The condition currently referred to as vaginal dryness , has the technical name vaginal atrophy or genitourinary syndrome of menopause, when it occurs after menopause. It is a common problem, resulting mainly of a lack of estrogen; It can be very annoying, interfere with daily activities and even prevent from having a fulfilling sex life; Women complaining of vaginal dryness should seek advice from a gynecologist, as there are many options to alleviate vaginal dryness. What causes vaginal dryness? Vaginal dryness is due to a decrease in the action of estrogens on the genital tissues . Estrogens are female sex hormones. They are mainly produced in the ovaries throughout the fertile life (from the first menstruation until menopause). In addition to having other important functions, in the tissues of the genital area, estrogens contribute to: Normal thickness and good elasticity of tissues; Maintained vaginal secretion; A level of acidity suitable for the balance of the vaginal flora. In the absence of estrogens , depending on its severity and individual sensitivity, symptoms may appear such as: Dryness and lack of natural lubrication, with consequent discomfort during sexual intercourse and sometimes bleeding; Tissue inflammation, with deviations from the usual flora and abnormal discharges; Increased risk of genital, vaginal or urinary infections; Increased urinary complaints, which can lead to urine leakage and painful urination; Anatomical alterations, which include loosen of the labia, vaginal shortening or narrowing, among others, more characteristic of menopause. Who can have vaginal dryness? Vaginal dryness mainly affects women after menopause because, at this time, estrogen production by the ovaries is drastically reduced, or even stopped. However, other women may experience vaginal dryness, even when young, whether or not related to the action of estrogens. This is the case, for example, of women who: Had surgery on the ovaries; Had pelvic radiotherapy treatments or chemotherapy treatments; Take any medication or have any illness that interferes with the production or action of estrogens or that, for another reason, causes dry skin; Have recently given birth and menstrual cycle and estrogen production have not yet returned to normal. How is vaginal dryness treated? There are several possibilities for treating vaginal dryness. Over-the-counter products , such as specific lubricants, when there are complaints during sexual intercourse, and vaginal moisturizers, which help maintain vaginal moisture; Estrogens, prasterone, ospemifene, hyaluronic acid and corticosteroids are some examples of medications that can be used, under medical prescription and always respecting the doses and treatment intervals; Laser treatment may also be an option in vaginal atrophy Hygiene care may be advisable, avoiding immersion baths with foam and the use of perfumed soaps and lotions, which can be irritating and dry the skin even more. The choice of the most appropriate approach depends on the cause of the problem, its severity, age and also on the preferences of each woman, and must be done with medical advice. So, first of all, keep regular monitoring of your gynecological health and talk to your gynecologist about your complaints . Author : Susana Coutinho Meet the obstetrics-gynecology clinical team from Hospital da Luz network. The content published in the Health Guide is intended for the general public and is provided for informational and educational purposes only. It does not replace individual medical assessment, diagnosis, or personalized clinical advice from a qualified healthcare professional. The content is produced or reviewed by physicians and other healthcare professionals at Hospital da Luz and is based on the knowledge available at the time of publication or the most recent update, as indicated at the beginning of each item.
