Definition
Hormonal decline can change vulvovaginal and urinary tissues; dryness also has other causes.
Symptoms
Dryness, burning, painful sex and sometimes urinary discomfort or recurrent infection.
How it may be discovered
Menopause, breastfeeding or selected treatments.
When to seek care
Seek review for persistent discomfort. Any postmenopausal bleeding needs assessment.
Investigations and tests
History and appropriate examination, with assessment for infection or other causes.
Reaching a diagnosis
Context and examination guide diagnosis; not every symptom is due to menopause.
Treatment options
Suitable lubricants and moisturisers, sometimes local hormone treatment after individual risk and history discussion.
Explore this topic further
Continue with related explanations of how the body works and treatment options.