Vaginal dryness, whether mild or severe, can have a negative impact on a woman’s life, causing pain and discomfort during intimacy, itching and irritation even among those who are not sexually active.
“During the menopause, less oestrogen may cause the tissues of the vulva and the lining of the vagina to become drier, thinner, and less elastic - a condition known as ‘vulvovaginal atrophy,’ and this results in decreased lubrication. Many women are worried about the long-term impact vaginal dryness could have, but it is possible for women to maintain the quality of life that they had before the menopause. There are various safe, effective treatments available that can provide relief and longer lasting solutions are also now available, including MonaLisa Touch. I’ve seen excellent results for patients, helping women treat vaginal dryness symptoms, and eliminating troublesome itching, irritation, and in some cases, pain.”
As many as 80% of women entering menopause are effected by vaginal dryness. Itching, burning, soreness, dryness, irritation, or pain during sexual intercourse are all common. As the vagina is less lubricated the skin can become more delicate, and the lack of moisture means the skin can rub together and cause friction, soreness and in some cases splitting of the skin.
of women find sex difficult and uncomfortable due to vaginal dryness
women claim that vaginal moisturisers and lubricants don’t provide enough relief from their symptoms
women with vaginal dryness find sex and intimacy less enjoyable
feel it negatively affects their body confidence
The cause of vaginal dryness is often linked to the reduction in oestrogen which naturally occurs during the menopause. As the level of oestrogen 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 oestrogen levels can affect the level of moisture in the vagina long after the menopause unless managed or treated. Women can experience thinning of 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.
The Press Play campaign spoke to lots of women in the UK to understand their experiences of vaginal dryness.
It’s getting in the way of enjoying life as fully as I used to
I'm wary of starting a new relationship because I can't allow it to become a physical one
I no longer feel like a sexual person, like my vagina is not part of my body
I am constantly itchy and sore
I feel less attractive
I miss the intimacy with my partner
• Do you experience vaginal pain, irritation, burning or dryness?
• Is sexual intercourse painful or uncomfortable?
• Has the appearance of your vagina changed?
Find out about a pain-free and hormone-free way to treating
vaginal dryness with MonaLisa Touch®