Do I Have Atrophic Vaginitis?

Are you a postmenopausal woman (you have not had a period for 12 months or more in a row)?

Did you have surgical removal of the ovaries?

Are you a breastfeeding woman?

Have you had radiation therapy?

As far as you know, do you use medications that drastically reduce estrogen levels (e.g. some birth control pills or breast cancer hormonal treatment)?

Do you have vaginal dryness?

Do you have vaginal burning?

Do you have discomfort or pain during intercourse?

Do you have spotting after intercourse?

Do you have pain or burning with urination?

Do you have a leakage of urine?

Do you have urinary tract infections more often than before?

Based on your answers it is unlikely that you have atrophic vaginitis. Atrophic vaginitis is a type of non-infectious vaginitis. This type of vaginitis is not caused by an infection, but it is the result of reduced levels of a hormone called estrogen. It affects about 40 percent of postmenopausal women in America. Decreased estrogen production after menopause affects the tissue of the vagina, which becomes dry, thin and less elastic. The vagina can become inflamed, irritated, and less lubricated, often resulting in discomfort or pain during sexual intercourse. In many women, atrophic vaginitis also causes disturbing urinary symptoms.

Based on your answers there is a possibility that you have atrophic vaginitis. Atrophic vaginitis is an inflammation of your vagina caused by low levels of the hormone called estrogen. It is a common condition. In some women, the symptoms of atrophic vaginitis may occur during the years before menopause, although problems usually begin after menopause. Also, not all postmenopausal women need to develop atrophic vaginitis. Regular sexual activities are extremely important for maintaining good vaginal health. Sexual activities increase blood flow in your vagina and improve the elasticity of vaginal tissue. Diagnosing is based on a pelvic examination, a vaginal swab test, and a vaginal acidity test.

Based on your answers there is a high possibility that you have atrophic vaginitis. Atrophic vaginitis is a condition in which the lining of your vagina becomes dry and thin due to estrogen deficiency. It is quite normal for a woman's body to secrete less estrogen after menopause. However, this can negatively affect your vaginal health. There are various treatment options, so you need to work with your doctor to choose the most effective treatment plan for you. Treatment includes vaginal moisturizers and lubricants, and a hormone replacement therapy. Estrogen can be used orally, transdermally (via a skin patch) or vaginally (applied directly to the vagina).