Definition
Vaginal dryness is defined by Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events (CTCAE) as a disorder characterised by discomfort such as itching or burning in the vagina.r Vaginal dryness can interfere with sexual function and result in dyspareunia, causing considerable distress for the patient.r
Pathophysiology
The physical effect of radiation on the vaginal epithelium is thought to be a likely cause of vaginal dryness. The impact on ovarian function from radiation therapy as well as chemotherapy can also cause vaginal dryness.rrr
Incidence/prevalence
Vaginal dryness can occur at any age with a prevalence ranging from 13% to 31%.r The reported rates increase to 50% for postmenopausal women and 63% for women treated for breast cancer.rThe incidence rates of vaginal dryness for women receiving pelvic radiation therapy have been reported between 8.3-50%.rr
Onset/duration
Vaginal dryness is a late effect of cancer treatment for women to the pelvis. Effects related to sexual dysfunction, including vaginal dryness, are known to be cumulative with time and may have long latency periods. Some studies suggest that onset can be three to five years post radiation therapy.r
Risk factors
Radiation doses of over 7 Gy to the ovaries may cause permanent menopause in women 40 years or over, this can therefore be a contributing factor of vaginal dryness.rr