Vaginal atrophy is when the vagina becomes dehydrated, resulting in atrophy of its tissues; there is also a loss of elasticity along with the dryness. Symptoms of vaginal atrophy include itchiness and pain during intercourse. The two most common treatments for vaginal atrophy are hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and the use of topical lubricants. In addition to those treatments, staying hydrated can greatly alleviate the symptoms as it can help to keep vaginal tissues moist. Taking Vitamin E supplements may also provide short-term relief.
Causes of Vaginal Atrophy
It is important for women to be aware that menopause is not the only cause of vaginal atrophy; women who have recently given birth or who are undergoing treatments for cancer may also have to deal with this problem. Much more rarely, vaginal dryness may result from an autoimmune disease or the use of certain anti-depressants. However, menopause is the most common cause of the condition.
Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)
This is one of the more popular menopause treatments as it solves a range of problems, not just vaginal atrophy. It involves taking hormones orally and can be effective for relieving menopause symptoms like hot flashes and diminished libidos. However, HRT does come with significant downsides, including the fact that it can actually worsen vaginal dryness. Other drawbacks are that it increases risks for several conditions, including:
· Blood clots
· Stroke
· Breast cancer
· Heart disease
As a less risky alternative to oral hormones, many women have opted for safer menopause treatments such as low-dose estrogen creams that are applied topically. The absorption of hormones via vaginal tissues is lower than with estrogen that is taken orally; however, they are not appropriate for all women. Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should not take estrogen, nor should it be used by women who have been diagnosed with breast cancer.
Dangers Associated with Vaginal Dryness
The loss of elasticity that vaginal atrophy causes can place a woman at a higher risk of getting cuts and tears, which means that she faces a greater likelihood of infection with sexually transmitted diseases like HIV, HPV and genital herpes. Changes in vaginal pH levels may also increase a woman's susceptibility to infection.
Lubrication
There are lubricants that may be applied topically to remedy vaginal dryness, many of which are made with all-natural ingredients. Women are advised not to use typical body moisturizers or lubricants that contain petroleum jelly as they can increase the risk of infection and may cause the breakdown of latex products like condoms and diaphragms.
Vaginal lubricants typically alleviate dryness from anywhere between several hours to a few days. Specifically, lubricants like those in the PrivateRx line of skincare products have been specially formulated for the sensitive skin on a woman's intimate areas. The PrivateRX Internal Vaginal Moisturizer was created especially to aid in safely and effectively soothing symptoms of vaginal atrophy and does not contain hormones. The internal moisturizer provides immediate and long-lasting relief that lasts up to 3 days, and can be purchased over the counter without the need for a prescription. The PrivateRX line is also fragrance-free, hypoallergenic and have been clinically proven and dermatologist tested.
source : The Most Effective Menopause Treatments
