Vaginal Atrophy: What You Need to Know
Vaginal atrophy, also known as genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM), is a condition that affects many women and people assigned female at birth (AFAB) during and after menopause. It is caused by a decrease in oestrogen levels, which makes the vaginal tissues thinner, drier, less elastic, and more fragile. This can lead to various symptoms, such as:
- Vaginal dryness, burning and itching
- Painful intercourse (dyspareunia)
- Vaginal discharge, spotting or bleeding
- Shortening and tightening of the vaginal canal
- Urinary problems, such as frequent infections, incontinence, urgency and pain
Vaginal atrophy can have a negative impact on your quality of life, sexual health and relationship satisfaction. It can also increase your risk of developing vaginal infections, pelvic organ prolapse and urinary tract infections. Therefore, it is important to seek medical attention if you experience any of these symptoms.
How is Vaginal Atrophy Diagnosed?
Your healthcare provider can diagnose vaginal atrophy by taking your medical history and performing a physical examination. They may also do some tests, such as:
- A urine test to check for infections or blood
- An acid balance test to measure the pH level of your vaginal fluids
- A Pap smear to screen for cervical cancer or precancerous changes
How is Vaginal Atrophy Treated?
The main treatment for vaginal atrophy is oestrogen therapy, which can be applied locally to the vagina or taken systemically by mouth, patch, gel or ring. Oestrogen therapy can help restore the thickness, moisture and elasticity of the vaginal tissues, as well as relieve the symptoms and prevent complications.
However, oestrogen therapy may not be suitable for everyone, especially if you have a history of breast cancer, blood clots or liver disease. In that case, you may consider other options, such as:
- Ospemifene, an oral medication that acts like oestrogen on the vaginal tissues but not on other parts of the body
- Vaginal moisturisers, which can hydrate and soothe the vaginal tissues
- Vaginal lubricants, which can reduce friction and discomfort during intercourse
- Vaginal dilators, which can stretch and relax the vaginal muscles
- Laser therapy or radiofrequency therapy, which can stimulate collagen production and blood flow in the vaginal tissues
What Can You Do to Prevent or Manage Vaginal Atrophy?
In addition to seeking medical treatment, you can also take some steps to prevent or manage vaginal atrophy, such as:
- Staying sexually active, which can increase blood flow and keep the vaginal tissues healthy
- Quitting smoking, which can impair blood circulation and reduce oestrogen levels
- Eating foods that contain phytoestrogens (plant oestrogens), such as soybeans, flaxseeds and red clover
- Avoiding products that can irritate the vagina, such as scented soaps, douches and perfumes
- Wearing cotton underwear and loose-fitting clothes to allow air circulation and prevent infections
Vaginal atrophy is a common condition that can affect your physical and emotional well-being. However, with proper diagnosis and treatment, you can improve your symptoms and enjoy a healthy and satisfying sex life.
Sources
Debbo Africa: https://debbo.africa
Verywell Health. (2021). What Is Vaginal Atrophy? - Itchy, Burning Relief. https://www.verywellhealth.com/what-is-vaginal-atrophy-itchy-burning-relief-7562627
Medical News Today. (2018). Atrophic vaginitis: Symptoms, causes, and treatments. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/189406
MSN Health Library. (n.d.). What is Vaginal atrophy and its possible symptoms, causes, risk and prevention methods? https://www.msn.com/en-us/health/condition/Vaginal-atrophy/hp-Vaginal-atrophy?source=conditioncdx