Reduced estrogen levels are the main cause of vaginal dryness. Estrogen, a female hormone, helps keep vaginal tissue healthy by maintaining normal vaginal lubrication, tissue elasticity and acidity. Other causes of vaginal dryness include certain medical conditions or hygiene practices.
Estrogen levels can fall for a number of reasons:
- Breast-feeding
- Childbirth
- Cigarette smoking
- Effects on your ovaries from cancer therapy
- Immune disorders
- Menopause
- Perimenopause (the transition time before menopause)
- Oophorectomy (ovary removal surgery)
- Use of anti-estrogen medication
Other causes of vaginal dryness include:
- Douching
- Sjogren's syndrome
- Use of allergy and cold medications
Causes shown here are commonly associated with this symptom. Work with your doctor or other health care professional for an accurate diagnosis.
- Bachmann G, et al. Clinical manifestations and diagnosis of genitourinary syndrome of menopause (vulvovaginal atrophy). https://www.uptodate.com/contents/search. Accessed Nov. 13, 2018.
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- Baer AN. Treatment of dry mouth and other non-ocular sicca symptoms in Sjogren's syndrome. https://www.uptodate.com/contents/search. Accessed Nov. 13, 2018.
- Frequently asked questions. Women's health FAQ072. Your sexual health . American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. https://www.acog.org/Patients/FAQs/Your-Sexual-Health. Accessed Nov. 13, 2018.
- Rahn DD, et al. Vaginal estrogen for genitourinary syndrome of menopause. Obstetrics and Gynecology. 2014;124:1147.
- Frequently asked questions. Gynecologic problems FAQ028. Vaginitis. American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. https://www.acog.org/Patients/FAQs/Vaginitis. Accessed Nov.13, 2018.