking engine select the “appointment type” you need.
You will be seen by one of our friendly doctors or trained clinicians.
Experienced
since 1998
Experienced doctors & a professional team
Registration
not needed
Up-to-date with the latest treatments & testing
Strictly
confidential
Experienced doctors & a professional team
Affordable private
health care
Transparent fee structure with no hidden charges
We work with experienced consultants & healthcare professionals who have received positive feedback from our patients, and with whom we have established long-term relationships.
Latest Episode
Tune in to our podcast to explore the world of healthcare and learn from distinguished special guests. We cover everything from preventative measures to cutting-edge treatments so that you can stay informed and up-to-date on health-related things.
Subscribe for latest updates & news
From same-day private GP and blood test appointments to visa medicals, a sexual and reproductive health clinic, and preventative health screenings, we are here to help.
Links
Accepted Insurance Companies
Please note that Walk-in Clinic is a private medical centre & not an NHS service. City Walk-in Clinic Ltd company registration no. 07472804
