Vaginal atrophy (VA), also referred to as urogenital atrophy (UGA) or atrophic vaginitis, is a common condition that occurs when estrogen levels decline during perimenopause and menopause. Estrogen plays a key role in maintaining the health of the vaginal and urinary tissues by keeping them moisturized, elastic, and protected from infection.
What is Vaginal Atrophy?
Before menopause, estrogen helps to keep the skin and tissues around the vagina, vulva, and urethra well-lubricated and resilient. It also supports the production of glycogen, a protective protein that maintains a healthy balance of bacteria in the vaginal flora, safeguarding against infections. When estrogen levels decrease, the vagina becomes shorter, less elastic, and drier. This process can affect both the appearance and functionality of the vaginal and vulvar tissues, making them more vulnerable to infection, irritation, and discomfort. Â
How Common is Vaginal Atrophy?
Vaginal atrophy affects up to 57% of women, depending on factors like age, health, and lifestyle. While many women are familiar with menopause symptoms such as hot flashes and night sweats, vaginal dryness often begins earlier (even before menopause) and, unlike other symptoms, tends to worsen with time if left untreated. Unfortunately, it is often under-recognized and under-treated despite its prevalence.
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Symptoms of Vaginal Atrophy
The symptoms of vaginal atrophy can vary, ranging from mildly annoying to extremely bothersome. The most commonly reported symptoms include:
Vaginal dryness, itching, and burning, Insufficient lubrication during sexual activity, Painful intercourse (dyspareunia), Frequent or painful bladder infections
These symptoms can significantly affect relationships, leading to emotional distress and a reduced quality of life. In addition to vaginal discomfort, loss of estrogen can also weaken the pelvic floor muscles, which support the uterus, bladder, and bowel. This can result in these organs sagging into the vagina, causing pelvic pressure and lower back pain and also play a role in stress incontinence, where activities like coughing, laughing, or sneezing can lead to urine leakage.
Simple Steps You Can Start at Home
Avoid Soaps and Detergents on the Vulva: Warm water is sufficient for cleansing the vulva
Use a Water-Based Lubricant During Sex: This can help provide moisture.
Vaginal Moisturizers: Over-the-counter vaginal moisturizers can be used regularly.
Continue Sexual Activity: Engaging in sexual activity, whether with a partner or through self-stimulation, promotes blood flow and helps maintain vaginal health.
Quit Smoking:
Local vaginal estrogen therapy: is mostly safe and effective for vaginal atrophy. Â Vaginal cells are very sensitive to estrogen, micro doses can be used reducing potential negative effects. Â Concerns regarding this aspect should be directed to your medical doctor.
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Natural remedies for vaginal atrophy include:
Jojoba, Coconut oil, Aloe vera, Vitamin E, Change your diet, Exercise the pelvic muscles and hypopressive exercises
If you're interested in exploring a natural approach to managing menopause, feel free to contact Catherine using the details below. And for more information go to www.menopauseinfo.org and www.imsociety.org
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Contact details: for more information and advice: Â Â
Registered Osteopath and Medical Herbalist, Withacupuncture training and rehabilitation pilates instructor training. At George Morris Physiotherapy Clinics in Hindley and AshtonDirect line: 07828261152; Â email: catherine.w12@hotmail.com; Â Website: www.herbalosteopathiclife.com
Herbal Osteopathic Life
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