You feel like your vagina isn't lubricating itself like it used to. Intercourse has become painful, if not downright impossible. You feel burning and itching. And you wonder if this is normal, if it will pass, if you're the only one. No, you are not alone. Vaginal dryness affects 1 in 6 women before the age of 50, and up to 50% of postmenopausal women. It's common, it can be treated, and most importantly, it's not your fault.
The problem is that we don't talk about it enough. As a result, you feel guilty, you think it's psychological, that you're no longer "woman enough." Wrong. Vaginal dryness has very real biological causes (hormones, medications, poor intimate hygiene), and there are concrete solutions, from lubricating gel to hormone therapy, including dietary supplements and even vaginal lasers. This article takes a look at everything that really works, without taboos and without selling you miracles.
⚡ What to remember (even before reading)
Where Does This Drought Come From?
Your vagina isn't dry "just like that." There's always a biological reason behind it. Understanding the cause is half the battle to finding the right solution.
Hormones, Always Hormones
In 70% of cases, vaginal dryness is linked to a hormonal imbalance. Estrogen maintains the thickness, elasticity, and hydration of the vaginal mucosa. When its levels drop, everything deteriorates.
Hormonal risk situations
- Menopause (natural or premature): the number 1 cause. From perimenopause, estrogen begins to decline. After menopause, 50% of women experience vaginal dryness
- Pregnancy and breast feeding : During pregnancy, hormones fluctuate. After childbirth and during breastfeeding, estrogen levels remain low for several months.
- Postpartum : the weeks after giving birth, even without breastfeeding, are a risky period
- Contraceptive pill : some pills (especially mini-pills or low-dose pills) can dry out the vaginal mucosa
- Removal of the ovaries or anticancer hormone treatment : causes sudden menopause and often severe dryness
Medicines That Dry Out
Some medications have an unpleasant side effect on vaginal lubrication. If you're taking one of these medications and suddenly experience dryness, it's no coincidence.
Overly Aggressive Intimate Hygiene
Your vagina cleans itself. It doesn't need scented soap, douching, or disinfectant wipes. On the contrary, these products destroy the vaginal flora and dry out the mucous membrane.
What's attacking your vagina : Marseille soap, classic shower gels, perfumed products, vaginal douches, intimate wipes (except special ones), intimate deodorants. Result: pH imbalance, destroyed flora, dry and irritated mucous membrane.
Stress, Fatigue, and Psychological Factors
Chronic stress, anxiety, intense fatigue, and relationship tension all directly impact your lubrication. Not because it's "all in your head," but because stress actually alters your hormones and blood circulation.
- Cortisol (stress hormone) inhibits estrogen production
- Anxiety blocks sexual arousal and therefore natural lubrication during intercourse
- Couple conflicts create negative anticipation that prevents the body from responding
- Extreme fatigue reduces desire and physiological response
Other Rarer Causes
In some cases, vaginal dryness is linked to a specific pathology that must be treated in parallel.
- Gougerot-Sjögren syndrome : autoimmune disease that dries out all the mucous membranes (eyes, mouth, vagina)
- Recurring vaginal infections (mycoses, vaginosis): weaken the mucous membrane and create a vicious circle
- Recurrent cystitis : linked to drought which encourages the rise of bacteria
- Poorly controlled diabetes : impacts blood circulation and the health of the mucous membranes
Symptoms That Don't Deceive
Vaginal dryness isn't just a lack of lubrication during sex. It can impact your daily life in sometimes insidious ways.
1. Pain during intercourse (Dyspareunia)
This is the most common and disabling symptom. Penetration becomes painful, sometimes impossible. You feel burning, pulling, and even tearing.
What is happening : Without lubrication, friction damages the mucous membrane. The more pain you have, the more apprehensive you are, the less lubricated you are. It's a vicious circle.
2. Daily Irritations, Burning, Itching
You experience constant discomfort, especially when walking, sitting for long periods, or wearing certain clothes. The vulvar area feels tight, tingling, and burning.
Please note : If these symptoms appear suddenly with abnormal discharge or a strong odor, consult a doctor. It may not be dryness but an infection.
3. Recurrent Infections
Recurrent vaginal yeast infections, frequent cystitis. A dry and damaged mucous membrane is more vulnerable to infections. This is another vicious cycle: dryness promotes infections, which worsen dryness.
4. Decreased Libido
When sex is consistently painful, your brain anticipates the pain and shuts down desire. This isn't psychological; it's a completely normal protective mechanism.
