Atrophic vaginitis is a common gynecological problem caused by decreases in your body's production of estrogen. Typically, the condition produces symptoms of vaginal dryness, inflammation and burning sensations. Acidophilus is a type of bacteria naturally occurring in your vagina and intestines. Found in yogurt and oral supplements, acidophilus helps maintain a healthy vaginal ecology and may offer relief from symptoms associated with atrophic vaginitis. Although acidophilus is associated with few health risks, make sure to consult your physician prior to taking a supplement.
Atrophic Vaginitis
Atrophic vaginitis, also known as vaginal atrophy, describes the thinning and inflammation of the vaginal walls caused by decreases in your body's estrogen levels. Atrophic vaginitis is most often associated with menopause, when your body experiences a significant reduction in estrogen production. However, the condition can also occur during lactation, or other periods in which estrogen secretion declines. Lowered estrogen levels cause your vaginal tissue to become drier, more fragile and less elastic. Additionally, the condition can cause pain during intercourse and may also contribute to problems with genital health and urinary function.
Standard Treatments
For mild cases of vaginal atrophy, using a lubricant will often serve to relieve symptoms. According to MayoClinic.com, regular sexual activity helps maintain the health of vaginal tissues, protects against vaginal atrophy and limits the risk of associated problems. More severe cases may benefit from the use of topical or oral estrogen treatments, which require a prescription from your medical provider. Artificial hormone therapy is not advised if you have a history of breast cancer or a known genetic susceptibility, as it heightens your risk for cancer cell growth.
Acidophilus
Acidophilus is a type of bacteria belonging to the lactobacillus family. Lactobacilli live in your small intestine and vagina, and are essential for health. Dietary acidophilus, such as that found in yogurt or in probiotic supplements, helps maintain the balance of healthy bacteria in your body. Acidophilus is effective in treating and preventing bacterial vaginosis, a condition caused by the overgrowth of certain vaginal bacteria, and vaginal yeast infections.
Acidophilus and Atrophic Vaginitis
As of 2011, the medical literature provides no evidence for the use of acidophilus in curing atrophic vaginitis. However, according to a May 2003 article in "Obstetrical and Gynecological Survey" high quality studies indicate that acidophilus, consumed as yogurt or as supplement, helps balance vaginal flora and may help reduce symptoms associated with atrophic vaginitis such as itching, burning, swelling and dryness. However, despite claims that vaginally applied cultures of lactobacilli or yogurt can relieve symptoms associated with the condition, the North American Menopause Society states that they are not effective moisturizers.
Caution
Although atrophic vaginitis is a common condition, especially for menopausal and perimenopausal women, it does increase your risk of bacterial infection. If you experience persistent vaginal dryness, painful intercourse or genital burning, talk to your doctor to discuss options for treatment. While acidophilus generally does not pose risks to your health, you should not take it if you have a gastrointestinal disorder or a weakened immune system.
References
- MayoClinic.com; Vaginal Atrophy; Sept. 2010
- MayoClinic.com; Lactobillus Acidophilus; July 2011
- "Obstetrical and Gynecological Survey"; Common Complementary and Alternative Therapies for Yeast Vaginitis and Bacterial Vaginosis: A Systematic Review; K. van Kessel et al.; May 2003
- North American Menopause Society: The Changing Body
