Vaginal dryness is one of the most common symptoms of menopause, and yet it remains something few women talk about openly. Today we want to start with the basics: understanding what it is and why it happens.
The role of natural vaginal moisture
Natural vaginal moisture serves several functions: it keeps the internal tissue flexible, supports the self-cleaning process (carrying away dead cells) and contributes to the acidic environment that protects against infection. This moisture exists constantly, regardless of sexual arousal, although arousal produces additional moisture (lubrication) to make sex more comfortable.
Why does it decrease in menopause?
Until menopause, oestrogen helps keep the vaginal walls healthy and elastic: it supports collagen (which gives elasticity), helps retain hyaluronic acid (which retains moisture) and maintains good blood flow. Lactobacilli, in turn, help keep the vaginal pH low (acidic).
When oestrogen declines, the vaginal tissue becomes thinner and less elastic — medically known as vaginal atrophy — moisture and collagen production drop considerably, and the protective lactobacilli find it harder to maintain the acidic environment that used to keep unwanted microorganisms in check.
A broader name: GSM
This whole set of changes is grouped medically under the term genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM), which covers both the vaginal and the urinary symptoms linked to declining oestrogen.
The result
These changes explain why many women notice more burning, a higher tendency toward infections, or changes in sexual sensitivity during this stage. In upcoming posts we'll cover the specific signs to watch for, simple habits that help, and the products that can support this process.
This content is for informational and educational purposes. If you notice persistent discomfort, the best course of action is to consult your gynaecologist for an assessment tailored to your situation.
- The North American Menopause Society (2020). The 2020 genitourinary syndrome of menopause position statement of The North American Menopause Society. Menopause, 27(9), 976-992.
- Sarmento ACA, Costa APF, Vieira-Baptista P, Giraldo PC, Eleutério J Jr, Gonçalves AK (2021). Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause: Epidemiology, Physiopathology, Clinical Manifestation and Diagnostic. Frontiers in Reproductive Health, 3:779398.