Vaginal Dryness
Around Menopause

As oestrogen falls, the lining of the vagina and the opening of the bladder becomes thinner, drier and less elastic. Symptoms include dryness, itching, burning, pain during intercourse, more frequent urine infections and needing to pass urine more often. It can also happen while breastfeeding or with some cancer treatments.

Regular vaginal moisturisers and water- or silicone-based lubricants help many women. Avoid perfumed washes and douches. Low-dose vaginal oestrogen, prescribed after assessment, is effective for many women and is generally considered safe; your doctor will advise whether it suits you.

Bleeding after menopause, a new lump or sore, persistent pain, or repeated urine infections need a gynaecologist's assessment. Dr. Sin Yong is an aesthetic physician with the Professional Diploma in Obstetrics & Gynaecology (RCPI); anything that needs a gynaecologist is referred.

Radiofrequency treatments such as G Lift warm the vaginal wall and may improve blood flow and moisture for some women. Evidence is still developing, so it is offered as one option after medical causes have been checked, not as a replacement for medical treatment.