Women often are embarrassed to bring up symptoms with their doctors, or think painful and uncomfortable symptoms are the new normal now that they are older.
The truth is……there are effective, natural treatments for vaginal atrophy, and you don’t have to suffer anymore!
First... What Is Vaginal Atrophy?
Vaginal atrophy, or atrophic vaginitis, is the thinning and drying of the vaginal walls, The tissue becomes less stretchy, and the vaginal canal may narrow and shorten. Genitourinary syndrome of menopause is a new term for vaginal atrophy that encompasses related symptoms affecting the vulva, bladder, and rectum.
Symptoms include:
- Dryness, decreased vaginal lubrication
- Painful or uncomfortable sex
- Itching, irritation, burning of the vulva or vagina
- Frequent or urgent urination
- Incontinence
- Pelvic floor weakness
- Urinary tract and vaginal infections
- Prolapse of the bladder, vagina, or rectum
- Increased risk for painful tearing during sex
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The leading cause of vaginal atrophy is low estrogen. Estrogen helps to maintain the thickness and lubrication of the vagina, muscle tone, and a balanced vaginal microbiome. Estrogen levels decrease in menopause, explaining why many women experience these symptoms post-menopause.
Low estrogen and subsequent vaginal atrophy may also be associated with postpartum, the removal of the ovaries (oophorectomy), chemotherapy, estrogen-blocking medications, and birth control pills.
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