Q: Are the changes I see in my vaginal skin normal?

You say the skin is becoming lighter and sometimes is dry, sometimes moist or itchy. That sounds completely consistent with the changes of vulvovaginal atrophy (VVA), which results from the absence of estrogen. It's a gradual progression; it may not be particularly bothersome at first but may be more noticeable in the months and years to come.

The consequences of lost estrogen are often most noted in the vulva or vaginal tissues. Our bodies have lots of estrogen receptors, meaning estrogen plays a role there--from head to toe. But there are more estrogen receptors concentrated in the vagina and the vulva than in any other part of the body. \In and of itself, VVA doesn't require treatment. If you have uncomfortable symptoms, there are treatment options, including localized estrogen, vaginal moisturizers, and more.

You might also be aware that natural vaginal pH levels rise in the absence of estrogen, which means a woman can be more susceptible to infections. Symptoms to watch for are discharge, irritation, and/or odor.