Vaginal dryness is common during perimenopause and menopause because declining estrogen levels can make vaginal tissues thinner, drier, less elastic and more easily irritated. This group of changes is often part of genitourinary syndrome of menopause, or GSM.
Non-hormonal options such as vaginal moisturizers and lubricants can help relieve dryness and reduce friction-related discomfort. Persistent dryness, pain during sex, bleeding, urinary symptoms or symptoms that do not improve should be discussed with a gynecologist or other qualified healthcare professional.
For women exploring intimate wellness products alongside evidence-based care, options available at The Skin Spot include Joylux Photonic Gel, Joylux Revitalize-HER Hydrating Serum and the Joylux vFit Gold Intimate Wellness Device. These products have different purposes and should not be considered substitutes for medical evaluation or treatment when symptoms are persistent or severe.
Why Does Menopause Cause Vaginal Dryness?
Estrogen helps support the thickness, elasticity, blood flow and moisture of vaginal tissue.
As estrogen levels decline during perimenopause and menopause, vaginal tissue may become thinner, drier, less elastic and more fragile. These changes can contribute to vaginal dryness as well as burning, irritation and discomfort during sexual activity.
Unlike hot flashes and some other menopause symptoms that may improve over time, genitourinary symptoms can persist without appropriate management.
What Is Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause?
Genitourinary syndrome of menopause, commonly shortened to GSM, describes a group of vaginal, vulvar, urinary and sexual symptoms associated with the decline in estrogen that occurs around menopause.
Vaginal dryness is one of its most common symptoms, but GSM can involve more than dryness alone.
Symptoms may include:
- Vaginal dryness
- Burning or irritation
- Itching
- Discomfort during intercourse
- Reduced lubrication
- Urinary discomfort or changes
- Changes in vaginal tissue
Because several infections and other gynecologic conditions can produce similar symptoms, persistent discomfort should not automatically be assumed to be menopause-related.
What Does Vaginal Dryness Feel Like?
Vaginal dryness does not feel exactly the same for everyone.
Some women notice little natural lubrication during intimacy. Others experience irritation during everyday activities, exercise or while wearing certain clothing.
Possible symptoms include:
- Feeling dry or tight
- Burning
- Itching
- Tenderness
- Irritation
- Discomfort with penetration
- Pain during intercourse
- Reduced natural lubrication
Painful intercourse associated with vaginal dryness is also called dyspareunia. Menopause-related tissue changes can contribute to both dryness and sexual discomfort.
Why Can't I Get Wet Anymore?
A reduced ability to become naturally lubricated can occur during menopause because lower estrogen levels affect vaginal tissue and moisture.
But menopause is not the only possible reason.
Changes in lubrication may also be influenced by:
- Sexual arousal
- Medications
- Stress or anxiety
- Breastfeeding
- Cancer treatments
- Hormonal medications
- Pelvic health conditions
- Relationship or sexual factors
Mayo Clinic also notes that breastfeeding, cancer therapy and medications that influence estrogen can contribute to vaginal tissue changes and dryness.
If dryness develops suddenly or occurs with unusual discharge, odor, bleeding, sores or significant pain, medical evaluation is appropriate.
Do Women Still Get Wet After Menopause?
Yes. Menopause does not mean natural lubrication necessarily disappears.
However, hormonal changes can reduce the amount of moisture produced and change how quickly vaginal tissue responds to arousal.
Some women experience very little change, while others develop noticeable dryness that affects comfort or intimacy.
There is therefore no specific age at which a woman simply "stops getting wet."
Can Dehydration Cause Vaginal Dryness?
Staying adequately hydrated is important for general health, but persistent menopause-related vaginal dryness is primarily associated with hormonal and tissue changes rather than simply not drinking enough water.
Drinking more water alone should therefore not be expected to correct GSM.
If vaginal dryness continues despite adequate hydration, consider approaches specifically designed for vulvovaginal dryness and discuss persistent symptoms with a healthcare professional.
