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Hi Anon,

Thank you for sharing your questions with the EmpowHER community!

A drop in a woman's estrogen level, reduces the amount of moisture available and can cause vaginal dryness, but that is typical in women who are menopausal.  

However, menopause is not the only reason women experience dryness.  Below are some additional reasons you could be experiencing vaginal dryness at your age.

Estrogen levels can drop as a result of:

• Allergy and cold medications and certain antidepressants
• Douching
• Lack of enough foreplay before sexual intercourse
• Surgical removal of the ovaries
• Anti-estrogen medications used to treat uterine fibroids or endometriosis
• Childbirth and  breastfeeding
• Radiation or chemotherapy treatment for cancer

Besides vaginal dryness, are you experiencing any other signs/symptoms like itching or burning?  Itching and burning are usually signs of infections as well as odor.

If you have any additional symptoms, make an appointment to see your gynecologist to get yourself checked out.

Yes, vaginal dryness can make masturbation and intercourse very painful, so pick up a lubricant to assist you in the mean time, until you are able to get in to see the doctor. 

I hope this helps!

Be well,

~Gillette