Vaginal Atrophy

Vaginal atrophy (also called atrophic vaginitis) is a condition where the lining of the vagina gets drier and thinner. This results in itching, burning and pain during sex, among other symptoms. The condition also includes urinary tract problems such as urinary tract infections (UTIs) and frequent urination. Vaginal refers to the vagina while atrophy means "a wasting away or diminution." Recently, the term vaginal atrophy has been replaced with the newer term, genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM). This new term helps describe not just the vaginal, but also the urinary symptoms that can be accompanied by the effects of low estrogen.

Vaginal atrophy most often occurs during menopause due to a decrease in the hormone estrogen. It can occur in younger women, as well, when their estrogen levels are affected.

Symptoms

Symptoms of vaginal atrophy can include:

Dryness of the vagina.
Burning and/or itching of the vagina.
Dyspareunia (pain during sex).
A discharge from the vagina - usually a yellow color.
Spotting or bleeding.
Vulvar itching (pruritus).
Feeling of pressure.