The lining of your vagina becomes drier and thinner during menopause. It makes less mucus (the fluid that keeps your vagina moist and healthy). This can cause dryness and itching. Because it is drier, your vagina is more at risk of becoming infected or inflamed, and the vaginal tissue is more likely to tear.¹

If your vagina is dry, you may find that sex is painful. The outside part of your sexual organs, called the vulva, may also become drier and thinner. These changes are caused by a drop in the levels of estrogen that your ovaries make.

This information is for educational use only, and is not a substitute for prompt professional medical advice. Readers should always consult a physician or other professional for advice and treatment. ©BMJ Publishing Group Limited 2008. All rights reserved.