5. Impact on the Couple
You avoid intimacy, you feel guilty, your partner doesn't always understand. Communication becomes difficult. Vaginal dryness impacts your relationship well beyond the bedroom.
Immediate Solutions (For Quick Relief)
No prescription needed to start feeling better. Here's what works immediately to restore comfort.
Lubricants: For Intercourse
Lubricant doesn't treat dryness, but it does make intercourse possible and comfortable. It's a temporary but essential solution.
💡 Our recommendation
Choose a water-based lubricant that's free of parabens and glycerin. Avoid scented or warming lubricants that can irritate. Apply generously before and during sex. Don't be embarrassed to use a lot; that's what it's for.
Vaginal Moisturizers: For Everyday Comfort
Unlike (one-off) lubricants, vaginal moisturizers are used regularly, even without intercourse. They deeply rehydrate the mucous membrane.
How to use them
- Application: 2 to 3 times a week, in the evening before going to sleep
- Format : gel with applicator to insert into the vagina, or ovule to melt
- Duration: use them as a continuous treatment, not occasionally
- results: gradual improvement in 2-4 weeks
Hyaluronic Acid Gels: The Effective Non-Hormonal Solution
Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring molecule in the body that retains water and aids in healing. In vaginal gel form, it intensely hydrates and repairs damaged mucous membranes.
Scientifically proven effectiveness
Several studies comparing hyaluronic acid to topical estrogen show nearly identical results. In a 2013 study, 84% of women using hyaluronic acid saw improvements in vaginal dryness, compared to 89% using estrogen. The difference is not significant.
The advantage : no hormones, so no contraindications even in cases of hormone-dependent cancer. It is THE solution for women who cannot take estrogen.
Background Treatments (To Solve the Problem)
Lubricants and moisturizers provide relief, but they don't address the root cause. For lasting improvement, the hormonal imbalance or deeper repair of the mucous membrane is needed.
Local Estrogens: The Reference Treatment
When dryness is related to a lack of estrogen (menopause, postpartum, certain pills), topical estrogen is the first-line treatment.
Contraindications : Local estrogens are contraindicated in cases of hormone-dependent cancer (breast, endometrium) or a history of phlebitis. In these cases, turn to hyaluronic acid or laser.
Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT): For Menopause
If you are menopausal and also have other symptoms (hot flashes, sleep disturbances, joint pain), your doctor may suggest general hormone treatment (patch, gel, tablet).
- Benefit : treats all menopause symptoms at once, not just dryness
- Disadvantage : more contraindications than local treatment, requires regular medical monitoring
- To know : HRT is no longer systematically offered, but remains an option for women who are very bothered by menopause
Vaginal Laser: The High-Tech Revolution
The vaginal laser (Erbium YAG or fractional CO2) is a recent technique which consists of slightly heating the vaginal mucosa to stimulate the production of collagen and boost natural hydration.
How it works
- A laser probe is inserted into the vagina for 5 to 20 minutes
- The laser creates thermal micro-lesions that stimulate tissue regeneration
- Protocol: 3 sessions spaced 4 to 6 weeks apart
- Visible results from the 2nd session, optimal after 3 months
- Duration of effect: 12 to 18 months, then maintenance sessions possible
Effectiveness and limitations
Studies show significant improvement in vaginal dryness and pain during intercourse in 70-80% of women. Ultimately, results vary greatly from one woman to another.
Drawbacks : high cost (€150-400 per session, not reimbursed), limited effectiveness for certain women (particularly after breast cancer under hormone therapy).
Good to know Some studies show that lasers are no more effective than placebos. Others show good results. The scientific data is still conflicting. Talk to your gynecologist.
Vaginal Radiofrequency: The Alternative to Lasers
Radiofrequency works on the same principle as laser (stimulating collagen through heat), but with a different technology. Less aggressive, it is sometimes better tolerated.
- Protocol: 3 to 6 sessions spaced 2 to 4 weeks apart
- Painless, no social exclusion
- Effectiveness comparable to laser according to initial studies
- Cost similar to laser, not reimbursed
Natural Remedies That (Really) Work
Before you spend a fortune on questionable supplements, focus on what's scientifically proven.
Dietary Supplements: What Works
Evening Primrose Oil and Borage Oil
Rich in omega-6 fatty acids (GLA), these oils improve mucosal hydration from the inside out. Several studies show a modest but real improvement in vaginal dryness after 8-12 weeks of supplementation.