What Helps Vaginal Dryness During Menopause?
Treatment depends on the severity of symptoms, whether discomfort occurs throughout the day or mainly during intercourse, medical history and individual preferences.
Options can include:
- Vaginal moisturizers
- Lubricants
- Vulvar moisturizers
- Hyaluronic acid-containing products
- Prescription vaginal estrogen
- Vaginal DHEA
- Oral ospemifene
- Other clinician-recommended treatments
A 2024 systematic review found that vaginal moisturizers may improve vulvovaginal dryness. Evidence also supports several prescription hormonal and non-estrogen therapies for selected GSM symptoms.
1. Use a Vaginal Moisturizer Regularly
Vaginal moisturizers are designed to provide ongoing moisture rather than being used only during sex.
ACOG recommends over-the-counter moisturizers as one option for menopause-related vaginal dryness, and research suggests vaginal moisturizers may improve dryness for some women.
Moisturizers and lubricants serve different purposes, so it helps to know which type you need.
2. Use Lubricant During Sexual Activity
Lubricants reduce friction during sexual activity and can make penetration more comfortable when natural lubrication is reduced.
ACOG recommends lubricants as a non-hormonal option for dryness and painful intercourse associated with menopause.
They are generally applied immediately before sexual activity rather than used as a long-term moisturizer.
Vaginal Moisturizer vs. Lubricant
The simplest distinction is:
Moisturizer: Used regularly to help maintain moisture.
Lubricant: Used around sexual activity to reduce friction.
Some women benefit from using both.
3. Consider Hyaluronic Acid-Based Hydration
Hyaluronic acid attracts and holds water, which is why it appears in some vaginal and vulvar moisturizing products.
Research has evaluated hyaluronic acid-containing products as non-hormonal options for vulvovaginal symptoms, although formulations and evidence vary.
One Joylux option sold by The Skin Spot is Joylux Photonic Gel, a pH-balanced water-based gel containing sodium hyaluronate and aloe. It is formulated specifically for use with the Joylux vFit device and is intended to improve comfort during device use.
This is an important distinction: Photonic Gel should not be described as a medical treatment for GSM. Its primary role is as a moisturizing, water-based gel designed to accompany vFit use.
4. Support Dry External Vulvar Skin
Sometimes what feels like "vaginal dryness" also involves dryness or sensitivity of the external vulvar skin.
External moisturizers are different from internal vaginal moisturizers, so always check where a product is intended to be applied.
Joylux Revitalize-HER Hydrating Serum is formulated for the vulvar area and contains moisturizing oils, antioxidants and vitamins designed to support external intimate skin hydration and comfort.
It should be used according to the product directions and should not be confused with a prescription treatment for GSM.
5. Avoid Products That Increase Irritation
When vaginal or vulvar tissue is already dry and sensitive, fragranced or irritating products may make symptoms worse.
Be cautious with:
- Fragranced washes
- Harsh soaps
- Douches
- Products not designed for intimate use
- Products that cause burning or irritation
If a new product increases burning, itching, redness or pain, stop using it and seek medical advice if symptoms persist.
6. Consider Pelvic Floor Health
Not every symptom that occurs during menopause comes directly from dryness.
Pelvic floor dysfunction may contribute to pain during penetration, pelvic discomfort or other sexual and urinary concerns.
For persistent pain or difficulty with penetration, a gynecologist or pelvic floor physical therapist can help identify whether muscle tension, weakness or another condition is contributing.
What About Red Light Therapy and Intimate Wellness Devices?
At-home intimate wellness devices are increasingly marketed to women experiencing changes around menopause, but they should be discussed separately from established medical treatments for GSM.
The Joylux vFit Gold Intimate Wellness Device uses a combination of low-level red light, gentle heat and sonic vibration. Joylux positions vFit as a non-hormonal intimate wellness solution intended to support moisture, sensation and intimate wellness.
