Why am I suffering from vaginal dryness?

Symptoms:

You’re 51 years old, your periods are getting less and less and you’re finding sex painful because your vagina is dry.

You have itching and discomfort when you pass urine, and increased vaginal discharge – but, paradoxically, your vagina is drier than normal.

You’re suffering vaginal dryness ever since you’ve started treatment for breast cancer. You’ve also got a sore mouth.

It could be:

The menopause when your ovaries stop producing oestrogen that, among other things, keeps your vagina healthy and moist.

Vulvovaginitis, a common infection of the vulva and the vagina sometimes caused by sexual contact and sometimes by overuse of vaginal products.

Chemotherapy which is designed to kill cells that divide quickly such as those in your mouth and vagina as well as cancer cells.

Stop it:

See your GP. A vaginal oestrogen cream will relieve the dryness. You could also try a lubricating vaginal gel. If you have other menopausal symptoms enquire about a trial of HRT.

Stop using any feminine products. Go to see your doctor if you suspect an STI and have tests and treatment for the infection.

Speak to your oncologist immediately and ask about moisturising vaginal gels and vaginal oestrogen creams. Be very careful when washing and only use ph-balanced products.