Vaginal dryness is a common condition which increases in prevalence with age. International data varies but at least one in five women may be affected by the condition pre-menopause (aged 42-53 years), while potentially 62-67% of women experience vaginal dryness a year after menopause.^1,2

Vaginal dryness is a key symptom of vulvovaginal atrophy (VVA), a change in the tissues of the vulva and vagina linked to decreasing oestrogen levels. A reduction in mucosal secretions causes dryness, irritation, soreness and pain, whether or not linked to sexual intercourse. Pain associated with sexual experiences (dyspareunia) can occur before, during or after intercourse.^3,4,5,6

VVA, which can also be referred to as urogenital atrophy or genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM), may also trigger urge and frequency urinary incontinence (dysuria).⁵

An Italian study of women a year after the menopause found that two thirds reported dyspareunia (67.5%), itching (40%), burning sensations (48%) and dysuria (15%). Several years after menopause, vaginal dryness was experienced by 85% of women and dysuria had increased to 30%.²

Regardless of what age of onset of vaginal dryness, there can be a significant impact on quality of life, and it can contribute to work absences.⁷