Most of these changes are related to the loss of the female hormone, estrogen. The normal periods stop. The skin of the birth canal, or vagina becomes thin and easily torn.
Vaginal lubrication is decreased.
These factors combine to make the vagina more susceptible to damage from injury, during sex or by infection as with yeast. Vaginal injury can lead to irritation, discharge, or even bleeding. This condition is called post-menopausal vaginitis. All women in the menopause can have this problem. Luckily, although vaginitis is common, it is easily treated, even when severe.