Vaginal Dryness After Birth: Causes, Symptoms, and Solutions

Your body goes through a lot after giving birth—sleepless nights, physical recovery, and emotional adjustments. But one thing you might not have expected? Vaginal dryness. It’s more common than you think, and for many women, it’s an unwelcome surprise during postpartum recovery.

Whether you delivered vaginally or via C-section, hormonal shifts in the postpartum period can leave you feeling dry, sore, and uncomfortable. In fact, up to 60% of women experience postpartum vaginal dryness within the first few weeks, with symptoms persisting for months in some cases. If intimacy feels painful, or everyday activities like wearing tight clothing leave you feeling irritated, you’re not alone.

The good news? It won’t last forever. And even better—there are simple, effective ways to restore moisture and comfort while your body heals.

%end section%

01

Understanding Vaginal Dryness After Birth

Postpartum vaginal dryness is primarily driven by hormonal changes, specifically a sharp decline in estrogen and progesterone levels after birth. Whether you’ve had a vaginal or cesarean delivery, these hormonal shifts can result in decreased vaginal lubrication, leaving the vaginal tissue thinner and more sensitive(1).

If you’re breastfeeding, estrogen levels remain low, which can prolong symptoms of vaginal dryness until you stop nursing(2).

Estrogen plays a key role in maintaining vaginal health, keeping the tissue thick, elastic, and well-lubricated. When levels drop, the vaginal walls may feel dry, tight, and irritated, similar to what women experience during menopause—except postpartum dryness is temporary(3).

%end section%

02

Common Symptoms of Postpartum Vaginal Dryness

• Pain during sex: Reduced lubrication can make intimacy uncomfortable.
• Increased sensitivity: Tight clothing may cause irritation.
• Higher risk of urinary tract infections (UTIs): Dryness impacts vaginal pH and urinary health.
• Itching or burning sensations: Vaginal tissue may feel sore and fragile.

Fatigue, stress, and emotional adjustments can further exacerbate symptoms by reducing sexual arousal and natural lubrication. Additionally, the hormonal changes can affect the uterine lining, impacting the return of menstruation and overall postpartum recovery.

Why Postpartum Vaginal Dryness Occurs

During pregnancy, estrogen and progesterone levels rise to support the developing baby and prepare the body for childbirth. However, after delivery, these hormones drop dramatically, leading to a decrease in vaginal lubrication.

Breastfeeding also affects hormone levels, as prolactin, the hormone responsible for milk production, suppresses estrogen, further contributing to postpartum dryness.

For some women, vaginal dryness may persist for several months after giving birth, gradually improving as hormone levels return to pre-pregnancy levels.

%end section%

03

Treating Postpartum Vaginal Dryness

Vaginal dryness will improve naturally over time, but several effective, non-hormonal strategies can provide relief and support recovery.

1. Try a Vaginal Moisturiser or Lubricant for Postpartum Vaginal Dryness

Consider applying a vaginal moisturiser several times a week and using a lubricant right before having sex. Vaginal moisturisers contain ingredients, like hyaluronic acid, which work to rehydrate vaginal tissues and help them retain moisture.

Using a moisturiser regularly can help stave off vaginal dryness, much like applying a moisturizer to other parts of your body or face to maintain elasticity and hydration.

Vaginal lubricants can reduce friction and discomfort during sex. Be sure to look for lubricants specifically formulated for vaginal use. Avoid petroleum-based lubricants, which can increase the risk of infections such as bacterial vaginosis, and degrade latex condoms.

What to look for:

• Choose water- or silicone-based lubricants over oil-based ones, which can irritate the skin.
• Avoid lubricants with parabens, which may disrupt vaginal pH balance.

2. Strengthen Your Pelvic Floor

Engaging in pelvic floor exercises, such as Kegels, can help improve blood flow to the vaginal area, enhance tissue strength, and support natural lubrication(4).

Simple Kegel routine:

1. Contract your pelvic muscles (as if stopping urine flow).
2. Hold for 5 seconds, then release.
3. Repeat 10–15 times, a few times a day.

A pelvic physiotherapist can provide guidance if needed.

3. Stay Hydrated and Eat a Balanced Diet

Hydration plays a crucial role in tissue health. Drinking plenty of water helps maintain overall hydration, while foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin E, and phytoestrogens (such as flaxseeds and soy) can support hormonal balance and vaginal tissue health(5).

4. Avoid Common Irritants

Certain personal care products can worsen postpartum vaginal dryness. Avoid:

• Perfumed soaps and personal hygiene sprays, which can strip natural oils.
• Tight, synthetic underwear, which may cause friction and irritation.
• Douching, which disrupts the vaginal microbiome and exacerbates dryness(6).

Instead, opt for gentle, pH-balanced intimate cleansers and breathable cotton underwear.

%end section%

04

Why Addressing Vaginal Dryness Matters

Vaginal dryness after birth isn’t just uncomfortable—it can impact your confidence, relationships, and health during the postpartum period. Ignoring it can lead to painful sex, emotional distress, and an increased risk of urinary tract infections and postpartum urinary incontinence. Addressing vaginal dryness early can help you stay comfortable, protect your health, and feel more like yourself again.

%end section%

05

When to Talk to Your Healthcare Provider

If you’re experiencing vaginal dryness that persists for an extended period or if it affects your daily life, it’s important to seek medical advice. You should contact your healthcare provider if:

• You experience persistent pain, bleeding, or unusual discharge.
• Symptoms worsen over time instead of improving.
• You’re considering options such as topical estrogen to alleviate dryness.

Your provider can recommend personalised solutions, including pelvic floor therapy or hormone-free treatment options, to support your postpartum recovery.

%end section%

06

Key Takeaways

• Postpartum vaginal dryness is common, particularly for breastfeeding mothers, due to hormonal fluctuations.
• Symptoms such as pain during sex, irritation, and UTIs can persist for weeks or months but are manageable with proper care.
• Non-hormonal solutions, such as vaginal moisturisers, lubricants, hydration, and pelvic floor exercises, can relieve discomfort.
• Avoiding irritants, such as perfumed soaps and synthetic underwear, can prevent worsening of symptoms.
• Consulting a healthcare provider is essential if symptoms persist or interfere with daily life.