What is it?
Atrophic vaginitis is the thinning of the walls of the vagina and shrinkage of vagina tissue causing inflammation of vagina. It commonly occurs after menopause due to decreased estrogen levels. Women with vaginal atrophy have a greater chance of chronic vaginal infections and urinary function problems. It can also make sexual intercourse painful.
What are the symptoms?
In some women, symptoms occur during perimenopause, or the years leading up to menopause. In other women, symptoms may not appear until years later, if ever. Symptoms include:
- An abnormal vaginal discharge.
- Vaginal irritation or itching.
- Pain when having sex or spotting after intercourse.
- Pain or burning with urination.
- Light bleeding or spotting.
- Lack of vaginal moisture (vaginal dryness).
- Vaginal burning (inflammation).
- More frequent urinary tract infections.
- Urinary incontinence (involuntary leakage).
What to expect?
In addition to treatment by your doctor you can try the following things:
- When having sexual intercourse, take plenty of time for foreplay and consider using a lubricant.
- Some woman prefer wear loose-fitting cotton underwear over tight fitting underwear.
- Avoid douching and do not use feminine hygienic products.