Healthdirect notes that vaginal dryness is most common after menopause, yet many people never mention it to their healthcare provider. If you have been putting up with it quietly, you are in good company, and there are several options that can help.
Below we look at what causes vaginal dryness, how it shows up and what period cup users may want to keep in mind, drawing on Australian health guidance.
Quick answer: Vaginal dryness is most often caused by lower oestrogen, which can follow menopause, removal of the ovaries, cancer treatment, weaning after breastfeeding or some antidepressants. Douching, smoking, stress and too little arousal can add to it. Healthdirect suggests a vaginal moisturiser two to three times a week and a water-based lubricant during sex.
What is vaginal dryness?
Vaginal dryness simply means your vagina has less moisture than usual. According to the healthdirect vaginal dryness page, oestrogen keeps the vaginal lining and tissue stretchy, so a drop in oestrogen is the most common cause. Natural moisture can also fall because of:
- reduced blood flow;
- a thinner vaginal lining;
- changes in vaginal bacteria;
- irritation and inflammation.
Other contributors healthdirect lists include douching, smoking, diabetes, stress and anxiety, and not enough foreplay or arousal before sex.
What are the signs of a dry vagina?
Itching or irritation in the vagina is one sign to watch for. Healthdirect also lists:
- pain or discomfort during sex;
- needing to wee more often;
- urinary tract infections that keep coming back;
- lower sexual desire, since sex can become uncomfortable.
Can childbirth or breastfeeding cause vaginal dryness?
Yes, hormonal shifts at these times can leave the vagina drier. Jean Hailes explains that hormonal changes after childbirth, during breastfeeding and around menopause can cause dryness and a loss of natural lubrication, which may make sex painful. Healthdirect specifically mentions weaning after breastfeeding as a time when oestrogen can drop.
For lubrication during sex, Jean Hailes suggests silicone- or water-based lubricants or good-quality natural oils, but warns against oil-based lubricants with condoms because they can make a condom break.
What should period cup users know about dryness?
A period cup sits inside the vagina and collects blood instead of absorbing it. The healthdirect menstruation guide says menstrual cups are held in place by suction and that you should follow the product instructions when removing one. Our guide to using a period cup walks through insertion and removal.
Gentle care matters too. Healthdirect's self-care tips for dryness include avoiding perfumed soaps, washes, bubble baths and essential oils that may irritate. In the same spirit, Lunette recommends washing the cup with warm water and Lunette Cup Wash or a mild, unscented soap, and avoiding cleaning products with oils, colourants or fragrances, which can leave residue on the silicone and irritate the vagina. Boil 5 minutes before first use and after each completed cycle. If insertion has become uncomfortable, raise it with your doctor.
When to see a doctor
Healthdirect advises seeing your doctor if:
- symptoms last a few weeks despite self-care;
- dryness is affecting your daily life;
- you notice unusual discharge or bleeding from the vagina;
- you bleed after sex or between periods.
Jean Hailes adds soreness or itchiness of the vulva, a new lump, rash or ulcer, and persistent pain as reasons to book in.
Common questions
Can stress cause vaginal dryness?
Stress can play a part. Healthdirect lists stress and anxiety among the factors that can contribute to vaginal dryness, alongside douching, smoking, diabetes and too little arousal before sex. Lower oestrogen remains the most common cause, so if dryness lingers, a doctor can help work out what is behind it for you.
Where can I buy vaginal moisturisers and lubricants?
Healthdirect says lubricants and vaginal moisturisers are available without a prescription from pharmacies and supermarkets. It suggests using a vaginal moisturiser two to three times a week and a water-based lubricant during sex. A pharmacist can help you compare products if you are unsure where to start.
What is menopausal hormone therapy for vaginal dryness?
When menopausal hormone changes are the cause, healthdirect says a doctor may suggest menopausal hormone therapy (MHT). It comes as creams, gels, patches or a transvaginal ring. Your doctor can explain whether it suits you, and how it fits with self-care steps such as moisturisers, lubricants and avoiding perfumed products.
Want to know exactly what your period care is made from? The Lunette period cup is 100% medical-grade silicone, free from BPA, PFAS, rubber and latex, and independently tested by Danish lab TÆNK with no unwanted substances found. Our period cup cleaning guide sets out washing, boiling and storage.
General information only, not medical advice. If dryness is bothering you, your GP or pharmacist is a good place to start.
