Changes in temperature, lower humidity, and even popping on the central heating and a seasonal change in our day-to-day habits all affect the vulva and vagina more than we realise. For anyone in peri or postmenopause, these seasonal changes can make existing symptoms of menopause feel more intense.
Why winter creates dryness and irritation
Our vulvar and vaginal tissues all need moisture, good blood flow, and a healthy balance of bacteria to stay comfortable. But in the Winter, all three of these can be disturbed.
As the temperature drops, naturally we warm our homes by turning up the central heating. But this causes lower humidity in our homes, and reduces moisture levels across our whole body.
Dermatology research regularly shows that skin hydration drops significantly in winter, and mucous membranes – like those within our vagina –are just as affected. The vaginal lining becomes more prone to dryness and irritation when the surrounding environment (ie, our home) is drier. It makes sense – but we'll bet you've never considered this when cranking up the heating as the first frost settles!
The danger of dehydration
Another factor to consider is dehydration. Most of us drink less (especially water) in cold weather, which means our pee is more concentrated and there's less hydration reaching the bladder and vaginal tissues. This can lead to stinging, increased sensitivity and a greater likelihood of feeling on the edge of a UTI.
Is your clothing irritating your vulva?
Clothing matters too. Winter layers, tights and leggings hold heat and moisture close to the skin. For some people that means more friction, more irritation and a higher chance of thrush. Sitting for long periods, especially in warmer clothing, increases these effects.
And finally, our hormonal changes add another layer. In peri and postmenopause, our oestrogen levels naturally decline, making the vaginal lining thinner and less elastic. This makes the tissues more responsive to winter dryness, so seasonal irritation feels stronger.
What does "winter vagina" actually feel like?
So what does it actually feel like, so we can know whether we're experiencing it or not? Well naturally, a feeling of dryness is common, but it often comes with other signs.
You might notice stinging when you pee, discomfort after wearing tights or leggings, chafing, increased discharge, soreness during or after sex, or a general sense of tightness. Some women may see a change in vaginal discharge that occurs when our vagina is trying to hydrate itself, too – quite similar to the changes we experience with genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM – also commonly referred to as vaginal atrophy)
These symptoms can come and go throughout winter and often ease as humidity rises again in spring.
Is it winter – or is it genitourinary syndrome of menopause?
Although peri and postmenopause can exacerbate and make us more at risk of winter vagina, this seasonal dryness can happen at any age.
However, if your symptoms are becoming more persistent, this can overlap with GSM. This includes dryness, burning, irritation, UTIs and pain caused by low oestrogen. Winter doesn’t cause GSM, but it can make it far more noticeable.
If your symptoms continue despite good hydration and gentle care, it’s worth speaking to your GP for proper support.
Can winter vagina affects your bladder too
Dryness and irritation don’t just stay in one place. When the tissues around the vulva and urethra become drier or more sensitive in winter, the bladder often reacts. More concentrated urine can cause stinging, and the urethra becomes easier to irritate when the surrounding skin is dry or inflamed.
For some of us, this means a sudden rise in urgency, more “I think I’m getting a UTI” moments, or feeling as if the bladder is unsettled for no obvious reason. Supporting hydration and keeping the area well moisturised can help calm both vaginal and urinary symptoms at the same time.
What can help ease winter vagina?
A good place to start is with hydration: Supporting your fluid intake helps both bladder comfort and vaginal tissue health. Ensure that you aren't just reaching for hot drinks as the weather cools, and maintain your water intake.
Avoid over-washing or using fragranced products: Warm water or a simple emollient wash keeps the area clean without stripping moisture. And remember, we don't need to wash our vagina, ever. It strips out natural healthy bacteria and can perfumed products cause a whole host of problems so leave it be to do it's own self-cleaning.
Look at fabrics and layers: Cotton underwear helps reduce friction under winter clothing. If tights or leggings tend to irritate you, try wearing cotton shorts underneath.
Keep baths warm: Rather than very hot, as high temperatures can dry the skin and mucosa further.
If your symptoms persist: vaginal moisturisers or lubricants can offer relief. For anyone in peri or postmenopause, local oestrogen is one of the most effective long-term treatments for dryness and irritation, and can be used alongside lifestyle adjustments and will help to ease symptoms of GSM, too.
(Don't worry – you haven’t imagined it!)
Thought you were seeing a connection but dismissed your own concerns? Don't worry, you weren't imagining it. Winter does change how the vulva and vagina feel, and it’s more common than most of us realise. Fortunately, with a little support and some small changes, things can feel much calmer and ease any discomfort you are experiencing.
And – as ever – if your symptoms are sticking around, there’s help available and you don’t need to put up with ongoing discomfort.