Joylux states that vFit and vFit PLUS were designated by the FDA as Low-Risk General Wellness Devices. They are not intended to treat or prevent a medical condition.
That distinction matters.
A large 2024 systematic review of GSM interventions concluded that current evidence does not demonstrate the efficacy of energy-based therapies for treating GSM symptoms. Most of the energy-based studies reviewed involved laser technologies rather than the specific home-use Joylux device, so those findings should not simply be applied as proof for or against vFit.
For women interested in vFit, it is better viewed as an intimate wellness device, not a replacement for established medical treatment for vaginal atrophy, GSM or other gynecologic conditions.
How Does Joylux vFit Fit Into a Menopause Wellness Routine?
Someone who has already discussed persistent symptoms with a healthcare provider may choose to incorporate intimate wellness products into a broader self-care routine.
Joylux recommends using a clear water-based gel with vFit to improve insertion comfort, and the company developed Photonic Gel specifically for use with vFit and vFit PLUS.
A routine might include:
- Regular vaginal or vulvar moisturizing as appropriate
- Lubricant during sexual activity when needed
- Gentle external intimate skincare
- Pelvic floor support when indicated
- An optional intimate wellness device if appropriate for the individual
- Medical treatment when symptoms require it
The key is not to assume that every menopause-related symptom can be managed with the same product.
Is Joylux vFit a Non-Hormonal Option?
Yes, Joylux describes vFit as a non-hormonal, non-invasive intimate wellness device.
But "non-hormonal" does not mean it should be considered a proven substitute for vaginal estrogen, prescription non-estrogen therapies or other medical treatments for diagnosed GSM.
If symptoms are persistent, severe or affecting quality of life, discuss all appropriate options with a gynecologist.
Is Joylux Photonic Gel Good for Vaginal Dryness?
Joylux Photonic Gel is a water-based gel containing sodium hyaluronate and aloe and is formulated to add moisture and improve comfort during vFit use.
It is most appropriately positioned as a moisturizing gel used with the Joylux device rather than as a standalone medical treatment for menopause-related vaginal dryness.
When Are Prescription Treatments Needed?
Non-hormonal moisturizers and lubricants may be enough for mild symptoms, but they do not address all of the tissue changes associated with GSM.
ACOG notes that low-dose vaginal estrogen can help restore vaginal tissue thickness and elasticity and relieve dryness and irritation. Other prescription treatments may also be appropriate depending on the individual.
A 2024 evidence review found potential benefits for vaginal estrogen, vaginal DHEA and oral ospemifene for some GSM symptoms.
Treatment should be individualized based on symptoms, medical history and preferences.
When Should You See a Doctor for Vaginal Dryness?
Make an appointment with your gynecologist or other healthcare professional if:
- Dryness is persistent or worsening
- Sex remains painful despite lubricant
- You have vaginal bleeding
- You develop unusual discharge or odor
- You have sores or significant irritation
- Urination becomes painful
- You experience recurrent urinary symptoms
- Symptoms interfere with everyday life or intimacy
- You are unsure whether the symptoms are actually menopause-related
ACOG recommends medical evaluation when dryness and pain do not improve with over-the-counter approaches or when other symptoms are present.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What Causes Vaginal Dryness During Menopause?
A: The main cause is declining estrogen. Lower estrogen can make vaginal tissue thinner, less elastic, more fragile and less naturally lubricated.
Q: Is Vaginal Dryness Normal During Menopause?
A: It is common, but you do not have to simply tolerate it. Vaginal dryness can be part of genitourinary syndrome of menopause, and several management options are available.
Q: Why Can't I Get Wet After Menopause?
A: Declining estrogen can reduce natural vaginal moisture and alter tissue response, although arousal, medications, health conditions and other factors can also affect lubrication.
Q: Do Women Still Get Wet After Menopause?
A: Yes. Menopause does not completely eliminate natural lubrication, but the amount and tissue response may change significantly from one person to another.
