ByI 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.
But hormone levels are not the only culprit. The majority of women are amazed when I reveal to them how their drugs or morning self-care routines can also be factors.
Below are some of the most common reasons that I’ve noticed throughout the years:
- Hormonal Changes:
- Menopause or perimenopause.
- Postpartum hormone change.
- Breastfeeding-related estrogen decrease.
- Hormonal imbalances such as PCOS or thyroid conditions.
- Medications and Medical Treatments:
- Anti-anxiety and antidepressant pills.
- Allergy medications (antihistamines).
- Chemotherapy or radiation (cancer treatment).
- Birth control pills (in certain women).
- Hygiene and Personal Care Products:
- Fragrant feminine washes or strong soaps.
- Douching or strong antiseptics.
- Tight, synthetic undergarments.
- Emotional and Lifestyle Factors:
- Emotional burnout or chronic stress.
- Poor sleep or fatigue.
- Low sexual activity.
- Painful sex without lubrication.
You might not know it, but your body and mind are in tune with each other so when you are tired or stressed, your hormones change. That in itself can cause vaginal dryness. For women seeking intimate surgical solutions, hymenoplasty in Delhi is one such option offered with full confidentiality.
In my experience, a vast majority of women have more than one factor causing their symptoms. That is why it is so crucial to know your entire history — not simply treat one symptom in isolation. In a large majority of women, more than one factor causes dryness. That is why individualized evaluation is so crucial before treatment is chosen.
Recognizing the Symptoms – What to Look Out For
From my experience, Vaginal dryness does not look or feel the same for every woman. Some women describe a constant feeling dryness throughout the day, while others feel completely normal until they try to be intimate.
That is why it is so important to listen to your own body and not compare your symptoms with others.
As Reena Handa so eloquently describes in the video, dryness is more than a simple “lack of moisture.” It can present itself in several different forms, and all of them are worthy of note.
Below are some of the most prevalent indicators that you should never overlook:
- Burning or stinging sensation: It might be something you notice during the day or when urinating. Some women report it as a “raw” or “scratchy” sensation within.
- Itching or irritation: Chronic itchiness, particularly within the vaginal canal or near the entrance, is usually the first sign.
- Tightness or dryness inside: Most women report feeling a sensation of tightness or being “pulled” on, even at rest.
- Pain or tenderness during sex: This is one of the most frequent signs. It may be felt as friction, stinging, or tenderness that lasts after sex.
- Frequent urinary problems: Dryness can occasionally bother the urethra, causing burning during urination or a rise in urinary tract infections.
Other times it’s reported to get emotional, you may get aggravated, perplexed, or even become disconnected from themselves.
If you have recognized any of these indications, even in a very small way, do not disregard them. Drying out is your body’s way of saying that something is wrong — and the sooner you address it, the easier it will be to return to balance and comfort.
As I like to remind my patients: pain is not normal, and silence is not strength. You need care, and proper assistance can be found.
These physical symptoms tend to cause emotional distress — something no woman wants to discuss. But it does exist, and you don’t have to endure it by yourself.
Reena Handa’s Advice – Effective Treatment Options for Vaginal Dryness
Reena also discusses some practical and medical treatments that provide a lot of relief. Both of us are of the opinion that treatment must be tailored according to the cause and severity. Most of these remedies for vaginal dryness can be initiated at home, whereas others might need individualized clinical attention.
1. Hormonal Therapy
If history or blood tests indicate low estrogen levels, we can suggest localized estrogen therapy. This can be vaginal creams, rings, or tablets. It restores moisture and enhances tissue health over time. Unlike oral hormone pills, localized estrogen acts locally where it is needed, with little systemic absorption.
2. Lubricants and Moisturizers
For some women, plain over-the-counter products can be of assistance. Water-based lubricants are good to use during sex, and vaginal moisturizers on an ongoing basis. These products rehydrate the vaginal lining and minimize friction and irritation.
We always recommend finding unscented, pH-balanced ones — steer clear of petroleum jelly or fragrant brands. Reena commonly teaches patients how to use these products properly.
3. Lifestyle Modifications
A healthy lifestyle has a huge impact on your vaginal health. Drink lots of fluid, especially water, every day. Consume phytoestrogens, such as flaxseed, soybeans and sesame seeds. Limit processed foods and foods with added sugars, as both can create inflammation.
Choose breathable cotton undergarments and avoid harsh hygiene products. Gentle cleansing and better stress management — via yoga, walking, or breathwork — will help balance hormones and mitigate symptoms.
4. Vaginal Laser Rejuvenation (If Necessary)
When creams or lifestyle modifications fail to deliver relief, we can consider laser treatment for the vagina. This painless procedure stimulates your own collagen, restoring natural-looking elasticity and circulation. It is safe, rapid, and done as an outpatient. I recommend this only when absolutely required, and after a detailed discussion of all advantages and disadvantages with the patient.
