Overcoming Vaginal Dryness
Why it happens, how it affects your life, and what you can do about it
Vaginal dryness is more than just uncomfortable — it can affect intimacy, self-confidence, and daily comfort. Yet many people go years without talking about it, thinking it’s just something they have to live with.
Whether it’s due to menopause, breast cancer treatment, testosterone therapy, or other hormonal shifts, here’s what we want you to know:
Vaginal dryness is common. It’s valid. And it’s treatable.
What Is Vaginal Dryness?
Vaginal dryness happens when the tissue inside the vagina becomes less lubricated and more fragile, often due to a drop in estrogen for any reason. You might notice:
Itching, burning, or irritation
Discomfort during sex or exams
A feeling of tightness, friction, or even tearing
If that sounds familiar, you’re far from alone — this is incredibly common. But just because it’s common doesn’t mean you have to ignore it. There are ways to feel better.
Why Does It Happen — and What Can Be Done?
There are several common causes of vaginal dryness, and often more than one factor is involved. Here’s what might be going on — and what can help.
Menopause and Perimenopause
As estrogen levels naturally decline, the vaginal tissue becomes thinner, drier, and less elastic. These changes can start in perimenopause and continue after menopause, gradually affecting comfort and sexual wellbeing.
What can help:
Regular use of vaginal moisturizers
Lubricants for sexual activity
Low-dose vaginal estrogen to restore moisture and elasticity
Breast Cancer Treatments
Hormone-blocking therapies like Tamoxifen and aromatase inhibitors lower estrogen levels to prevent cancer recurrence — but this can also cause vaginal dryness, discomfort, or UTIs.
Many people aren’t warned about these effects. Others are told there’s nothing they can do. We’re here to say:
There are safe, effective options — and you deserve to know about them.
What can help:
Non-hormonal vaginal moisturizers and lubricants
Low-dose vaginal estrogen (safe for breast cancer patients with provider guidance)
Care from specialists trained in cancer-related sexual health
Testosterone Therapy in Transmasculine Care
Testosterone reduces estrogen levels, leading to dryness and tissue changes similar to what people in menopause may experience. Many people on gender affirming testosterone treatment are never told to expect these symptoms, and are left to navigate them alone.
You don’t have to.
What can help:
Non-hormonal moisturizers and lubricants
Low-dose vaginal estrogen, which doesn’t raise systemic estrogen or interfere with gender-affirming care
Support from affirming, knowledgeable providers who take your symptoms seriously
You Deserve to Feel Comfortable in Your Body
Vaginal dryness can feel isolating or even invisible. But it’s one of the most common — and most treatable — symptoms that arise from hormonal shifts.
At Corla Health, we provide expert, compassionate care that’s designed around your body, your history, and your goals. Whether you’re navigating menopause, recovering from cancer, or adjusting to testosterone therapy — you deserve support that actually helps.
Let’s talk about what’s going on. Let’s figure out what’s possible.
Because comfort, intimacy, and confidence aren’t luxuries.
They’re part of your health.