Vaginal atrophy, also known as atrophic vaginitis, is a common but often overlooked symptom that many women experience as they age. This occurs when the vaginal walls become thinner, dryer, and less elastic, causing a variety of uncomfortable and sometimes painful symptoms. Although a natural part of the aging process, vaginal atrophy can have a major impact on a woman’s quality of life and intimate well-being.
However, there are various treatment options available to address vaginal atrophy and its associated symptoms. Women have a wide range of options to consider, from lifestyle changes and home remedies to medical care and therapy. In this blog, we will discuss vaginal atrophy in detail and explore its causes, symptoms, and most importantly, the possibilities to reverse or manage this condition.
Also read: 7 ways to maintain vaginal health
What are the symptoms of vaginal atrophy?
People with vaginal atrophy may experience symptoms such as:
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vaginal dryness
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vaginal itching
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burning or discomfort
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Urinary symptoms
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Urinary-tract infection
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vaginal discharge
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genital bleeding
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sexual pain
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vaginal relaxation
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Changes in vaginal pH
Also read: 13 creams that are effective for vaginal itching
Is it possible to reverse vaginal atrophy?
Yes, some can be reversed like Latest improvements Or you can effectively manage these symptoms and achieve some recovery.
Hormone therapy, such as estrogen replacement, has been shown to be highly effective. the study Estrogen treatment has been shown to help thicken the vaginal walls, improve moisture, and significantly reduce symptoms.
In addition to hormonal therapy, there are also non-hormonal treatments that can relieve symptoms, such as vaginal moisturizers and lubricants.
Therefore, they must be applied regularly, and the effects of moisturizers last longer than lubricants.
Regular sex and the use of vaginal dilators can also help maintain vaginal health.
Although it is not always possible to completely reverse vaginal atrophy, these treatments can make a big difference in managing symptoms and improving overall comfort.
What methods are used to reverse vaginal atrophy?
There are several methods used to address vaginal atrophy and reduce symptoms. These methods include:
1. Hormone therapy
estrogen based Treatment for vaginal atrophyVaginal estrogen creams, tablets, rings, etc. can effectively reduce symptoms by restoring the health of vaginal tissues. These are available by prescription and work to reverse some of the effects of vaginal atrophy. Vaginal estrogen therapy comes in many forms, and you and your healthcare provider can decide which one is best for you. Additionally, there are many foods that increase estrogen levels in the body.
2. Vaginal estrogen cream (Estras, Premarin)
Apply this cream directly to your vagina using an applicator before bed. Most women use it daily for 1 to 3 weeks, then once or twice a week, but your health care professional will give you precise instructions.of Estrogen for vaginal dryness has shown effective results in women’s lives.
Imvexxy vaginal estrogen suppositories
These low-dose estrogen suppositories are placed about 2 inches into the vaginal canal every day for a few weeks, and then only twice a week thereafter.
3. Esring (fem ring)
A soft, flexible ring is inserted into the upper part of the vagina, provides a steady dose of estrogen while in place, and must be replaced every three months. This option is attractive to many women. A separate high-dose ring is considered a systemic treatment rather than a local treatment.
a study Femling was shown to significantly improve the quality of life of women suffering from urinary tract infections and incontinence.
4. Vaginal estrogen tablets (Bagifem)
Use a disposable applicator to apply intravaginal estrogen tablets into your vagina as directed by your health care professional. Ospemifene (Osfena) is a daily medication that helps reduce unpleasant sexual symptoms in women with PCOS.
5. Ospemifene (Ospena)
This is a daily medication that helps reduce uncomfortable intercourse symptoms in women suffering from mild to severe menopausal urinary tract syndrome (GSM). Not recommended for women with a history of breast cancer or women who are at high risk of developing breast cancer.
6. Prasterone (Intrarosa)
It’s a vaginal insert that supplies hormones. DHEA It is directly related to the vagina and reduces painful sexual intercourse. DHEA is a hormone that helps produce other hormones, especially estrogen. Prasterone is used nightly to treat moderate to severe vaginal atrophy.
7. Systemic estrogen replacement therapy
If vaginal dryness is accompanied by additional menopausal symptoms, such as average or severe hot flashes, your doctor may prescribe estrogen pills, patches, gels, or high-dose estrogen rings. Oral estrogen is dangerous because it reaches the entire body.
8. Non-hormonal moisturizers and lubricants
Over-the-counter vaginal moisturizers and lubricants can temporarily reduce vaginal dryness and discomfort during sex. It contains no hormones and is available without a prescription. Treatments for vaginal atrophy may include non-hormonal moisturizers and lubricants, such as lidocaine. Lidocaine lasts for almost 90 minutes and reduces symptoms.
Non-hormonal vaginal dilators activate and lengthen the vaginal muscles and reverse the vaginal contraction estrogen in the vaginal cavity.
9. Regular sexual activity
Having sex and other forms of vaginal stimulation can help maintain vaginal health and elasticity. This reduces discomfort and improves overall vaginal function.
10. Pelvic floor muscle exercises
Pelvic floor muscle exercises like Kegel exercises can help improve vaginal muscle tone and overall vaginal health. Doctors often suggest various pelvic floor exercises to improve this, but if the patient does not find relief with these exercises, medical treatment may be recommended.
Because oral estrogen reaches your entire body, it’s important to discuss its risks and benefits with your doctor, especially if you’re taking another hormone called a progestin along with estrogen.
Also read: 10 Best Vitamins and Supplements to Balance Hormones
conclusion
Vaginal atrophy is a condition in which the vagina becomes thin, dry, and inflamed due to decreased estrogen in the body. But don’t worry. It can be treated and even reversed with a variety of treatments. These treatments include using estrogen in creams or tablets, moisturizers, lubricants, etc., and sometimes special medications.
If you have previously had breast cancer, your doctor will carefully consider the best treatment for you. With help from a doctor, women with vaginal atrophy can feel better and live better lives.
FAQ
How long does it take for estradiol to work?
It takes 3 to 6 months for full effects to be seen.
What causes vaginal atrophy?
Vaginal atrophy is primarily caused by the decrease in estrogen hormones that occurs naturally as women age.
What are the most common signs of vaginal atrophy?
Common symptoms include vaginal dryness, itching, burning, pain during intercourse (dyspareunia), and increased risk of vaginal infections. I had a urinary tract infection and urinary urgency.
Who is at risk of developing vaginal atrophy?
Postmenopausal women are most at risk for vaginal atrophy. Still, women who experience decreased estrogen levels due to factors such as cancer treatment, breastfeeding, or certain medical conditions may also be affected.
Can vaginal atrophy be prevented?
Although you can’t always prevent it from happening, you can lower your chances of developing the condition by having sex regularly and using moisturizers and lubricants during sex. In some cases, your doctor may consider hormone replacement therapy to prevent it.
How is vaginal atrophy diagnosed?
Health care providers can find out if a woman has vaginal atrophy by asking her about her symptoms and performing a pelvic exam. In some cases, additional tests may be performed to ensure that there are no other issues.
Can vaginal atrophy be cured?
Many people ask “how to treat vaginal atrophy”. It can be prevented using a variety of methods, including lubricants, moisturizers, and hormonal therapy.
What are the side effects of vaginal estrogen?
1. Headache 2. Sudden vaginal bleeding 3. Vaginal discomfort 4. Urinary tract infection 5. Pain