Vaginal dryness is one of the most common symptoms of hormonal change, yet it’s also one of the least talked about. Many women feel surprised or even embarrassed when they first notice it, but it’s a completely normal response to shifting oestrogen levels during the perimenopause to menopause transition.

Oestrogen helps keep the vaginal tissues naturally lubricated, elastic, and well‑supplied with blood. As levels fluctuate and eventually decline, these tissues can become thinner, less stretchy, and less able to produce natural moisture. This can lead to dryness, irritation, itching, or discomfort during sex even if desire hasn’t changed. Some women also notice increased urinary urgency or a higher frequency of UTIs, because the same hormonal changes affect the surrounding tissues.

Vaginal dryness can show up gradually or quite suddenly. For some, it feels like a mild change in lubrication; for others, it can cause friction, soreness, or a feeling of rawness. These experiences are incredibly common and reflect the body adapting to a new hormonal environment, not a loss of femininity, attractiveness, or sexual identity.

There are several approaches that can make a meaningful difference. Regular use of vaginal moisturisers can help restore comfort day‑to‑day, while lubricants can make sexual activity more comfortable and enjoyable. Supporting pelvic floor health, staying sexually active (solo or partnered), and understanding the role of local oestrogen treatments can also help maintain tissue health. The goal is comfort, confidence, and feeling at ease in your body, not pushing through pain or pretending nothing has changed.