VAGINITIS: POSTMENOPAUSAL

Many changes occur as women enter menopause. Most of these changes are related to the decrease of the female hormone, estrogen. As women approach menopause less estrogen is made. Eventually, normal periods stop. With less estrogen the skin of the vagina becomes thin and dry. Vaginal lubrication is decreased. These factors combine to make the vagina more susceptible to damage from injury during sex or from infection. Vaginal injury can lead to irritation, discharge, or even bleeding. This condition is called post-menopausal vaginitis.

All women going through menopause can have this problem. Luckily, although vaginitis is common, it is easily treated, even when severe. The longer the skin has been irritated, the longer it will take to treat. If you are having a problem with vaginitis, it is crucial to see your healthcare provider. An examination may be needed to make sure there is no other cause.

As long as you are healthy, replacing the missing estrogen by tablet or patch is the treatment used most. Estrogen creams may also be used. It is important to talk with your provider about the risks and benefits of using hormone replacement therapy to make sure that they are right for you.

Hormone replacement therapy is not without its own risk. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends against the routine use of estrogen and progestin for the prevention of chronic conditions in postmenopausal women. The Task Force also states that the balance of benefits and harms for an individual woman will be influenced by her personal preferences, individual risks for specific chronic diseases, and the presence of menopausal symptoms.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has asked that all labels on estrogen and estrogen-progestin therapies be revised to carry a boxed warning that states the increased risks for heart disease, heart attacks, strokes, and breast cancer.

Gentle care of your skin in this area is always suggested, but is especially important at this time. Keep the vagina clean and dry and use plain unscented soaps to clean this area. Take showers instead of baths and avoid douching. Wearing white cotton panties will also help. It may take a few months for your skin to return to normal.

If the vaginitis does not improve after several months of care and estrogen medication, you must let your healthcare provider know. There are a few rare problems that can be checked for at that time.

Disclaimer: This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information provided is intended to be informative and educational and is not a replacement for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.

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