Menopause, Vaginal Dryness & Urinary Health

Vaginal dryness, irritation, discomfort during sex and urinary symptoms are recognised menopause-related changes, yet many women delay asking for help. These are legitimate health concerns and treatment options are available.

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Why can menopause affect vaginal and urinary health?

Falling oestrogen levels can affect vaginal and urinary tissues. Symptoms may include dryness, burning, irritation, discomfort during sex, needing to urinate more often and recurrent UTI-type symptoms.

What can help vaginal dryness?

Water-based lubricants can help during sex, while vaginal moisturisers can provide longer-lasting moisture. Avoid perfumed washes and douches that may irritate sensitive tissue. A pharmacist can advise privately about suitable non-prescription options.

What is vaginal oestrogen?

Vaginal oestrogen is a local form of HRT used to treat menopause-related vaginal dryness and irritation. It acts mainly in the vaginal area and is different from systemic HRT used for symptoms such as hot flushes. Suitability should still be discussed with a healthcare professional.

Could urinary symptoms be a UTI?

Possibly, but urinary symptoms can have several causes. Pain or burning when passing urine, frequency and urgency may occur with a UTI, while menopause-related changes can produce overlapping symptoms. Recurrent or persistent symptoms need appropriate assessment.

When should you see a GP?

Seek assessment for persistent symptoms, unusual discharge, bleeding after sex or any bleeding after menopause. Postmenopausal bleeding should always be checked.

Explore our Women's Health services and UTI service, or book a consultation.

GPhC registered pharmacy: 9012378.

General information only. Symptoms can have causes unrelated to menopause.