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Atrophic vaginitis - Treatment

Treatment:

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.

Expectations (prognosis):

Proper treatment will usually relieve the symptoms.

Complications:

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.

Calling your health care provider:

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.

Female reproductive anatomy

Causes of painful intercourse

Uterus

Normal uterine anatomy (cut section)

Reviewed last on: 10/28/2008
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.

References

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.

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