If you are suffering from a parched mouth, cracked lips, or sore throat, it could be due to menopause. These might not seem like obvious menopause symptoms but they are quite common. Read on to find out why dry mouth during menopause happens, what helps and when to seek help.

Dry mouth definition

Dry mouth, known as xerostomia, is thought to be triggered by the decrease in oestrogen levels that happens during menopause. It can feel like a constant sore and dry feeling in your mouth and throat.

It’s also associated with a decrease in saliva production, and may be associated with burning mouth syndrome for some people, as well as dental complications like sensitive teeth, bad breath, and bleeding gums.

How likely is dry mouth during menopause

• We don’t know for certain as data is limited, although one older study found that 43% of those who are perimenopausal and menopausal reported oral discomfort
• Research shows that dry mouth occurs as a result of the declining oestrogen levels that occur during menopause. Reduced levels of oestrogen lead to a decrease in blood flow to salivary glands, less saliva production and therefore dry mouth
• Research draws a clear link between smoking and reduced rates of saliva production, increasing your risk of experiencing dry mouth
• Lifestyle choices can have an impact, for example, as drinking alcohol and caffeine can increase your chances of dry mouth
• Other disorders, like anxiety, can cause dry mouth. Read more about the link between menopause and anxiety here 
• According to Healthline, more than 90% of dry mouth cases are caused by medication, such as antihistamines, antihypertensives, hormone medications, and bronchodilators. It is important not to stop any medications without talking to your doctor first
• Other medical treatments, including radiotherapy can also be a cause

Read more about the stages of menopause.

What are the signs of a dry mouth

1. A painful or dry sensation in the mouth
2. Sore throat or cracked lips
3. A persistent feeling of thirst
4. Dental problems

How to help a dry mouth

Limit your caffeine and alcohol intake

Alcohol and caffeine can make dry mouth symptoms worse. 

Avoid smoking

Studies show that long-term smoking affects your saliva production, which could potentially worsen dry mouth symptoms. 

Breathe through your nose, not your mouth

That sounds like strange advice but according to Healthline, breathing through your mouth can make dry mouth worse. This is because airflow dries the delicate tissues of the mouth. Certain medical conditions can make it more difficult or even impossible to breathe through your nose. Talk to your doctor if you think this could be the case for you.

Stay hydrated

According to the NHS, dehydration is a contributing factor when it comes to dry mouth. Drinking plenty of water is key and can help to relieve mild dehydration that is associated with dry mouth. 

Dental hygiene

Keep brushing and flossing your teeth – it can help combat the effects of dry mouth. Be sure to check in with your dentist regularly and flag any concerns at your appointments.  

Try sugar-free sweets or chewing gum

These help stimulate production of saliva. You can also try sucking ice chips or partially frozen fruit, including melon and pineapple.

Look after your lips

Dry mouth can cause your lips to become cracked or uncomfortable. Regular use of petroleum jelly as a lip balm can help to keep the skin in good condition.

Would hormone replacement therapy (HRT) help?

Research on the risks and benefits of HRT for people with dry mouth during menopause is currently unclear. HRT is proven to help with hot flushes, night sweats and mood changes, sleep, among others.

However, it is not suitable for everyone. Speak to your doctor if you would like to find out more about the best treatment for you. 

Read more on the HRT debate here. 

Menopause and dry mouth FAQs

Why does dry mouth happen during menopause?

Your oestrogen levels decrease as you go through menopause, which can reduce saliva production for some, causing dry mouth. 

Does dry mouth affect your immediate health?

Studies suggest that having a dry mouth can lead to changes in your sense of taste. This can be uncomfortable and disorienting for some people.

Does dry mouth affect your long-term health?

Saliva protects your mouth from bacteria. Without it, you’re more likely to experience dental complications like sensitive teeth, bad breath, gum disease and caries.

When should you see a doctor?

It is important to talk to your doctor if you notice a persistently dry mouth, especially if it becomes bothersome. They will be able to look for a cause and suggest appropriate treatment.

Learn more – the latest research

• Chran, M., Maxwell, L. Management strategies for patients with xerostomia (dry mouth). ScholarWorks (4/12/2015).
• Dahiya P, Kamal R, Kumar M, Niti, Gupta R, Chaudhary K. Burning mouth syndrome and menopause. Int J Prev Med. 2013 Jan;4(1):15-20. PMID: 23411996; PMCID: PMC3570906.
• Dutt P, Chaudhary S, Kumar P. Oral health and menopause: a comprehensive review on current knowledge and associated dental management. Ann Med Health Sci Res. 2013 Jul;3(3):320-3. doi: 10.4103/2141-9248.117926. PMID: 24116306; PMCID: PMC3793432.
• Dyasanoor S, Saddu SC. Association of Xerostomia and Assessment of Salivary Flow Using Modified Schirmer Test among Smokers and Healthy Individuals: A Preliminutesary Study. J Clin Diagn Res. 2014 Jan;8(1):211-3. doi: 10.7860/JCDR/2014/6650.3846. Epub 2014 Jan 12. PMID: 24596777; PMCID: PMC3939554.
• Gen M: Dry mouth 
• Healthline: How to Treat Dry Mouth at Home
• Mese H, Matsuo R. Salivary secretion, taste and hyposalivation. J Oral Rehabil. 2007;34:711–23. PMID:17824883, https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1365-2842.2007.01794.x
• NHS: Dry mouth 
• Nilius, G., Franke, K.J., Domanski, U. et al. Effect of APAP and heated humidification with a heated breathing tube on adherence, quality of life, and nasopharyngeal complaints. Sleep Breath 20, 43–49 (2016). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11325-015-1182-2
• Petrušić N, Posavac M, Sabol I, Mravak-Stipetić M. The Effect of Tobacco Smoking on Salivation. Acta Stomatol Croat. 2015 Dec;49(4):309-15. doi: 10.15644/asc49/4/6. PMID: 27688415; PMCID: PMC4945334.
• Suri, Vanita, and Varun Suri. “Menopause and oral health.” Journal of mid-life health vol. 5,3 (2014): 115-20. doi:10.4103/0976-7800.141187   
• Wang, L., Zhu, L., Yao, Y. et al. Role of hormone replacement therapy in relieving oral dryness symptoms in postmenopausal women: a case control study. BMC Oral Health 21, 615 (2021). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12903-021-01966-6
• Web MD: Dry Mouth: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment