Vaginal dryness

ARTICLE SECTIONS

Introduction Signs and symptoms Causes Screening and diagnosis

Treatment Self-care Complementary and alternative medicine

Introduction

When your vagina isn't properly lubricated, it can feel itchy and irritated. Vaginal dryness may make some daily activities uncomfortable, and it can make sexual intercourse less pleasurable. In fact, during menopause, vaginal dryness is a common cause of discomfort or pain during sex (dyspareunia).

Vaginal dryness is a common condition. It can affect women of all ages, though vaginal dryness most often occurs during and after the menopausal transition. An estimated 10 percent to 40 percent of women who've reached menopause have signs and symptoms related to vaginal dryness.

A number of self-care measures and medical treatments can help you reduce vaginal dryness.

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Signs and symptoms