Why Vaginal Dryness Happens In Perimenopause And What You Can Do

Key Takeaways:

• Understanding The Causes: Vaginal dryness during perimenopause is primarily driven by fluctuating hormone levels, particularly a decline in estrogen.

• Recognizing Symptoms: Persistent itching, painful intercourse, and increased urinary frequency are key indicators of vaginal dryness.

• Holistic Solutions: Pelvic floor therapy can provide comprehensive strategies to alleviate vaginal dryness during perimenopause.

Perimenopause is a pivotal life stage that introduces a series of changes in a woman's body, triggering symptoms that can be difficult at times. One of the most intimate and distressing physiological changes is vaginal dryness. Often resulting from fluctuating hormone levels, vaginal dryness can significantly impact comfort, daily life, and intimate relationships. At The Lifted Lotus, we understand that this stage can be overwhelming, and believe that knowledge and empowerment are your strongest allies.

In this article, we’ll explore why vaginal dryness occurs during perimenopause, break down its causes, and guide you through holistic approaches to mitigate its effects. As a Brooklyn-based pelvic floor therapy practice, The Lifted Lotus specializes in supporting women through these transformative stages, offering a safe space to reconnect with your body and elevate your well-being. Whether you’re just beginning to notice changes or have been navigating perimenopause for some time, this journey of self-discovery and healing is unique to each person. Let us walk with you, providing the insights and tools needed to manage this transition with confidence and grace.

Recognizing The Symptoms Of Vaginal Dryness

Vaginal dryness, particularly during perimenopause, is commonly linked to fluctuating hormone levels. As estrogen levels decrease, the tissues in the vaginal area may become thinner and less lubricated. However, hormones aren't the only factor at play. Stress, medications, and even lifestyle choices can all contribute to this uncomfortable feeling. However, it’s important to remember while vaginal dryness is a common condition, its manifestations can vary significantly from person to person. Recognizing the following symptoms early can help you seek supportive therapies and lifestyle adjustments that promote comfort.

Common Symptoms To Watch For:

1. Persistent Itching Or Irritation: Feeling itchy or irritated around the vaginal area is a frequently reported sign of dryness. This discomfort can be ongoing or occur sporadically, often exacerbated by certain activities or environmental factors.

2. Painful Intercourse: Dryness can cause friction and discomfort during intimacy, making something you once enjoyed with your partner painful or even distressing. Understandably, this can negatively impact your sense of connection to your body.

3. Burning Sensation: A burning feeling in the vaginal area may be mistaken for an infection but is often related to lowered estrogen levels during perimenopause. Understanding the distinction can guide more effective treatment options.

4. Increased Urinary Frequency: While this might not seem directly related, the tissue changes associated with vaginal dryness can affect bladder health, leading to more frequent or urgent urination.

5. Daily Discomfort: Activities such as walking, exercising, or even sitting might trigger discomfort if dryness is present, highlighting the widespread impact on daily life.

At The Lifted Lotus, we focus on providing a safe, affirming space where you can approach these changes with compassion and an open mind. Our holistic pelvic floor therapy acknowledges the intricate connections within your body, offering targeted support that honors your unique experience and promotes healing. Embracing the changes that happen during perimenopause can turn a challenging time into an opportunity for growth and self-care.

When To Consult A Pelvic Health Specialist

Due to the unpredictable nature and duration of perimenopause, you should never feel like you have to go through it alone. If vaginal dryness is affecting your quality of life, you deserve to seek out the help you need. At The Lifted Lotus, we understand the complexities of this transition and are here to offer compassionate, expert guidance tailored to your unique needs. You might want to consider consulting one of our licensed Pelvic Health Occupational Therapists if:

• Vaginal Dryness Is Persistent: If you're experiencing ongoing dryness that isn't alleviated by over-the-counter remedies or lifestyle changes, professional guidance can help uncover the root cause and appropriate solutions.

• Discomfort Or Pain Occurs: If dryness leads to discomfort or pain during sexual activity or in everyday life, a customized approach may be necessary to help you get back to living a life you love.

• Changes In Bladder And Bowel Control: Any noticeable shifts in bladder or bowel control deserve attention, as they can often be interconnected with other pelvic health issues during perimenopause.

• Desire For Holistic Solutions: If you're seeking a comprehensive approach that addresses your physical, emotional, and sexual well-being holistically, a pelvic health specialist can provide the support and tailored strategies you need.

