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VAGINAL ATROPHY

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VAGINAL ATROPHY

Vaginal atrophy is the thinning and inflammation of the vaginal wall as a result of decreased estrogen levels.

  • In this condition, the tissues of the vagina no longer work in their normal, healthy way.
  • Vaginal atrophy usually occurs after menopause because less female hormone estrogen is produced during this time. It can also occur in younger women who have a decrease in estrogen level.
  • Women with vaginal atrophy have a higher chance of chronic vaginal infections and urinary function problems.
  • Vaginal atrophy can also result in painful sexual intercourse.
  • The American Association of Family Physicians stated that about 40% of post-menopausal women have symptoms of vaginal atrophy.

CAUSES

Vaginal atrophy is most commonly caused by a drop in the level of the female hormone estrogen. As a woman ages, she begins to produce less estrogen. With less estrogen, the body naturally produces less lubricant in the cervix. The vaginal tissues also become thinner, drier, less elastic and more easily injured.

Other factors that may cause a decrease in estrogen level may include:

  • Breastfeeding
  • Years leading up to a menopause
  • Surgery to remove the ovaries
  • Cancer treatments such as radiation therapy to the pelvis, or chemotherapy
  • Hormonal therapy to treat breast cancer

Certain risk factors that may increase the risk of getting the condition may include:

  • Smoking
  • No sexual activity
  • No vaginal births

SYMPTOMS

  • Vaginal burning
  • Vaginal dryness (lack of vaginal moisture)
  • Burning with urination
  • Discomfort or pain with intercourse
  • Light bleeding after intercourse
  • More frequent urinary tract infections
  • Urinary incontinence
  • Thinning of the vaginal walls
  • Shortening and tightening of the vaginal canal

DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT

Any itching, burning, discomfort, or bleeding in your vagina area may require medical care. You should see your doctor if you experience any of this.

To make a diagnosis, the doctor may ask about your past health, when your menopause started, and whether you have ever had cancer.

The doctor will also carry out a pelvic examination. During this exam, the doctor will feel, or palpate your pelvic organs. The doctor will also examine your external genitalia for physical signs of vaginal atrophy.

If urinary symptoms are present, the doctor will carry out a urine test which involves collecting and analyzing your urine.

An acid balance test may also be carried out. This test involves taking a sample of your vaginal fluids or placing a paper indicator strip in your vagina to test its acid balance.

TREATMENT

Treatment option may include:

  • Vaginal moisturizer to restore moisture to the vagina area
  • A water-based lubricant to reduce discomfort during sexual intercourse
  • Topical estrogen therapy may be prescribed. This helps to replace some of the hormones that the body is no longer making. Estrogen therapy may be in form of a ring, cream, or pill. You and your doctor can decide which one is best for because they all seem to work equally well.
  • Systemic estrogen therapy