Atrophic Vaginitis Treatment

Unlike most inflammatory diseases of the vagina, atrophic vaginitis is associated not with infection, but with changes in the mucous membrane that occur against the background of estrogen deficiency. Because of this, symptoms may gradually intensify and cause significant discomfort, but modern treatment allows them to be effectively eliminated.

At the Oxford Medical clinic, experienced gynecologists will conduct the necessary examination, determine the cause of the symptoms, and select individual treatment in accordance with modern clinical recommendations. Do not postpone taking care of your health by making an appointment for a consultation through the online appointment form on the website or by calling the contact center.

Atrophic vaginitis is a disease in which, due to estrogen deficiency, the mucous membrane of the vagina becomes thinner, the production of natural secretion decreases, and its protective properties worsen. Because of this, the mucous membrane loses elasticity, is more easily injured, and becomes more vulnerable to irritation and infections.

The disease most often develops in older women, therefore it is also called age-related colpitis or senile colpitis. Despite age-related changes, this condition is successfully treated, so it should not be considered an inevitable norm.

According to The Menopause Society, the main cause of atrophic colpitis is estrogen deficiency. It is these hormones that maintain the normal condition of the mucous membrane of the vagina, ensure its natural moisturization, and help preserve healthy microflora. When the level of estrogens decreases, vaginal atrophy gradually develops, which creates conditions for the appearance of symptoms of the disease.

Estrogen deficiency may occur:

• during menopause;

• after surgical removal of both ovaries;

• during the period of breastfeeding;

• against the background of treatment that suppresses the production or action of estrogens;

• after radiation therapy of the pelvic organs.

Doctors of Oxford Medical say that most often atrophic vaginitis in the period after menopause develops gradually, therefore women often associate the first manifestations with natural age-related changes. However, estrogen deficiency is not a norm that needs to be tolerated. Timely consultation with a gynecologist makes it possible to confirm the diagnosis, assess the severity of changes, and select treatment that will help eliminate symptoms and prevent their further progression.

The thinned mucous membrane of the vagina is easily injured, therefore after sexual contact or a gynecological examination, slight bloody discharge may sometimes appear. If an infection develops against the background of atrophy of the mucous membrane of the vagina, atypical vaginal discharge, an unpleasant odor, as well as increased itching and burning are possible.

Doctors of Oxford Medical recommend consulting a gynecologist already when the first symptoms appear. Timely treatment helps quickly eliminate discomfort, reduce the manifestations of the disease, and return the comfort of intimate life.

Diagnosis of atrophic vaginitis begins with a consultation with a gynecologist. During the appointment, the doctor clarifies complaints, the time of appearance of symptoms, and the features of the menstrual cycle, after which conducts a gynecological examination.

To confirm the diagnosis, the following may be prescribed:

• smears for microflora and cytological examination;

• determination of the pH level of the vaginal environment;

• extended colposcopy for a detailed assessment of the condition of the mucous membrane of the cervix;

• ultrasound of the pelvic organs, if it is necessary to exclude concomitant gynecological diseases.

Doctors of Oxford Medical explain that symptoms of vaginal atrophy may resemble infectious vaginitis, benign and precancerous changes of the cervix and vagina. That is why it is important not to engage in self-treatment, but to undergo a full examination in order to establish an accurate diagnosis and select effective treatment.

As stated in The Menopause Society, the choice of therapy method depends on the severity of symptoms, the woman's age, and the general state of health.

Treatment may include:

• local non-hormonal agents for moisturizing the mucous membrane of the vagina;

• local estrogen therapy in the absence of contraindications;

• systemic menopausal hormone therapy;

• recommendations regarding intimate hygiene and lifestyle to reduce symptoms.

If atrophic colpitis is confirmed in a woman, treatment is always selected individually. The doctor takes into account the cause of estrogen deficiency, the severity of symptoms, concomitant diseases, and possible contraindications to medications. Self-treatment or uncontrolled use of hormonal medications may be ineffective and even dangerous.

Doctors of Oxford Medical recommend not postponing treatment. Timely started therapy helps eliminate symptoms faster, improve the condition of the mucous membrane of the vagina, and reduce the risk of recurrence of complaints.

Without treatment, the manifestations of atrophic colpitis may gradually intensify. Due to prolonged estrogen deficiency, the mucous membrane of the vagina continues to become thinner, loses elasticity, and becomes more vulnerable to irritation and infections.

Possible consequences of vulvovaginal atrophy:

• increased dryness and discomfort in the intimate area;

• pain and discomfort during sexual contact;

• frequent recurrences of vaginal infections;

• decreased comfort in everyday life.

Atrophic colpitis is important to diagnose at early stages and control its course in accordance with the gynecologist's recommendations.

It is not always possible to completely prevent the development of atrophic vaginitis, since its main cause is estrogen deficiency. However, proper care of the intimate area and timely correction of the first symptoms help reduce discomfort and slow the progression of the disease.

To maintain the health of the mucous membrane of the vagina, it is recommended:

• to use intimate hygiene products with a neutral pH level and avoid scented products and douching;

• if necessary, to use vaginal moisturizers and lubricants, especially when dryness appears;

• to start treatment in a timely manner when the first symptoms appear in order to prevent the progression of the disease.

With age, the risk of developing postmenopausal atrophic vaginitis increases significantly. Therefore, when dryness, burning, or other unpleasant sensations in the intimate area appear, it is not worth waiting for the symptoms to disappear on their own. Timely started treatment helps control the disease and prevent its progression.

The cost of treatment of atrophic vaginitis depends on the scope of necessary diagnostics and the chosen therapy tactics. The final treatment plan is determined by the doctor after conducting an examination and assessment.

You can view the prices for doctors' consultations here. To make an appointment, leave a request through the online appointment form or contact the contact center. The doctor will conduct an examination, answer all questions, and select the optimal treatment in accordance with your clinical situation.

The information is for informational purposes and does not replace a doctor's consultation.

Sources:

• US National Library of Medicine

• National Institute for Health and Care Excellenc

• PubMed