Do I Have Vaginal Atrophy (Atrophic Vaginitis)?

Are you a woman over 50?

Do you have vaginal dryness?

Do you have vaginal itch or a burning sensation in your vagina?

Do you have unusual vaginal discharge?

Do you have a burning sensation while urinating?

Do you have an urgent need to urinate?

Do you have frequent urination?

Do you have recurrent urinary tract infections?

Do you have urinary incontinence (the loss of bladder control, involuntary leakage)?

Do you have light bleeding after intercourse?

Do you have discomfort or pain during intercourse?

Do you have decreased vaginal lubrication during sexual activity?

Based on your answers it is unlikely that you have vaginal atrophy. Vaginal atrophy or atrophic vaginitis is a medical condition in which vaginal tissues do not function properly due to lower levels of the hormone called estrogen. Vaginal atrophy is characterized by thinning, drying and inflammation of the walls of the vagina. It is common in postmenopausal women, as well as in younger women with decreased levels of estrogen. This condition causes not only various vaginal symptoms, including painful intercourse, but also many disturbing urinary symptoms. For that reason, this condition is also known as "genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM)".

Based on your answers there is a possibility that you have vaginal atrophy. Vaginal atrophy is a condition that refers to the thinning of the vaginal walls caused by low estrogen levels. Women with vaginal atrophy are prone to chronic vaginal infections and urinary tract problems. Vaginal atrophy commonly occurs after menopause, and about 40 percent of postmenopausal women experience symptoms of atrophic vaginitis. Low estrogen levels cause your vaginal tissue to be less elastic and drier. Regular sexual activities increase blood flow in the vagina and promote the health of vaginal tissues. A diagnosis is based on a pelvic examination, urine tests and an acid balance test.

Based on your answers there is a high possibility that you have vaginal atrophy. Vaginal atrophy is a medical condition characterized by changes in vaginal tissues due to a significant decrease in estrogen levels. This condition develops gradually and women often notice no symptoms until five to ten years after menopause. The symptoms can range from mild to severe. There are various treatment options, from over-the-counter vaginal moisturizers to hormonal therapy. In addition to moisturizers, a doctor may recommend the use of vaginal lubricants during intercourse. If you need estrogen therapy, work with your doctor to decide which form of vaginal estrogen is best for you.