Vaginal Atrophy
Tori Douglas on Dec 6th 2019
Most people are familiar with erectile dysfunction. Less well known, is the symptoms of vaginal atrophy. Vaginal atrophy, or atrophic vaginitis, is the thinning, inflammation, or dryness of the vaginal walls. Vaginal atrophy causes painful intercourse, and symptoms similar to urinary infections. More specifically, it causes vaginal dryness, burning, itching, and discharge, discomfort or pain and bleeding with intercourse, and shortening and tightening of the vaginal canal. Urinary symptoms include urgency to urinate, burning with urination, incontinence or “leaking” and recurring urinary tract infections.
As women age, or lose estrogen production due to other factors, vaginal atrophy can occur. While vaginal atrophy is most common after menopause, other factors can contribute, These factors include breastfeedng, taking medications which restrict estrogen production, cancer treatments, smoking, lack of vaginal births, and long periods of no sexual activity. Unlike other symptoms associated with menopause, such as hot flashes, vaginal atrophy does not go away over time, and will actually get worse if left untreated.
Too few women seek treatment from their health care provider for symptoms of vaginal atrophy. Due to embarrassment or just being resigned to these changes in their body after menopause, women simply live with these painful issues. Treatment is readily available, however. The simplest treatment, at least medically, is to increase sexual activity. Sexual activity, with or without a partner, can prevent and help with vaginal atrophy. It increases the blood flow to the vagina, helping to keep the delicate tissues of the vaginal walls healthy. If sex has become painful, vaginal dialators can be utilized. Vaginal dilators stimulate and stretch the narrowed walls of the vagina. These devices are available at your favorite
location. The friendly and informed staff can answer your questions and help you choose the correct kit.
Different lubricants can also be helpful, also available at Badd Kitty. Using plenty of lubricant, ideally water based, and allowing plenty of time to be ready for intercourse before penetration can assist in making sex more pleasant in cases of vaginal atrophy. Whether alone or with a partner or partners, allow yourself the time and care to become fully aroused and lubricated, whether on your own or with additional lubrication, before attempting penetration by either a penis or sex toy such as a dildo. The use of sex toys, such as vibrators, can be extremely helpful in aiding in full arousal if you are experiencing symptoms of vaginal atrophy. Do not be afraid to explore different toys and techniques to aid in making sexual activity as easy and enjoyable for you and your partner,
As with any medical condition, always consult your healthcare provider. Not only should your health be a priority, but your health care provider can diagnose your individual symptoms and decide is hormone replacement or other medical interventions are necessary. They will also be able to guide which non medical therapy, such as a dilator kit, is appropriate for your situation. As always, taking your sexual health and pleasure into your own hands is an important part of your health and wellbeing.