Herbal Remedies For Atrophic Vaginitis

Atrophic vaginitis is a condition occurring after menopause where estrogen levels decrease, leaving vaginal tissues thin and vulnerable to tearing. There is less lubrication and the vagina becomes dry, often making intercourse painful and possibly creating a breeding ground for infection. Various herbal remedies may relieve this problem and reverse the effects of lower estrogen supplies. Because herbs can cause side effects and interfere with medications, consult your health practitioner before starting any new herbal treatment.

Causes

According to Medline Plus, atrophic vaginitis can have several causes. Among them are medical hormonal treatments to lower estrogen levels to protect against breast cancer or to relieve other vaginal ailments such as fibroids or endometriosis. Medline Plus adds that vaginal dryness from atrophic vaginitis may develop after chemotherapy or radiation to the lower abdomen, extreme stress or depression. It is generally found in post menopausal women; however, this condition may also occur in younger women experiencing a drop in estrogen levels from hysterectomy or after childbirth, when hormones remain off balance due to nursing.

Symptoms and Lifestyle Changes

Symptoms that are indicative of atrophic vaginitis include itching, burning, bleeding after intercourse, discharge, burning, soreness and painful intercourse, which is most common. Various habits may contribute to causing or aggravating atrophic vaginitis and should be eliminated. For instance, change soaps. detergents and lotions to those that are unscented. Avoid douching, which can dry out vaginal tissues. Using condoms and tampons may aggravate the problem, as will certain medicines. Smoking cigarettes may also contribute to vaginal problems and should be stopped.

Black Cohosh

Black cohosh has been used for centuries to treat menstrual and menopausal problems in women. It may lower luteinizing hormone, which affects the hypothalamus, where body temperature is controlled. It is considered an alternative to estrogen replacement and may help to reduce vaginal atrophy and dryness, lessen hot flashes and improve mood swings, according to The University of Virginia Health System. Black cohosh may produce mild side effects such as dizziness, stomach upset and headache. It should not be used during pregnancy or nursing, if you have heart problems or breast or uterine abnormalities. Since each woman's needs are unique, talk to your health practitioner about dosage and treatment guidelines.

Cimicifuga Racemosa

Although Cimicifuga racemosa is not officially an herb, it is the homeopathic remedy derived from the herb black cohosh. It has similar properties to black cohosh and some differences. It may be less likely to produce side effects and may be milder over-all for people who are sensitive to herbs, according to Manfred Mueller, president of the North American Society of Homeopaths. He adds that it may have longer-lasting effects on the body as well as postive effects on the mental and emotional state of the patient. According to Dr. William Boericke in the "Materia Medica and Repertory," Cimicifuga is indicated for menopausal women or others who are experiencing vaginal symptoms such as dryness, atrophy of tissues, itching, burning and tearing. He adds that Cimicifuga may help with other menopausal and pre-menstrual symptoms such as hot flashes and night sweats, mood swings, depression and headaches. Homeopathic remedies work by stimulating the body's inherent natural response to an external trigger, enabling it to heal itself. Homeopathic remedies are available over-the-counter without a prescription. If you would like to use Cimicifuga to treat atrophic vaginitis, consult a homeopath familiar with treating the condition.