Atrophic vaginitis

Question 1

What is atrophic vaginitis (Aetiology, RF)

Answer 1

Vaginal irritation caused by thinning of vaginal epithelium-
aetiology -reduction of oestrogen levels (menopause)
RF- menopause, prolonged lactation

True prevalence unkown - 10-40% of post menopausal women

Question 2

Sx and Ix of atrophic vaginits

Answer 2

Vaginal irritation (itchyness)-
Superficial dysuria
Dysparunia
Dischage (bloody)

o/E- pale, thin vaginal walls with loss of folds, cracks/fissure (bleeds)

Ix-
clinical
swabs for Ix
Biopsy for cancers

Question 3

Mx and complications of atrophic vaginits

Answer 3

depends on complaint-
if itchyness/dry/etc - systemic HRT ( progestrone and PV oestrogen)

Bleeding during intercours - water absed moisturising and lubricants

Complications - increased infections due to increase vaginal pH
treatmetn can improve sx a LOT