Our holistic, client-centered services at The Lifted Lotus emphasize gentle, hands-on techniques and functional exercises to help you reconnect with your body and manage these transitions with confidence. With a focus on restoring balance and enhancing your daily life, our team is committed to empowering you at every step. By addressing your concerns with understanding and expertise, we aim to elevate your well-being and help you thrive during this pivotal stage.

Occupational Therapy Techniques For Vaginal Health

At The Lifted Lotus, our goal is to empower you with knowledge and practical techniques that support your well-being. Our personalized pelvic floor therapy is designed to nurture your body throughout perimenopause and beyond.

Functional Breathing

Breath work plays a crucial role in maintaining pelvic floor function, improving circulation, and alleviating discomfort associated with vaginal dryness. Deep, intentional breathing techniques can enhance blood flow to the pelvic region, supporting tissue health and relaxation. Our therapists guide you through breath-centered exercises that promote balance, connection, and peace within your body.

Hands-On Techniques

Our specialized team utilizes gentle manual therapy techniques to improve overall pelvic function. These methods are tailored to your individual needs, focusing on exercises that feel good to your body. Although you may feel slight soreness as your body adjusts to a wider range of movement, everything we teach you during pelvic floor therapy is meant to be manageable and practical for your daily life. By working with your body’s natural rhythms, we help restore function and confidence in a supportive, judgment-free environment.

Pilates For Pelvic Health

Movement is a powerful tool for maintaining strength, flexibility, and comfort during perimenopause. Our private Pilates sessions focus on breath work, core engagement, and pelvic floor support, offering modifications that meet you where you are. These low-impact exercises encourage stability and alignment, helping to ease symptoms like pelvic pain, incontinence, and discomfort during intimacy.

Support For Pregnancy And Postpartum Care

Pelvic health doesn’t just matter during perimenopause; it’s essential for all major stages of a woman’s life. At The Lifted Lotus, we provide targeted pregnancy pelvic floor therapy as well as a Postpartum Healing Bundle to restore strength, function, and confidence at every stage.

What To Expect During Pelvic Floor Therapy

Pelvic floor therapy at The Lifted Lotus is a personalized and collaborative approach to restoring function, reducing pain, and improving overall pelvic health. Whether you're experiencing discomfort due to perimenopause, postpartum recovery, or chronic pelvic pain, our skilled therapists provide individualized treatment plans to meet your needs.

The Initial Evaluation

Your first session is a one-on-one, 75-90 minute evaluation, where we take the time to understand your concerns, symptoms, and goals. This comprehensive session includes:

• Medical And Personal History Review: A discussion about your symptoms, past treatments, and personal health goals.

• Functional Movement Screening: We assess breath, posture, movement patterns, strength, flexibility, and balance to identify areas of dysfunction.

• Pelvic Floor Assessment (If Needed): With your written and verbal consent, we may conduct an internal pelvic evaluation to determine muscle tension, weakness, or incoordination that could be contributing to your symptoms. This is completely optional and can be stopped at any time.

• Customized Treatment Plan: Based on the findings, we outline and communicate a plan of care with targeted exercises, hands-on therapy, and education to support your pelvic health. As treatment goes on, we can modify or adjust any exercises as needed to match your unique pain points and physical capabilities.

Conditions We Treat

Pelvic floor dysfunction can present in many different ways, affecting bladder, bowel, sexual, and musculoskeletal health. Our therapists address a wide range of conditions, including:

• Pelvic Pain And Sexual Health: Pain with intercourse or penetration (dyspareunia, vaginismus, vulvodynia), decreased sensation, persistent genital arousal disorder (PGAD), and difficulty achieving orgasm.

• Bladder And Bowel Dysfunction: Incontinence, urgency, frequency, interstitial cystitis, constipation, and IBS-related pelvic pain.

• Pregnancy And Postpartum Recovery: Diastasis recti, pelvic organ prolapse (POP), C-section scar recovery, and perineal scar tissue pain.

• Musculoskeletal Pain And Core Dysfunction: Hip pain, lower back pain, sciatic pain, pubic symphysis pain, sacroiliac joint dysfunction, and pain from endometriosis.

If you don’t see your condition listed here, please don’t hesitate to reach out! We’d love to figure out how we can help you.

