(Shannon Brosek/ Medical News Today) — Vaginal dryness is a common symptom experienced by women when they go through the menopause transition and possibly for many years after. However, vaginal dryness can happen at any age for several reasons.
Vaginal dryness is the result of decreased levels of estrogen. Estrogen is the female hormone that keeps the lining of the vagina lubricated, thick, and elastic.
Lack of vaginal moisture may not be a big deal to some, but it can have a large impact on a woman’s sex life by causing pain and discomfort during intercourse. Fortunately, there are several different treatments available to relieve the symptoms of vaginal dryness.
Vaginal dryness is most often due to a drop in estrogen levels. Estrogen levels begin to decrease as menopause approaches.
The ovaries produce estrogen that controls the development of female body characteristics, such as breasts and body shape. Estrogen also plays a significant role in the menstrual cycle and pregnancy. (…)