Vaginal dryness is when the tissues of the vagina are not hydrated and healthy. This is caused by declining levels of estrogen in the body due to pre-menopause, menopause, childbirth and breastfeeding, radiation or chemotherapy treatment for cancer, a hysterectomy, or anti-estrogen medications. Dryness can also be caused by douching, or imbalanced pH levels brought on by sexual intercourse or the end of a menstrual period. Symptoms of vaginal dryness can include itching, burning, or general vaginal discomfort.