What causes vaginal dryness?

The cause of vaginal dryness is often linked to the reduction in oestrogen which naturally occurs around or after the menopause or following breast cancer treatment. As the level of estrogen begins to reduce it can cause a range of symptoms, including hot flushes, night sweats, sleep disturbances, mood swings and vaginal dryness.

Many of these symptoms go away after time, however, lower estrogen levels can affect the level of moisture in the vagina long after the menopause unless managed or treated. Women can experience thinning of the skin which leaves the area in and around the vagina more delicate, and the lack of moisture means the skin can rub together and cause friction, soreness and in some cases splitting.