Q: How Can I Treat Vaginal Dryness Naturally?
A: If by "naturally" you mean without hormones, vaginal moisturizers and lubricants are established non-hormonal options. Hydration, gentle intimate care and avoiding irritating products may also support comfort, but persistent GSM may require medical treatment.
Q: What Is the Best Lubricant for Menopause?
A: There is no universally best product. Look for a lubricant that is comfortable, compatible with your needs and does not cause irritation. ACOG notes that water-based lubricants are an option and recommends lubricants alongside moisturizers for sexually active women experiencing dryness.
Q: Are Vaginal Moisturizers and Lubricants the Same?
A: No. Moisturizers are used regularly to maintain moisture, while lubricants are generally used around sexual activity to reduce friction.
Q: Does Red Light Therapy Work for Vaginal Dryness?
A: Evidence is not currently strong enough to consider energy-based therapy an established treatment for GSM. A 2024 systematic review did not demonstrate efficacy for energy-based therapies for GSM symptoms.
Joylux vFit uses red light as part of an intimate wellness device, but Joylux specifically states that vFit is not intended to treat or prevent a medical condition.
Q: Can I Use Joylux vFit Every Day?
A: Follow the manufacturer's current instructions rather than increasing frequency on your own. Joylux provides specific device-use guidance and recommends consulting a physician when there are pelvic health concerns.
Q: Can I Use vFit During Pregnancy?
A: No. Joylux states that vFit and vFit PLUS should not be used during pregnancy or if you believe you may be pregnant.
Choosing a Non-Hormonal Option
For mild menopause-related dryness, a simple place to begin is often a vaginal moisturizer for regular hydration and lubricant when friction is the main concern.
For external vulvar dryness, a dedicated intimate moisturizer such as Joylux Revitalize-HER Hydrating Serum may provide additional skincare support.
For women already using a Joylux vFit device, Joylux Photonic Gel is specifically formulated as the accompanying water-based gel.
And for those interested in a non-hormonal at-home intimate wellness device, the Joylux vFit Gold is available through The Skin Spot. It should be considered an intimate wellness product rather than a medical treatment for GSM.
Explore the full Joylux Collection at The Skin Spot.
Key Takeaways
Vaginal dryness during menopause is common and is often related to the decline in estrogen that affects vaginal tissue.
Remember:
- Menopause-related vaginal dryness may be part of GSM.
- Reduced natural lubrication can occur before, during or after menopause.
- Vaginal moisturizers can provide ongoing moisture.
- Lubricants reduce friction during sexual activity.
- Persistent pain, bleeding, urinary symptoms or worsening dryness should be evaluated medically.
- Not every intimate wellness product is a treatment for GSM.
- Joylux vFit is a non-hormonal general wellness device, not a substitute for medical care.
- Joylux Photonic Gel is designed to add moisture and comfort during vFit use.
- Revitalize-HER is intended for external vulvar hydration.
- The right option depends on the cause and severity of your symptoms.
About Dr. Sheila Nazarian
Dr. Sheila Nazarian, MD, MMM, is a board-certified plastic surgeon and founder of Nazarian Plastic Surgery, Spa26, The Skin Spot and the Nazarian Institute for Advanced Aesthetics in Beverly Hills.
Her work includes aesthetic surgery, non-surgical treatments and physician-curated approaches to skincare, wellness and healthy aging.
References
American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. The Menopause Years.
American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. Experiencing Vaginal Dryness? Here's What You Need to Know.
American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. Vulvovaginal Health.
Danan ER, Diem S, Sowerby C, et al. Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause: A Systematic Review. Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality. 2024.
Danan ER, et al. Hormonal Treatments and Vaginal Moisturizers for Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause: A Systematic Review. Annals of Internal Medicine. 2024.
Mayo Clinic. Vaginal Dryness After Menopause: How to Treat It?
Mayo Clinic. Vaginal Atrophy: Symptoms and Causes.