Atrophic Vaginits

Question 1

What is Atrophic Vaginitis?

Answer 1

Characterised by inflammation and thinning of the genital tissues due to a decrease in oestrogen levels.

Question 2

Who is most commonly affected by Atrophic Vaginitis?

Answer 2

It is most common after menopause.

Question 3

What is the cause of Atrophic Vaginitis?

Answer 3

Decline in oestrogen, most commonly post menopause.

Question 4

What are the symptoms of Atrophic Vaginitis?

Answer 4

Thinning of the vaginal mucosa
Loss of pubic hair
Narrowed introitus
Loss of vaginal rugae
Vaginal dryness & itching
Dysparenunia
Post coital bleeding
Vaginal discharge
Dysuria
Recurrent UTI

Question 5

How is Atrophic Vaginitis diagnosed?

Answer 5

Typically a clinical diagnosis once other causes of symptoms have been excluded.

Question 6

How is Atrophic Vaginitis investigated?

Answer 6

Clinical examination with speculum.
Transvaginal ultrasound with endometrial biopsy to exclude cancer.
Infection screen.

Question 7

What are the non hormonal treatment options of Atrophic Vaginitis?

Answer 7

Lubricants to provide short term improvement of vaginal dryness.
Regular use of moisturisers.

Question 8

What are the hormonal treatment options of Atrophic Vaginitis?

Answer 8

Systemic hormone replacement therapy.
Topical oestrogen preparations.