If you're post-menopausal, and you've noticed the development of uncomfortable vaginal changes, there's a good chance that you've developed vaginal atrophy. Occurring most often after menopause, vaginal atrophy is caused by a decrease in the natural production of estrogen. Vaginal atrophy causes inflammation, drying, and thinning of the vaginal walls. This condition can be quite painful. Look at the information provided below. If you're experiencing any of the symptoms described here, talk to your doctor right away. You could be experiencing vaginal atrophy.
You Experience Severe Vaginal Itching
It's not uncommon to experience mild vaginal itching from time to time. Minor vaginal itching can be caused by allergies, hormone fluctuations, and moisture. However, severe vaginal itching can be the sign of a serious medical condition. This is especially true if the itching occurs on a regular basis and you can't pinpoint the cause. If that's the case, you need to see a doctor right away. You could be suffering from vaginal atrophy, especially if you're post-menopausal.
You Have Frequent Urinary Tract Infections
If you're experiencing frequent urinary tract infections, it's time to schedule an appointment with your doctor. Vaginal atrophy can cause an increased risk for urinary tract infections, especially once the vaginal walls begin to thin. Thinning of the vaginal walls can allow bacteria to spread to the urethra, bladder, or kidneys. Unfortunately, when this happens, you can develop infections throughout the urinary tract. If you're an increase in the number of urinary tract infections you experience, you may have developed vaginal atrophy.
You've Noticed Bleeding During Intercourse
If you're post-menopausal, you've stopped experiencing monthly periods. If you've suddenly noticed light bleeding during intercourse, schedule an appointment with your doctor. This is especially important if you're also experiencing pain during intercourse. Vaginal pain and bleeding during intercourse may be a warning sign pointing to vaginal atrophy. Bleeding and pain can happen when the vaginal walls become so thin that the blood vessels leak blood. This can happen when you have vaginal atrophy.
You Have Tightening of the Vaginal Canal
If your vaginal canal has become so tight that you can no longer have sexual intercourse or the tightness causes severe pain during intercourse, you may be experiencing vaginal atrophy. If you are, you need to speak to your doctor as soon as possible. Your doctor can develop a treatment plan that will alleviate the pain and discomfort associated with vaginal atrophy.
Share1 July 2021
Menopause took me by surprise. I thought only women in their 50s and 60s went through it, but I was in my late 30s when I entered this stage in my life. After talking to my OB/GYN, I discovered that my mother's early menopause played a major role in why I started so early. It was challenging to unexpectedly find myself dealing with the emotional and physical aspects of menopause. I soon discovered that I was not alone. There are many other women who started menopause at an early age and they were just as nervous as I was. I started this blog to give voice to those women and to provide emotional support.
