Understand the concern
Dryness may occur with breastfeeding, menopause, some medicines or irritation. Vaginismus involves automatic muscle tightening; it is not a deliberate refusal or failure.
What assessment may involve
A clinician can discuss symptoms before offering an examination. Explain what feels uncomfortable and agree how to pause. Testing depends on the possible cause.
Care options to discuss
Vaginal moisturisers or water-based lubricants may help dryness. Other causes may need targeted treatment, pelvic-health therapy or psychosexual support. Hormonal options need individual assessment.
These are discussion points, not a prescription. Suitability and availability vary.
A question you may have
Is this only a problem after menopause?
No. Pain and dryness can happen at different ages and life stages.
Prepare for your appointment
What to record
Note whether pain is at the entrance or deeper, when it began, and any dryness, discharge or bleeding.
Questions worth asking
What causes should be considered for my type of pain?
Could pelvic-health or psychosexual therapy help?