Vaginal Dryness

Vaginal dryness can affect women of any age, however, it’s more common in women who are older or are going through the menopause. In fact, around 50% of women aged between 51 and 60 will be affected by this concern, compared to around 17% of women between the age of 18 – 50 (those who experience vaginal dryness during sex, and who are less likely to be going through the menopause). Women who experience vaginal dryness often find they are affected by other symptoms such as: discomfort during sex, soreness or itching in or around the vagina, needing to urinate more frequently and / or recurring Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs). 

The vagina naturally produces its own moisture from glands at the cervix (the neck of the womb). As this moisture moves through the vagina it helps to remove dead cells and keep it clean, and more moisture is required to aid sexual intercourse. It is also slightly acidic, which helps to prevent infection (such as thrush). As a woman’s body changes with age, levels of oestrogen decline (commonly pre-menopause) which also means a decline in the amount of moisture produced in the vagina. This can continue and remain a permanent concern at the point of menopause and beyond as oestrogen levels will remain low. Outside of the menopause and peri-menopause, vaginal dryness can also affect breastfeeding mothers, women who’ve had a hysterectomy, women who’ve had their ovaries removed or women who are receiving chemotherapy.

Your concerns will be thoroughly investigated at Chester Cosmetic Surgery before we recommend treatment. For many women we are able to suggest desirial injections to help improve the concern. Containing a hyaluronic acid gel, this treatment works to restore hydration and elasticity to the vagina, improving the woman’s general level of comfort and their quality of life.