Thinning, dryness, and inflammation of the vaginal walls is called vaginal atrophy, usually caused by a decrease in estrogen levels, particularly during menopause. It may also happen after childbirth. Atrophy might continually irritate and hinder intercourse. It may cause burning and incontinence in the bladder. These natural remedies may relieve these problems.
Symptoms
The main symptoms of GSM are vaginal dryness, genital discomfort, and genital itching.
Problems with vaginal discharge, soreness, or discomfort during sexual activity, or a reduction in the body's natural lubrication may cause bleeding or pain.
GSM symptoms may appear during perimenopause. GSM symptoms such vaginal dryness or intercourse discomfort may emerge when estrogen levels fall. Just lubricants and moisturizers should relieve pain.
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A sharp drop in estrogen levels might cause serious symptoms. Early therapy may not help. Some women seek estrogen-boosting medication in late menopause to relieve pain and other symptoms.
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Therapies For Symptom Relief
If you suspect VVA or GSM or have a diagnosis, seek treatment. A prescription is required for some. Over-the-counter versions are available at your local drugstore—change strategies when one fails. Water-based vaginal moisturizers or glycerin-free lubricants are the initial protection against VVA and GSM.
Specialized vaginal moisturizers may relieve dryness and restore moisture balance: prescription-free benzocaine and topical emollients like K-Y Jelly and Replens (Vagisil). Twice daily moisturization may be needed. Glycerin-free water-based lubricants reduce intercourse pain. Ensure glycerin-free. If your vaginal tissue is compromised, glycerin may burn and irritate.
Avoid jelly and petroleum-based lubricants while wearing condoms. Petroleum may weaken latex, shattering the condom. Additionally, silicone lubricants perform well and are condom compatible. When having sexual intercourse, they feel less artificial and need less reapplication. These approaches may not relieve your problems, so you and your doctor may try the following:
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Vaginal Estrogen Cream
A vaginal estrogen cream may be used. This is a good estrogen booster. The cream should be used nightly for the first two to four weeks. The lotion may only be used every other night after the first week.
Vaginal Estrogen Tablet
Taking this estrogen tablet requires an applicator. Your vagina absorbs estrogen as the tablet melts. Your doctor may prescribe injecting one pill every other night for the first several weeks. After the first period, you may inject the tablet less frequently.
Vaginal Estrogen Ring
A flexible, rubber band-like vaginal estrogen ring will be inserted into the upper vagina if your doctor approves it. Estrogen is released continuously while there. This simple choice requires replacement every three months.
Other Options
If other menopausal symptoms accompany GSM, your doctor may recommend a different estrogen medication. The following are options:
- pills
- high-dose rings
- patches
- gels
These treatments need a prescription. If you haven't had a hysterectomy, your doctor may give progestin in addition to estrogen. After a hysterectomy, estrogen pills should be plenty.
Side Effects Of Estrogen Replacement
The best technique to reverse vaginal atrophy and GSM is with estrogen replacement. However, not all women can take this medication. Doctors may not prescribe estrogen due to long-term concerns. Side effects may include:
- Deep vein thrombosis (blood clots in veins deep in your body, often in your legs)
- Stroke
Non-hormone treatments may be better for women at risk until more is understood. Ask for the lowest dosage of vaginal estrogen if your doctor recommends it. Discuss GSM treatment with your doctor if you've had cancer. To know your risk factors and concerns, see your oncologist. But on the other hand, there are also natural treatments to look at.
RELATED: 5 Tips for Living Well with Vaginal Atrophy, Low Mood, and Anxiety
6 Natural Treatments
1. Sea Buckthorn Oil
Asians use this oil to treat vaginal and uterine irritation. According to studies, oral sea buckthorn oil increases lubrication and acts as a topical therapy for post-menopausal women. It reduced night sweats and other menopausal symptoms. Fatty acids in the oil may enhance vaginal lubrication and minimize inflammation, according to scientists.
2. Probiotics
The bacteria in your fridge's natural yogurt may relieve your symptoms. Low lactobacillus (most probiotics) levels have been linked to vaginal atrophy. Researchers show that probiotics may maintain a lactobacillus-dominated vaginal bacterial ecology. Thus, it may be a safe alternative to medication.
3. Vitamin E
Vitamin E suppositories alleviate vaginal atrophy, according to research. Although it takes longer to work, researchers say it may be as effective as topical estrogen lotions. This is ideal for women who cannot take hormone-based treatment due to cancer or other reasons.
4. Vitamin D
Supplementing with vitamin D suppositories helps reduce atrophy symptoms. Suppository-treated women showed medically confirmed improvement. This medication improved vaginal pH and dryness. Women who cannot or do not want hormone treatment might benefit from vitamins D and E.
5. Black Cohosh
Black cohosh is reported to relieve menopause symptoms. It increases vaginal blood flow and sex desire in early menopause, according to research. It may increase libido and lubrication. Black cohosh may prevent vaginal atrophy.
6. St. John's Wort
Black cohosh is reported to relieve menopause symptoms. It increases vaginal blood flow and sex desire in early menopause, according to research. It may increase libido and lubrication. Black cohosh may prevent vaginal atrophy.
Questions For Your Doctor
Before meeting with your doctor, prepare a list of questions. These questions may include:
- Is menopause causing these symptoms?
- Could another condition be causing these symptoms?
- What are my treatment options?
- How long should I try this treatment?
- What are the side effects and risks associated with this treatment?
- Will this condition get worse?
- Besides typical treatments, can I do anything to help relieve the symptoms or prevent them from worsening?
Tips For Prevention
You can't avoid GSM, but you can lower your risk. Regular sexual activity may improve vaginal health. Enhanced blood flow may protect vaginal tissues. Consider stopping smoking. You may not get enough blood in your vagina if you smoke. Cigarette chemicals can disrupt estrogen production.
Anything that lowers estrogen may damage vaginal health. Visit your doctor to discuss uncommon symptoms and build a treatment plan.
