How is vaginal atrophy treated?
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Dr. Mehmet Oz answered:Vaginal atrophy can be treated with vaginal dilators -- available in different widths and sizes -- to help improve the elasticity and pliability of the vagina. Treatment usually involves five minutes of daily use with a lubricant. Be sure to discuss this treatment with your gynecologist before it.
Your pelvic floor -- just like your biceps -- is made of muscle. Sex on a regular basis actually helps keep your vagina in shape. Kegel exercises help, too.
Vaginal atrophy can be treated with vaginal dilators -- available in different widths and sizes -- to help improve the elasticity and pliability of the vagina. Treatment usually involves five minutes of daily use with a lubricant. Be sure to... More -
Marcy Holmes answered:Vaginal atrophy is most commonly described as thinning and shrinking of the vulvovaginal tissue, often accompanied by less vaginal fluid for lubrication as well. In some cases it can also include narrowing of the actual vaginal vault [stenosis] thus making intercourse impossible. If there is significant inflammation to the vaginal tissue membrane, it is also referred to as atrophic vaginitis.
If you suspect atrophic changes there is help! First start with reading about vaginal health, and vaginal tissue changes common in menopause or even from medical treatments like chemo, radiation or estrogen aromatase inhibitor drugs. Then see a GYN practitioner for a proper evaluation and examination.
Some women find just some localized estrogen treatment helps rejuvenate the tissue to bring back comfort and pleasure in just weeks! Other more severe cases may take time using the localized treatments along with a plan of stretching the vaginal opening gently with fingers or even a set of vaginal dilators [different sizes]
If you have concerns, see a trusted health care provider who understands gynecology in menopause. Dr. Stewarts "The V-Book" is excellent.
We discuss vaginal treatments further here at womentowomen.com:
http://www.womentowomen.com/menopause/atrophicvaginitislichensclerosisvulvodynia.aspx
http://www.womentowomen.com/menopause/vaginaldryness.aspx
http://www.womentowomen.com/menopause/treatmentsforvaginaldryness.aspx
Vaginal atrophy is most commonly described as thinning and shrinking of the vulvovaginal tissue, often accompanied by less vaginal fluid for lubrication as well. In some cases it can also include narrowing of the actual vaginal vault [stenosis] thus... More
