Vaginal Atrophy, also know as Atrophic Vaginitis is an inflammatory condition of the vagina resulting from a lack of estrogen. This causes the skin in the vagina to become very thin and pale. Elasticity and moisture of the vaginal skin is also lost.
Over time, the vaginal opening (the entroidus) can decrease by as much as 30% in diameter.
These changes result in vaginal dryness, cracking and tearing of the vaginal skin, painful intercourse, urinary urgency and frequency, and many other problems. These conditions can be life-altering and are notoriously difficult to treat.
Low estrogen levels (which cause these problems) can occur naturally (after menopause), as the result of surgical menopause (hysterectomy and removal of the ovaries), or during treatment for estrogen-dependent cancers (breast cancer, for example). Some skin disorders such as Lichen Sclerosis also produce very similar symptoms.
A thorough history and examination is necessary in order to evaluate each patient’s unique situation. Once the evaluation is complete, Elizabeth will discuss numerous treatment alternatives utilizing the latest in technologies, pharmaceuticals, and naturally-occuring products. She will develop a specific vulvar care plan based on your individual symptoms.
