Vaginal Atrophy
Vaginal atrophy specialist:
One out of two menopausal women encounter symptoms due to vaginal atrophy.
Dr. Sikka, one of the top gynecologists in the Washington DC area, offers innovative solutions including Monalisa Touch fractional CO2 laser to improve your vaginal health and help you lead a comfortable life.
What is vaginal atrophy?
Vaginal atrophy is a result of decreased estrogen which results in thinning and drying of the vagina. In most women, low estrogen is seen to occur during and after menopause. Low estrogen levels in women lead to a higher and more alkaline PH thus altering the vaginal environment.
Symptoms of vaginal atrophy:
Vaginal dryness, burning, vaginal discharge and genital itching are few symptoms of vaginal atrophy. In addition to the symptoms that affect the vagina itself, the lack of estrogen can also affect the bladder and the urethra. Many women have voiding concerns as well. They experience an urgency to urinate and may develop repeated urinary tract infections. In addition to all these, one can also experience bleeding and pain during intimacy.
How prevalent are these problems?
47 percent of patients experience these symptoms once they become menopausal. 70 percent of patients with symptoms of vaginal atrophy do not discuss their condition with a health care provider. Some believe their symptoms are an expected and necessary part of the ageing process . Cultural, religious, and societal beliefs, as well as embarrassment, may also play a role in making patients feel uncomfortable discussing concerns related to the genitourinary system.
How can vaginal atrophy be treated?
The treatment options include:
- Moisturisers: Symptoms of vaginal atrophy can be managed by regular use of vaginal moisturizing agents.
- Vaginal estrogen creams/ suppositories are also used for moderate to severe symptoms of vaginal atrophy.
- Fractional CO2 vaginal Laser treatment is also available for treatment of vulvovaginal atrophy with/without urinary issues.
Vaginal atrophy symptoms are a common complaint among sexually active women with breast cancer. Many of these women are not candidates for vaginal estrogen or are hesitant to hormonal treatment. Vaginal laser is a very helpful treatment option in this condition.