The endocrine system is a network of glands and organs that produce, store, and secrete hormones. These hormones are very important for a woman’s health especially during the years when she might become pregnant. Sometimes called “the change,” menopause is the time, around age 50, when a woman’s ovaries produce fewer hormones and she stops having a monthly period. Menopause takes place gradually over four or five years. A woman may experience a number of uncomfortable symptoms during this time, including vaginal dryness.
Vaginal atrophy (also referred to as vulvovaginal atrophy, urogenital atrophy, or atrophic vaginitis) is a condition in which the lining of the vagina becomes thinner and drier. This condition can lead to vaginal and urinary tract problems.
A drop in estrogen, a female sex hormone, causes the vagina to become dryer and more fragile. This is the leading cause of vaginal atrophy. A drop in estrogen levels may occur:
You may have no symptoms at all. or you may have:
Vaginal atrophy can cause vaginal and urinary tract infections (UTIs).
Sexual activity is a very important part of overall health. The vaginal dryness often associated with vaginal atrophy usually becomes worse with a lack of sexual activity. Sex stimulates blood flow in the vagina and aids in the production of vaginal fluids. So, sex actually keeps the vagina lubricated and healthy.
Source: National Center for Biotechnology Information
Your medical provider will ask about your symptoms and do a pelvic exam to look at the appearance of your vagina. Your medical provider also may test a urine sample, perform a Pap test or ultrasound, and/or measure blood estrogen levels.
For many woman, non-prescription (over-the-counter) treatments can help, especially if symptoms are mild. Your healthcare provider may recommend vaginal lubricants or vaginal moisturizers that you can use, especially during sexual activity.
Prescription treatments include low-dose estrogen therapies, including:
Depending on the treatment, there may be health risks that you’ll want to discuss with your healthcare provider.
The Hormone Health Network is the public education affiliate of the Endocrine Society dedicated to helping both patients and doctors find information on the prevention, treatment and cure of hormone-related conditions.
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