Vaginal Dryness in Women: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment by Dr. Sandeep Bhasin

I Am Dr. Sandeep Bhasin – Let Us Talk About a Silent Yet Important Women's Health Issue

Hello, I am Dr. Sandeep Bhasin from Care Well Medical Centre. I have met many women over the years who possess silent discomfort — one they themselves seldom talk about. Today, I wish to respectfully bring about a conversation concerning vaginal dryness in women.

It is not just a physical issue. For most, it silently impacts confidence, intimacy, and emotional intimacy — not only with the partner but also with self.

We have just produced an awareness video in which medical counselor Reena Handa eloquently discusses this subject. She discusses why dryness occurs, how it feels for a woman, and what can be done to address it — safely and gently.

From my end, I would like to say this in plain terms — it is alright to speak about it. The more we speak openly about our bodies, the quicker we heal. And that healing starts with knowledge.

What Is Vaginal Dryness? (Explained by Medical Counselor Reena Handa)

Vaginal dryness decreases the natural dampness in the walls of the vagina overtime. This dampness is crucial — it makes the tissue soft, pliable, and infection-free. When this balance gets disrupted, the lining gets thinner, weaker, and susceptible to irritation.

In our awareness video, doctor counselor Reena Handa describes this perfectly. She says, when the moisture levels go down, women find themselves with a feeling of dryness, rawness, or burning — particularly during intimacy. Some are uncomfortable sitting or even walking.

What troubles me most is that many women dismiss these signs. They assume it is just part of aging, or something they have to silently accept. But the truth is — it is not normal, and it is absolutely treatable.

And let us be straightforward: vaginal dryness isn't just for women in menopause. I've seen younger women deal with it, too — particularly after giving birth, during breastfeeding, or because of stress, medications, or even some so-called hygiene products.

This condition is not exclusive to women in menopause. Even young women, particularly after giving birth or during lactation, can experience it. Some get it because of stress, drugs, or strong hygiene products.

General Causes of Vaginal Dryness in Women

Vaginal dryness is never caused by one reason. In most women I see, it develops over a period of time — often when the internal balance of the body is upset. Sometimes hormones are responsible. Other times, lifestyle, emotional state, or medications are to blame. And quite often it is a combination of the three.

My experience has shown me that the most common cause is a loss of estrogen. The hormone responsible for keeping the vaginal tissue healthy, wet, thick, and elastic. If the level of estrogen decreases for any reasons such as during menopause, after delivery or breastfeeding -- the tissue dries, thins, and is more sensitive.