Recommended dosage : 1000-1500 mg per day, as a minimum 3-month course.
Omega-3 (Oily Fish)
Omega-3s (EPA/DHA) reduce chronic inflammation and improve blood circulation, which helps maintain natural lubrication.
Food sources : salmon, mackerel, sardines, herring. Extra Toppings : 1000-2000 mg per day.
Vitamin E
A powerful antioxidant, vitamin E helps maintain the elasticity of mucous membranes. It can be taken orally (400 IU/day) or applied topically in the form of an ovule.
Vaginal Probiotics
Probiotics (Lactobacillus) help restore vaginal flora and maintain a protective acidic pH. They do not directly treat dryness, but prevent infections that worsen it.
Format : vaginal ovules or oral capsules, as a 10-30 day course.
Homeopathy for Vaginal Dryness
Homeopathy can provide relief, particularly for symptoms related to perimenopause or stress. The most commonly used strains are Sepia officinalis, Lycopodium, or Natrum muriaticum. Speak to a homeopathic professional for personalized treatment.
Let's be honest Homeopathy has not been scientifically proven to help with vaginal dryness. If it provides relief, great. But don't rely solely on it if the problem is severe.
Natural Local Applications
What can help (with precautions)
- Pure aloe vera gel : moisturizing and soothing for external application (vulva). Caution: do not insert it into the vagina
- Virgin coconut oil : nourishing, but damages condoms and can unbalance the flora in some women
- Sweet almond oil : moisturizing when applied externally, same remark as coconut oil
Beware of dubious grandmother's recipes : Never put yogurt, honey, pure essential oils, or vinegar in your vagina. You risk making the problem worse or causing an infection.
Specific Situations: Menopause, Pregnancy, Pill
Vaginal dryness doesn't always have the same causes or solutions depending on your situation. Here's what works in each case.
Vaginal Dryness During Menopause
This is the number one cause. After menopause, estrogen levels drop sharply. The vaginal mucosa thins, loses its elasticity, and the glands that produce lubrication slow down.
Priority processing
- Local estrogens (cream or ovules): the reference treatment
- Hyaluronic acid : if contraindication to hormones
- Vaginal laser : if other treatments are not sufficient and the budget allows it
- Lubricants + moisturizers : essential as a complement
Vaginal Dryness During Pregnancy
Counterintuitively, some pregnant women experience vaginal dryness, especially during the first trimester. Hormones fluctuate wildly, and progesterone can have a drying effect.
💡 Solutions adapted to pregnancy
- Fragrance-free water-based lubricants (pregnancy-friendly)
- Hormone-free vaginal moisturizers (hyaluronic acid)
- Hydration (drink enough)
- Avoid estrogens, which are contraindicated during pregnancy.
Moral: it usually passes in the 2nd or 3rd trimester when hormones stabilize.
Vaginal Dryness While on the Pill
Some birth control pills, especially mini-pills or progestin-only pills, can dry out the vaginal mucosa. This is a common and underreported side effect.
Things to do
- Talk to your gynecologist or midwife about possibly changing your pill.
- In the meantime, use vaginal lubricants and moisturizers
- Consider another method of contraception (copper IUD, condoms, implant) if the problem persists
Prevention: How to Protect Your Mucous Membrane Every Day
A few simple steps to avoid worsening dryness or making it appear.
The golden rules of intimate hygiene
- Wash only the vulva (external), never the inside of the vagina
- Use an intimate cleansing gel with a physiological pH (between 4,5 and 5,5) or just water
- 1 to 2 intimate toilets per day maximum (no more)
- Avoid perfumed soaps, classic shower gels, wipes (except special intimate wipes)
- Dry the area well after washing (pat, do not rub)
- Ban vaginal douches (even those sold in pharmacies)
Clothing and underwear
- Choose cotton underwear (which allows the skin to breathe)
- Avoid everyday thongs and synthetic underwear
- Wear loose clothing, no tight jeans every day
- Change your underwear every day
Hydration and nutrition
- Drink enough water (1,5 to 2L per day)
- Eat foods rich in omega-3 and omega-6 (oily fish, olive oil, nuts)
- Limit alcohol and tobacco (dry out the mucous membranes)
- Avoid overly restrictive diets that unbalance hormones
Sex life
- Take time for foreplay (natural lubrication takes longer with age)
- Always use lubricant if necessary (don't wait until it hurts)
- Regular sexual activity (about 2 times a week) helps maintain lubrication
- Communicate with your partner about your needs and boundaries
Vaginal Dryness and the Couple
When intercourse becomes painful, your relationship takes a hit. You avoid intimacy, you feel guilty, and your partner doesn't always understand. It's not in your head; it's physiological.
