Vaginal dryness in menopause & how to treat it.
You don’t have to just accept vaginal dryness.
There are natural ways to restore comfort and balance because every woman deserves to feel supported, and at ease in her body.
Why it happens and how natural support can help.
Vaginal dryness is one of the most common, yet least talked-about symptoms of perimenopause and menopause. For many women and AFABs, it can feel uncomfortable, frustrating, and even isolating. The good news is that there are natural, naturopathic approaches that can make a real difference.
In this post, I’ll explore what vaginal dryness feels like, why it happens during menopause, and how naturopathic support can help you restore comfort and confidence.
What does vaginal dryness feel like?
Every woman’s experience is unique, but common signs and sensations include:
A feeling of tightness or lack of lubrication during intimacy
Burning, itching, or irritation around the vulva and vagina
Discomfort when sitting, moving, or exercising
Painful sex (dyspareunia) due to reduced lubrication
Recurrent urinary tract infections or bladder irritation
These symptoms often creep up gradually, but they can have a huge impact on intimacy, confidence.
Why does vaginal dryness happen in menopause?
The main driver is a decline in oestrogen levels. Oestrogen helps keep the vaginal tissue thick, elastic, and well-lubricated. When levels drop during perimenopause and menopause, the vaginal walls can become thinner and produce less natural lubrication.
Other contributing factors include:
Stress and nervous system dysregulation (which can affect blood flow and hormone balance)
Certain medications (like antihistamines, antidepressants, or blood pressure meds)
Dietary insufficiencies in essential fatty acids or nutrients that support hormone balance
Underlying vaginal microbiome imbalances, which can worsen irritation and discomfort
Naturopathic support for vaginal dryness
From a naturopathic perspective, the goal is to address the root causes of dryness while supporting local tissue health and overall hormone balance. This may involve nutrition, herbs, lifestyle adjustments, and specific oils that help replenish moisture from within.
1. Essential Fatty Acids for Lubrication
Healthy fats are crucial for hormone production and maintaining tissue health. Flaxseed oil is one of my favourite supports—it’s rich in omega-3s and lignans, which can help balance oestrogen levels and improve skin and mucous membrane hydration.
Try adding 1–2 tablespoons of freshly ground flaxseeds to smoothies, porridge, or yoghurt daily.
A high-quality flaxseed oil supplement may also be considered, depending on your individual needs.
Another option is Evening Primrose Oil (EPO), which is high in gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), known for supporting skin and mucosal membrane health. Some women find EPO particularly beneficial for easing dryness and improving skin elasticity.
2. Nervous System & Stress Support
Chronic stress can worsen menopausal symptoms, including dryness. Herbal nervines such as chamomile, skullcap, or passionflower may be prescribed to calm the nervous system and support hormonal regulation.
3. Local & Lifestyle Care
Choose natural, fragrance-free lubricants during intimacy - Gentil or Tussle are clean and gentle lube options
Wear breathable organic cotton or bamboo underwear to reduce irritation.
Prioritise hydration and a wholefood diet rich in healthy fats, fibre, and phytoestrogens (found in foods like flax, soy, and legumes).
When to seek help
If vaginal dryness is affecting your daily life, intimacy, or confidence, you don’t need to suffer in silence. There are natural and effective options available, and every woman deserves to feel comfortable in her own body.
Naturopathic support for women in bayside & online
As a clinical naturopath based in Hampton and supporting women across Bayside Melbourne and online, I take an integrative approach to menopause care.
We address vaginal dryness and other menopausal changes with both local and systemic strategies to support hormonal balance, tissue health, and overall wellbeing. This includes carefully dosed liquid herbs, vaginal pessaries, and nutritional medicines, alongside lifestyle and functional support, to provide lasting results.
By combining these natural therapies with personalised guidance, we get to the root of your symptoms and restore comfort, vitality, and confidence naturally.
Book a Consultation to get a personalised support.