Your Personalized Treatment Plan

Each therapy session is tailored to your specific needs, focusing on gentle, hands-on techniques, functional exercises, and breathwork to enhance pelvic function. Depending on your symptoms and goals, therapy may include:

• Manual Therapy: Techniques to reduce tension, improve circulation, and restore muscle function.

• Breathwork And Core Integration: Techniques to teach diaphragmatic breathing, optimize pelvic floor coordination, and relieve stress-related tension.

• Pelvic Floor And Functional Exercises: Movements that safely strengthen, relax, and rehabilitate your pelvic muscles.

• Education And Lifestyle Adjustments: Guidance on postural alignment, movement patterns, and strategies to prevent recurring symptoms.

At The Lifted Lotus, we believe in ongoing pelvic health care beyond just symptom relief. Whether you're preparing for birth, healing postpartum, or managing changes in perimenopause, we provide specialized support to keep you feeling strong and connected to your body. If you're struggling with pelvic discomfort or have questions about whether pelvic floor therapy is right for you, contact us today. We’re here to help you move through life with confidence and ease.

Final Thoughts

At The Lifted Lotus, we believe that understanding and caring for your body is a powerful step in navigating perimenopause with confidence. While challenges like vaginal dryness and pelvic discomfort may arise, this phase also presents an opportunity for renewed awareness and strength. Our holistic pelvic floor therapy provides personalized care, hands-on techniques, and functional exercises to support your body’s natural transitions. Whether you're experiencing pelvic pain, changes in bladder control, or seeking general guidance on maintaining pelvic health, our compassionate team is here to help. Embrace this stage with the support you deserve. The Lifted Lotus is here to guide you every step of the way.

Read More:

• Managing The Challenges Of Endometriosis With Pelvic Therapy

• Breaking Down The Causes Of Pelvic Floor Dysfunction With Williamsburg-Based Care

• Strengthening Your Pelvic Floor In Williamsburg: How Long Does It Really Take?

Frequently Asked Questions About Vaginal Dryness Perimenopause

Is vaginal dryness during perimenopause permanent?

Vaginal dryness during perimenopause is not necessarily permanent. Many women experience relief by exploring various treatment options, such as lifestyle changes, local estrogen therapy, or pelvic floor therapy. It’s important to consult a Pelvic Health Occupational Therapist to determine the best approach based on your unique needs and health profile.

How can hormone replacement therapy affect vaginal dryness?

Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) can be an effective option for alleviating vaginal dryness by replenishing estrogen levels in the body. This can help maintain vaginal moisture and elasticity. Combining HRT with pelvic floor therapy could be an effective, multifaceted approach to healing. However, it's crucial to discuss the potential benefits and risks of HRT with your healthcare provider to ensure it aligns with your overall goals. 

What lifestyle changes can help alleviate vaginal dryness?

Certain lifestyle changes may significantly ease symptoms of vaginal dryness. These can include staying hydrated, using vaginal moisturizers or lubricants, quitting smoking, reducing consumption of alcohol and caffeine, and incorporating a balanced diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids. At The Lifted Lotus, we emphasize the importance of pelvic floor therapy on top of healthy lifestyle habits, which can significantly enhance vaginal health during perimenopause.

Can vaginal dryness affect intimate relationships during perimenopause?

Yes, vaginal dryness can have an impact on intimate relationships during perimenopause. It may lead to discomfort or pain during intercourse, which can affect physical intimacy. Open communication with your partner and seeking guidance from a healthcare professional can facilitate understanding and help in finding solutions that work for both partners.

Are there any risks associated with treating vaginal dryness?

Risks can vary depending on the treatment method chosen. Some women may experience side effects from hormonal therapies or allergic reactions to certain lubricants. With pelvic floor therapy, there are typically little to no risks, as the treatment is personalized to your needs and goes at your pace. It's important to thoroughly discuss any potential risks with your healthcare provider to ensure informed decisions are made about your treatment options.

Could dehydration be contributing to vaginal dryness?

Dehydration can indeed play a role in vaginal dryness. Adequate hydration is essential for maintaining overall bodily functions, including mucous membrane health. By ensuring you stay hydrated, you may help alleviate some symptoms of vaginal dryness. Engaging in practices like regular water intake and monitoring your body's hydration levels can be beneficial.