Why does vaginal dryness happen after menopause?

Falling estrogen levels around and after menopause change the tissue of the vagina and urinary tract, which can become thinner, drier and less elastic. Discomfort, pain during sex, itching and more frequent urinary symptoms are all commonly described.

It differs from many menopause symptoms in one important way: hot flushes often ease over time, whereas this tends to persist or gradually worsen without treatment. That is worth knowing, because a lot of people wait it out expecting it to pass.

Treatments exist, including local and systemic options, and which is appropriate depends on your history. It is a common reason for a consultation and not a niche complaint, though it goes unraised far more often than it needs to.