Can Vaginal Atrophy Be Reversed?
Vaginal atrophy or extreme dryness is a painful condition that makes sexual intercourse, tampon insertion, or even a gynecological exam unbearable. If you’re experiencing vaginal dryness, you’re probably wondering if it can be reversed. The simple answer is yes, and here’s why.
What Causes Vaginal Atrophy?
Vaginal atrophy is when the tissue in the vagina shrinks or thins. It can become papery and thin and no longer function in the usual way. The reasons for vaginal atrophy vary from woman to woman, including:
- Going through menopause
- Taking certain medications, such as aromatase inhibitors
- Undergoing radiation therapy
- Removal of the ovaries
- Breastfeeding
- Low estrogen levels
Decreased estrogen levels come from changing hormone levels due to entering menopause or can indicate low fertility or other health concerns.
Signs of Vaginal Atrophy
The severity of the signs and symptoms vary in strength, but include one or more of the following:
- Experience pain during intercourse
- Vaginal white discharge
- Bleeding or spotting
- Itching of the vagina
- Burning sensation
- Dryness of the vagina
It may also cause other symptoms connected to your urinary system. Some women may have pain while urinating, need to go to the bathroom more often, and come down with urinary tract infections (UTIs).
How to Reverse Vaginal Atrophy?
Vaginal atrophy is not a condition that comes on suddenly but rather happens over some time. (1) The good news is that reversing vaginal atrophy through different treatments is possible, and may include one or more of the following options:
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Vaginal lubricants: Vaginal pain can become even more intense during sexual activity. Add a water-based lubricant to your foreplay may help alleviate the sting of penetration. Look for vaginal lubricants that are natural, odorless, and clear. It can mirror vaginal secretions and reverse the effects of atrophy at the moment.
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Vaginal moisturizers: Water-based moisturizers are similar to lubricants, except you don't use them during sex. You can apply moisturizer to the vaginal walls, and it adheres to the tissue for hours or even days. The moisturizers release water and moisture into the vagina to rejuvenate dry, papery skin. Some moisturizers use an applicator to help insert the lotion deep into the vaginal cavity.
- Estrogen creams: The leading cause of vaginal atrophy is low estrogen or estradiol levels. Estrogen is a critical female hormone that every woman needs. It regulates the menstrual cycle, plays an essential role in fertility, builds healthy bones, and helps balance mood. Using a transdermal estrogen cream to help restore beneficial bacteria and vaginal pH will reverse vaginal atrophy. It may also thicken the epithelium and improve vaginal secretions. All of which creates soft and supple vaginal tissue. Other types of estrogen supplements include tablets and suppositories.
Suffering each day with vaginal atrophy takes a toll on health and relationships. The number one way to reverse vaginal atrophy is with a high-quality estrogen cream. Your skin soaks up the estrogen to improve the pain associated with thin, papery vaginal tissue. Give it a try to today!
https://www.health.harvard.edu/a_to_z/vaginal-atrophy-atrophic-vaginitis-a-to-z
