5 Things You Need to Know About Atrophic Vaginitis

1. Declining Estrogen Takes a Toll

Atrophic vaginitis is the medical name for thinning and dryness of the vaginal epithelium, the cells that make up the outer layer of skin on the vagina. Most women just identify it as vaginal dryness. Decreasing estrogen levels that occur after menopause usually cause it. About 40 percent of postmenopausal women report having this problem. Estrogen levels are also lower immediately after childbirth or while a woman is breastfeeding, so atrophic vaginitis can occur at this time. Symptoms of atrophic vaginitis are pain and burning during intercourse as well as itching and frequent urination and urinary tract infections.

2. Going to the Source

Your doctor will probably treat atrophic vaginitis with estrogen. If you have other menopausal symptoms like hot flashes or night sweats, you will probably receive a prescription for an oral estrogen. However, if atrophic vaginitis is your only symptom you will probably receive an estrogen cream, vaginal tablet, or vaginal ring, all of which contain estrogen. These products work right at the source of the problem and are actually more effective than oral medications for atrophic vaginitis.

3. Things You Can Do to Help

Although atrophic vaginitis is normal when the body changes after menopause, you can and should seek treatment. Some things make it worse; some of which are avoidable and some that are not. For example, if you have recently undergone radiation therapy or chemotherapy for cancer you have a greater chance of having atrophic vaginitis. Anticancer medications like tamoxifen also increase the risk, as does cigarette smoking.

4. Stop the Vicious Cycle

Although sexual activity can be uncomfortable for the woman with atrophic vaginitis, avoiding sex actually makes the problem worse. It's a vicious cycle. Some women avoid sexual activity because it is painful or uncomfortable, and this avoidance makes the problem worse. To avoid further irritation to this sensitive area, it's a good idea to use a lubricant during sexual activity. Vaginal vitamin E suppositories are also helpful for some women.

5. Be Smart About Soy

The phytoestrogens found in soy products are helpful for women whose estrogen levels are declining. However, just as it is important for physicians to moderate the dose of estrogens they prescribe and to prescribe the lowest possible dose, it is also important not too consume massive amounts of soy products. Cranberry juice and ligonberry juice are helpful in returning the pH to a normal level and reducing urinary tract infections.