Atrophic Vaginitis

Question 1

what is atrophic vaginitis

Answer 1

inflammation of the vaginal lining due to changes In composition of the vaginal microenvironment; hormonal change as a result in drop of oestrogen levels and this results in the vaginal lining becoming dry, thin and inflamed

Question 2

epidemiology

Answer 2

10-40% of post-menopausal women experience symptoms of Atrophic vaginitis

Question 3

presenting symptoms

Answer 3

vaginal dryness

pain during sexual intercourse (dyspareunia)

thin, watery, yellow or grey discharge,

paleness and thinning of the labia and vagina,

irritation when wearing certain clothes,

frequent UTIs

painful urination,

haematuria,

polyuria,

incontinence,

reduced pubic hair and elastic vagina

Question 4

aetiology

Answer 4

drop in oestrogen levels

this can be post menopausal or after child birth, anti-oestrogen drugs

less common causes; chemotherapy, severe stress, depression and rigorous exercise

Question 5

examples of conditions that require anti-oestrogen drugs as part of treatment

Answer 5

breast cancer, endometriosis, fibroids, or infertility

Question 6

investigations for Atrophic vaginitis

Answer 6

vaginal pH, infection screening, biopsies can rule out cancer, vaginal examination

Question 7

normal vaginal pH?

Answer 7

4.5 or less

Question 8

what pH indicates Atrophic vaginitis

Answer 8

4.6 or above

Question 9

disadvantage of vaginal examination

Answer 9

discomfort and pain in someone that has a dry, inflamed vagina (Atrophic vaginitis)

Question 10

treatment

Answer 10

water-soluble lubricants can be used,

HRT (hormone replacement therapy); oestrogen therapy

Question 11

why are petroleum jelly and mineral oils not suitable

Answer 11

they increase the risk of infections