Atrophic vaginitis
Atrophic vaginitis is inflammation of the vagina as a result of tissue thinning due to not enough estrogen. Symptoms may include pain with sex, vaginal itchiness or dryness, and an urge to urinate or burning with urination. It generally does not resolve without ongoing treatment. Complications may include urinary tract infections.
| Atrophic vaginitis | |
|---|---|
| Other names | Vulvovaginal atrophy, vaginal atrophy, genitourinary syndrome of menopause, estrogen deficient vaginitis |
| Normal vaginal mucosa (left) versus vaginal atrophy (right) | |
| Specialty | Gynecology |
| Symptoms | Pain with sex, vaginal itchiness or dryness, an urge to urinate |
| Complications | Urinary tract infections |
| Duration | Long term |
| Causes | Lack of estrogen |
| Risk factors | Menopause, breastfeeding, certain medications |
| Diagnostic method | Based on symptoms |
| Differential diagnosis | Infectious vaginitis, vulvar cancer, contact dermatitis |
| Treatment | Vaginal estrogen |
| Frequency | Half of women (after menopause) |
The lack of estrogen typically occurs following menopause. Other causes may include when breastfeeding or as a result of specific medications. Risk factors include smoking. Diagnosis is typically based on symptoms.
Treatment is generally with estrogen cream applied to the vagina. Other measures that may help include vaginal lubricants. It is recommended that soaps and other irritants are avoided. About half of postmenopausal women are affected. Many however are not being treated. Women often report reduced enjoyment in sex as well as life generally.