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.

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 sensitive¹.

If you’re breastfeeding, estrogen levels remain low, which can prolong symptoms of vaginal dryness until you stop nursing².

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 temporary³.

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.

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

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 moisturiser to other parts of your body 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 and degrade latex condoms.

What to look for:

• Choose water- or silicone-based lubricants over oil-based ones.
• 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 lubrication⁴.

Simple Kegel routine:

• Contract your pelvic muscles (as if stopping urine flow).
• Hold for 5 seconds, then release.
• 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 health⁵.

4. Avoid Common Irritants

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

• Perfumed soaps and hygiene sprays.
• Tight, synthetic underwear.
• Douching, which disrupts the vaginal microbiome⁶.

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

04

Why Addressing Vaginal Dryness Matters

Vaginal dryness after birth isn’t just uncomfortable—it can impact confidence, relationships, and health during the postpartum period. Ignoring it can lead to painful sex, emotional distress, and increased risk of urinary tract infections and postpartum urinary incontinence. Addressing vaginal dryness early supports comfort, recovery, and well-being.

05

When to Talk to Your Healthcare Provider

Seek medical advice if vaginal dryness persists or affects daily life. Contact your healthcare provider if:

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

Your provider can recommend personalised solutions, including pelvic floor therapy or hormone-free treatment options.

06

Key Takeaways

• Postpartum vaginal dryness is common, especially during breastfeeding.
• Symptoms may last weeks or months but are manageable.
• Non-hormonal options like moisturisers, lubricants, hydration, and pelvic floor exercises are effective.
• Avoiding irritants can prevent symptom worsening.
• Medical advice is important if symptoms persist.