MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia: Atrophic vaginitis

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Atrophic vaginitis

Contents of this page:
Illustrations Definition Causes Symptoms Exams and Tests	Treatment Outlook (Prognosis) Possible Complications When to Contact a Medical Professional References

Illustrations

Female reproductive anatomy

Causes of painful intercourse

Uterus

Normal uterine anatomy (cut section)

Definition Return to top

Atrophic vaginitis is an inflammation of the vagina due to thinning and shrinking tissues and a decrease in lubrication.

Causes Return to top

Atrophic vaginitis is typically caused by a decrease in estrogen. Estrogen levels normally drop after menopause. The disorder may occur in younger women who have had surgery to remove their ovaries. Some women develop the condition immediately after childbirth or while breastfeeding, since estrogen levels are lower at these times.

Symptoms Return to top

Burning on urination
Light bleeding after intercourse
Painful sexual intercourse
Slight vaginal discharge
Vaginal soreness -- itching or burning sensation

Exams and Tests Return to top

A pelvic examination reveals thin, pale vaginal walls. A wet prep test of vaginal discharge may be done to rule out other causes for the condition. Hormonal studies may be done to determine if you are in menopause.

Treatment Return to top

Estrogen replacement therapy may be recommended. Estrogen may be given as a cream, tablet, or ring placed into the vagina, as a skin patch, or in a pill that you take by mouth.

Women may want to discuss the risks and benefits of estrogen replacement therapy with their health care provider.

A water-soluble vaginal lubricant may help relieve pain during intercourse.

Outlook (Prognosis) Return to top

Proper treatment will usually relieve the symptoms.

Possible Complications Return to top

Atrophic vaginitis may make you more prone to vaginal infections caused by bacteria or fungi (yeast).

Atrophic vaginitis can also cause open sores or cracks in the vaginal wall.

When to Contact a Medical Professional Return to top

Call for an appointment with your health care provider if you are experiencing vaginal dryness or soreness, burning, itching, or painful sexual intercourse that is not alleviated with a water-soluble lubricant.

References Return to top

Eckert LO, Lentz GM. Infections of the lower genital tract: vulva, vagina, cervix, toxic shock syndrome, HIV infections. In: Katz VL, Lentz GM, Lobo RA, Gershenson DM, eds. Comprehensive Gynecology. 5th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Mosby Elsevier; 2007:chap 22.

Lobo RA. Menopause: endocrinology, consequences of estrogen deficiency, effects of hormone replacement therapy, treatment regimens. In: Katz VL, Lentz GM, Lobo RA, Gershenson DM, eds. Comprehensive Gynecology. 5th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Mosby Elsevier; 2007:chap 42.

Update Date: 10/28/2008

Updated by: Linda Vorvick, MD, Seattle Site Coordinator, Lecturer, Pathophysiology, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington School of Medicine; and Susan Storck, MD, FACOG, Chief, Eastside Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Group Health Cooperative of Puget Sound, Redmond, Washington ; Clinical Teaching Faculty, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

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