In cases where dryness is accompanied by vaginal looseness, vaginoplasty in Delhi may be considered as a surgical solution for restoring tone and elasticity.
When to Visit a Doctor? – My Professional Advice
If vaginal dryness is impacting your comfort, relationships, or self-esteem — don’t wait. One consultation could make all the difference. Too many women try to grit their teeth through the symptoms or use quick fixes without knowing the root cause.
My recommendation is straightforward — don’t wait. If lubricants aren’t working anymore, or you experience pain every day, please get a consultation. With the proper management, this condition is extremely controllable, and you can recover comfort and command.
Why Women Should Discuss This Condition Openly
One of the noticeable elements in Reena’s description is the way in which silence aggravates the issue. A lot of women are embarrassed or shy to discuss personal health issues. The shyness creates delay, and delay makes the situation more severe.
It’s time to make a normal discussion about vaginal health. Just as we discuss heart or skin health, we need to freely discuss women’s intimate well-being. When we break the silence, we encourage others to break it too.
As Reena often tells our patients — healing starts as soon as we speak freely without fear or shame. You are not alone. There are many who go through this — and many heal fully with early treatment.
What This Video Addresses – Key Takeaways by Reena Handa
Reena Handa addresses everything a woman needs to know in our awareness video. She describes vaginal dryness from a medical as well as an emotional perspective. She provides useful tips and advises women when and how to access care.
This video is not only informative — it is reassuring, genuine, and respectful. Whether you have symptoms or just want to learn more about your body, it is well worth watching.
Conclusion – A Personal Note from Dr. Sandeep Bhasin
Vaginal dryness in women is not something you must live with. It is not something you must be ashamed of, either. It is a medical condition — and like any other, it is worthy of timely attention and treatment.
At Care Well Medical Centre, we are dedicated to giving women safe, individualized solutions in a caring atmosphere. With the proper care, comfort and confidence can come back — naturally and gently.
If you find yourself experiencing any of the above-mentioned symptoms, I invite you to call. Let us assist you in feeling complete, healthy, and heard. In some chronic cases, ozone therapy in Delhi may support tissue healing, reduce inflammation, and restore mucosal balance.
FAQs Regarding Vaginal Dryness in Women
It is usual, yet not an affliction you must endure or live with. As estrogen levels decline with age, a lot of women develop dryness. But that doesn’t mean you must endure in silence. Nowadays, there are secure and effective treatments that can renew comfort and confidence at any age.
Yes, sure. I have treated women in their 20s and 30s with vaginal dryness, particularly after giving birth, while breastfeeding, or as a result of stress or medication. It is not all about menopause — any hormonal disbalance or medical trigger may lead to it.
The first symptoms are usually subtle — an inside dryness or tightness, a little itching, or pain with sex. Some women experience burning with urination or a lot of infections. If anything feels wrong, it is better to get a check-up. Treating early always results in greater relief.
Lubricants assist, but only temporarily. They minimize friction and discomfort during sex but do not address the underlying cause. If dryness is severe, we generally investigate hormone-based creams, lifestyle modification, or other treatments to facilitate long-term recovery.
Stress affects your hormone levels more than you know. When your body is constantly under stress, estrogen may decline, blood flow to the area may slow, and natural moisture may diminish. That’s why stress control is a key part of vaginal health.
Local estrogen therapy is extremely safe if used properly. Unlike pills taken by mouth, vaginal tablets or creams simply do the job where you need it to be done with extremely little absorption elsewhere in the body. I always tailor the treatment to your comfort, age, and health.
Most of the time, yes. For mild and moderate dryness, we can correct by changing your diet, beverage, stress management, and by using a moisturizer. For severe or menopausal dryness, we might need to add our natural care with medication for optimal results.
If your dryness is impacting on your comfort or sex or your mood, that’s enough. You don’t have to “wait until it’s worse.” An astute, educated discussion can assist us in proceeding with clarity, options and reassurance.
References:
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Factors Associated With Developing Vaginal Dryness Symptoms in Midlife Women: A Longitudinal Analysis from the SWAN Cohort.
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https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6136974 - Parish, S. J., & Faubion, S. S. (2015).
Treating Vulvovaginal Atrophy/Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause: Beyond Estrogen.
The Journal of Sexual Medicine, 12(3), 403–409.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4819835 - Donders, G. G. G., et al. (2018).
Effectiveness of Hyaluronic Acid Vaginal Gel to Treat Symptoms of Vaginal Atrophy in Postmenopausal Women.
Journal of Clinical Medicine, 7(10), 356.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6074805 - Kingsberg, S. A., et al. (2019).
Individualized Approach to Vaginal Dryness and Atrophy in Midlife Women.
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https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6459457 - Rivera, T. (2024).
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https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0378512224000732 - Elsevier Topics (2024).
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