Postmenopausal Pelvic Health

Vaginal Atrophy

The epithelium that lines the vagina in postmenopausal women is usually pale in color, thin, smooth and easily infected. A symptom of vaginal atrophy is vulvovaginal dryness. The first line of treatment for reducing dryness are non- prescription, over the counter (OTC) vaginal moisturizers, which have increased in the number of choices. Vaginal atrophy can progress to atrophic vaginitis if left untreated

An acceptable treatment for persistent vaginal atrophy and vaginitis is prescription estrogen therapy (ET) such as vaginal tablets. Other FDA approved prescription products include vaginal rings and vaginal creams.

Postmenopausal women with vaginal atrophy are more susceptible to Bacterial vaginosis and vaginal infections such as HIV, Chlamydia, Trichomoniasis, and HPV. HIV infection alone has increased in sexually active women aged 50+.

Strategies for Prevention/Lifestyle Modifications

• Personal hygiene
• Loose fitting slacks and underwear
• Annual gyn exam; PAP, HPV
• Safer sex practices
• Know your HIV status and your partners status
• Test for sexually transmitted infections such
  as Chlamydia, Trichomonias