Communicate, Without Taboos
Explain clearly to your partner what's happening. "I have pain during sex due to a lack of lubrication; it's not related to you or my desire." Most partners understand and are willing to adapt.
Suggest solutions together: more foreplay, use of lubricant, exploration of other forms of pleasure (caresses, massages, sexuality without penetration).
If communication is difficult, don't hesitate to consult a sex therapist or couples therapist. You don't have to suffer in silence.
Vaginal Dryness Is Treatable (And It Doesn't Make You a "Bad Woman")
Vaginal dryness affects millions of women. It is caused by hormonal factors (menopause, pregnancy, the pill), medications (antidepressants, chemotherapy), poor intimate hygiene, or stress. It's not psychological, it's not your fault, and it's not irreversible.
Solutions exist: lubricants for intercourse, vaginal moisturizers for everyday use, hyaluronic acid (as effective as hormones), local estrogens for menopause, vaginal lasers for severe cases. Dietary supplements (omega-3, evening primrose oil) can help as a complement, but they are not miraculous.
Adapt your intimate hygiene (gentle products with physiological pH, no douching), wear cotton underwear, hydrate yourself sufficiently, and don't hesitate to communicate with your partner.
If the problem persists despite simple solutions, consult your gynecologist, midwife, or doctor. There is always a solution tailored to your situation. You deserve a comfortable, pain-free intimate life.
Sources & Scientific References
This article draws on recent scientific studies and systematic reviews to provide you with reliable information.
Hyaluronic acid and non-hormonal treatments
- Chen J, Geng L, Song X, et al. (2013). Evaluation of the efficacy and safety of hyaluronic acid vaginal gel to ease vaginal dryness: a multicenter, randomized, controlled, open-label, parallel-group, clinical trial. J Sex Med. DOI: 10.1111/jsm.12125
- dos Santos CCM, Uggioni MLR, Colonetti T, et al. (2021). Hyaluronic Acid in Postmenopause Vaginal Atrophy: A Systematic Review. J Sex Med. DOI: 10.1016/j.jsxm.2020.10.016
- Cagnacci A, Marchetti C, Xholli A, et al. (2024). Comparison of the Efficacy of Vaginal Hyaluronic Acid to Estrogen for the Treatment of Vaginal Atrophy in Postmenopausal Women: A Systematic Review. Medicine. DOI: 10.3390/medicina60091452
Vaginal laser
- Salvatore S, Nappi RE, Zerbinati N, et al. (2015). A 12-week treatment with fractional CO2 laser for vulvovaginal atrophy: a pilot study. Climacteric. DOI: 10.3109 / 13697137.2014.975197
- Gambacciani M, Levancini M, Russo E, et al. (2015). Short-term effect of vaginal erbium laser on the genitourinary syndrome of menopause. maturitas. DOI: 10.1016/j.maturitas.2015.02.269
- Pitsouni E, Grigoriadis T, Falagas ME, et al. (2022). Vaginal laser therapy versus hyaluronic acid suppositories for women with symptoms of urogenital atrophy after treatment for breast cancer: A randomized controlled trial. maturitas. DOI: 10.1016/j.maturitas.2022.09.002
Dietary supplements and natural approaches
- Carbonel AAF, Baracat MC, Junior JAS, et al. (2020). Omega-3 fatty acids and melatonin in the prevention of hypoestrogenism-induced symptoms in menopause: a systematic review. Reprod Biol Endocrinol. DOI: 10.1186/s12958-020-00598-w
- Chenoy R, Hussain S, Tayob Y, et al. (1994). Effect of oral gamolenic acid from evening primrose oil on menopausal flushing. BMJ. DOI: 10.1136/bmj.308.6927.501
Local estrogens and hormone treatments
- Suckling J, Lethaby A, Kennedy R. (2006). Local estrogen for vaginal atrophy in postmenopausal women. Cochrane Database System Rev. DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD001500.pub2
Footnotes : DOI links provide direct access to the original scientific publications. This article will be updated regularly as medical knowledge evolves.
Medical warning : This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. For diagnosis and treatment tailored to your situation, consult a gynecologist, midwife, or general practitioner.
