By Mayo Clinic Staff
Vaginal dryness may happen to anyone with a vagina at any age. But it happens more often with older age, mainly after menopause. Vaginal dryness can cause pain and irritation during sex and at other times.
Lower estrogen levels are the main cause of vaginal dryness. Estrogen is a hormone that helps keep vaginal tissue healthy and moist. Other causes of vaginal dryness include some medical conditions and ways of cleaning the vagina.
Vaginal dryness affects many people with vaginas. Many of them don't bring up the topic with their healthcare professionals.
If vaginal dryness affects your sex life and relationship with your partner, make an appointment with your healthcare professional. Living with vaginal dryness doesn't have to be part of getting older.
Show References
- Bachmann G, et al. Genitourinary syndrome of menopause (vulvovaginal atrophy): Clinical manifestations and diagnosis. https://www.uptodate.com/contents/search. Accessed July 14, 2025.
- AskMayoExpert. Genitourinary syndrome of menopause (adult). Mayo Clinic; 2024.
- Expert view: Experiencing vaginal dryness? Here's what you need to know. American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. https://www.acog.org/womens-health/experts-and-stories/the-latest/experiencing-vaginal-dryness-heres-what-you-need-to-know. Accessed July 14, 2025.
- Douching. Office on Women's Health. https://womenshealth.gov/a-z-topics/douching. Accessed July 14, 2025.
Original article: https://www.mayoclinic.org/symptoms/vaginal-dryness/basics/causes/sym-20151520