Vaginal atrophy and dryness are conditions that affect most women at some point in their lives, being more prevalent during menopause. Besides causing physical discomfort, they can also have a negative emotional impact, significantly affecting a woman’s sexual life. In this article, we will explore what vaginal atrophy and dryness are, their causes, and how these conditions can lead to reduced sexual pleasure.

What is vaginal atrophy?

Vaginal atrophy is a condition where the vaginal walls become thinner, drier, and less elastic. It occurs due to decreasing estrogen levels, a crucial hormone in female health. Vaginal atrophy is more common during menopause but can also occur in younger women, especially after childbirth or as a result of medical treatments or diseases that cause hormonal imbalance.

Causes of vaginal atrophy

• Menopause: The reduction in estrogen levels during menopause is the most common cause of vaginal atrophy, leading to decreased natural lubrication and fragility of the vaginal walls.
• Ovary removal surgery: This surgery leads to forced menopause and a sudden drop in the same hormones involved in spontaneous menopause.
• Cancer treatments: Pelvic radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and certain medications used in cancer treatment can affect hormone levels and lead to vaginal atrophy.
• Breastfeeding: During breastfeeding, estrogen levels also decrease, which can contribute to vaginal atrophy.

What is vaginal dryness?

Vaginal dryness is a condition related to vaginal atrophy but can occur independently. Characterized by a lack of natural lubrication in the vagina, it can result in discomfort, pain, and irritation during sexual activity. It may happen for the same reasons as vaginal atrophy, including decreased estrogen levels.

Impact on female sexuality

Vaginal atrophy and dryness can have a significant impact on a woman’s sexual life. Common effects include:

• Pain and discomfort: The lack of natural lubrication and the fragility of the vaginal walls can make sexual activity painful.
• Reduced sexual desire: Discomfort and pain can lead to decreased sexual desire, affecting a woman’s intimacy.
• Decreased pleasure: Vaginal dryness can affect a woman’s ability to achieve orgasm, thus reducing her sexual pleasure.
• Relationship problems: The impact on the quality of sexual life can cause tension in intimate relationships.
• Urinary symptoms: Urgency, burning during urination, or recurrent urinary infections.

How to treat vaginal atrophy and dryness?

Vaginal atrophy is a natural and unavoidable consequence in the lives of all women. However, there are solutions to prevent or treat the symptoms that arise.

Treatment for vaginal atrophy and dryness typically involves hormonal therapy that may be administered through oral medications, transdermal patches, subcutaneous implants, or vaginal creams. Laser treatments, such as Intimate Fotona, are also an option for some women. It is essential to seek the guidance of a gynecologist to evaluate the best treatment options tailored to each woman.

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