Atrophic Vaginitis
Atrophic vaginitis results from estrogen deficiency causing thinning, drying, and inflammation of vaginal tissues, leading to painful intercourse, irritation, and increased susceptibility to trauma and infection.
What is Atrophic Vaginitis?
Atrophic vaginitis results from estrogen deficiency causing thinning, drying, and inflammation of vaginal tissues, leading to painful intercourse, irritation, and increased susceptibility to trauma and infection.
Prevalence: Affects 50-70% of postmenopausal women
Symptoms and Signs
- •Vaginal dryness
- •Thinning and pallor of vaginal tissues
- •Burning and itching
- •Painful intercourse
- •Spotting after intercourse
- •Urinary urgency
Causes and Risk Factors
Common Causes
- →Menopause (natural or surgical)
- →Breastfeeding (lactational amenorrhea)
- →Chemotherapy-induced ovarian failure
- →Radiation to pelvis
- →Anti-estrogen medications (tamoxifen, aromatase inhibitors)
Risk Factors
- ⚠️Postmenopausal status
- ⚠️Breastfeeding
- ⚠️Breast cancer treatment
- ⚠️Smoking
Treatment Options
Expected Outcomes: 80-95% improvement with topical estrogen therapy within 4-8 weeks
Available Treatments:
- ✓Topical vaginal estrogen (cream, ring, tablet)
- ✓Vaginal moisturizers (Replens, Hyalofemme)
- ✓Water or silicone-based lubricants
- ✓Ospemifene (oral selective estrogen receptor modulator)
- ✓DHEA vaginal inserts (Intrarosa)
- ✓CO2 laser therapy (MonaLisa Touch)
Prevention Tips
- →Regular sexual activity
- →Vaginal moisturizers
- →Estrogen therapy discussion
- →Avoid irritants
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Related Conditions
Menopause Sexual Health Changes
Sexual function changes during menopause transition including desire and comfort
Dyspareunia (Painful Intercourse)
Persistent pain during or after sexual intercourse
Breastfeeding-Related Sexual Issues
Sexual function changes during lactation due to hormonal suppression