Restoring Comfort, Moisture, and Intimate Wellbeing
Vaginal dryness is an extremely common yet often unspoken condition that affects women at various stages of life. Whether caused by the hormonal shifts of perimenopause and menopause, childbirth, breastfeeding, stress, or specific medical treatments, intimate dryness can lead to persistent soreness, chafing, and painful intercourse (dyspareunia).
You do not have to live with discomfort or suffer in silence. Led by Dr. Harinakshi Salian-Murugkar, who brings over 30 years of specialist gynaecological experience, Cardiff Gynaecology Clinic offers a compassionate, completely confidential, and women-centred environment. We take the time to understand your unique symptoms and provide personalised, evidence-based treatments that restore your comfort, confidence, and quality of life.
Causes and Contributing Factors
Vaginal dryness occurs when the tissues of the vagina become thin, dry, and less elastic, a condition often referred to as Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause (GSM) or vaginal atrophy. Primary causes include:
A natural drop in oestrogen levels reduces blood flow, tissue thickness, and natural lubrication.
Low oestrogen levels during lactation frequently lead to temporary intimate dryness and sensitivity.
Cancer therapies (chemotherapy, pelvic radiation, or anti-oestrogen medications for breast cancer), as well as certain contraceptives, allergy medications, and antidepressants.
The surgical removal of the ovaries causing a sudden drop in hormone production.
Harsh perfumed soaps, bubble baths, or douching products that disrupt the natural pH and flora of the vagina.
Common Symptoms to Look Out For
Vaginal dryness can manifest in various ways, affecting both daily activities and intimate relationships. Key symptoms include:
- Persistent Irritation & Burning: A constant sensation of tightness, soreness, or chafing in the intimate area.
- Painful Intimacy (Dyspareunia): Discomfort, friction, or stinging during or after sexual activity.
- Light Spotting After Intercourse: Caused by delicate, thinned vaginal tissue that bleeds easily under friction.
- Recurrent Urinary Issues: A frequent or urgent need to urinate, stinging when passing urine, or an increased susceptibility to urinary tract infections (UTIs).
- Itching & Vulval Sensitivity: Uncomfortable itching around the vaginal opening and vulva.
Specialist Diagnosis and Treatment Options
At Cardiff Gynaecology Clinic, we evaluate your medical history and perform a gentle examination to identify the underlying cause of your dryness. We then design a tailored treatment strategy around your health history and preferences:
- Localised Vaginal Oestrogen Therapy: Low-dose topical oestrogen (available as pessaries, creams, or rings) applied directly to the vaginal tissue. This safely restores local tissue thickness, blood flow, and moisture with minimal systemic absorption.
- Non-Surgical Energy-Based Rejuvenation (Forma V): For women who prefer or require a non-hormonal approach (such as breast cancer survivors), Forma V uses gentle radiofrequency energy to stimulate natural collagen, elastin, and blood flow, naturally restoring tissue hydration and tightness.
- Platelet-Rich Plasma Therapy (The O-Shot®): An innovative, non-hormonal treatment that uses growth factors from your own blood to regenerate thinned mucosal tissues, improve natural lubrication, and enhance sensitivity.
- Medical-Grade Non-Hormonal Hydration & Guidance: Specialist advice on long-acting hyaluronic acid vaginal moisturisers, organic lubricants, and gentle intimate care routines to protect your delicate skin.
Take Control of Your Intimate Health
Ready to find long-lasting relief and regain intimate comfort? Book a confidential consultation with our specialist gynaecology team in Cardiff today to discuss your treatment options.
