What is Vaginal Atrophy?
Vaginal Atrophy
Vaginal atrophy is a condition that happens when the walls of the vagina dry up, get inflamed, or become thin, because of the low production of estrogen in the body. In the majority of the cases, vaginal atrophy is seen in women who have gone through menopause. Vaginal atrophy will cause pain when the person engages in intercourse. Vaginal atrophy might cause urinary problems for women which can be quite distressing.
Disease
Vaginal atrophy or atrophic vaginitis is a condition that happens when the body doesn’t produce enough estrogen. The walls of the vagina become thin, dry, and inflamed. Vaginal atrophy can be seen in women who are post-menopausal. Vaginal atrophy will cause itching, burning, and other symptoms along with experiencing pain during intercourse. However, vaginal atrophy is capable of causing many urinary issues such as frequent urination, urinary tract infections, etc. The world of medical science has found a new term for vaginal atrophy that includes the urinary problems caused by the lack of estrogen in the body. It is termed genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM).
- PROCEDURE NAME : Laser Treatment for Piles
- SURGERY TYPE: Minimally Invasive LASER
- HOSPITALIZATION: No Hospitalization
- SURGERY DURATION: 30 minutes
- ANAESTHESIA:Spinal Block / General Anaesthesia
- FULL RECOVERY: 3 - 4 days
TREATMENTS
Diagnosis
The medical practitioner will perform a pelvic exam to diagnose vaginal atrophy. In the majority of the cases, a trained medical practitioner can diagnose vaginal atrophy after a thorough examination of the vagina. However, there are tests that can be done to get a deeper diagnosis, such as an ultrasound scan, pap test, serum hormone testing, microscopy, etc.
Surgery
The treatment for vaginal atrophy will depend on the convenience of the person and the severity of the atrophy. There are various alternatives that can be done to treat vaginal atrophy. However, estrogen therapy has proven itself to be the most effective. Moisturizers and lubricants are used to make intercourse less painful when the patient has vaginal atrophy. Devices like vaginal dilators are used to help with intercourse as well. The patient can start with a narrow dilator and eventually increase the size of the device until a penis can comfortably fit inside the vagina and doesn’t cause pain. Hormone therapies are considered to give the best results when it comes to vaginal atrophy. Hormone therapy, will restore the normal acid balance of the vagina and thickens the skin. It will help to make the vagina like it used to be. Hormone therapy also helps to maintain moisture and bacterial balance. Hormone therapy will help with other menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes, sleep deprivation, etc. The commonly performed hormone therapies are; vaginal low-dose estrogen therapy Ospemifene, systemic hormone therapy, etc.
Causes
- Chronic constipation
- Painful bowel movements
- Nausia
Symptoms
- Discomfort while sitting
- Swelling & Itching
- Painful bowel movements
- Excessive Bleeding
Frequently Asked Questions
What is vaginal atrophy?
Vaginal atrophy or atrophic vaginitis is a condition that happens when the body doesn’t produce enough estrogen. The walls of the vagina become thin, dry, and inflamed.
What is the new term for vaginal atrophy?
Genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM) is the new term for vaginal atrophy.
What causes vaginal atrophy?
When menopause happens, the ovaries will stop producing the necessary hormones. When the body doesn’t have enough estrogen, it can lead to many complications. One of them is vaginal atrophy.
Does vaginal atrophy cause pain?
Vaginal atrophy will cause pain while engaging in sexual intercourse
What is the best treatment for vaginal atrophy?
Hormone therapies give the best results for vaginal atrophy.
